50 steering wheel garlands offered to Luang Pho Tan Jai at Wat Phra That Doi Kham, Chiang Mai.

Doi Kham Temple, Chiang Mai

Doi Kham Temple is a significant temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with a history dating back over 1,300 years. Situated on Doi Kham mountain, behind the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Park, it is approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. The temple stands at an elevation of 140 meters above the Chiang Mai plain and 465 meters above sea level.

Doi Kham Temple boasts a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It also houses the revered Phra Chao Than Jai Buddha statue, believed to be over five centuries old.

The Front Shrine: A Gift from Thai Airways

The front shrine at Wat Phra That Doi Kham was renovated and built as an offering by Thai Airways in 1966. At that time, Wat Phra That Doi Kham was an abandoned temple. Later, when the crypt was opened, villagers discovered several ancient artifacts, including a large gilded sandstone Buddha statue, a "Phra Rod Luang" Buddha image, and a "Phra Sam Mor" Buddha image (made of clay). These artifacts are now enshrined at Wat Phra That Doi Kham.

In addition to being a place of worship for local people, Wat Phra That Doi Kham also serves as a visual landmark for Thai Airways pilots before landing at Chiang Mai Airport. For this reason, Thai Airways played a role in the temple's restoration.

There are two ways to reach Wat Phra That Doi Kham: by car on the left side or by stairs on the right side. The stairs and the viewpoint on this side offer a distant view of the Royal Park Rajapruek and Ho Kham Luang on the right-hand side.

Luang Pho Tan Jai of Wat Phra That Doi Kham, built during the reign of King Kuena of the Lanna Kingdom, is currently renowned for its sacredness. Many visitors have experienced success after making wishes and offerings, prompting them to return and offer jasmine flowers as a form of gratitude. (Personal belief)

Villagers and tourists often come to pray for blessings. To make a wish, light 3 incense sticks and pray for what you desire. Tell the deity that you will offer 50 or more jasmine garlands.

Jasmine flowers for offerings / fulfilling vows

Flowers are available for purchase along the roadside before reaching the entrance to Wat Phra That Doi Kham (it is recommended to inquire about the price before buying). If you are buying in bulk, it is recommended to purchase them at the Talat Ton Lamyai (next to Talat Luang or Talat Warorot), which is the main flower market in Chiang Mai. Alternatively, you can purchase flowers at the Nimmanhaemin Market, located at the Mae Jo intersection (near Theppanya Hospital or the Fah Ham underpass). It is advisable to pre-order flowers at these locations.

The Wat Phra That Doi Kham temple was built during the reign of Queen Chamadevi, the ruler of Hariphunchai. It was constructed in 1230 AD by her two sons. The temple complex includes a stupa containing relics of the Buddha, a prayer hall, monks' quarters, and stucco Buddha statues. Originally named Wat Suwannabparp, it is known locally as "Wat Doi Kham."