Skip to main content
  
POINT OF INTEREST

Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong)

135 Moo 10, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, 50200

With its secluded forest location and elaborate network of tunnels, Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) is unique among Chiang Mai temples. The 15-acre (6-hectare) temple complex is home to saffron-robed monks, as well as free-roaming deer and ponds full of fish and turtles. Signs painted with words of wisdom hang from the ‘talking trees.’

The Basics

Visit Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) independently or as part of a guided tour, and observe the monks practicing traditional Buddhist chants. Guided Wat Umong excursions range from bike tours to half-day trips dedicated entirely to Chiang Mai’s temples. Bike tours allow you to escape the busy city center and explore the countryside, while temple tours also take you to Wat Phra Doi Suthep, hailed as one of the most important Buddhist temples in Northern Thailand.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) is a sacred space and therefore requires modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders.

  • Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) is a great place to avoid the crowds of more-central Chiang Mai temples.

  • Admission to Wat Umong is free, but donations are encouraged.

How to Get There

From Chiang Mai Old Town, Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) is a 20-minute drive. You can either hail a private taxi or take asongthaew, a shared taxi recognizable by its bright-red exterior. Simply flag down the red truck, tell the driver where you’re going, and hop on board.

When to Get There

Thrice weekly, visitors to Tunnel Temple (Wat Umong) can learn more about the life and practices of Thai Buddhist monks during monk chats. The talks generally occur on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 5:30pm and 7:30pm.

The Legend Behind the Tunnels of Wat Umong

According to legend, the tunnels of Wat Umong, which were dug beneath an artificial mound, were created to help confine a highly regarded monk who was prone to wandering. The site was abandoned in the 15th century, adding to its ancient, wooded feel—but today several monks live here.

Things To Do Available (30)

View all Things to Do
From $70
THING TO DO

Private Tour: Chiang Mai Wat Umong and Doi Suthep by Night

Duration: 4 hours

From $133
THING TO DO

Chiang Mai Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

Duration: 6 hours to 8 hours

From $109
THING TO DO

Private Tour: Discover 8 Chiang Mai Temples & Cruise along Mae Ping river

Duration: 8 hours

From $127
THING TO DO

Private Chiang Mai Temple Tour with Doi Suthep and Wat Umong

Duration: 9 hours

From $74
THING TO DO

Chiang Mai Temples Hopping

Duration: 6 hours to 7 hours

From $19
THING TO DO

Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Umong Evening Tour

Duration: 4 hours

From $66
THING TO DO

Chiang Mai Sunset Point, Wat Pha Lat, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Umong

Duration: 6 hours

From $121
THING TO DO

️ Chiang Mai Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private and All-Inclusive)

Duration: 6 hours to 8 hours

From $62
THING TO DO

Chiang Mai Temple Tour: Discover Hidden Gem Northern Temples

Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes

From $83
THING TO DO

Half Day tour Suan Dok Temple, Umong temple & Doi Suthep Temple

Duration: 4 hours to 5 hours

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP