The Silver Ubosot

The Silver Ubosot of Wat Sri Suphan is considered the world's first ordination hall fully decorated in silver. This extraordinary structure represents the pinnacle of Lanna silversmithing artistry applied to monumental religious architecture.

Construction History
Construction began in 2004 under the direction of the abbot Phra Kru Phithatsuthikhun.In 2008, local artisans from the Wua Lai community began the painstaking work of covering the entire ordination hall with intricately worked metal panels. By 2016, the ubosot had been transformed into a shimmering masterpiece, with every surface showcasing hand-carved detail. The work employed traditional silversmithing techniques — repoussé, chasing, engraving, and relief work — the same patient skills used in fine silverware for centuries. The decoration blends both Wua Lai and Rattanakosin styles, all handmade by local Lanna artists.

The Exterior
From walls to roof, the exterior is covered in silver, nickel, and aluminum panels featuring intricate three-dimensional carvings. The panels depict scenes from Buddhist teachings, Jataka tales (previous lives of the Buddha), local folklore, and everyday life in Chiang Mai. Among the carved ornamentation are mythical creatures, deities, Buddha figures, angel figures, and large panels containing rural and temple scenes with countless figures. The facade is ornamented with carved floral motifs in gilt panels, and the arched moulding above the door is lavishly decorated. The entrance steps are covered with blue-painted representations of flowing water, symbolizing the crossing from the mundane to the sacred.

Interior Features

Phra Chao Jet Tue — The principal Buddha image is believed to be at least 500 years old. This ancient bronze statue is styled in the Chiang Saen manner and bears visible marks from World War II, when Japanese soldiers used the temple as a military base and bullets struck the statue's foot. Local legend calls it "Phra Phutthapatiharn" (Miracle Buddha), as it is said to have descended to bathe in the nearby pond and granted blessings to the faithful.

Murals and Ceiling — The interior walls display murals blending Hindu, Mahayana, and Theravada Buddhist elements. The exterior wall murals mix traditional Jataka tales with surprisingly modern elements, creating what have been called "Dhamma puzzles." The interior sanctuary uses pure silver materials throughout.

Cultural Significance — The Silver Ubosot represents a remarkable achievement in contemporary Lanna craftsmanship, demonstrating how ancient traditions can be applied to create something entirely new. It serves as both a sacred ordination hall and a living museum of traditional metalworking techniques.

***Important Notice
Following ancient Lanna traditions, women are not permitted to enter the ubosot. This stems from beliefs surrounding sacred items buried beneath the base of the ordination hall. Women are warmly welcomed to explore the rest of the temple grounds and admire the ubosot's magnificent exterior.