Wat Phrathat DOI Kham is not the most well-known among tourists, however, are highly revered temple of Chiang Mai. The presence of particles “phrathat” in its name means that the temple is on the top step of the Buddhist hierarchy and is one of the most important in the province.

Built in the VII century Wat Phrathat DOI Kham is located on top of a mountain in the suburbs of Chiang Mai, by the way, translated from the Thai language “Wat DOI Kham” means “temple of the Golden mountain.” The oldest building on the territory of the temple is the Chedi (stupa) built in the year 687. It has many similarities with another temple on the mountaintop Wat Phrathat DOI Suthep (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep), which is the hallmark of the city. From all sides the entrance to the Chedi is guarded by Golden Naga (mythical snake).

Among the locals there is a legend that a thousand years ago on the site of Wat DOI Kham lived cannibals, which once met travelling Buddha Gautama. He urged the giants to abandon this way of life and to listen to Buddhist truths. At the end, the Buddha gave the cannibals a lock of his hair, which is still kept inside the ancient Chedi.

On the temple grounds in addition to traditional viharn (main hall) is an open gallery with lots of Buddha statues in various poses and forms, as well as incredibly beautiful outside ubosot (special hall for the monks).

A Central figure in Wat Phrathat DOI Kham is a 17-metre Buddha statue at the top of the hill. In the courtyard of the temple also houses a collection of bells and gongs.

Due to the remoteness of the temple from the city center there is always a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, and panoramic views of the city inspires visitors.