Wat Si Suphan, Buddhist temple in Haiya district, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Wat Si Suphan is a Buddhist temple in Haiya with an exterior entirely covered in silver, nickel, and aluminum decorations. The metalwork displays Buddhist legends and floral patterns that reflect light across the entire structure and its surrounding grounds.
The temple was founded in the late 14th century and served as a religious center across generations. Between 2008 and 2016, local metalworkers undertook extensive renovations that transformed its appearance, applying the silver and metal finishes visible today.
The temple draws pilgrims seeking connection with Buddhist practice through its gleaming exterior and active monastic community. Visitors can observe monks during their daily rituals and sit with them during meditation sessions that reveal how the space functions as a living place of spiritual work.
Visitors must wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders to respect temple requirements. Exploring early in the morning is best, when the heat is less intense and crowds are lighter.
Buddhist tradition restricts the central ordination hall to men only, while women can explore its interior using a 360-degree virtual tour on smartphones. This combination of ancient religious rules with modern technology allows all visitors to experience the sacred space in different ways.
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