Wat Chedi Luang Chiang Mai
A majestic, partially ruined 15th-century chedi, Wat Chedi Luang is a cornerstone of Chiang Mai's ancient Lanna history and spiritual heart.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Wat Chedi Luang Chiang Mai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic, partially ruined 15th-century chedi, Wat Chedi Luang is a cornerstone of Chiang Mai's ancient Lanna history and spiritual heart.
"A cool, historical site with beautiful history and culture to immerse yourself in."
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Essential for entering temple grounds. :pray:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Foreigners pay 40-50 THB. Donations welcome! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Chedi
Central Courtyard
A partially ruined 15th-century stupa, once housing the Emerald Buddha, it's a symbol of Chiang Mai's rich history.
Naga Staircases
Base of the Chedi
Intricately carved serpent deities guarding the steps, offering a glimpse into ancient Lanna artistry.
City Pillar Shrine
Near the Chedi
A sacred pillar believed by locals to protect the city, often adorned with offerings.
Monks and Serene Atmosphere
Throughout the temple grounds
Observe monks in their daily routines and soak in the peaceful, spiritual ambiance of this historic site.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Wat Chedi Luang
Respectful Attire and Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Essential for entering temple grounds. :pray:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Foreigners pay 40-50 THB. Donations welcome! :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The site is walkable; allow 30-60 mins for a good look. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The chedi and naga staircases are stunning, especially in soft light. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees to show respect. Essential for entering temple grounds. :pray:
💰 Small Entrance Fee
Foreigners pay 40-50 THB. Donations welcome! :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The site is walkable; allow 30-60 mins for a good look. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The chedi and naga staircases are stunning, especially in soft light. :camerawithflash:
🙏 Respectful Observation
Observe monks respectfully; avoid disturbing their prayers or meditation. :personinlotus_position:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wat Chedi Luang for its magnificent architecture, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the impressive scale of the partially ruined chedi and the intricate details of the naga staircases. While the entrance fee is minimal, some note it as a point of distinction for foreigners.
"It is an ancient and important royal temple in Chiang Mai, featuring magnificent and beautiful architecture. The site is grand, impressive, peaceful, spacious, and clean. There is parking available within the temple grounds. Entry is free for Thai nationals, while foreigners are charged an entrance fee of 50 baht per person, with tickets available for purchase at the entrance."
Totsapon Chaiwong
"Cool, historical site. You can see this area/temple within 30 minutes walking through, so it's a quick juant with some beautiful history and culture to immerse yourself in. Lots of monks in this area too, so sometimes you'll catch prayer and/or meditation and it's quite beautiful."
Mack Benz
"Temple with a majestic and towering chedi that stands as a symbol of Chiang Mai’s rich history.
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most significant and historic temples in northern Thailand. Originally built in the 14th century, the massive chedi once housed the revered Emerald Buddha. Though partially damaged by an earthquake in the 16th century, its beauty and spiritual presence remain deeply impressive.
Visitors come here to pay their respects, admire the ancient Lanna architecture, and take in the serene and sacred atmosphere. Don’t miss the beautiful naga staircases and the row of Buddha statues at the base of the chedi – they’re perfect for both quiet reflection and stunning photos"
Cindy sarinya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Chedi Luang is located in the heart of Chiang Mai's Old City, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by songthaew (red shared taxis), tuk-tuk, or even by walking if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other temples within the Old City walls.
Yes, there is parking available within the temple grounds, which is convenient for those arriving by private transport or scooter.
Absolutely! Wat Chedi Luang is centrally located within the Old City. If you're visiting other popular temples like Wat Phra Singh or Wat Phan Tao, it's a pleasant walk between them. 
For exploring the Old City and its temples, songthaews are a popular and affordable option. You can also rent a scooter if you're comfortable with local traffic, or simply enjoy walking to soak in the atmosphere.
Wat Chedi Luang is located about 4-5 kilometers from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX). A taxi or Grab (ride-sharing app) will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Wat Chedi Luang is typically 40-50 Thai Baht for foreigners. Thai nationals often have free entry. You can purchase tickets at the entrance.
Wat Chedi Luang is generally open daily from early morning until late evening, often from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours.
No, advance booking is not usually required for Wat Chedi Luang. Tickets can be purchased on-site upon arrival.
Yes, it's important to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing.
Yes, donations are welcome and appreciated to help with the temple's maintenance and preservation. There are designated donation boxes throughout the temple grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 30 to 60 minutes exploring Wat Chedi Luang. It's a relatively compact site, but you can linger longer if you wish to soak in the atmosphere or admire the details.
The main attractions include the impressive partially ruined chedi, the naga staircases, the City Pillar Shrine, and various Buddha statues and smaller temple buildings.
Absolutely! The ancient architecture, the grand chedi, and the intricate carvings make Wat Chedi Luang a very photogenic spot. The soft light in the early morning or late afternoon is particularly beautiful for photos.
Yes, it's common to see monks at Wat Chedi Luang, as it is an active temple. You might witness them in prayer or meditation, offering a glimpse into monastic life.
The main temple grounds are relatively flat and accessible, but some areas might have stairs. It's generally manageable for most visitors, but be mindful of uneven surfaces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food stalls or restaurants directly within Wat Chedi Luang. However, the temple is located in the heart of Chiang Mai's Old City, which is brimming with street food vendors, local eateries, and cafes just outside its walls.
You'll find a wide variety of delicious Thai cuisine near Wat Chedi Luang, from classic Pad Thai and Khao Soi to local Northern Thai specialties. Street food is abundant and affordable.
Yes, Chiang Mai is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. You'll easily find numerous restaurants and street food stalls offering plant-based options in the vicinity of Wat Chedi Luang.
A must-try dish in Chiang Mai is Khao Soi, a rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup. You'll find excellent versions at many restaurants near Wat Chedi Luang.
Yes, there are small convenience stores and vendors selling water and snacks just outside the temple complex, especially near the main entrances.
📸 📸 Photography
The partially ruined chedi itself is the most iconic subject. Also, capture the naga staircases, the City Pillar Shrine, and the serene Buddha statues at the base of the chedi. The overall temple architecture is also very photogenic.
The golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography. The soft, warm light enhances the textures of the ancient stone and creates a magical atmosphere.
Generally, photography is allowed within the temple grounds. However, it's always respectful to avoid taking intrusive photos of monks or worshippers. Some interior areas of smaller buildings might have restrictions.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and in urban areas due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the chedi and details of the carvings. A wide-angle lens can be useful for fitting the entire chedi into the frame. A tripod can help with low-light photography in the early morning or late afternoon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short, focusing on the main highlights, to maintain their attention. Ensure they are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) to avoid any issues. The small entrance fee is usually manageable for families, and the peaceful atmosphere can be a nice break from more active sightseeing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost temples in the Old City, and enjoy delicious and inexpensive street food from the numerous vendors nearby. This makes it a perfect addition to an itinerary focused on experiencing Chiang Mai's culture without breaking the bank.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and focal lengths. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the chedi, while a telephoto can isolate architectural details. Be mindful of the light and try to capture the serene atmosphere, perhaps even including monks in respectful, unobtrusive shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Chedi: A Symbol of History
+1In 1475, the Emerald Buddha was moved to Luang Prabang, and later to Vientiane, before finally being brought to Bangkok. The chedi itself suffered significant damage from an earthquake in 1545, which caused its western side to collapse, leaving it in its current impressive, albeit incomplete, state. Despite the damage, its sheer scale and intricate Lanna architecture continue to awe visitors, serving as a powerful reminder of Chiang Mai's historical grandeur.
Spiritual Significance and Local Beliefs
Visitors often observe monks engaged in daily rituals, adding to the temple's serene and sacred atmosphere. The presence of numerous Buddha images and the opportunity to witness or participate in quiet contemplation make it a place of peace and spiritual reflection. Many visitors find the temple to be a calming escape from the bustling city.
Exploring the Temple Complex
+1Take your time to explore the smaller temples and shrines scattered throughout the complex. You might encounter local artisans selling their crafts or monks going about their daily routines. The peaceful ambiance encourages a slow, mindful exploration, allowing you to truly appreciate the history and spirituality of this ancient site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit