Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu formerly known as Wat Plai Doi
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is a respectable temple that has stood with Mae Hong Son people for a long time. it is a familiar landmark from anywhere within the city.
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is located on a hill to the west of Mae Hong Son city. It stands atop Kong Mu hill and can be seen from anywhere in town. Perched on the summit of Doi Kong Mu Hill, Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is the oldest temple in Mae Hong Son Province, built in 1860 by Phya Singhanat Racha, the first governor of the region. Originally known as Wat Plai Doi, this sacred site is deeply tied to the history of the Shan people, who brought their unique architectural style and cultural traditions to northern Thailand. The temple served as both a spiritual center and a landmark for the town of Muang Mae Hong Son, symbolizing the unity of the local community.
Architecture that Blends Beauty and Spirituality
Large Chedi : It was built by a Tai-Yai merchant named “Jong Tong Su” in 1860. It is a decorated chedi in Mon style, with stucco patterns, and 3 superimposed octagonal pedestals. The lower pedestal was adorned with small facades called “Soom Phra” on all 8 sides.
Small Chedi : It was built in 1874 by Phaya Singhanat Racha, the first governor of Mae Hong Son to commemorate his appointment to be Ma Hong Son’s ruler. The chedi houses Phra Mokkanlana’s relics brought from Myanmar. It is a decorated chedi in Mon style, with 3 superimposed rectangular pedestals. At 4 corners of the pedestal are adorned with stucco Leo statues. The lower base was embellished with small facades called “Soom Phra” in Mon artistic style. The major facade has 3 superimposed decorated rooftops in stucco castle shape. The Viharn of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is located beside the big Phra That Chedi. They were built simultaneously. The viharn is in “Song Rong” architectural style, with rectangular shape and 3 superimposed wooden roofs. The roofs were adorned with metals, and perforated in Thai-Yai designs.
The Viharn of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu : It was located next to the big Phra That Chedi. The viharn is in “Song Rong” architectural style in a rectangular shape. It was roofed with 3 superimposed wooden roofs, and decorated with perforated metals according to Thai-Yai style.
The interiors of Wat Doi Kong Mu are just as breathtaking, with murals depicting the life of the Buddha and symbols of enlightenment. The prayer halls are serene and inviting, providing a tranquil space for meditation and reflection. These artistic elements not only highlight the region’s connection to Burmese traditions but also demonstrate the enduring cultural significance of the temple.
A Hub of Cultural and Religious Festivities
Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is the heart of several major festivals in Mae Hong Son Province, drawing both locals and tourists. The Loy Krathong Festival is particularly magical here, as the temple’s hilltop location offers a stunning backdrop for the sky lanterns and illuminated krathongs released into the night. This festival symbolizes letting go of negativity and embracing positivity, making it a deeply meaningful experience.
The Bun Khun Mu Festival is another highlight, celebrated with vibrant ceremonies, traditional dances, and offerings made to monks. These events bring the community together and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son Thailand. The temple’s serene atmosphere, combined with the festive energy of these events, creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Panoramic views : Visitors to Phrathat Doi Kong Mu Temple often find themselves mesmerized by the panoramic views from its hilltop perch. Overlooking the quaint town of Muang Mae Hong Son, the temple offers stunning vistas of mist-covered mountains, lush valleys, and serene landscapes. The cool mountain air and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal spot for meditation, photography, or simply taking in the beauty of northern Thailand.
The Staircase : Higher up the hill overlooking Mae Hong Son is a Buddha image in subduing Mara posture, seated on a high pedestal. The image is guarded by a pair of white and gold guardian Chinthe lions. On top of the hill is another small temple building topped with a Pyatthat roof. The stairs are guarded by mythological Naga serpents. In front of it is a large standing Buddha image wearing a golden robe.
If you’re traveling as part of a Mae Hong Son loop tour package, Phra That Doi Kong Mu Temple is often a highlight of the journey. Its unique history, breathtaking architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the heart of northern Thailand.
Opening Time : The temple opens daily during daylight hours
Address : Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, Chong Kham, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son 58000, Thailand
GPS Coordinates Map : 19.3000751,97.9583525
Entrance : Admission to the temple is free but donations are suggested.
How to get there :
To travel there, take Highway no.108. From Phaya Singhanat Racha Monument, drive up the unpaved road on the left of the monument for around 1.5 kilometers.
There are two different ways of reaching Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu. Visitors can climb to the top of the Doi Kong Mu using the stairway that starts from Wat Phra Non and goes until the temple while passing through the forests. Another way of reaching the hill top is to follow the second path that starts from Wat Muo Taw. In any case, it takes half an hour to reach the temple on foot. However, one can always use a motorcycle or a car to reach the temple but you will miss out on the scenic beauty that walking allows you to see.
- By public vehicles :Tourists can rent a Tuk-Tuk , or Son Taew (Two-row seated bus) from the town up to Phra That Doi Kong Mu.
- By personal vehicles
- Tour company or travel agent can arrange transport via air-conditioned car, van or mini-bus.
- By renting the mountain bike or Motorbike.
Note : Wheelchair user is accessible
Nearby Places
Wat Phra Non has a unique of its own. A gigantic Buddha statue of the lying-down manner is located there. In case you’re confused, the word ‘phra’ here means ‘Buddha statue’ and the word ‘non’ means ‘lie down’. Now, that makes sense why the temple was named as Wat Phra Non.
Situated at the foot of Doi Kong Mu, this monument commemorates the first governor of Mae Hong Son Phraya Singhanatracha. His origin was Thai Yai native from Burma (Myanmar) but he later gathered people to establish a village called Ban Khun Yuam on the south of Mae Hong Son. After he was regarded as the governor of Khun Yuam town, he was later appointed by the King of Lanna to be the official governor in 1874.
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