If you’re planning a trip to the North of Thailand and are looking for something beyond tourist hotspots, make sure to put Chiang Dao and Wat Tham Pha Plong (วัดถ้ำผาปล่อง) on your list. Nestled deep in the forest on the slopes of Doi Luang Chiang Dao, Wat Tham Pha Plong Chiang Dao feels like it might be one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets.
After visiting Chiang Dao for the first time in 2018, we visited this beautiful mountain town again in 2024, and Wat Tham Pha Plong was the highlight of our visit. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know for your own visit!
Are you looking for a comprehensive Chiang Dao travel guide? Click here!
502 Steps Lead to Wat Tham Pha Plong
It takes a bit of work to get to Wat Tham Pha Plong, but I promise you, it’s worth every minute. You have to climb a 502-step staircase, but don’t worry – the walk up is just as impressive as the view from the top. Covered in dense, lush green jungle, the trail is decorated with Buddhist proverbs.
You’ll be rewarded at the summit by a sweeping panorama of views over the surrounding Chiang Dao valley – a fitting reward for your climb!
The Temple and Its History
Wat Tham Pha Plong isn’t all about the panorama, though. The Chiang Dao temple has a rich history and spiritual relevance. The temple was originally a secluded meditation place deep in the hills, built by the venerated monk Luang Boo Sim Buddhacaro back in 1967. Luang Boo Sim lived here, teaching, and to this day, the temple remains a place of Buddhist practice and education.
Within the temple in the cave, you can locate Buddha statues and shrines, all emitting a still, devotional ambience. The cave, too, has a cool, soothing feel, a refreshing refuge from a climb. Over the top of the cave, a dramatic golden Chedi stands guarded by Nagas, containing a lovely stained-glass decorated Buddha figure and a small museum in honor of Luang Boo Sim.
The temple has been able to retain its spiritual vibe despite its popularity, providing its guests an authentic feeling of connection to nature as well as to Buddhist ideals.
Practical Information for Visiting Wat Tham Pha Plong
Visiting the temple is free, although donations are always appreciated to support the temple’s upkeep. The site is open daily, but the golden Chedi closes around 6 PM. Aim to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.
November to February is the best time to visit, as the weather is cooler and drier, making the climb far more pleasant. If you’re visiting in the rainy season, be prepared for slippery steps and bring appropriate footwear. Visiting the temple during the rainy season might mean that you’ll get wet, but the climb and view from the top are so much more serene with all the mist. I loved it when I visited the temple in August 2018!
And a heads-up – when we visited in November 2024, some areas of the temple were under construction. Access was still possible, but some parts were restricted. Keep this in mind and check for updates if you’re planning a visit soon.
More Things to Do in Chiang Dao
Wat Tham Pha Plong is just one of many exciting attractions in Chiang Dao. We have posted an in-depth article on things to do in Chiang Dao, which you can read here. Nearby, you’ll find other fantastic Chiang Dao attractions worth exploring. Chiang Dao Cave offer a fascinating underground experience with intricate formations and sacred Buddha statues. Doi Luang Chiang Dao is perfect for anyone who likes camping and hiking. The Pong Arng Hot Springs and Chiang Dao Hot Springs are ideal for relaxing after a morning of trekking. Or head to Sri Sungwan Waterfall in Pha Daeng National Park to cool off and enjoy the lush greenery.
We have recently posted a comprehensive travel guide covering everything you need to know to plan your trip. It covers everything from attractions and accommodation to how to get to Chiang Dao and when to visit Chiang Dao. So make sure to click here and read the post if you’re planning on visiting Chiang Dao!
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of crowded temples and looking for something more authentic, Wat Tham Pha Plong Chiang Dao is an absolute must. It beautifully combines nature, spirituality, and culture into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a Buddhist practitioner, or just someone who enjoys stunning views and peaceful places, this hidden gem will leave a lasting impression.
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