Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

Wat Chedi Luang
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Fumihiko Ueno

Wat Chedi Luang is one of the top attractions in Chiang Mai, a monumental temple complex at the centre of the Old City where history, architecture, and spirituality intertwine. Its towering chedi—once the tallest structure in the Lanna Kingdom—still dominates the skyline, while its viharns, pavilions, relics, and sacred spaces reveal the layered story of a royal temple more than 600 years old. This spot is a highlight of any walking tour of Chiang Mai, drawing travellers who want to immerse themselves in the city's ancient past.

The temple's vast grounds hold multiple structures, shrines, and chapels that once belonged to three separate temples. Today, Wat Chedi Luang offers a deeply atmospheric walk through Lanna architecture, Buddhist devotion, and restored history, making it a must-visit for anyone staying in the Old City.

History and Significance of Wat Chedi Luang

Construction of Wat Chedi Luang began in 1391 under King Saen Muang Ma, who intended the temple to hold his father's ashes. Over the next century, successive kings expanded and refined the complex, culminating in 1475 with the completion of the grand chedi—making it the tallest structure in the region for nearly 500 years.

The chedi also once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered Buddhist artifact, now enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaew. In 1545, a devastating earthquake toppled the massive spire and left the chedi in its current truncated form. Although restoration began in the 1990s, some elements sparked debate for diverging from traditional Lanna styles. Still, the structure remains one of the most iconic sights in Chiang Mai.

Throughout the complex, visitors can see centuries-old viharns, relic pavilions, teak monk residences, and the city pillar shrine, Sao Inthakin. The temple continues to be a living site of worship, blending historical significance with ongoing cultural traditions.

Things to See and Do in Wat Chedi Luang

Start your exploration at the Phra Viharn Luang, home to the 14th-century bronze standing Buddha, Phra Chao Attarat. Its large columns, gilded gables, and mosaic details showcase modern Lanna craftsmanship. Nearby stands the monumental Phra That Chedi Luang, the great stupa whose massive brick base remains imposing despite its damaged top.

Continue to the Bhuridatto Viharn, a beautiful example of pure Lanna architecture with steep roofs and intricate teak carvings. Its interior shrine holds a small tower enshrining a sacred Buddha relic. The Viharn Chaturmuk-Burapachaan houses relics and memorials to revered monks, blending Lampang folk style with traditional Lanna motifs.

Don’t miss the Reclining Buddha Pavilion, home to a 500-year-old reclining Buddha and the beloved Phra Katchayana (“Fat Buddha”). Explore the City Pillar Pavilion, home to Chiang Mai’s Sao Inthakin, and admire the sacred Dipterocarp tree beside it—believed to protect the city. Finish by wandering the Kuti Keo Nawarat area, where teak monk quarters from 1928 now serve as offices.

How to Get to Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is located in the centre of Chiang Mai's Old City and is easily accessible from all parts of the city. Visitors arriving by air will land at Chiang Mai International Airport, only a short drive from the Old City. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Chiang Mai on Booking.com.

Songthaews and tuk-tuks are widely available, offering quick and inexpensive rides to the temple. Taxis and rideshare services are also reliable options. Travellers arriving by train at Chiang Mai Railway Station can take a tuk-tuk or songthaew into the Old City. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Reaching Wat Chedi Luang by car is straightforward, with nearby streets offering parking and access points.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Chedi Luang

  • Best time to visit Wat Chedi Luang: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Generally around 1.3–1.5 EUR for adults.
  • Opening hours: Usually 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Official website: Check Chiang Mai tourism portals for updates.
  • How long to spend: 1 to 2 hours, especially if exploring all viharns and pavilions.
  • Accessibility: Mostly level grounds; some areas have steps.
  • Facilities: Restrooms, donation points, and nearby cafés and shops.
  • Photography tip: Photograph the chedi at golden hour for dramatic shadows and colour.
  • Guided tours: Available through Chiang Mai tour companies or hired guides.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous cafés, restaurants, and street food vendors in the Old City.

Where to Stay close to Wat Chedi Luang

Staying in the Old City gives you easy access to the temple and other major sites. Consider Thai Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel for charming Lanna-style comfort. Another great option is De Naga Hotel, close to key temples and markets. For a more modern stay, U Nimman Chiang Mai offers contemporary amenities near the route to Doi Suthep.

Is Wat Chedi Luang Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Wat Chedi Luang offers one of the richest cultural experiences in Chiang Mai—an iconic blend of ancient architecture, sacred relics, historic viharns, and atmospheric grounds. Its monumental chedi alone makes it worth the visit, but the surrounding structures and spiritual significance raise it even higher on any traveller's list.

FAQs for Visiting Wat Chedi Luang

How old is the chedi?
Construction began in 1391 and was completed in 1475.

Why is the chedi damaged?
A 1545 earthquake destroyed its upper section.

Did the Emerald Buddha once reside here?
Yes, before being moved to Bangkok.

Is there a dress code?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered.

How long does a visit take?
Usually 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you explore.

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Visiting Wat Chedi Luang

Hours:

The Grand Viharn Assembly Hall is open from 8.00am to 5.00pm. The temple’s general opening hours are from 5.00am to 10.30pm.

Price:

Adult: 50THB

Address: Wat Chedi Luang, Prapokkloa Road, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai: 0 km

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