Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn sits on a limestone ridge in Chae Hom district, and what it is known for is the arrangement: a series of small whitewashed pagodas built individually on top of separate rock pinnacles, so each stands alone on its own tower of stone with drops all around and the valley below. Getting there means a local pickup up a rough track, then a climb of several hundred steps and a final scramble up the rock with fixed ropes and chains to reach the pinnacle tops. It became widely known through social media after decades of obscurity, and access is now managed with a transfer service. The climb is genuinely exposed - narrow rock ledges, drops on both sides, ropes rather than railings in places - and it is not suitable for anyone uneasy with heights. Numbers on the pinnacles are limited because there is physically no room. Weather closes it.

What's there

• The pinnacle pagodas - small white stupas each on its own rock tower.
• The climb - steps then a roped scramble up exposed limestone.
• The valley view - the Lampang hills from the tops.
• The managed access - local pickup transfer up the rough approach track.

When to go

November to February. Early morning for the light and to beat the heat and the queue. It closes in rain and high wind, and the rock is dangerous when wet.

Practical notes

Genuinely exposed - roped scrambling on narrow rock with drops either side, and not for anyone afraid of heights. Space on the pinnacles is limited and queues form. Local pickup transfer required. Closed in bad weather.

Nearby

Chae Son National Park is west; Lampang town is south.