Rating: 4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily (please re-check before traveling)

Opening Hours: Recommended 08.00–17.00 (daytime is easier for walking around)

 

Phra That Chom Hin is a sacred reliquary stupa deeply revered by the people of Pa Tum Subdistrict and is one of the key pilgrimage landmarks in Phrao District, Chiang Mai. Its standout feature is its location on a hill, offering a wide, open view across the Phrao basin below. Visiting here isn’t only about paying respects to the stupa; it’s also about rising above the town for a moment—bringing your faith with you, feeling the wind, and seeing Phrao from a calmer, higher perspective.

 

The charm of Phra That Chom Hin lies in a kind of simplicity that feels quietly powerful. Local devotion is not performative here—people come with intention, not just for photos. Because the stupa sits on elevated ground, the rhythm of light, breeze, and open space naturally makes the atmosphere feel more serene, even before you’ve finished offering your prayers.

 

History and local stories of Phra That Chom Hin are remembered and passed down within the Pa Tum community as part of the identity of this hill. Many locals refer to the area as a “doi that”—a sacred hill tied to the stupa’s long-standing sanctity. That sacredness is not only about the place itself, but also about how the community continues to care for it, preserve it, and treat it with respect. One story that has been told for generations says that on certain nights near Buddhist observance days or significant lunar-calendar nights, people once witnessed a glowing light—described as a “ball of fire”—floating up and down around the hill. Stories like this act as a kind of community language, reinforcing that this is not merely a viewpoint, but a place approached with reverence and a composed state of mind.

 

Another reason Phra That Chom Hin remains alive in the community’s annual rhythm is the stupa bathing ritual (Song Nam Phra That), which is usually held in May each year. During this time, the atmosphere changes noticeably from ordinary days: people gather to make merit, pour lustral water, and take part in local ceremonial practices. If you visit during the festival period, you’re not only seeing a site—you’re witnessing living faith in motion. It’s best to allow extra time and dress especially respectfully, as the area is typically busier than usual.

 

Getting There Phra That Chom Hin is located in Moo 5, Ban Thung Ha, Pa Tum Subdistrict, Phrao District, Chiang Mai. Based on the local directions you provided, from the Pa Tum Subdistrict Municipality office, head toward Wiang Pa Pao for about 1.5 km, then enter the Ban Thung Ha area and continue up to the stupa site. It’s recommended to use a navigation map, especially for the smaller local roads near the end of the route.

 

If you are driving from Chiang Mai city, most travelers first head toward Phrao District and then continue into Pa Tum and Ban Thung Ha. Be mindful of the uphill stretch and the access road into the stupa area—drive at a safe speed, and during the rainy season, it’s wise to add a little extra time.

 

For a smooth visit, dress modestly, keep your voice low, and avoid blocking key areas when others are making offerings or participating in rituals. If you plan to take photos, do so without intruding into ceremonial spaces, and avoid using flash where it may disturb others. The best times to go are morning to late morning, or late afternoon before sunset, when the light is softer and the air usually feels comfortable.

 

To make the most of your trip, Phra That Chom Hin works well as a “start point–rest stop” before continuing to nature spots and learning sites around Phrao. Nearby are Sri Lanna National Park, waterfalls within the park area, archaeological sites, and significant temples that can easily be combined into a full-day route without rushing.

 

 

A: It is in Moo 5, Ban Thung Ha, Pa Tum Subdistrict, Phrao District, Chiang Mai. The stupa sits on a hill and offers a broad view over the Phrao plain.

 

A: The stupa bathing ritual is usually held in May each year.

 

A: From the Pa Tum Subdistrict Municipality office, drive toward Wiang Pa Pao for about 1.5 km, then enter Ban Thung Ha and continue up to the stupa site. Using navigation is recommended for the final local roads.

 

A: Recommended options include Wat Doi Mae Pang, Sri Lanna National Park, Mon Hin Lai Waterfall, Ku Wiang Ying, and Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong.

 

A: You can contact the Pa Tum Subdistrict Municipality at 053-889-337 or 053-474-512.