Wat Phra Non isn't mentioned in every guidebook about Chiang Rai or Thailand. The name literally translates to "Temple of the Reclining Buddha," and it houses a large Buddha statue that lies almost entirely on its back. The photogenic red brick veranda was particularly impressive, though the long statue itself was what truly captivated us. In front of the building containing the Buddha stands a chedi, similar to the one at Wat Jed Yod, but smaller.

A little further out, in Chiang Rai, you can also reach Wat Phra Non on foot (I walked there from the city center), but it is not close, so it is recommended to hire a tuk-tuk.

Wat Phra Non 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 Phra Non? Wat Phra Non in Chiang Rai is located a bit outside the city and is reachable on foot (I walked there from the city center), but it's not close by, so it's recommended to hire a tuk-tuk.