Wat Chalerm Phrakiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson (its full name) is unique in Thailand. While there are many temples built on mountaintops throughout the country, none are quite like this one, with its elements spread across several neighboring peaks. The complex is truly exceptional, and the views from the top are breathtaking. The temple sits atop a rocky hill in the countryside, about sixty kilometers from Lampang. The current complex was expanded in 2004 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of King Rama IV's accession to the throne. Driving your own car is prohibited. To reach the summit, you must purchase a ticket for one of the shuttle buses that run between the parking area at the foot of the hill and the café (with a terrace, beautiful views, and very reasonable prices despite the limited competition and exceptional location) 3.5 kilometers higher up. Be warned, it's a bit bumpy! From there, you'll need to climb a long flight of stairs to reach the temple. Sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness are recommended. Bring plenty of water with you before starting the hike, as there are no drinks available for purchase up there. If you are hiking with small children (which I don't recommend), please keep a close eye on them at all times. The hike takes about half an hour. After your visit, you can take one of the shuttle buses back to the parking lot.

The price for a round-trip ticket with the shared taxis is 90 THB per person. In addition, there is the entrance fee for the national park (400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child).

Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson is located near Chae Hom, over 60 km from Lampang. While there are local buses that go there, the journey takes a very long time (at least 1.5 hours to Chae Hom). Once in Chae Hom, you need to reach the temple parking lot, from where shuttle buses take visitors to the summit (about 6 km away). I haven't tried this myself, as I went by car. According to the Chiang Mai Tourism Office, if you walk 1 km towards the Green Gate in Chae Hom, you'll find a taxi service 200 m further on that will take you there. However, I recommend traveling with your own vehicle or hiring a car with a driver. In Lampang, it's quite easy to negotiate a fare with one of the yellow and green buses (local vehicles) and hire a private driver. Alternatively, you can ask at your hotel if they can arrange a car with a driver for you. Don't hesitate to include additional stops, such as a detour to Chae Son National Park and its hot springs. Alternatively, the offer below, which takes you to the hilltop temple and hot springs, is a good option.

Wat Chalerm Phrakiat is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Chalerm Phrakiat? Wat Chalerm Phrakiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson is located near Chae Hom, over 60 km from Lampang. While there are local buses, the journey is very long (at least 1.5 hours to Chae Hom). Once in Chae Hom, you need to reach the temple parking lot, from where shuttle buses take visitors to the summit (about 6 km away). I haven't tried this myself, as I went by car. According to the Chiang Mai Tourism Office, in Chae Hom, after a 1 km walk towards the Green Gate, you'll find a taxi service 200 m further on that will take you there. However, I recommend traveling with your own vehicle or hiring a car with a driver. In Lampang, it's quite easy to negotiate a private ride with one of the yellow and green buses (local vehicles). Alternatively, you can ask at your hotel if they can arrange a car with a driver for you. Don't hesitate to include additional stops, such as a detour to Chae Son National Park and its hot springs. Alternatively, the offer below, which takes you to the hilltop temple and hot springs, is a good option.