A Tour of Chiang Mai’s Architectural Landmarks

Tha Pae Gate is not only the epicentre for tourism in Chiang Mai, but it is also part of the ancient crumbling city wall which once acted as a fortress around the ‘Old City’. Tha Pae Gate is one of the most significant historic landmarks of the city and dates back to the 13th century.

Tha Pae Gate, Moon Muang Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 81 023 7730

Bhubing Palace, constructed in 1961, lies approximately 22 kilometres (13.6 miles) from the Chiang Mai city centre close to the revered Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Bhubing Palace, built in the northern Thai architectural style called ‘Reun Mu’ (Group of Houses), sits on stilts. The palace is the royal winter residence where members of the Thai Royal Family stay during their visits to Chiang Mai, and it features beautifully landscaped gardens that are open for the public to enjoy each Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Bhubing Palace, Huay Kaew Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Wat Phra Singh, founded during the 1300s, sits in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Although much of the temple has been restored, its original character has been left intact. Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples and is famous for its maroon interior and 15th-century Phra Singh Buddha.

Wat Phra Singh, Singharat Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Well off the tourist trail is the hidden jungle gem of Wat Pha Lat, which translates to ‘Monastery at the Sloping Rock’. Away from the crowds, this 13th-century temple is a tranquil hideaway. Come prepared to hike approximately 30 minutes along the ‘monk’s trail’ to reach Wat Pha Lat. Explore and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the old stone buildings, intricate carvings and statues, cascading waterfall and stunning views of the city below.

Wat Pha Lat, Suthep-Pui Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 54 401 076

Three Kings Monument is the district where the former rulers, the ‘Three Kings’, of Chiang Mai built their palaces. The founder of Chiang Mai, King Mengrai, along with King Ramkamhaeng of Sukothai and King Ngam Muang of Payao worked together to lay out the city. Today, the sculpture of the Three Kings stands in front of the old provincial administration building (now the Chiang Mai City Art & Cultural Center) and is an iconic image representing Chiang Mai city.

Three Kings Monument, Sri Phum, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 96 551 7294

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, also known as ‘Doi Suthep’, is one of the most sacred temples in Thailand. Located up a winding mountain road, the original founding of the temple remains unclear. Historians believe the first stupa was built in 1383 and the temple complex gradually expanded from there. Explore the stunning temple grounds and enjoy breathtaking views of Chiang Mai city below.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Huay Kaew Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand, +66 53 295 002