Wat Pa Chi

Have you ever wondered what a Burmese-Shan temple looks like in the heart of Thailand? Here at Wat Pa Chi in Chiang Mai, that curiosity can be satisfied. Wat Pa Chi stands as a testament to the rich cultural exchange between Thailand and its neighboring country, Myanmar. Established in 1883, Wat Pa Chi, meaning “forest temple,” was built within a grove of Pao trees for the growing Shan community. Many had emigrated from Burma seeking work, particularly in the teak logging industry. They needed a place to practice their unique form of Buddhist worship. The temple became a spiritual and cultural hub, a piece of home in a new land. Wat Pa Chi is a feast for the eyes, quite distinct from the traditional Thai temples you might have seen. Its chedi is a masterpiece, with a bell-like shape rising from a triple-tiered base, crowned with a gleaming golden spire and hti. Four mythical Qilin, part lion and part dragon, stand guard at each corner. Look closely at the chedi. Notice the miniature statues of Shan men in traditional attire, holding long poles. These are modern additions, seamlessly integrated into the older stonework. Inside the temple grounds, two assembly halls showcase the beauty of Burmese-Shan architecture. One boasts a magnificent seven-tiered pyatthat roof, a signature of Burmese design. The other, crafted primarily from teak, features an intricate zeitawun roof. Its weathered red hues whisper tales of time, while the carvings depict scenes of the mythical Mount Meru. Wat Pa Chi isn’t just a visual delight, it’s a living testament to the Shan community’s vibrant culture. The annual Poy Sang Long festival held here is a spectacle of color and tradition, as young Shan boys are initiated into monkhood. The temple also houses a school where children learn the Shan dialect, ensuring the preservation of their heritage. Wat Pa Chi invites you to step into a world where cultures intertwine and history comes alive.