The sheer number of Chiang Mai’s ancient Buddhist temples, or wats, can be overwhelming for visitors. Here's our take on the highlights of the city’s temple scene.
Travel better, travel smarter
Save money, receive our latest updates and get the most out of your travels.
Any guide will offer extensive lists of “must-see” temples, prestigious Buddha images, historically significant chedis and not-to-be missed Lanna-style religious architecture. We lost count at 35 wats within Chiang Mai’s Old City walls alone, with at least that number again in the surrounding downtown area—and even more scattered throughout the suburbs. To help you keep your sanity, and hopefully reduce temple fatigue, here’s what we reckon are the town’s essential temples, plus a few of our own lesser known faves.
Classic rooflines at Wat Phra Singh. Photo: Mark Ord
The biggies It’s a toss-up between Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh when it comes to naming Chiang Mai’s most important temple. If you’re only going to see two downtown wats, these are the ones to make a beeline for. They are the most popular among visitors, so be aware of touts and unofficial guides at both of these busy Old City temples.
Wat Chedi Luang was the old royal temple of the Chiang Mai kings. Check out the spectacular 700-year-old partially ruined, partially restored chedi that gives the wat its name as well as the classic Lanna-style worshipping hall and a lovely old reclining Buddha image. Wat Chedi Luang is also conveniently close to the city’s museum district. Exiting Chedi Luang, turn immediately left, then left again on Ratchadamneon, and you’ll reach Wat Phra Singh. Popular among locals and tourists alike, its central location makes it a good choice for a Sunday afternoon visit as it can be combined with a late afternoon stroll down the adjacent walking ... Travelfish members only (Around 800 more words) ... please log in to read the rest of this story.
Don’t miss the boat!
Please subscribe to Travelfish.org to read the rest of this article, or log in here.
Subscribing to Travelfish costs A$35 per year and it gets you access to more than 200 downloadable guides to specific destinations, fabulous discount coupons and 50% off our personalised travel planning service. Sign up here.
By
Mark Ord.
Last updated on 24th August, 2017.
Popular hotels in Chiang Mai on Agoda
(73 reviews)
(1,159 reviews)
(228 reviews)
(75 reviews)
(981 reviews)
Popular attractions in Chiang Mai
A selection of some of our favourite sights and activities around Chiang Mai.
Best places to stay in Chiang Mai
A selection of some of our favourite places to stay in Chiang Mai.
What next?
Browse our independent reviews of places to stay in and around Chiang Mai.
Check prices, availability & reviews on Agoda or Booking
Read up on where to eat on Chiang Mai.
Check out our listings of things to do in and around Chiang Mai.
Read up on how to get to Chiang Mai, or book your transport online with 12Go Asia.
Do you have travel insurance yet? If not, find out why you need it.
Planning on riding a scooter in Chiang Mai? Please read this.
Buy a SIM card for Thailand—pick it up at the airport when you arrive.
Browse the web securely while travelling with TunnelBear. Try with a 7–day free trial.
