Thailand

With its larger-than-life Buddha and multi-tiered roofs adorned with intricate friezes, Wat Chong Kham is a striking testament to Shan art. It stands out as the primary attraction for visitors to Mae Hong Son!

As evening descends, Wat Chong Kham shines brightly, its silver facade reflecting on the lake waters. The multi-tiered roofs symbolize celestial bliss within Nirvana, offering a message to onlookers amidst the bustling shops and food stalls that material goods are transient. It's the perfect time to explore this 19th-century Buddhist monastery, which is widely regarded by travelers as one of Mae Hong Son's most impressive sights. Regardless of your beliefs, you'll appreciate the gilded pillars, the refreshing Jataka life paintings, and the oversized white marble Buddha. Wat Chong Kham exemplifies the Shan temple style, much like its neighboring Wat Chong Klang.

Historical notes

The foundation of the building was laid in 1827. It was Mae Hong Son's first place of worship, commissioned by King Phraya Singhanat Racha and Queen Chao Mae Nang Mia, the city's first rulers. At that time, the Yai Tai people migrated from Shan State in Myanmar to northern Thailand for trade purposes. Phraya Racha, originally from Myanmar himself, warmly welcomed them, and they contributed their distinct architectural style to the project. Over the years, subsequent leaders expanded the structure. The viharn dates back to the mid-1930s. The sanctuary was designated a royal monastery in 1984.

Today

Unfortunately, Wat Chong Kham, as seen by modern travelers, is largely a renovation. The original building suffered extensive fire damage. Nonetheless, Wat Chong Kham remains a stunning example of Shan Burmese architecture. Travel agencies often list it among the top 10 must-see attractions in Mae Hong Son, known as the "city of three mists."

Tour of the Buddhist Temple

The seven-tiered pagoda roof that caps the monastery is hard to miss as you stroll around the picturesque lake. These steeply pitched roofs, known as pyatthat, are a hallmark of Burmese stupas, sanctuaries, and palaces.

The facade is impressive, but more treasures await inside. The sala (assembly hall) enchants with its elegant woodwork. It serves multiple functions: a meeting hall, a center for study and teaching, or simply a resting place. Marvel at the statues and statuettes arranged around the altar.

While the sala impresses with its roof, the highlight of the temple is undoubtedly the Lung Pho To Viharn. This relatively recent addition dates back only to the mid-1930s. The Viharn derives its name from the imposing Buddha statue inside. Standing at 4.85 meters tall, the Buddha sits in a lotus position, his left hand on his lap and his right hand touching the ground, to subdue Mara, the demon. Luang Po To is among Thailand's largest Burmese-style Buddhas. It draws crowds of devotees who come to pay respects and offer prayers, especially during major Buddhist festivals.

In addition to Luang Po To, the temple also houses another intriguing statue, an exact replica of Phra Sri Sakyamuni, the iconic Buddha from Wat Suthat in Bangkok. Lastly, exquisite paintings on the walls depict the legendary Jataka tales.

The small museum is worth a visit, especially if you're accompanied by children. Its collection includes figurines and wooden sculptures depicting the eight realms of life.

Practical information

Price and opening hours

There is no entrance fee to visit the monastery, but voluntary donations are appreciated. Visitor hours are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The temple is wheelchair accessible and has parking facilities. Note that, in accordance with Burmese customs, certain parts of the monastery are off-limits to female visitors.

How to get there

Mae Hong Son is a small town easily navigated on foot. Moreover, the temple is centrally located on the shores of Lake Jong Kham. However, if you're traveling from Pai or Mae Sariang, for example, you can take a tuk-tuk, motorbike taxi, or rent a bicycle to reach Wat Chong Kham.

Nearby attractions

Apart from Wat Chong Kham, other significant Buddhist temples await exploration:

• Wat Chong Klang, adjacent to the aforementioned temple;
• Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, the city's main monument;
• Wat Huai Pha, a charming Shan temple located on the road between Pai and Mae Hong Son.