Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang must have been the most impressive temple in Chiang Mai.It was built about 600 years ago, the huge chedi which give the temple its name must have soared high above the surrounding city.

They say "must have" because the chedi was mostly destroyed within a few hundred years of its construction. Some attribute it to an earthquake in the 17th century; others say it was King Taksin's cannons firing on the city to chase out the Burmese in the 18th century.

It was reconstructed in 1992, but ever since only the 60 meter high foundation remains. For over 84 years, it housed the famous Emerald Buddha that now stands in Wat Prakaew in Bangkok.

The other corners are occupied by stone Buddha images. On the southern side, the base is decorated with elephant statues. To the west of the chedi is a small open shed housing a reclining Buddha image. There are often artists offering their wares in stalls on the large plaza of the chedi.

Also inside the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang is the lak muang, the guardian spirit post of the city.

Hours: 7a- 7p M- Su.

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Contact Information

Wat Chedi Luang
Phrapokklao Road
50100 Chiang Mai, NT

Tel. +6653248604

http://www.thailandforvisitors.com/north/chiangmai/chediluang