Wat Phra That Doi Jom Thong sits atop a small hill on the banks of the Kok River, just behind Wat Phra Kaew. The temple itself is small and rather unassuming. At its center is a small plaza with a 14-meter-high chedi. Its lotus-shaped base is white, while the rest of the pagoda is adorned with gold. The chedi houses a relic that is even older than the city itself. The climb is worthwhile primarily for the views from various vantage points and the somewhat quieter atmosphere. Legend has it that King Meng Rai decided to found the city of Chiang Rai in 1260 after surveying the area from this very hill. The city's foundation pillars are located just a few meters from the temple.

Free entry. Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Depending on where you want to go, you can walk. Otherwise, you can take a tuk-tuk or possibly a VTC (Virtual Taxi).

Wat Phra That Doi Jom Thong is a temple. When visiting a temple in Thailand, there are some rules to observe: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove shoes upon entering the building, be quiet, no hugging or kissing, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, and do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Phra That Doi Jom Thong? Depending on your destination, you can walk. Alternatively, you can take a tuk-tuk or a VTC (Virtual Taxi).