“Monastery at the Sloping Rock.” Does that pique your interest? I am excited to tell you about Wat Phang Yoi. This temple near Chiang Mai has a special story.
Wat Phang Yoi started as a resting place. People used it while walking up Doi Suthep to worship. This was around 1355. King Kuena’s white elephant rested here. The elephant was on a journey. It searched for a place for a holy temple.
The elephant eventually died higher up on Doi Suthep mountain. The King ordered a temple built where it died. He also ordered temples built at the elephant’s resting places. Wat Phang Yoi is one of those holy places. It is only a few kilometers from the famous Doi Suthep temple.
At Wat Phang Yoi’s entrance, you’ll see two giant lion guards. They are called Singh. They represent typical Thai temple architecture. A pathway leads to a small temple. Actually, there are several temples here. It is a very quiet place. Beautiful trees surround the temples. Rocks and a small waterfall are on the side.
There is a hidden and breathtaking area. It has a small waterfall nestled in the hillside. A sculpture sits at the bottom. The place feels undiscovered.
Here is something interesting. You will see a rabbit in every spot of Wat Phang Yoi. It’s not obvious. The rabbit represents the birth year of the monk in charge of the temple then.
Wat Phang Yoi is breathtaking. It is hard to describe its peace. The temple is old. You can see its history. Everything is white and surrounded by green. There is no luxury. No restaurants. No food. You feel back in nature.
The statues are impressive no matter your religion. Each seems to tell a story. Stepping into this jungle temple is special. It makes you feel peaceful. It makes you forget stress. Let go and return to nature here.
Many tourists go straight to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. But Wat Phang Yoi is a place to slow down. Keep yourself quiet and visit here. When you visit, dress properly. Be quiet. Respect the people. They want to keep this place peaceful. Wat Phang Yoi is an enchanted place. I hope you agree.