Wat Mahathat is the oldest temple in Chiang Khan. Built in the 17th century, it still retains parts of the original walls of its ordination hall. Faded and discolored murals can be seen on the exterior facades. This is the temple's true charm, and it appeared to be undergoing renovations during our last visit (July 2015). Perhaps it will one day be restored to its former glory… To the right, behind the ordination hall, is a small chedi. A visit to Wat Mahathat is quite short.

Free admission. Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The temple is just a short walk from the riverbank.

Wat Mahathat 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 Mahathat? The temple is just a short walk from the riverbank.