Practical information
- Location
- Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai · 18.78822, 98.96770
- 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
- Lanna period, 14th century
Opening hours and entrance fee: no reliable source found, so not listed. Ask on site or check the official website.
About Wat Suan Dok
Wat Suan Dok, the 'flower garden temple', lies about a kilometre west of the old city's Suan Dok Gate on Suthep Road. It is a royal temple of the third class, and its large bell-shaped golden chedi is surrounded by a field of gleaming white smaller stupas that hold the ashes of Chiang Mai's former royal family. With Doi Suthep in the background, this is one of the most photogenic temple views in the city, particularly at sunset. A Buddhist university campus is located within the compound, and the temple also offers monk chats and meditation programmes.
Highlights
- White royal stupas Small chedis holding royal ashes.
- Golden chedi A large bell-shaped stupa.
- Sunset with Doi Suthep The mountain forms the backdrop.
Tips for Wat Suan Dok
- Cover your shoulders and knees and take off your shoes before you enter a temple building.
- Combine your visit with Wat Phra Singh, about 1 km away as the crow flies.
More photos of Wat Suan Dok
Temple hall with gilded gable, Wat Suan Dok Photo: กสิณธร ราชโอรส · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons 
Golden Buddha image inside, Wat Suan Dok Photo: Photo Dharma from Sadao, Thailand · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Wat Suan Dok on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Frequently asked questions about Wat Suan Dok
Where is Wat Suan Dok?
Wat Suan Dok is in Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai province, in northern Thailand.
What is Wat Suan Dok known for?
Wat Suan Dok, the 'flower garden temple', lies about a kilometre west of the old city's Suan Dok Gate on Suthep Road. Highlights include White royal stupas, Golden chedi and Sunset with Doi Suthep.
How old is Wat Suan Dok?
Lanna period, 14th century.