Wat Chedi Luang In Chiang Mai: Your Guide to Visiting this Thailand temple

Despite commercialization, Thailand is a very beautiful and popular country attracting tourists from all around the world not just because of its geographical beauty but the very nature of Thai people that the tourists are drawn to, hence no doubt why Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”. Thailand is famous for its temples, monks, diverse culture, gorgeous islands, shopping at flea markets, picturesque waterfalls, never-ending nightlife, overwhelming massage that relieves from the stress of the manic life and soothes and calms down the body. One of the must-visit places in Thailand is Chiang Mai, which is most famous for its beautiful ancient temples, The striking mountainous landscape and its wonderful natural attractions and is home to tribal villages.

Chiang Mai is an ancient city with a twist of modern. Chiang Mai is a land of misty mountains, hill tribes, a paradise for shoppers and a true choice for adrenaline junkies, while others will be bowled over by the variety of handicrafts and antiques, also its lively nightlife, in true sense Chiang Mai truly has it all. Chiang Mai is a Home to the largest Buddhist Chedi, Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most soulful temples of the region. Wat Chedi Luang is a temple influenced by Buddhism and is located in the historic centre of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple is also known as ‘The temple of the Great Stupa’, it comprises two more temples making it one of the largest temples – Wat Sukmin and Wat Ho Tham. The scattered-site derived its name from the northern dialect term- ‘Luang’ which means ‘large’. The whole area is dominated by its pagoda (chedi), the most prominent feature of this attraction. 

History Of Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang (The Great Stupa) holds a history of 700 years, one of the most venerated temples of Thailand. Wat Chedi Luang was Constructed in between the 14th and 15th centuries. For all the history buffs, this is a popular attraction to visit as the history of Wat Chedi Luang makes it a worthwhile place to visit. It is one of the largest temples of the region because the pinnacle of the pagoda rose around 85 meters in the air. Wat Chedi Luang isn’t as grand as Wat Phra Singh, but its towering is much taller. However, in the year 1545, a massive earthquake destroyed the chedi, which now measures around 60 meters in height. Wat Chedi Luang Temple went under restoration by the Japanese Government and UNESCO, post the earthquake. Due to a lack of idea about its original structure, the chedi couldn’t be reconstructed again but the site is now guarded well to prevent any further damage. Earlier the Emerald Buddha was housed by Wat Chedi Luang, which later moved to Wat Phra Kaew. In 1995, the Thai king gifted a jade replica which is now possessed by the temple of Wat Chedi Luang.

Attractions Of Wat Chedi Luang

One of the best features of Wat Chedi Luang, is that the temple is Built-in Lanna-style architecture. Chiang Mai is dominated by chedi (pagoda). You might find a few other attractions that may leave you in awe, while you are exploring the sprawling temple.

The main Viharn houses the prominent Buddha statue, It is believed that the giant gum trees around the temple protect the city from the evils. During the Buddhist holidays, all the devotees offer their prayers and perform the evening candle procession, hence this site becomes a huge attraction. 

How To Reach Wat Chedi Luang

The location of Wat Chedi Luang is within the proximity and the centre of the old walls of the city of Chiang Mai.  Given that there are so many options, reaching Wat Chedi Luang is hardly a concern. Wat Chedi Luang can be accessed from various parts easily. Also, the temple is located at a distance of less than 5 km from Chiang Mai Airport, you may either book a stay near the airport and hire your convenient mode of transportation to reach the temple.

Book a taxi or red songthaew which shall drop you off near the temple as it runs north to south along the city centre and this Wat Chedi Luang is Snuggled in the centre of the city of Chiang Mai, making one of the most iconic attractions in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It also runs between Changpuak Gate and Chiang Mai Gate. As you traverse through Prapokklao Road and reach the old city, you can easily spot this magnificent structure from a distance. Towards the south of Ratchadamnoen Road, The main entrance of Wat Chedi Luang Temple is located.

Wat Chedi Luang Entry Fees

Earlier this ancient temple never had an entry fee to visit, But at the present, it charges a fee. However, the locals can still enjoy their visit to the temple with nil charges. The tourists have to pay an entrance fee to Wat Chedi Luang which is around 40 Baht, i.e. INR 88 (approx.) for adults, and for children it is around 20 Baht, i.e. INR 44 (approx.).

Opening Hours Of Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang is open from Monday to Sunday around 8 AM to 5 PM. Due to its historical presence, the temple is not closed any day, you can visit here on all days of the week.

Tips For Visiting Wat Chedi Luang

• After the exploration of Wat Chedi Luang, attend the daily monk chats.
• If you are travelling to Chiang Mai in the month of May, Do take part in Inthakin, a week-long annual festival.
• Take off your footwear before the entry, and do cover your legs and shoulder. 
• You can also visit Wat Phra Singh Temple, which is located at a walkable distance

Chiang Mai is most famous for its beautiful ancient temples and home to tribal villages, one such temple is Wat Chedi Luang. If you enjoy culture and ethnic Tribes, Chiang Mai is a great place to hop by. So kick-start your bookings to the vibrant city by booking a Chiang Mai tour package. Oh now that you might be interested to plan a vacation, head to Pickyourtrail and book your Thailand trip packages, where the best travel experience is put into planning your vacation with lots of excitement.