Wat Sri Suphan

Overview

Wat Sri Suphan, known as the Silver Temple, is an extraordinary chapel where virtually every surface—walls, ceiling, roof—is covered in hand-worked aluminium and silver panels. It stands in the heart of the Wualai silversmiths' quarter south of the Old City.

Highlights

• Silver Ubosot: The ordination hall is clad entirely in silver-coloured metalwork with intricate mythological reliefs.
• Silversmithing Workshops: Artisans work in the attached workshops; visitors can try basic silver embossing.
• Night Illumination: The chapel is dramatically lit after dark, especially atmospheric during the Saturday Night Market.

History

Founded in 1502 during King Muang Kaeo's reign, the temple has always been associated with local silversmiths. The current silver ubosot was completed in 2016 after more than a decade of community craftsmanship.

Visitor Tips

• Women visitors: Women may not enter the silver ubosot due to religious tradition, but can admire it from outside.
• Saturday pairing: Combine with the adjacent Saturday Walking Street market (16:00–22:30).
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.