Chiang Mai's Old City Temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and More
A walking guide to the best temples inside Chiang Mai's Old City, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man, with tips on dress and timing.
Chiang Mai's Old City Temples: A Walking Route
Chiang Mai's Old City holds more than thirty temples within a square about a mile and a half across, and the best way to see them is on foot or by bicycle. They were built by the kings of the Lanna Kingdom from the 13th century onward and are known for their distinctive northern style, with steep multi-tiered roofs, carved wooden gables, intricate gold-leaf decoration and white or golden chedis. Three stand out for visitors: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man.
Wat Phra Singh is the grandest, a large complex on the western end of the Old City that houses the revered Phra Singh Buddha image and a beautiful, small library hall with a classic Lanna roof. Wat Chedi Luang, in the center of town, is known for its enormous brick chedi, begun in the 14th century and once among the tallest structures in the region before an earthquake and later damage reduced its height. Wat Chiang Man, the city's oldest temple, was founded by King Mengrai when he established Chiang Mai in 1296 and keeps two small, ancient Buddha images.
Visiting the Old City Temples
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon, when it is cooler and the light is softer |
| Cost | Most are free or ask for a small donation, with some charging a modest foreigner fee |
| Getting Around | Walk or cycle; the temples are 5 to 15 minutes apart |
| Time Needed | Half a day for the main three, a full day for more |
What Else Is Nearby
Wat Phan Tao, next to Wat Chedi Luang, is a rare all-teak temple with a dark, atmospheric interior, and Wat Chedi Luang runs “monk chat” sessions where visitors can talk with novice monks and learn about Buddhism and daily monastic life. The Three Kings Monument and the Chiang Mai Arts and Cultural Centre are in the heart of the Old City, and the Sunday Walking Street passes right by Wat Phra Singh.
Temples are active places of worship. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, remove your shoes before entering halls, and never point your feet at a Buddha image or touch monks, especially if you are a woman.
