Hello travel lovers! Looking for famous temples in Thailand? Then, Itinerary Plans is here to make your travel easier. Today I will explore Big Buddha Pai. This temple is known as Wat Phra That Mae Yen to the Thai people. However, visitors frequently refer to this temple as the Temple of the Hill or Pi-A Big White Buddha.
Table of Contents
Overview of Big Buddha Pai:
- Address: 9F24+2FP, Mae Hi, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand
- Opening Times: Every day from sunrise to sunset.
- Entry Fee: Free admission.
- Best Time: Early mornings or late afternoons offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Facilities: On-site parking, Toilet facilities, Souvenir stalls, Food and drink vendors (limited options)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Amount of stairs:
- Lower stairs: Approximately 350 steps, leading directly to the base of the statue.
- Upper stairs: Approximately 700 steps, starting near the main temple and offering additional viewpoints along the way.
Map
History of Big Buddha Pai
The Big Buddha Pai’s history weaves tradition and modernity. Though the temple’s exact origin remains veiled, it likely dates back to the 19th century, serving as a spiritual anchor for local communities. Modernity arrived in the late 20th century when esteemed monks, artists, and locals collaborated to build the towering Buddha statue. Driven by a desire to inspire and educate visitors about Buddhism, its construction was fueled by both residents and travelers, adding a modern layer to the temple’s age-old foundation.
Today, the Big Buddha stands as a testament to both spiritual devotion and artistic vision, attracting visitors with its serene presence and panoramic views.
Big Buddha or Pai White Buddha
Are you wondering what the proper name of this temple is? What distinguishes the Big Buddha from the Pai White Buddha? Here’s a fun fact: there isn’t really any difference! They use multiple names to refer to the same place. The name means “Big Buddha” in Thai, but it also goes by the nickname “White Buddha,” which is understandable.
Best Time to Visit Big Buddha Pai:
- Cool Season (Nov-Feb): Ideal weather (comfortable, dry), breathtaking views, but expect crowds.
- Hot Season (Mar-May): Fewer crowds, but hot & humid, climb can be challenging.
- Rainy Season (Jun-Oct): Lush greenery, fewer crowds, but slippery stairs & potential closures.
- Burning Season (Mar-Apr): Hazy skies, poor air quality, not recommended.
What to Expect at the Big Buddha Pai
The Big Buddha Pai, also known as Wat Phra That Mae Yen, is a stunning Buddhist temple complex perched on a hill overlooking the town of Pai, Thailand. It’s a popular destination for both its cultural significance and breathtaking views. What to anticipate from your visit is as follows:
The Climb:
- Two Options: You can reach the Big Buddha via two paths, each offering unique experiences. The lower stairs consist of around 350 steps and lead directly to the base of the statue. For a more scenic route, choose the upper stairs with approximately 700 steps that wind through the temple grounds, offering glimpses of prayer flags, stupas, and stunning viewpoints along the way.
The Buddha Statue:
- Awe-Inspiring: Once you reach the summit, you’ll be greeted by the majestic Big Buddha statue. Towering over the landscape at 45 meters tall, it’s a symbol of peace and tranquility. Take a moment to admire its intricate details, the white marble gleaming in the sunlight.
The Temple Grounds:
- Historical Charm: The temple complex, Wat Phra That Mae Yen, boasts a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Explore the temple buildings adorned with intricate carvings and learn about the site’s significance to the local community. You’ll also find small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.
Breathtaking Views:
- Panoramic Beauty: The true reward awaits you at the top. From the viewing platform, you can witness the breathtaking panorama of the Pai valley, carpeted with rice fields and dotted with mountains. The winding Pai River snakes through the landscape, adding to the picturesque scene.
3-Day Itinerary for Big Buddha Pai with Nearby Attractions (6 places):
Day – 1
- Morning: 8:00 AM – Climb the lower stairs (350 steps) to the Big Buddha Pai, enjoying the serene atmosphere and panoramic views. Spend an hour exploring the temple complex and taking photos.
- Where to Eat: 10:00 AM – Enjoy a delicious Thai breakfast at Pai Walking Street, like Khao Soi or Pad See Ew, while soaking in the local culture.
- Nearest Attraction: 11:00 AM – Visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen, a historic temple located next to the Big Buddha, offering beautiful architecture and cultural insights.
- Afternoon: 12:30 PM – Take a taxi or motorbike to Land Split, a natural phenomenon where the earth appears to have cracked open. Spend 30 minutes exploring and taking photos.
- Where to Eat: 2:00 PM – Have lunch at The Barn Pai, a popular restaurant offering delicious food, coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Nearest Attraction: 3:00 PM – Visit Pai Canyon, a stunning natural landscape with red rock formations and breathtaking views. Hike for 1-2 hours to different viewpoints.
- Night Spend: 5:00 PM – Check into your accommodation in Pai town. Relax and enjoy the vibrant nightlife with options like bars, restaurants, and live music.
Day – 2
Second Day
- Morning: 9:00 AM – Rent a motorbike and head to Tham Lod, a stunning cave complex with stalactites and stalagmites. Take a guided boat tour and explore the cave for 1-2 hours.
- Where to Eat: 11:30 AM – Have lunch at Pamika Restaurant, offering delicious Northern Thai cuisine with a beautiful riverside setting.
- Nearest Attraction: 1:00 PM – Visit White Water Bamboo Rafting, a fun and adventurous activity suitable for all ages. Enjoy the scenic views and refreshing water for 2-3 hours.
- Afternoon: 4:00 PM – Relax by the Pai River or explore the Pai Walking Street, browsing local shops and trying street food.
- Where to Eat: 6:00 PM – Enjoy dinner at Beer Belly, offering international cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
- Evening Activity: 8:00 PM – Spend the evening enjoying the nightlife in Pai town, with options like live music performances at Walking Street bars or relaxing at a rooftop bar.
- Night Spend: Stay at your previous accommodation in Pai Town.
Day – 3
- Morning: 8:00 AM – Visit the morning market in Pai Walking Street, experiencing the bustling local scene and trying delicious breakfast options.
- Nearest Attraction: 9:30 AM – Take a taxi or motorbike to Pai Hot Springs, and relax in the natural hot pools amidst lush greenery. Spend 1-2 hours enjoying the therapeutic waters.
- Where to Eat: 12:00 PM – Have lunch at Fern Forest Cafe, offering a unique dining experience in a treehouse setting with delicious food.
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM – Do some last-minute shopping at Pai Walking Street or explore other nearby attractions like the Pai Land Bridge or Wat Sri Pang Yen.
- Departure: 4:00 PM – Depending on your travel arrangements, head back to your starting point.
Reaching Big Buddha Pai
Getting to Pai:
Pai is located in the Mae Hong Son province of northern Thailand, roughly 146 km (91 miles) by road from Chiang Mai. Several transportation options are available:
Air: The nearest airport is Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). From there, you can:
- Shuttle bus: Convenient and affordable option, costing around ฿300-400 per person. Takes around 3-4 hours.
- Private taxi: More expensive but faster, costing around ฿2,000-3,000 for the car. Takes about 2-3 hours.
- Domestic flight: Fastest option but most expensive, costing around ฿1,000-2,000 per person. Flights take about 30-45 minutes.
Bus: Numerous public buses run from Chiang Mai to Pai, with prices ranging from ฿150-300 depending on the type of bus and operator. Journey time is around 3-4 hours.
Train: No direct train connection to Pai exists. You can take a train to Chiang Mai and then connect via bus or taxi.
Once in Pai:
- Songthaew: Shared taxis with open sides, costing around ฿20-40 per person to reach the Big Buddha.
- Motorbike rental: Popular option for exploring Pai and surrounding areas. Rental costs vary depending on the type of bike, starting around ฿150-200 per day.
- Walking: The Big Buddha is located about 2.5 km from the center of Pai, making it doable for some. It’s a moderate uphill walk.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes for climbing stairs (350 or 700 steps to reach the top)
- Water bottle (especially during warmer months)
- Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
- Sarong or shawl to cover shoulders and knees for temple visits
- Cash for entrance fees (if applicable), donations, and local vendors
- Camera to capture the stunning views
- Small backpack for carrying essentials
- Insect repellent (optional)
- Personal medication (if needed)
What Not to Bring:
- Large bags or backpacks (may be inconvenient for climbing stairs)
- Inappropriate clothing (avoid revealing outfits)
- Valuable jewelry or electronics (carry only what you need)
- Alcohol or drugs (illegal and disrespectful)
- Excessive food or drinks (limited options available)
- Sharp objects or weapons (not allowed)
Here are FAQs-
What are the opening hours?
-Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Free admission.
What’s the best time to visit?
-Early mornings or late afternoons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Sunrise/sunset offers stunning views.
How many stairs are there?
-Lower stairs: 350. Upper stairs: 700 (more scenic route).
Do I need to wear specific clothing?
-Yes, cover shoulders and knees when visiting the temple area. You can rent a sarong if needed.
Are there facilities available?
-Yes, basic restrooms and a small café are available near the temple.
Is it stroller-friendly?
-Not recommended due to the stairs. Consider baby carriers.
Can I bring pets?
-Not allowed inside the temple grounds.
What’s the duration of the upstairs journey?
-Depends on your fitness level and chosen path. Expect 15-30 minutes for lower stairs, 30-45 minutes for upper stairs.
What nearby attractions can I visit?
-Pai Canyon, Land Split, Tham Lod cave, White Water Bamboo Rafting, Pai Hot Springs.
What should I bring?
-Comfortable shoes, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, sarong/shawl, camera, cash.