Practical information
- Location
- Nan, Nan · 18.77467, 100.77159
- Dress code
- Dress politely: long sleeves, trousers or a knee-length skirt; no sleeveless, crop, tight or revealing tops. Take off your shoes before entering the chapel or other buildings. (source: thailand.go.th)
- Period
- Cruciform ubosot built in 1596, restored in the 19th century
Opening hours and entrance fee: no reliable source found, so not listed. Ask on site or check the official website.
About Wat Phumin (Nan)
Wat Phumin is the most famous temple of Nan, a laid-back town in the far north. Its cruciform ordination hall, built in 1596 and restored in the 19th century, appears to rest on the backs of two giant naga serpents. Inside, four Buddha images sit back to back, facing the four doors. The walls are covered with celebrated murals of everyday life, love and local legends, including the much-loved scene of a couple whispering, often called 'the whispering lovers'. The temple once appeared on a Thai banknote. Visit in the morning, when the light enters softly.
Highlights
- Whispering lovers A famous mural scene of a couple.
- Four-faced Buddha Four images face the four doors.
- Naga-borne hall The hall seems carried by two serpents.
Tips for Wat Phumin (Nan)
- Cover your shoulders and knees and take off your shoes before you enter a temple building.
- Combine your visit with Wat Phra That Chae Haeng (Nan), about 3 km away as the crow flies.
More photos of Wat Phumin (Nan)
Four Buddha images facing the four directions, Wat Phumin (Nan) Photo: กสิณธร ราชโอรส · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons 
Naga staircase leading to the entrance, Wat Phumin (Nan) Photo: K.Phothiwijit · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Wat Phumin (Nan) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Frequently asked questions about Wat Phumin (Nan)
Where is Wat Phumin (Nan)?
Wat Phumin (Nan) is in Nan, Nan province, in northern Thailand.
What is Wat Phumin (Nan) known for?
Wat Phumin is the most famous temple of Nan, a laid-back town in the far north. Highlights include Whispering lovers, Four-faced Buddha and Naga-borne hall.
How old is Wat Phumin (Nan)?
Cruciform ubosot built in 1596, restored in the 19th century.