Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, Chiang Mai (must see)

Wat Umong, also known as Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, stands as an ancient Buddhist temple nestled in the serene surroundings of Chiang Mai. With a history spanning over 700 years, this temple was founded in 1297 by King Mangrai, a prominent figure in the Lan Na dynasty. Perched against the picturesque Doi Suthep mountains, Wat Umong finds itself approximately 1 kilometer south of the main campus of Chiang Mai University.

The temple complex, covering an expansive 15 acres of wooded grounds, exudes a tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal haven for spiritual contemplation. Visitors to Wat Umong have the opportunity to explore a small open zoo located behind the temple, adding to the unique experience of this sacred place.

One notable attraction within the temple grounds is a remarkable replica of the Ashok Pillar, reminiscent of the one found in Vaishali. This intricately designed pillar showcases four majestic lions and a wheel at its base, topped by a larger wheel that acts as an umbrella for the lions. Interestingly, the four lion heads are also adopted as the National Emblem of India. The serene atmosphere is further complemented by "talking trees" which bear words of wisdom in both Thai and English.

Venturing through the ancient tunnels and large chedi at Wat Umong is an enthralling experience. These tunnels, adorned with Buddhist images, were supposedly built by the King to house a renowned but mentally deranged monk who had a habit of wandering into the wilderness for days on end. Along the footpaths leading to a serene lake, visitors can encounter signs (proverbs) in English and Thai, while feeding the fish, pigeons, and turtles that inhabit the area.

Beyond the tunnels and chedi, the temple complex boasts a plethora of captivating attractions. The Buddha field, featuring broken sculptures, adds a sense of historical intrigue. The fasting Bodhisattva and the Spiritual Theatre with paintings akin to those at Suan Mokkh further enrich the cultural and spiritual experience. Additionally, visitors can find reproductions of ancient Buddhist sculptures from India and explore the library-museum, offering a vast collection of books on Buddhism and other philosophies, as well as a display of historic objects and Buddhist art.