Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang: A Journey Through Time

The Heart of Chiang Mai: Visiting Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is a historic Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Despite not being as grand as Wat Phra Singh, its towering, ruined Lanna-style chedi (built in 1441) is much taller and its compound is atmospheric. It was possibly the largest structure in ancient Chiang Mai and once held the revered Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha).

History of Wat Chedi Luang

The top of the chedi was destroyed by either a 16th-century earthquake or by cannon fire during the recapture of Chiang Mai from the Burmese in 1775 (nobody knows for sure). The temple was in ruins when the city began its modern renaissance, but a restoration project by Unesco and the Japanese government in the 1990s stabilised the monument and prevented further degradation. Visitors can easily spot the restoration work on the four naga stairways in each direction and the base of the stupa has five elephant sculptures on the southern face.

Features of Wat Chedi Luang

In the main wí·hăhn (sanctuary), there is a revered standing Buddha statue, known as Phra Chao Attarot, and other chapels and statues in teak pavilions at the rear of the compound, including a huge reclining Buddha and a Chinese-influenced seated Buddha. The daily Monk Chat under a tree in the grounds is a popular attraction for interested travellers.

Sao Inthakin

If you enter the compound via the main entrance on Th Phra Pokklao, you'll pass Wat Chedi Luang's other claim to fame, the Làk Meuang. This small building houses the Sao Inthakin (Pillar of Lord Indra), also known as the City Pillar, which was first built in 1296 and was moved from Wat Inthakin to ChediLuang temple in 1800.

 

How to Get There

We are a tour agency in Chiang Mai and would be happy to help you plan your trip to Wat Chedi Luang and other historic temples throughout the city. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in selecting destinations, accommodation, and activities that best suit your requirements. We offer private tours to WatChedi Luang with knowledgeable guides who can help you understand the history and enjoy the past Lanna culture that prospered before coming to Thailand, and provide in-depth travel experiences.