Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

The purple jade Buddha is the real reason to visit. While you see many golden and emerald green replicas in northern Thailand, a purple jade Buddha is truly unusual and beautiful, and it's located in an active temple, not a paid tourist attraction.

The rest is typical of Lanna architecture: gilded roofs, intricately carved wood, and a tranquil courtyard, despite being in the heart of Chiang Rai. Founded in the 14th century under King Pra Chao Maha Proma, the building is quite old. However, the structures you walk through have been carefully maintained and restored over the centuries instead of being left to decay. My tip: arrive early. The gates open at 7 a.m., the morning light on the gilding is worth the early start, and you'll be sharing the grounds with other visitors who are there to pray rather than take photos. Allow half an hour, longer if you want to sit. Since it's small and centrally located, it's easy to combine with the White Temple or the Clock Tower on the same day.