Chiang Mai, known as the Rose of the North, is home to some of the most beautiful and culturally significant temples in Thailand. With over 300 temples (or “wats”) spread across the city and its surrounding mountains, the best way to explore them is by motorbike—giving you freedom, flexibility, and a true sense of adventure.
By renting a motorbike with Byklo, you can easily ride between famous temples, hidden gems, and stunning mountain viewpoints without relying on taxis or crowded tour groups. Ready for a temple-hopping adventure? Here’s the perfect motorbike route for exploring Chiang Mai’s must-see temples!
🛕 Wat Phra Singh – The Heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City
Begin your journey at Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most important and revered temples. Located within the Old City walls, this 14th-century temple is known for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture and golden chedis (stupas).
Why visit?
✅ Home to the Phra Singh Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred images
✅ Stunning Lanna-style wooden structures
✅ Located in the heart of the Old City, easy to access by motorbike
📍 How to get there: If you’re staying in Old City or Nimmanhaemin, it’s just a 5-minute ride.
🛕 Wat Chedi Luang – Ancient Ruins in the City Center
Just a short 2-minute ride from Wat Phra Singh, you’ll find Wat Chedi Luang, famous for its massive stone chedi that once housed the Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok). This ancient structure was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545, but its ruins remain one of the most impressive sights in Chiang Mai.
Why visit?
✅ See the massive ruined chedi, one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic landmarks
✅ Home to the City Pillar Shrine, an important religious site
✅ Peaceful temple grounds, great for photography
📍 How to get there: A quick 2-minute motorbike ride from Wat Phra Singh.
🛕 Wat Lok Moli – A Hidden Gem Near the Old City
Now, take a 5-minute ride north to Wat Lok Moli, a less crowded but incredibly beautiful temple. This temple dates back to the 14th century and features an ancient brick chedi that stands tall against the Chiang Mai skyline.
Why visit?
✅ Less touristy, making for a peaceful experience
✅ A unique open-air wooden temple hall
✅ A beautiful brick chedi (stupa) dating back to the 1300s
📍 How to get there: Ride north along the moat road (Mani Nopparat Road) for about 5 minutes.
🛕 Wat Suan Dok – A Temple of Golden & White Stupas
Next, ride about 10 minutes west to Wat Suan Dok, a stunning temple known for its white chedis and golden pagoda, as well as being the final resting place of the Lanna royal family.
Why visit?
✅ A great sunset spot with golden light reflecting on the chedis
✅ Home to Chiang Mai’s Monk Chat program, where you can talk with Buddhist monks
✅ Less crowded than temples in the Old City
📍 How to get there: Take the Canal Road west of the Old City, and you’ll reach Wat Suan Dok in about 10 minutes.
🛕 Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – Chiang Mai’s Most Iconic Temple
Now it’s time for the highlight of the journey—riding up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most famous temple. Perched on a mountain overlooking the city, this temple offers stunning panoramic views, a dazzling golden pagoda, and a sacred atmosphere.
Why visit?
✅ The most famous temple in Chiang Mai
✅ Incredible views over Chiang Mai from the mountaintop
✅ Home to the sacred golden chedi that houses Buddhist relics
📍 How to get there: Ride up the winding mountain road from Wat Suan Dok—it’s about 40 minutes to the top. The road is steep but well-paved, making for an exciting motorbike ride.
🏍️ Need a reliable motorbike for the mountain ride? Rent one from Byklo and enjoy the journey safely!
🛕 Wat Phra That Doi Kham – The Temple of the Big Buddha
If you want another scenic ride, take a 20-minute motorbike trip south to Wat Phra That Doi Kham, known for its huge sitting Buddha statue overlooking the valley.
Why visit?
✅ Stunning views over Chiang Mai
✅ A massive 17-meter-tall Buddha statue
✅ Fewer tourists than Doi Suthep
📍 How to get there: Ride south from Doi Suthep on Canal Road for about 20 minutes.
🛕 Wat Umong – The Underground Temple
After a day of temple hopping, head to Wat Umong, a peaceful forest temple known for its mysterious underground tunnels. This 700-year-old temple is a perfect place to unwind and reflect on your journey.
Why visit?
✅ A unique underground tunnel system
✅ Peaceful forest setting, great for meditation
✅ Home to many friendly temple cats & dogs
📍 How to get there: A 15-minute ride from Doi Kham or 10 minutes from the Old City.
🏍️ Why Explore Chiang Mai’s Temples by Motorbike?
Riding a motorbike gives you the freedom to explore Chiang Mai’s temples at your own pace, stopping whenever you want to take in the sights. By renting a bike from Byklo, you’ll enjoy:
✅ Reliable, well-maintained motorbikes from local motorbike shops
✅ Easy online booking & no hidden fees
✅ Flexible rental periods for your adventure
✅ A safer, smoother ride for temple-hopping around Chiang Mai🛕
Ready to explore Chiang Mai’s most beautiful temples? Rent a motorbike with Byklo today and start your journey! 🏍️✨
