Wat Suan Dok: Information and Direction
Wat Suan Dok is located on the western outskirts of Chiang Mai in the general direction of Doi Suthep. The temple dates back to the 12th century AD and is a fine example of the Lanna style of temple buildings. The temple is notable for two main features, the huge open sided Wihan which contains all the principle Buddha statues(there are several) and the gilded chedi at the rear of the buildings.
The temple also has links with Wat Doi Suthep given that legend has it that the same white elephant that allegedly founded the hilltop temple also visited Wat Suan Dok.
The Wat has a rather unique(modern) feature in that there is an area set aside for a “monk chat” where foreign visitors can sit down with monks to learn about Buddhism and allow the monks to practice English. A programme that I also found at several other temples in the Chiang Mai area.
There are no entrance fees and plenty of parking.
GPS Co-ordinates: Latitude 18.788225° N Longitude 98.967440° E
Opinion on Wat Suan Dok
Certainly one of the more interesting temples in Chiang Mai, with the wihan and its Buddha images being somewhat unique.
Last Visited: 6th July 2011
View Location of Wat Suan Dok on map of area
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