Visible from the city of Mae Hong Son, Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is a sacred temple of the Buddhist people in Thailand. The temple sits on the Doi Kong Mu hill with a full view over the town as well as the area around the hill. This Burmese-style temple is claimed to be a must-see by the visitors of the town. (Photo by © Ronan Crowley via Flickr)
The construction of the Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu began in 1860 as the larger Chedis was constructed at the time. It houses the ashes of two important people from the region as well as several relics. Keep an open eye while you are visiting the town and make sure to visit and enjoy the temple!
Two Chedis in Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
The larger Chedis
The larger Chedis houses the ashes of Phra Maha Mok Kallana, one of the prominent monks of his time who was also a disciple of Buddha as well as the relics from Burma. They were all brought to Mae Hong Son by the Buddhist migrants who made the first constructions of the temple.
The Smaller Chedis
The Smaller Chedis houses the ashes of the First governor of Mae Hong Son, named Phraya Singhanat Racha. The building was constructed by the order of the governor in 1874 using the same Burmese style. These structures have stucco patterns as well as Mon Style decorations.
Two Viharas of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu
Besides Chedis, there are also two Viharas in the temple with similar methods of construction and architecture in Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu complex. There is a smaller Vihara that is connected to the two Chedis, which also served as an assembly hall. There is also a larger Vihara with the same style of architecture and decorations as the other buildings. The main difference is that the larger Viharas roof has three tiers of decorations in different sizes, which go smaller as they go up. Besides, the material used in the Viharas also includes wood and metal, which have a decorative function as well.
Statues And Images On The Hill
Aside from the buildings, there is also an image of Buddha further up the hill. While going up, you will see the two Naga serpent statues guarding the stairs as well as two Chinthe lions guarding the Buddha image. Another statue worth mentioning is the governor Pharay Singhanat Racha at the foot of the hill.
View From Atop The Hill
You can catch the peaceful atmosphere of the complex from the top of the hill. Besides, the view from above the hill is very special at all times of the day. The best hours for visiting are maybe sunrise and sunset, especially since you have a Panoramic view of the entire valley including Mae Hong Son on the top. Early in the morning, you may even see the fog and the early morning mist covering the area below as you catch the rising sun.
Besides the view, the sun shining on the white Chedis and their golden spires on their top as well as the exterior of the Viharas are spectacular sights to see. As you enjoy the scenery, you can also take a visit to the coffee shop on top of the hill and relax.
Getting To The Top of the Hill
There is no straight path to War Phra That Doi Kong Mu from inside the town except for the motorbike taxis, which can be found in the central areas of Mae Hong Son. If you are up for a little hiking, you can also ascend from the two staircases that lead up to the temple. The two paths up are located about one km to the west of the town and they are known as Wat Phra non and Wat Muo Taw.
Tourist Guide
| Tourist Information of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu | |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | The Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu temple will be open every day during daylight hours. It is best to check for possible events or Buddhist ceremonies as they will be held at the temple from time to time. |
| Ticket Price | You are not required to pay any entrance fee for visiting but donations for the preservation and maintaining the temple are accepted. |
| Address | Chong Kham, Mueang Hong Son, District, Mae Hong Son 58000, Thailand |
If you prefer not to take motorbike taxis, you will have 250 meters of upwards hiking to reach the top; therefore, make sure to be ready and wear appropriate clothing. Do you have any more information to add? Feel free to leave your comments and thoughts for us. Besides, if you need more detailed information, rest assured that our professional guides will reply to your questions as soon as possible.
