Essential temples
Our pick of the crop
Published/Last edited or updated: 24th August, 2017
More on Chiang Mai
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.
Travelfish says:
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 (Full text is around 800 words.)
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Mark Ord
Based in Chiang Mai, Mark Ord has been travelling Southeast Asia for over two decades and first crossed paths with Travelfish on Ko Lipe in the early 1990s.
