Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

Wat Pha Lat, a well-known Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, has issued a public warning urging visitors to respect the sacred nature of the site after inappropriate behaviour by some tourists was observed. The announcement followed the circulation of images showing tourists performing difficult partner yoga or acrobatic poses on cliffs within the temple grounds. The temple warned that continued rule-breaking could lead to a future ban on general tourist access.

The notice was posted on the temple’s official Facebook page on 18 January 2026 at 13:30, in both Thai and English, accompanied by photographs of the incident. Wat Pha Lat is a popular destination located on the lower slopes of Doi Suthep, known for its scenic views and a small stream and waterfall running through the grounds. Its natural setting has made it a frequent stop for both Thai and foreign visitors.

According to the statement, Wat Pha Lat is a Buddhist religious site intended for monastic practice and spiritual reflection, as well as a sacred historical monument. The temple stressed that it is not a park, public recreation area, or place for exercise. Monks reported seeing behaviours considered inappropriate within the monastic boundary, including climbing structures or rocks, performing yoga or acrobatics, and wearing immodest clothing.

The temple formally requested cooperation from all visitors to follow its rules strictly. These include refraining from loud noise, dressing modestly, avoiding climbing on buildings or rocks, and not engaging in recreational, acrobatic, or yoga activities of any kind. The statement emphasised that such actions are seen as disrespectful and disruptive to the peace and sanctity of the temple.

The announcement also acknowledged that cultural differences may influence visitor behaviour. However, it stressed that travellers should learn and respect local customs and religious practices when visiting another country. The temple said these guidelines are necessary to preserve the calm environment and spiritual purpose of Wat Pha Lat.

Khoasod reported that if violations continue, the temple stated it may be forced to consider restricting or banning access for general tourists in the future. Such a step would be taken to protect the site’s tranquillity and environment for religious use. The message concluded by asking all tourists and Buddhists to understand the situation and cooperate.

Key Takeaways

• Wat Pha Lat warned tourists after images showed yoga and acrobatic poses inside temple grounds.

• The temple reaffirmed it is a sacred Buddhist site, not a recreational or exercise venue.

• Continued rule violations could lead to a future ban on general tourist access.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2026-01-19

 

 

Great, deter tourists, good for business. I understand arresting people doing the "beast with two backs" and other similar nude antics, but yoga positions?

Simplicity in Thailand without borders.......

The crime of the century! 😂

Yet another incident that again perfectly illustrates why the reminder to respect local customs is so crucial.

The temple's warning is a clear consequence of visitors treating a sacred, active place of worship as a mere public recreation space. The actions described show a profound disregard for the temple site and (especially for) the feelings of the community that maintains it.

Following he guidance of their home foreign affairs organisation may have prevented this.

While it may seem trivial to some, I would suggest that the potential loss of access for future tourists is a reminder that such actions have real consequences, damaging cultural exchange and access for everyone.

1 minute ago, Jim Waldron said:

temple's warning is a clear consequence of visitors treating a sacred, active place of worship as a mere public recreation space. The actions described show a profound disregard for the temple site and (especially for) the feelings of the community that maintains it.

They were on a public footpath, the temple has no authority over the footpath.

8 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

They were on a public footpath, the temple has no authority over the footpath.

The article did say "... Within he grounds..."!

Anything for an Instagrammable or Tik Toksic moment for some of these schmucks.

Immediate 1 year ban for cultural disrespect.

1 hour ago, Jim Waldron said:

The article did say "... Within he grounds..."!

But the photos of the posers were taken on the footpath.

A footpath foreigners are asked to pay 100bht to use.

Two sides of Thailand, respect the culture, then take a walk down Walking street.

No wonder confusion reigns.

Their temple their rules. If no entrance fee imposed, then tourists either respect their cultural sensitivities or be banned from entering monastic ground entirely. Would you do yoga calisthenics on church grounds ?

On 1/18/2026 at 8:44 PM, BritManToo said:

But the photos of the posers were taken on the footpath.

A footpath foreigners are asked to pay 100bht to use.

Photo in OP is on temple grounds.

57 minutes ago, Wydahoan said:

Photo in OP is on temple grounds.

It's Doi suthep national park land.

I should know, I used to run up the trail everyday before COVID.

7 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

It's Doi suthep national park land.

I should know, I used to run up the trail everyday before COVID.

Well that may be so, but the photo is on the temple grounds. I’ve been there maybe 100 times myself.

17 minutes ago, Wydahoan said:

Well that may be so, but the photo is on the temple grounds. I’ve been there maybe 100 times myself.

The temple grounds run from the temple driveway to the temple wall 3m from the stream. Doi Suthep national park runs from the temple wall, to the stream (and footbridge) and all the other side of the stream.

On 1/18/2026 at 11:08 PM, HappyExpat57 said:

Great, deter tourists, good for business. I understand arresting people doing the "beast with two backs" and other similar nude antics, but yoga positions?

This space is dedicated to meditation, where silence is essential, so it’s clear that everyone should adhere to the rules.

It’s likely that many monks spend days or even weeks in this area, seeking uninterrupted stillness as part of their spiritual practice.

After all, you wouldn’t walk into a church, mosque, or any quiet sanctuary and start doing yoga.

Showing a bit of respect goes a long way.🙏

Why do so many find it so hard to respect Thai culture- just for a photo opportunity and hoped for fame on social media?

how do i get on the footpath?