Wat Pha Lat Hike, Chiang Mai

Quick Facts about Wat Pha Lat Hike, Chiang Mai

Distance of hike: Short hike, under 2km there and back
Distance from central Chiang Mai: The trailhead is a short 20-minute drive from the centre of Chiang Mai
Time needed: 2 hours
Best time to hike: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
Difficulty: Easy. There is some elevation, but it’s a well-marked trail
Cost: Free

Pros of the Wat Pha Lat Hike, Chiang Mai

Beautiful views over the city of Chiang Mai.

Take a walk that the monks have taken for thousands of years to connect with the spiritual side of Chiang Mai.

You can easily reach the trailhead from Chiang Mai without a scooter

Cons of the Wat Pha Lat Hike, Chiang Mai

Like everywhere in Thailand, it can get hot along this trail. Bring water with you to make sure you’re prepared.

How to get to Wat Pha Lat Hike

Wat Pha Lat Hike is a peaceful short hike beginning not far from the centre of Chiang Mai. You can reach the trailhead with your scooter or wave down a songthaew.

See the trailhead here.

Experience of Wat Pha Lat Hike

Wat Pha Lat Hike is a peaceful short hike beginning not far from the centre of Chiang Mai. Monks used to walk the trail to meditate and reach various temples, but seeing other hikers on it is now more common.

The first stop along the relatively easy trail is after 1.5km or a 40-minute walk. Welcome to the beautiful Wat Pha Lat temple. Here is the perfect spot to stop and explore.

There is a small platform where you can ring a bell, several buildings and the beautiful dragon bridge across the small river.

There are views back down to Chiang Mai, but they are slightly obscured. Also, you will see the haze over the view if it’s burning season (January to April).

From here, you can return the way you came, head down the road or venture onward (and upward!) to Doi Suthep.

Wat Pha Lat Hike is a great short hike to do from Chiang Mai. With a trailhead so close to the city, this hike allows you to experience the jungle, walk alongside a bubbling river and visit an ancient temple.