Wat Tha Ton

Wat Tha Ton climbs a hill above the Kok river at Tha Ton, close to the Myanmar border in the far north of Chiang Mai province, in nine numbered levels built up over decades. Each level has its own shrine or statue - a white Guanyin figure, a large seated Buddha, a standing Buddha, a chedi, a Chinese-style pavilion, a naga - and its own view over the river valley, the town and the hills toward Myanmar, with the highest levels giving the widest outlook. A road runs between them so it can be driven rather than climbed, which most people do. The mix of Thai Buddhist, Chinese and other elements across the levels is characteristic of temples in this border region, where Shan, Yunnanese Chinese, Lahu, Akha and Thai communities live alongside each other. Tha Ton is the departure point for longtail boats down the Kok river to Chiang Rai, which is the other reason people are there.

What you actually see

• The nine levels - shrines and statues climbing the hill, each with a view.
• The white Guanyin - the Chinese figure on one of the upper levels.
• The border outlook - the Kok valley and hills toward Myanmar.
• The mixed traditions - Thai, Chinese and border-region elements together.

When to go

November to February. Early or late for the light over the valley. The road between levels means it can be driven; two hours covers it.

Honest expectations

Everything is modern construction added over recent decades. It is a long drive from Chiang Mai - 175 kilometres on mountain roads. Free with donation boxes at each level. Temple dress code applies.

Nearby

The Kok river boats to Chiang Rai leave from Tha Ton; Fang and Doi Ang Khang are south.