Wat Umong

Chiang Mai is the capital of Northern Thailand. This place became the capital of the kingdom of Lana Thai - the kingdom of Buddhist kings in 1296. With a long-lasting history, Chiang Mai possesses countless of temples with significant historical and architectural values. Each temple has a completely different style, giving visitors one surprise after another. One of the most unique and worth visited temples recommended for any tourists coming to Chiang Mai is Wat Umong the golden temple.

Wat Umong

Wat Umong, also known as Oomong Temple, is located at 135 Moo 10 Su thep, Chiang Mai City. Nestled among the dense forests of Suthep, Wat Umong is a unique Thai destination that tourists should visit. Wat U-mong is one of Thailand's most ancient temples and also the oldest one in Chiang Mai. Has existed more than 700 years associated with the history of Thailand, the scenery at the temple is extremely ancient, the traces due to the impact of the weather, or the ruined, rusty things result in the timeless beauty of Wat Umong.

The tunnel temple of Wat Umong

Outside the temple grounds, everything is covered with ancient moss color, as visitors will feel the peace and serenity when visiting this ancient temple. Wat Umong is especially an attractive destination for Thailand tourists and locals during the pilgrimage season for being famous as a sacred site for worshipping and praying. These monasteries and temples were once abandoned, until 1940 when the Thai government excavated and began to put Wat Umong into operation as an ancient relic. Currently, Wat U-mong remains intact traces of time with plastered walls, scant tiles. Under the sunlight, the main temple scene is both poetic and mysterious.

The tunnel temple of Wat Umong

The entrance of Wat U-mong temple is hidden behind tall trees. Two ancient statues placed on both sides of the gate symbolize the barrier keeping dark forces from entering the temple. Coming to Wat Umong, tourists will have a chance to visit the ancient tunnel area, which leads to the main hall. This dome-shaped structure was built of baked bricks and preserved from the original construction in the late 14th century to the present day. On a fairly large space, a huge piece of artificial land was built into the cross-linking tunnels. According to many people, this tunnel maze is often a place for monks to wander. On top of this mound is the location of the main Stupa, where visitors can reach through the entrance of the tunnel. On the altar in the main hall of the stupa, there are small Buddha statues of various shapes.

Buddha Head at Wat Umong

The tunnel leading into the main hall displays impressive ancient collections such as the history of Buddhism or Thailand's Buddhist development as well as images depicting the leading predecessors of Buddhism. Coming to Wat Umong, tourists will have a chance to immerge in the serenity of the temple and get lost in the nostalgic atmosphere of the ancient Chiang Mai city. In addition, Wat Umong is a very miraculous temple to pray for health and prosperity.

Wat Umong is located at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain, very close to Chiang Mai zoo. Using a shuttle bus, visitors can reach the destination easily. The opening hour is from 6am to 5pm.