Wat Muen Ngoen Kong, whose name translates to "Temple of Ten Thousand Gold Stacks," may not be the most famous temple in Chiang Mai, a city brimming with temples, but it's well worth a visit for anyone interested in temples in Thailand. This 14th-century temple is located in the central square of Chiang Mai's old city, just a short walk from Nong Buak Haad Park. It features several halls, one of which houses a reclining Buddha (unfortunately, it was too dark to photograph it, as I arrived shortly before closing time), and a golden chedi at the rear. Its Lanna-style wihaan (entrance hall) and the atmosphere of a small temple tucked away in an alleyway make it a charming place, even if it's not among Chiang Mai's absolute must-sees.

Free admission. Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Once you arrive in Chiang Mai, you can reach Wat Muen Ngoen Kong temple on foot or by bicycle, either by tuk-tuk or by car.

Wat Muen Ngoen Kong 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 I get to Wat Muen Ngoen Kong? Once you arrive in Chiang Mai, you can reach Wat Muen Ngoen Kong temple on foot or by bicycle, either by tuk-tuk or by car.