Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai

Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai is another must-see temple.

We stumbled upon this ancient temple completely by accident, as we were strolling through the streets within the old city walls of Chiang Mai.

On all four sides of the Chedi, are large Naga Serpent staircases, at the top of these stairs, you can see Buddha Images set within the niches.

We had already spent the best part of the day exploring temples, and by the time we came across Wat Chedi Luang, we were hot and tired and in need of respite from the searing heat.

Fortunately, we opted to go in and have a look around!

As it turned out, Wat Chedi Luang was one of our favourite temples, and I would have to say one of the main attractions within the Old City Walls of Chiang Mai.

Naga Serpent staircase and remaining elephant statues on Wat Chedi Luang.

Wat Chedi Luang is also known as the Jedi Luang or the temple of The Great Stupa.

This historic site dates back over 600 years; first constructed in 1391 during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma.

Over the years the Chedi was reconstructed, and enlarged before being partially destroyed in 1545 by an earthquake.

Funds were allocated in 1990 to the Fine Arts Department, for restoration work to be done. The work was finished in 1992; unfortunately total restoration was never completed.

Main Viharn at the temple of the Great Stupa.

Chedi Luang was an important temple, as it housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most treasured Buddha image for 80 years; today in its place is a replica copy which can be found in the eastern niche of the Chedi.

As you enter the temple complex you will first come across the main Viharn which is pictured above, this building .

Methodological serpents at Wat Chedi Luang

As you enter the main Viharn take note of the magnificent methodological serpents that wind their way up the stairs, and around the doorway.

Within this main Viharn is an enormous standing Buddha, known as Phra Chao Attarot.

This Buddha statue is so large that it dwarfs the other Buddha images around it, the building is very impressive and remains an active place of worship.

Also, on the temple grounds is the City Pillar of Chiang Mai.

There are also some smaller buildings throughout the grounds of the Great Stupa that are interesting and worth exploring.

Definitely worth exploring is the Venerable Acharn Mun Bhuridatto Viharn pictured above with its eye-catching architecture.

The Buddha is situated in an open-sided pavilion just near the Chedi.

This page contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through a link, we may receive a very small commission at no additional cost to you, you can read our affiliate disclosure.

Another interesting image, is that of the Reclining Buddha, which is pictured above.

The Reclining Buddha is situated in an open sided pavilion just near the Chedi.

Buddha Images on the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang.

Sangkhachai Buddha at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai

Just to the right of the reclining Buddha, is a couple of other Buddha images, including the Sangkhachai Buddha.

Other buildings within the temple complex include the Lanna Campus of the Mahamakut Buddhist University and a Monk Chat Club.

The monks welcome you to sit and talk with them about Buddhism, their way of life, Thai Culture or anything that you would like to talk about.

How To See the Temples within the Old City Walls of Chiang Mai

If time permits walking is the best way to explore the temples and discover the rich heritage within the Old City Walls of Chiang Mai at your own pace.

To enhance your experience, you could take a guided walking tour that allows you to learn about the history and significance of the temples from an experienced local guide. Giving you insights that you could miss on your own.

If you're not up to walking, another great way to explore the Old Town Temples in Chiang Mai is by taking a guided bike tour. Guided bike tours are an excellent option if you want to experience the cultural highlights and see multiple temples within the Old Town Walls.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, a guided Tuk Tuk tour might be the ideal choice.

Travelling by Tuk Tuk provides a comfortable and convenient way to explore the temples within Chiang Mai’s old walls, while benefiting from the knowledge shared by your guide.

What to Wear and Take to Wat Chedi Luang

No matter, what way you choose to explore Wat Chedi Luang and the other temples in Chiang Mai, ensure you wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. I always carry a sarong just in case.

You will also need to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off before entering the temple.

Other things you may require: