Wat Phra That Doi Tung is one of Chiang Rai's oldest and most sacred temples, perched on a ridge of Doi Tung mountain (about 2,000 m elevation) in the Mae Sai area of northern Thailand. By legend it was built to enshrine a collarbone relic of the Buddha, and it is defined by its two gilded chedis (stupas) standing side by side. From the ridge, visitors take in misty mountain scenery and views toward the Myanmar border and the Mekong valley.
Two golden chedis standing side by side — restored to their present form in the 1970s over the older stupas, and traditionally believed to house a collarbone relic of the Buddha
A distinctive naga (serpent) staircase lined on both sides with long rows of bells and flags, rung by pilgrims as they climb
A famous pilgrimage site for those born in the Year of the Pig, part of the northern Thai tradition of zodiac-linked relic shrines visited once in a lifetime
Ridge-top vistas over mist-covered hills toward the Thai–Myanmar border and the Mekong valley
Easily combined with the nearby Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden — a royal project that turned former opium fields into tea and coffee farms
Good to know
MannersThis is an active place of worship — cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops, short shorts and short skirts, and carry a light layer or sarong.
MannersRemove your shoes within the chedi and shrine areas. Do not point your feet toward Buddha images or monks, and women should avoid direct physical contact with monks.
CautionAcross Thailand, fake 'monks' or fundraisers approach visitors outside temples offering a blessing or soliciting money for restoration, then expect 200–1,000 THB. Give only at official donation boxes inside the temple, and decline anyone who approaches you first demanding money.
CautionTaxis and songthaews (shared pickup trucks) around Chiang Rai and Mae Sai often don't use meters and may overcharge tourists. Agree the fare and confirm whether it's a shared or private ride before boarding, or use an app like Grab for fixed pricing.
SeasonAt this altitude the rainy season (June–October) can bring slippery roads, heavy rain and fog, while cool-season nights (November–February) can drop below 10 °C. Check local road and weather conditions before you go.
RulesReported opening hours and admission vary slightly between sources (generally daytime hours, closing in the afternoon), so verify the latest hours just before visiting.
Practical info
About 46–60 km from Chiang Rai city, reached via the Mae Sai–Doi Tung Royal Villa road. Access is easiest by car or motorbike; scheduled public transport is limited. Plan a half day (2–3 hours) combined with the Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden. Confirm fees and opening hours just before visiting.
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