Wat Chiang Man — Attraction in Chiang Mai Province

The Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and goes back all the way to the founding of the city in 1296. When King Mengrai decided to build a new city and make it the new capital of the Lanna Kingdom, he build the Wat Chiang Man as the first temple of the new city on the site he used to supervise the construction of Chiang Mai. The temple holds several very old and important Buddha images.

Structures of the Wat Chiang Man The chedi Like in most wats, the oldest structure is the chedi. The chedi named Chang Lom Chedi or Elephant Chedi sits on a square base supporting a second level of grey stone that is surrounded by 15 elephants that seem to emerge from it. On top sits the gilded upper part of the chedi, which contains a relic chamber. The chedi is a mixture of Lanna and Singhalese styles.

The large viharn The larger of the two viharns is an impressive building with a three tiered roof. The front of the Lanna style viharn is decorated with wood carvings in gold and ochre colors. The building was renovated in the 1920’s by the famous monk Khru Ba Srivichai. This viharn houses the oldest Buddha image in Chiang Mai. The image is a standing Buddha holding an alms bowl, the inscription on its base dates it to 1465.

The small viharn The smaller of the viharns which is also built in Lanna style contains two small, but very old and important Buddha images. The stairs to the viharns entrance are guarded by Nagas, a mythical snake like creature. Opposite the entrance behind the large central Buddha image is a ku, a throne like structure where the two highly revered images are kept.

How to get to the Wat Chiang Man The Wat Chiang Man is located in the North East corner of the old walled part of Chiang Mai, between Phra Pok Klao 13 road and Ratchaphakhinai 1 road. Entering the old walled part of the city through the Chang Puak gate in the North wall, take a left turn to Ratchaphakhinai 1 road. The temple is then on the right side after about 200 meters.

Opening hours The temple complex is open daily from 6 am until 5 pm.

Entrance...

I had not planned to visit this temple, I was walking to some other place. Still, I noticed another of Chiang Mai's many wats and decided to have a look. I think this one I liked the most so far. In the morning it is so quiet, peaceful. I actually saw a couple of farangs reading books on the benches. Better come around 8-9 am. Later, more people will arrive. There are several big and small temple buildings in the territory. I like how the grounds are arranged, lawns with concrete paths. I guess that's why there are not so many cars parked inside like in some other places. They shaped some bushes like elephants, nice touch. There are stands with barcodes next to main buildings. The bigger barcodes are in Chinese, the smaller ones (there are only a few of them) are in English. You can scan them and watch a YouTube video about the object. The main temple contains a couple of pretty ancient and revered Buddha statuettes: crystal and marble. I did not really understand which ones were those, because there are very many Buddha images, some of them looking new. I think the one in the center, in a barred chamber, was the real one. I think it is possible to respectfully ask a monk, who might be around, to point where to look. Just one flaw. They offer (sell?) to release birds from wicker cages. Please, do not encourage this practice. If people continue "releasing" birds / fish, the locals will continue catching and caging them. In fact, in some other temple I saw a notice recommending not doing this. This Wat has a different stance, I guess. Overall, a really...

Wat Chiang Man is an absolutely beautiful Buddhist temple located in the old city of Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, I was immediately charmed by the peaceful and serene atmosphere that emanated from the place. The temple is extremely well maintained, and the cleanliness is impeccable.

A perfect place for families

I visited Wat Chiang Man with my children, and they were immediately fascinated by the Buddha statues and the many colorful decorations. The temple is quite small, which makes it easy to explore with young children. In addition, there is a shady green space where they can run and play.

Excellent value for money

Admission to the temple is free, which is a considerable asset. It is possible to make offerings to the monks, but this is not obligatory.

An architectural gem

The architecture of Wat Chiang Man is truly unique. The buildings are decorated with intricate sculptures and colorful murals. The Chedi, which is the central monument of the temple, is particularly impressive.

In summary

I highly recommend Wat Chiang Man to all visitors to Chiang Mai. It is an ideal place to relax, recharge your batteries and admire the beauty of Thai art and culture.

Highlights:

Spotless cleanliness Child friendly Free entry Magnificent architecture Peaceful atmosphere Tips:

Wear covering clothes and respect the premises. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the buildings. You can make offerings to the monks, but this is not obligatory. Take the time to stroll around the temple and admire...