This small temple on a hill, 2 km from Pai, is particularly worth seeing for its location and the view of the town. The 353 steps leading up to the temple are charming, although you can skip them and go directly to Wat Phra That Mae Yen. The temple consists of two buildings and several small golden chedis. In front of the entrance is a small market with stalls where you can buy knitted hats and scarves, which are very practical as it gets chilly in Pai at night and in the early morning. There are also two cafes. Behind the market is another wihaan (prayer hall) with a reclining Buddha. And on the hill beyond, you can see the Great Buddha of Pai. This recently completed statue attracts many visitors, who often don't take the time to visit the temple. In my opinion, they miss the most interesting part! Phra That Mae Yen is one of the most easily accessible sights around Pai by bicycle and an ideal way to begin your stay in Pai.

A round trip by motorcycle taxi should cost about 150 THB.

Wat Phra That Mae Yen 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 That Mae Yen? A round trip by motorbike taxi should cost about 150 THB.