For me personally, it was the best temple in all of Chiang Mai. I don’t get at all what the fuss is about all these major famous temples (in the old city), where you see a lot of golden paint, thousands of tourists (and as many donation boxes), and generally feels too commercialised. This one, in comparison, feels humble, authentic, among beautiful nature and in perfect balance with surrounding environment. Yes, people who love seeing shiny objects probably won’t like it. Me personally, for example, saw nothing special or spiritual about famous Wat Doi Suthep…

Much recommended if you’ve seen enough golden temples or need a break from the city hassle. Although on a Tuesday afternoon there were more people we expected so it wasn’t exactly a tranquil experience but very beautiful still and likely calmer than many other temple sites. A map of the area would have been nice as it wasn’t clear if each small path should be followed to cover the whole area. We took a random songthaew from Old Town up the hill and back. The private return trip cost 500/2 persons so it was not the cheapest option but on a hot day we didn’t feel like hiking or searching for a shared ride. Our driver waited for us an hour at the parking lot, but if you need more time I’m sure that can be negotiated. An hour was ok for us to look around and take pictures but for a slow enjoyment or meditative experience, reserve more time.

Clearly you find dozens of Wats in CM. One at each corner almost literally. This one stays in the hills, 30’ by taxi from city center and is different from all the others in the city due to the nature context. We loved everything about it.., it has a mystic context of ruins and preserved areas… buildings, rocks and nature… seems immersed in the jungle… water running around in small cascades and channels… Beautiful context! It is possible to reach by trail and some people do it. We got one of those red truck taxis… and paid 1200 bahts round trip, including a stop/visit also at the Doi Suthep temple (more 20-30’ ride up the hill) My advice would be to start your CM visit by these 2 temples… and leave city center for later.

Beautiful scenery with peaceful atmosphere. Many things to see here including a short trek with a small stream, view of the city and the temple itself. Worth a stop on the way to Doi Suthep.

Beautiful forest temple which was very tranquil and relaxed. Lots of smaller temple buildings to explore and views of Chiang Mai from the river. Worth a stop on the way to the much busier Doi Suthep.

This temple is said to have been built where an elephant is said to have collapsed while being ridden by King Kuena, who was transporting Buddha relics to Doi Suthep. Originally, the temple was used as a stopping point to rest on their pilgrimage to Doi Suthep, but is now also renown as a meditation retreat. The grounds are surround by forest and the temples are much more muted in their decorations compared to other Thai temples

Nestled in a lush green mountain away from the chaos of Chiang Mai’s city streets lies Wat Pha Lat, a jungle temple paradise. Jungle temples, as opposed to community temples that are found in the city, serve primarily as a calm place for monks to live and meditate. With old stone buildings, intricate carvings and statues, and plenty of breathtaking places to meditate, it’s clear why people claim Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem in Chiang Mai.

The stroll took us around forty minutes to complete and was rather leisurely. Wat Pha Lat was a serene and lovely place. Wat Pha Lat is a much more challenging trek, so it's recommended taking a break here before continuing. The Wat is gorgeously tucked away among the surrounding waterfalls.