Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan (Chedi Luang Temple)

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Chedi Luang Temple one of the regions most important temples in Chiang Mai Thailand

Chedi Luang Temple, also known as the “Grand Stupa,” is one of the region’s most important temples located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. This historic Buddhist temple, originally built in the 14th century, served as a symbol of the city’s wealth and power. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several renovations and additions, with the most significant expansion taking place in the mid-14th century.

Chedi Luang Temple is a popular tourist destination and a cultural hub for the local community. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the buildings and chedi. The temple also serves as a venue for religious ceremonies and cultural events, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and religious traditions of Chiang Mai and Thailand.

Attraction in Wat Chedi Luang

Chedi or the Great Stupa

A stupa, also known as a chedi, is a unique Buddhist monument that originated in ancient India and serves both as a place of worship and a symbol of Buddhist teachings. The Chedi Luang, or the “Great Stupa,” located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a particularly significant example of this type of monument. Built in the 14th century as a symbol of the power and wealth of the Kingdom of Lanna, its original structure was over 80 meters tall and housed the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most revered Buddhist relics.

The Chedi Luang suffered damage and was reduced in size over the centuries but was eventually restored to its former glory in the 20th century. Today, it stands at around 60 meters in height with a base that is 44 meters wide. Its four sides are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including nagas (mythical snakes) guarding monumental stairways and elephants standing guard on the platform.

The exact cause of the destruction of the chedi is unclear, with some attributing it to an earthquake in the 17th century, while others believe it was the result of King Taksin’s cannons firing on the city to chase out the Burmese in the 18th century. Despite partial reconstruction, the spire of the chedi has not been renovated as there is uncertainty about its original appearance. Nevertheless, Wat Chedi Luang remains one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions in Chiang Mai.

Viharns

The Chedi Luang Temple in Chiang Mai boasts two impressive viharns, or temple halls, that serve as gathering places for the local community. The first viharn is a large, striking building with a three-tiered roof and a golden front facade. Constructed in 1928, the high red ceiling is supported by two rows of tall round columns. Inside, visitors can admire the large standing Buddha image, Phra Chao Attarot, located opposite the entrance and dating back to the temple’s founding in the late 14th century.

The second viharn, much smaller in size, is noted for its elegant front facade, decorated with intricate wood carvings. Visitors will also be greeted by large nagas, mythical snake-like creatures, guarding the stairs leading to the entrance. Adjacent to the viharn is a small pavilion in the Burmese style. These viharns at the Chedi Luang Temple highlight the rich cultural heritage and religious traditions of Buddhism in northern Thailand and are an integral part of the temple’s history and significance.

The Sao Inthakin or city pillar

The Sao Inthakin, or City Pillar, is an important part of the cultural heritage of Chiang Mai and is housed in a small building on the temple grounds. According to local belief, the Sao Inthakin protects the city and is accompanied by a small shrine built to house the guardian spirits who brought the Sao Inthakin from heaven. Three massive Dipterocarp trees, believed to be protectors of the city, can also be found near the Sao Inthakin hall. Legend has it that if the tree closest to the Sao Inthakin were to fall, a great catastrophe would occur.

Additional Structures and Features

Other structures on the temple grounds include a small building containing a Reclining Buddha image, as well as a bell tower. Additionally, Wat Phan Tao, another temple, is located on the same grounds. These structures provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and religious traditions of Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. The temple grounds also feature the popular Monk Chat program, where visitors can engage in conversations with monks about Buddhism, a monk’s life, and Thai culture.

Dipterocarp trees

The Dipterocarp Trees, also known as Yang trees, located near the Sao Inthakin hall, play a significant role in the cultural beliefs and traditions of the local community. According to local legend, these three massive trees serve as protectors of the city. If the tree closest to the Sao Inthakin were to fall, it is said that a great catastrophe would occur.

Monk Chat

Wat Chedi Luang has a popular Monk Chat program open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the northern side of the grounds. Visitors can chat with monks about Buddhism, a monk’s life, Thai culture, or other relevant topics. This program allows monks to practice their English, and visitors get face time with a Buddhist monk. (Ladies, be sure not to touch them as it is taboo.)

The Emerald Buddha

Wat Chedi Luang was also important because it housed the holy Emerald Buddha, considered the most important and sacred object in Thailand, for a short time. The Emerald Buddha is now in Bangkok, but a few years ago, the king donated a replica to Chedi Luang Temple.

The base of Chedi Luang Temple has splendid elephant statues, and the temple also features a small open shed housing a Reclining Buddha image. Wat Chedi Luang attracts numerous tourists, helping tourism in Chiang Mai to flourish.

Chedi Luang Temple is not just a historical monument but a living part of Chiang Mai’s cultural and spiritual fabric. From its majestic chedi to the daily interactions with monks, this temple provides an immersive experience that is both enlightening and enriching. The serene atmosphere and rich history make it a place of reflection and learning.

Embark on a journey to discover the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of Wat Chedi Luang. Book your Chiang Mai Day Tour now and immerse yourself in the heart of Lanna culture. This experience is not only enlightening but also deeply enriching, making it a must-visit on any trip to Chiang Mai.

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How to get to the Wat Chedi Luang

The Wat Chedi Luang is located close to the centre of the old walled part of Chiang Mai. You will find it about half way Ratchadamnoen road that crosses the old city from East to West. The main entrance is opposite Phra Pok Klao road, just South of Ratchadamnoen road. A must see!! Very beautiful architecture and hopefully you can find a tour guide that is knowledgeable about its history. If you interest to visit the most important temple in the city for half day tour, we can provide a budget tour or a private tour for your group.

Entrance fee & opening hours

The temple grounds are open daily from 6 am. until 6 pm. Admission is free for Thai people and 40 THB per person for foreigner.

Wat Jedi Luang is one of the must see temple in the chiangmai old city. You will see the architecture of the ancient thai style, which is different to what you see in Bangkok and southern part of Thailand.

Note : Wheelchair user is accessible

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