Chiang Mai is home to one of the old Thai cultures, as seen in the many heritage sites in the city. In fact, the old square alone has several ancient temples that reflect the Lanna culture. Visiting Chiang Mai is like stepping into a realm where spirituality intertwines with architectural splendor. Moreover, it’s a place where history and devotion converge in a breathtaking display of beauty.
In the ancient city of Chiang Mai, a treasure trove of marvels awaits those who seek a glimpse into Thailand’s spiritual heart. The Wats of Chiang Mai, with their awe-inspiring presence and intricate craftsmanship, beckon travelers to immerse themselves in a world of wonder and tranquility. From the resplendent golden spires that pierce the sky to the ornate carvings that adorn their facades, these sacred temples stand as living testaments to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
My 2014 trip to Chiang Mai was more focused on business travelling and we never had so much opportunity to visit the temples. I didn’t mind because I have visited five temples there during my 2010 trip. But on our last day, as we were the last batch to fly out of the city, our hosts told us that we can roam around the city, visit the umbrella-making center and drop by in one of the temples.
I kept my silence hoping that it won’t be a temple I’ve been to before. But I instantly felt guilty as I might be a bit selfish for thinking that way, I thought that if ever it happens, I’d happily show my fellow visitors around.
As we passed by Dhara Dhevi, I heaved a sigh of relief knowing that the temple we would be going to was something I’ve never set foot before.
Wat Buak Krok Luang, Chiang Mai
Wat Buak Krok Luang’s compound was not as large as the previous temple grounds I visited four years back. At the far right of the area, there was what looked like an excavation for a new building that had to be constructed.
The temple itself was of medium size. Yet, do not be deceived by the area because Wat Buak Krok Luang, or what was also known as Wat Muang Kham, is one of the significant temples in northern Thailand.
Old documents have already mentioned the temple since 1822. It has undergone several renovations as it was continuously restored by Lanna royalties. Its design was an interesting example of northern Thailand architecture, depicting details and materials that are characteristic of the indigenous Lanna Style. At the entrance, serpents with bird beaks were found on both sides of the steps. Inside the temple, an interesting mural that tells about the life of Buddha filled the walls.
In my familiarization trip in November 2010, I had the good fortune to enter several other temple grounds that also play a part in the history of Thailand. Here are the religious sites that I have visited.
Wat Pra Singh Voramahavihara
Constructed by King Phayoo of the Mengrai dynasty, Wat Pra Singh, which is also known as Wat Lee Chiang, is an important temple in Chiang Mai for over 700 years. The site of the temple is said to be the very spot where the chariot bearing the Buddha image broke down at the time when King Mahaprom ordered the image to be presented to the Chiang Mai king, King Saen Muang Ma of the Lanna Thai kingdom.
After several reconstruction and restoration processes, the wat was given the status of royal wat in 1941. The temple houses the Buddha images Pra Buddhasihing and Pra Thongtip.
Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai
The chedi at Wat Chedi Luang was the tallest structure in Chiang Mai for over 500 years before it was destroyed in an earthquake. The temple was built by King Saen Muang Ma as a place where he would enshrine his father’s relics. Construction began towards the end of the 14th century but it was King Tilokarat who was able to see its completion.
Still, under reconstruction, the remnants of Wat Chedi Luang is still impressive. Elephant structures surround the middle level of the chedi. Inside the temple grounds are also Wat Pan Tao, the city pillar, the assembly hall, the Mahamakut Buddhist University, the Yang tree, and other prayer halls.
Wat Chiang Mun, Chiang Mai
Wat Chiang Mun is said to be the first royal temple that was constructed in the vicinity of Chiang Mai’s old city area. The temple compound houses the white quartz image of the Buddha called Phra Setangkamanee or Phra Kaew Khao.
Also found within the temple grounds is a stone inscription that dates back to 1581, detailing the historical records of Wat Chiang Mun and Chiang Mai. The elephant-surrounded stupa called Chang Lom is more than 700 years old and considered to be the oldest and most significant stupa inside the compound.
Wat Lok Molee
This is said to be the temple where the 10 monks from Burma who were invited by the sixth Lanna King of the Mengrai dynasty stayed. They were asked to deepen their study of Buddhism in his kingdom. Although it was not indicated when the temple was actually built, historical records first mentioned Wat Lok Molee in 1367. In addition, the chedi was built in 1527 through the orders of Phra Kaew Muang and the main hall was erected in 1545.
This temple is also significant because this is where the ashes of the Royal Mengrai Dynasty members were kept until the end of the dynasty.
Wat Lok Molee is distinct because of its intricate design on its façade and the materials are made of wood.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Located on the mountain of Doi Suthep, this temple offers a magnificent view of the city of Chiang Mai. Legend has it that Sumanathera, a monk, had a vision where he was instructed to find a relic in Pang Cha. There at the site he found a bone, believed to be of Buddha, and brought it to King Dharmmaraja of Sukhothai. Although the king hosted a ceremony, he asked the monk to keep the relic. As King Nu Naone of the Lanna Kingdom heard of it, he invited the monk to bring it to him to which Sumanathera obliged with King Dharmmaraja’s consent.
As the relic divided into two, the king placed the larger piece at the back of a white elephant, which believed to have climbed Doi Suthep when released to the jungle.
From the entrance of the temple grounds, visitors can either climb the 309 steps to get to the main area or take a tram. Many pilgrims go to the temple, which is regarded to be a sacred site, to say their prayers or bring their offerings.
An amazing place. I will surely plan my upcoming vacation to this place.Thanks for posting nice blog.
Hi Claire!
Your blog site is amazing! So informative and fun. I love the photos of the places you’ve been to. These photos are memories to last you a lifetime. The places you have been to and are going to see need not be forgotten. I can’t wait to read more about your travels and view your wonderful photos.
You can actually share your photos and videos to more people. I discovered an awesome website that let’s you share pictures and videos and helps you remember specific locations you’ve traveled to.
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Such a lovely trip! Thailand is on my bucket list. I wonder when we can go there. Right now, we are still saving up for HK Disney. haha When the kids are older, I guess. I really want them to enjoy traveling as much as i did when I was single. 😀
Chiang Mai has many resort hotels that cater to families. 🙂 It’s a bit cosmopolitan but provincial. For starters, you can visit Bangkok but I’m not sure if the kids will enjoy because it’s more of a shopping haven. Plus, temple hopping, of course. 🙂
OMG! your post made me miss Chian Mai. I stayed in Chiang Mai for a month and made sure to visit all these temples.They were amazing! I’m they were not so strict about outfit when visiting the place because I was in my short pants all the time. I also developed product inspired by these temples.:)
Yes, they are not that very particular. I love Chiang Mai so much!
I have never been to Thailand, maybe someday soon. The only Chang I’ve been to was an airport 😉 The temples are beautiful and they look clean. I really should put this on my bucket list.
It’s also serene in Chiang Mai. The hotels are suitable for a quiet getaway. 🙂
really? I love quiet places which is weird because I am very talkative…heheh
great post on Chiangmai Claire! Although we could have seen each other when you came the second time around! I hope to see you here while am still here in Thailand! Ill be keeping an eye on your blogs from now on…you can add me too am back to blogging again..ahahaha… cheers!
Hi Caroline! Oh, I really wish we were able to see each other. Maybe when I travel there on my own and not on an organized trip. 🙂 Thailand is my most-visited country so I’m sure I’ll be back there one of these days. I’ll follow your blog, too. 🙂 Thanks for the visit to my blog!
Photos: Wow!
This must have been quite an experience.
It was magnificent.
Loved the e-tour of Chiang Mai. Pics are beautiful and description is apt. I remember one of my friends had gone here for the meditation camp. Would love to visit this place.
You should! It’s lovely there. 🙂
Great post here! Love the pictures you’ve shared. I love the creativity on the architecture. I’d love to visit that place one day. Thank you for sharing this. Keep it up!
Chiang Mai is a beautiful place to have a vacation. 🙂 I’ve been there thrice and I love every minute I spent there.
Temples fascinate me. And it’s always so relaxing to go to one. I would love to see these someday. Chiang Mai is a beautiful place.
It’s one of my favorite places that I have visited, so far. 🙂
I really loved visiting Chiang Mai! Would love to return here someday soon!:D
It’s a place I love to go back every now and then.
There’s so many beautiful temples in Chang Mai. I think I would enjoy Chang Mai better thank Bangkok since it’s less congested.
It’s a bit traffic there as well, but not as congested as Bangkok.
I just came from Chiang Mai this last week of December, so I have seen most of these temples you have posted. I enjoyed the temple tour there and the food was very good.
That’s awesome! I’m happy to hear that and to know someone came there recently. 🙂
I have not been to Chiang Mai and planning to visit it. You have listed everything so well and a detailed list for traveller.
Thanks! I hope this helps when you get to visit Chiang Mai. 🙂
Beautiful! I am a sucker for temples and its histories. Wats looks amazing and I hope to see it soon!
Each has a unique characteristic of its own. I love every wat I visited here. 🙂
i’m still planning for another short getaway to nearby SEA countries and i’m at lost for where to go. I think I’ve found my answer! so glad to read up on this post!
I’m so happy to hear that! Enjoy your travels!
Went to Thailand, BKK for the first time last June, and this is prolly one of the places I hope to visit on my next trip! Thanks for sharing~
Chiang Mai is a welcome change from urban Bangkok. Chiang Mai is not only rich in heritage but also in natural resources.
This is just mindblowing. I’m longing to visit Thailand and see all the heritage places. I’ve met an artist from Thailand once who does the Gold leaf painting and I was so stunned at the art. He made me a badge with my name on it!
Wow! You should visit Thailand then. 🙂 You’ll enjoy Chiang Mai, especially.
I have never been in Thailand and I’m dying to see the place. I promise to myself that I will visit Thailand this year. And thanks to your post this is a great info for us travelers
You should! I look forward to your post about that trip. 🙂
I wish to travel more and visit Chiang Mai also. All the wats and temples are so spectacular and the thai food that are great too.
Now, that you’ve mentioned it. I’m now craving for some tom yum soup, pomelo salad, and pad thai! I love Thai food!
I can’t believe I haven’t been to chiang Mai yet. I’ve been to Thailand a few times but somehow I keep missing it. I’m missing out a lot it seems!
There are waterfalls there, too! You’d love it there.
I’ve never been to this part of the world but would so love to visit. I’m just so in awe of the buildings which are the highlight. You don’t see them here where I live for sure.
I don’t also see much of their kind of architecture in my country, the Philippines. Thailand is beautiful.
Love the architectural design of the temple. Very historical and significant places in Thai.
Yes, they do reflect the history of Thailand, too.
Those temples look really breathtaking but there’s something in them that gives me a creepy feeling. Or maybe I’m just imagining things. lol
They’re quite old so I think the stories that go with each temple may have some creepiness in them, too.
The wats are soo beautiful! I especially love Wat Lok Molee because of the white facade and how it’s made of wood, and still sooo intricate.
It’s my favorite, too!