[2025 Hang Dong Attraction] Travel Guide for Wat Ban Pong (Updated Jul)

#NewYearNewTrip Visit Chiang Mai this February. I would like to recommend Wat Aranyawas or known as Wat Ban Pong. It is located in Ban Pong Subdistrict, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province. It is a temple of historical and architectural significance, especially the "Loha Prasat" or "Phra That Si Mueang Pong", which is the first Lanna-style metal castle in the world. The metal castle is located on the hill behind the temple. It stands out with its beautiful and unique architecture. The temple and murals: Inside the temple, there are murals that tell the story of the faith in Buddhism of the Lanna people. Visitors can worship and pay homage to the metal castle to enhance their auspiciousness. In addition, from the metal castle area, you can see a beautiful view of Hang Dong District. Travel Wat Aranyawas is located in Hang Dong District, approximately 20 kilometers from Chiang Mai city. You can travel by taking Highway No. 1269 (Chiang Mai-Samoeng route). When you reach Ban Pong, look for the sign to enter the temple. Opening hours: The temple is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. I would recommend it.

Chiang Mai: An ancient city filled with stunning temples at every corner 1. Wat Suan Dok – A serene sanctuary in the heart of the city This ancient temple in Chiang Mai features rows of white stupas that make you feel as if you've stepped into a Buddhist paradise. It houses sacred relics and the "Royal Lanna Family Memorial Stupas." Quiet, peaceful, clean, and so beautiful that you'll want to capture every angle with your camera. 2. Wat Sri Suphan – The world's one and only silver temple This is a walking masterpiece. The entire temple, including the ordination hall, structure, and intricate designs, is adorned with silver and aluminum. It’s both mystical and cool! At night, the illuminated temple is even more spectacular, and the activity of striking the giant gong to make wishes adds to the charm. This temple is a full glam experience for spiritual seekers. 3. Wat Phra That Doi Saket – A viewpoint with spiritual energy Located just a short distance from the city, this temple offers panoramic views of Chiang Mai and a stunning stupa that symbolizes the district. Stop by to pay respects and soak in positive energy before heading back. It’s a must-visit for travelers and spiritual enthusiasts alike. 4. Wat Ched Yod – A historical gem that speaks for itself This unique temple features seven spires, blending Pagan and Lanna art styles. It was once the site of a Buddhist scripture council during the Ayutthaya period. Visit in the morning or evening to experience its tranquility and feel as if the past is whispering stories through the air. Lamphun: A peaceful town brimming with ancient energy 5. Wat Phra That Hariphunchai – The iconic temple of Lamphun If you visit Lamphun and don’t pay respects at "Wat Phra That Hariphunchai," it’s like you haven’t truly arrived! The golden stupa in the heart of this quiet town radiates strong faith. Visit in the evening for a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the stupa reflecting the sunset – simply indescribable. 6. Wat Aranyawas (Sri Muang Pong) – A forest temple that calms the soul This small, tranquil temple in Lamphun is perfect for those seeking true peace of mind. Free from chaos, it offers only the sounds of birds, wind, and nature’s whispers that seep into your heart. It’s a forest monastery, and if you want to experience true "stillness," sit quietly and listen to your own heartbeat here. 🍂 Trip Summary: This route isn’t just beautiful; it’s profound, peaceful, and quietly transformative. Temples in Chiang Mai – Artistic, stunning, and full of stories Temples on the hills – Scenic views and powerful energy Temples in Lamphun – Simple yet filled with faith If you’re looking to rest your mind, recharge your spirit, and capture both beautiful images and deep feelings that fill your heart, this journey is for you.

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Wat Aranyawas or Phra That Si Mueang Pong is located on top of a mountain. You cannot drive there yourself. You have to take the temple's car. You have to buy a coupon for 40 baht per person. There are cars leaving every 10 minutes. The distance up the mountain is about 2 kilometers. The temple is beautiful, clean, and tidy. You have to change into temple shoes. There is a metal castle-shaped pagoda. The castle is white with a gold top. The view is beautiful. The atmosphere is good. The temple is quite large. Location: Chiang Mai, Ban Pong, Hang Dong #OldChiangMaiTemples

#One-day trip plan 📍 1. Wat Aranyawas (Wat Ban Pong) • Address - Ban Pong Subdistrict, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai • Highlights - Worship Phra Chao Tan Jai Pay homage to Phra Mahathat Suwanna Chedi Si Mueang Pong Loha Prasat Thipphayawiman Wat Aranyawas or Wat Ban Pong The word "Pong" means the bank of the water or the lowland. Which this area will be a basin Or a swamp around the water • ⏰️ 06.00 - 17.00 hrs. • Score - 10 out of 10 #Wat Aranyawas 📍 2. Loha Prasat Phra That Si Mueang Pong • Address - Village No. 2, Ban Pong Subdistrict Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai • Highlights - There is a Loha Prasat Phra That Si Mueang Pong It is a large white pagoda It is the second Loha Prasat in Thailand Park your car at Wat Ban Pong And take a shuttle bus For tourists Will go up to deliver near the castle • ⏰️ 07.00 - 18.00 hrs. • Score - 10 out of 10 #Metal Prasat Phra That Si Mueang Pong 📍 3. Jungle de Cafe, Ban Tawai branch • Address - 202 Moo 6, Khunkhong Subdistrict Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai • Highlight - This is a cafe Resort accommodation, amusement park Suitable for bringing the family to relax With beautiful nature, you can relax • ⏰️ 08.30 - 21.00 hrs. • Score - 10 out of 10 #Jungle de Cafe, Ban Tawai branch 📍 4. My Forest Cafe • Address - Ban Waen Subdistrict Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai • Highlight - It is a secret coffee shop Beautiful, pleasant, with trees, waterfalls There are many menus Food and drinks In terms of taste and atmosphere, very good • ⏰️ 10.00 - 18.00 hrs. • Score - 10 out of 10 #myforestcafe

#Where to go today #Visit Chiang Mai Wat Aranyawas is a temple that stands out for its simplicity and tranquility amidst lush nature. The temple is located in an area surrounded by large trees, providing a sense of peace suitable for practicing Dhamma and resting the mind. The highlight of the chapel is its simple design but with beautiful artistic details that reflect Thainess deeply. There is also a meditation area and a nature trail in the temple area that allows visitors to relax and connect with nature. The atmosphere around the temple is quiet, suitable for worshipping Buddha and taking time to contemplate Dhamma. Tourists or those seeking peace can spend time here to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Wat Aranyawas is suitable for those who want peace and mental rejuvenation. It is a place full of positive energy and the simplicity of nature.

● Invite to travel, invite to eat, have fun Take you to a beautiful place open for viewing And worship the chedi At Loha Prasat Phra That Si Mueang Pong 🙏 Today we come to Wat Aranyawat Or "Wat Ban Pong" Heading up to the top of the mountain To worship Phra That Chedi Located behind the temple on the mountain The chedi is prominent Looking from any direction, it is clear Because it is on the mountain It is very beautiful From the top, looking down You will see the landscape of Ban Pong So it is the origin of the name "Phra That Si Mueang Pong" To preserve So built "Loha Prasat" Covering the original chedi This is the 2nd Loha Prasat in Thailand In the Lanna style Inside contains the relics of the Lord Buddha More than a hundred years old 🚗 Travel - Go to the Royal Flora Then go up to Samoeng Address: Tambon Ban Pong Hang Dong District / Chiang Mai

Wat Aranyawas or Wat Ban Pong, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province, is home to the beautiful white Phra That Si Mueang Pong and the metal castle of Chiang Mai, located on the hill behind the temple. There are two ways to visit: take a car up there, which costs 40 baht per person, or walk up the stairs in a shady atmosphere. You can park your car in front of the temple. #Wat Aranyawas #Wat Ban Pong #Metal Castle #Chiang Mai #AmazingThailand #Visit Temples