If you are looking for a peaceful and historical place to relax in the heart of Chiang Mai, "Wat Umong (Suan Phutthatham)", or commonly known as "Wat Umong behind CMU", is the perfect destination for this holiday. Located at the foot of Doi Suthep, surrounded by lush greenery, this place is like a forest in the city that helps to heal the mind.
The most important highlight of this temple is the "Ancient Tunnel" which was built according to the royal initiative of King Kuena of the Mangrai dynasty for Phra Maha Thera Chan to use as a place for Vipassana meditation. Inside the tunnel, there are several interconnected passageways. The air inside is cool and quiet. Some parts of the tunnel walls still have traces of murals that are hundreds of years old for us to study. Inside each channel is enshrined a beautiful Buddha image, giving a sacred and faithful feeling to those who walk in to worship.
When you walk out of the tunnel and walk up the stairs to the hill above, you will find the "700-year-old Pagoda", which is a large, round, bell-shaped pagoda that stands majestically on a multi-layered circular base. This architecture reflects the influence of Sri Lankan art that was passed on to the Lanna Kingdom in the past. The area around the pagoda is spacious and shady. Tourists like to walk around or meditate under the big trees to absorb positive energy.
Visiting Wat Umong (Suan Phutthatham) on this holiday, you will not only get beautiful photos of the ancient tunnels and pagodas, but you will also receive peace of mind. It is a simple happiness that can be found in the secret corners behind the fence of Chiang Mai University.
