Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham

"Wat Umong, officially known as Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, is a 700-year-old Buddhist temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, nestled against the mountains of Doi Suthep. It is situated about 1 km south of the main campus of Chiang Mai University, offering a peaceful, natural environment. Behind the temple, a small open zoo provides a unique addition to the serene setting. Founded in 1297 by King Mangrai of the Lan Na dynasty, the temple holds historical significance. One of its notable features is a modern replica of the Ashoka Pillar, originally located in Sarnath, India, which commemorates the establishment of Buddhism in northern Thailand by King Mangrai. This replica includes the Lion Capital of Ashoka, which became the National Emblem of India after the country’s independence. The Wat Umong complex spans 37.5 rai (15 acres) and includes several interesting features. The temple is known for its ancient tunnels beneath the chedi, which are said to have been built to contain a monk who had a habit of wandering off into the forest. These tunnels are adorned with Buddhist images and provide an easy path for exploration. The surrounding grounds feature "talking trees" with wise sayings in both Thai and English, along with a large pond where visitors can feed fish, turtles, and ducks. Other attractions at Wat Umong include a Buddha field filled with broken sculptures, a fasting Bodhisattva, a Spiritual Theatre featuring paintings similar to those at Suan Mokkh, and reproductions of ancient Buddhist sculptures from India. A library and museum are also part of the complex, housing books on Buddhism and philosophy as well as collections of Buddhist art and historical objects. The temple is unique for its natural setting, where resident monks live and occasionally feed the deer that roam the area. Visitors also have the opportunity to practice meditation and learn from the monks, making Wat Umong a tranquil and reflective place for both spiritual growth and exploration."

"A beautiful temple and a series of temples that are illuminated in the evening and glow in the darkness"

"Free to enter, this old traditional stupa made a beautiful last stop for our motorbike loop."