Welcome to Wat Sri Suphan, affectionately known as the Silver Temple, located in the charming city of Chiang Mai, Thailand. This stunning Buddhist temple beautifully showcases the intricate artistry of the Lanna culture, with its attractive silver decorations adorning the walls and roof. Dating back over five centuries, Wat Sri Suphan is a modern symbol of timeless traditions. It beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Chiang Mai, making it a must-see destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Thailand’s heritage.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts of Wat Sri Suphan
- Location: Wualai Road, Haiya district, Chiang Mai, northern Thailand
- Nicknames: Silver Temple, Wat Srisuphan Aram
- Built: In the early 16th century, during the rule of King Mueang Kaeo of the Mangrai Dynasty.
- Reputation: Possessing the world’s only silver ordination hall (ubosot).
- Admission: Free for the main temple; 50 baht to enter the area near the ubosot
- Important note: Only men are allowed to enter the ubosot
- Best time to Visit: November to February.
Map
The History of Wat Sri Suphan Chiang Mai
The history of this temple is not well understood. The eleventh king of the Mangrai Dynasty, King (Phaya) Kaew or Mueangkaew (1495–1525), had the Wihan of this temple built in the year 1500. Sarassawadee Ongsakul says that this year is mentioned in an inscription on a stele.
There is an information board with some historical details about the temple next to the viharn. King Kaew and his spouse, Phra Rachamanda Jao Siriyasuwadee, are also depicted in statues. Nine years later, the Phra Wihan Borommathai Chedi and an ordination hall (ubosot) were added.
Is Wat Sri Suphan an old temple?
The assembly hall and chedi were constructed between 1860 and 1863 the King Kawilorot Suriyawong (1856–1870), according to information found inside the temple. The chedi collapsed due to repairs and gold paint. In 1993, the assembly hall and chedi underwent a significant refurbishment. It is reasonable to believe, in my opinion, that none of the buildings at Wat Sri Suphan are more than 30 years old.
Inferential evidence suggests that Wat Muensan, the second silver temple, was once a more significant temple than Wat Sri Suphan. For example, it contains a chedi with challenges belonging to the monk-engineer Kruba Srivichai. In addition, this temple served as a field hospital for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War Two.
The Famous Silver Ordination Hall
The silver ordination hall, built between 2004 and 2016, is the reason behind Wat Sri Suphan’s moniker. Due to its recent transformation into the Silver Temple, the temple is completely absent from historical guidebooks.
There isn’t another building like it on the entire globe. This structure is even more remarkable and unique because it was a community project. The famous ubosot was constructed and decorated over an extended period by artisans from the Wualai community The substance is a mixture of silver and aluminium.
Disaster at Wat Sri Suphan, Chiang Mai’s silver temple
The Phra Wihan Borommathai Chedi fell on September 29, 2022. It had been raining cats and dogs for days before. Even though the Fine Arts Department office personnel had already noticed structural fissures, they were still in disbelief. The chedi collapsed due to repairs and gold paint around the building. photographed the gilded chedi, known as Phra Wihan Borommathai Chedi, below in 2021. On the day that the chedi collapsed, I captured the photos below.
Best Time To Visit Wat Sri Suphan
The best time to visit Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the Silver Temple, depends on what you’re looking for in your experience:
For pleasant weather:
- November to February: This is the cool and dry season in Chiang Mai, with comfortable temperatures and less humidity. This makes it ideal for exploring the temple grounds and admiring the intricate details of the silver architecture.
For cultural experiences:
- Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday evenings: The temple offers a unique “monk chat” programme from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM on these days. This is a great opportunity to chat with a monk and learn about Buddhism and Thai culture. The temple also offers meditation sessions on these days, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 p.m.
For fewer crowds:
- Early mornings or late afternoons: If you prefer a quieter experience, aim to visit outside of peak tourist hours, which are typically between 10:00 AM and 4:00 p.m.
1-Day Wat Sri Suphan Itinerary with Nearby Attractions
Morning:
- 7:00 AM – Wake up: Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel or explore the local morning markets for a taste of authentic Thai street food.
- 8:00 AM – Wat Sri Suphan: Give it your all in the intricate silverwork and serene atmosphere of Wat Sri Suphan. Be sure to dress modestl.
- 10:00 AM – Wat Phra Singh: Head next door to Wat Phra Singh, another stunning temple known for its intricate architecture and golden chedi.
Lunch:
- 12:00 PM; – Lunch break: After exploring the temples, take a break for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try “Khao Soi,” a creamy northern Thai noodle curry, or “Pad Thai,” a popular stir-fried noodle dish.
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM – Wat Chedi Luang: In the afternoon, visit Wat Chedi Luang, the “Temple of the Large Chedi.” This impressive temple features a massive chedi surrounded by elephant statues.
- 2:00 PM – Saturday Walking Street (Optional): If you’re visiting on a Saturday, don’t miss the vibrant Saturday Walking Street. Here, you can find a plethora of local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
Break:
- 4:00 PM – Afternoon break: Take a break at a comfortable cafe or a local tea shop to enjoy a refreshing drink and recharge for the evening.
Evening:
- 6:00 PM – Thai Massage: Experience a traditional Thai massage, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
- 7:30 PM – Dinner: For dinner, head to a restaurant in the Night Bazaar area for a diverse selection of Thai and international cuisine. Enjoy the lively natural world and people-watching as you enjoy the meal.
How To Reach Wat Sri Suphan
Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the Silver Temple, is situated in the Wualai District, the traditional silver-making village, within the Old City of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Here are the different ways to reach Wat Sri Suphan:
Walking: If you’re staying close to the Old City, particularly near the Tha Pae Gate or Warorot Market, you can easily reach Wat Sri Suphan on foot. It’s a pleasant walk through the charming streets of the Old City.
Songthaew: These red trucks are a common mode of transportation in Chiang Mai and a fun way to get around. You can flag down a songthaew and tell the driver you’re going to Wat Sri Suphan. Agree on a fare beforehand and hop in.
Taxi or Grab: You can hail a taxi on the street or use the Grab app (similar to Uber in Southeast Asia) to book a ride to Wat Sri Suphan. Particularly if you are traveling in a group or have luggage, this is a practical choice.
Tips For Wat Sri Suphan Visitors
- When visiting Wat Sri Suphan, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the sacred site.
- Take the opportunity to witness the intricate art of silversmithing at nearby workshops, where you can observe skilled artisans creating stunning silver designs.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history, symbolism, and cultural significance of the Silver Temple from knowledgeable local guides.
- While the temple’s exterior is a masterpiece of silver craftsmanship, photography may be restricted inside the temple. Be sure to inquire about the rules before capturing memorable moments.
- Accept the calm ambiance of the temple and exercise caution when interacting with others; avoid making loud noises or causing disturbances.
- After your visit, explore the surrounding area to enjoy authentic cuisine and take a deep breath. in the vibrant local culture.
FAQ’s of Wat Sri Suphan
Can women enter the Silver Temple (Ubosot)?
Traditionally, females are not allowed inside the Ubosot, though they can admire it from outside. This practice is uncommon in other parts of the temple.
What else is there to see at Wat Sri Suphan?
The temple grounds feature beautiful murals, historical sites, and a serene atmosphere.
Does Wat Sri Suphan have an entrance fee?
Yes, there is a 50 baht entrance fee (around USD 1.40), which often includes a small souvenir and water.
Can women enter the Silver Temple (ubosot)?
No, women are not allowed inside the ubosot at Wat Sri Suphan.
When was Wat Sri Suphan built?
The original temple was built in the 16th century, but the silver adornments and transformation into the “Silver Temple” we see today only began in 2008.