Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai - gold concrete building during daytime
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Wat Chiang Man Chiang Mai

4.6
·5k reviews·, Thailand

Chiang Mai's oldest temple, founded in 1297, featuring the iconic Elephant Chedi and revered Buddha images.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and cool

CrowdLow
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Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai - gold concrete building during daytime

Wat Chiang Man Chiang Mai

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful and cool

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chiang Mai's oldest temple, founded in 1297, featuring the iconic Elephant Chedi and revered Buddha images.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"A serene temple, well-maintained and charming, offering a quiet walk back in time."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Respectful Attire is Key

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. :pray:

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Peaceful Grounds

Explore the serene gardens and admire the Lanna architecture. :lotus_flower:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Chedi

Elephant Chedi

Temple Grounds

Iconic stupa supported by life-sized stone elephants, a symbol of Lanna architecture.

Crystal Buddha

Crystal Buddha

Viharn (Assembly Hall)

A revered ancient Buddha image, said to bring prosperity and good fortune.

Marble Buddha

Marble Buddha

Viharn (Assembly Hall)

Another significant ancient Buddha statue, known for its serene presence.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Chiang Mai's Oldest Temple

Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, offering a peaceful escape. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and larger tour groups. Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship.

Immerse Yourself in History and Serenity

As the first temple built in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man offers a deep dive into the city's origins. Take your time to admire the Lanna architecture and the revered Buddha images. It's a perfect spot for quiet reflection amidst beautiful, well-maintained grounds.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful and cool
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇹🇭 10 things to do in Chiang Mai ⬇️⁣ ⁣ 1. 🎋 Go bamboo rafting in Mae Wang National Park⁣ 2. 🏮 Lanna Square Night Market - open nightly from 5pm⁣ 3. 🪷 Wat Phra That Doi Suthep⁣ 4. 🎏 Carp Cafe - cafe surrounded with waterfalls & ponds filled with Koi fish. ⁣ 5. 🥭 Try mango sticky rice, a popular Thai dessert ⁣ 6. 💦 Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park⁣ 7. 🍽️ Have drinks & dinner at Another World⁣...
@kelseyinlondon
98K likes • 2.7M views

👟 Respectful Attire is Key

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. :pray: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Peaceful Grounds

Explore the serene gardens and admire the Lanna architecture. :lotus_flower: Reddit

These were our 10 favorite activities in Chiang Mai! 🪔🕯️🏮 Are you visiting the north of Thailand and don’t know what to do? We stayed for 2 weeks in Chiang Mai and these were our favorite things to do. 1. Dantewada A dreamy escape to unwind at Dantewada’s park 🌿 2. Sticky Waterfalls Climb and play at the unique Sticky Waterfalls. 3. Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir Relax by the serene waters of Huay Tue...
@halaltravelasia
24.1K likes • 661.9K views
วัดเชียงมั่น...วัดแรกของเชียงใหม่ Wat Chiang Man, the first temple in Chiang Mai, holds significant historical and religious importance. It was originally the palace of King Mengrai, the founder of the city, before being converted into a temple. The temple is a popular tourist destination, attracting both Thai and international visitors who come to see its ancient sites and artifacts. ..............
oddkrub
458 likes • 6.1K views

🐘 Marvel at the Elephant Chedi

Don't miss the unique stupa supported by stone elephants. :elephant: Instagram

💎 See the Sacred Buddhas

View the ancient Crystal and Marble Buddha statues inside the viharns. :gem: Reddit

📍Wat Chiang Man Der Wat Chiang Man, der älteste Tempel in Chiang Mai, beeindruckt mit seiner Architektur und der berühmten „Kristall-Buddha“-Statue.🗿 Erbaut im 13. Jahrhundert, bietet er eine ruhige Atmosphäre und einen Einblick in die reiche Geschichte der Region.🏗️🛕 Die malerischen Gärten rund um den Tempel laden dazu ein, die spirituelle Umgebung zu genießen und zu verweilen 🌸🪷🌳 #watchiangman...
faraway.backpacking
42 likes • 517 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Respectful Attire is Key

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. :pray: Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Peaceful Grounds

Explore the serene gardens and admire the Lanna architecture. :lotus_flower: Reddit

🐘 Marvel at the Elephant Chedi

Don't miss the unique stupa supported by stone elephants. :elephant: Instagram

💎 See the Sacred Buddhas

View the ancient Crystal and Marble Buddha statues inside the viharns. :gem: Reddit

💰 Donations Welcome

There's no entrance fee, but donations help maintain this historic site. :moneybag: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wat Chiang Man for its historical significance as Chiang Mai's oldest temple, its serene atmosphere, and beautifully maintained grounds. The unique Elephant Chedi and revered Buddha statues are highlights, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Some note the similarity of Buddha statues, but overall, it's considered a gem for quiet reflection and cultural immersion.

"This Wat with its tunnel, fish feeding and Ashoka pillar grabbed my interest instantly. Each moment there was like I was building a connection with the place. Peace, greenery and quiet worship.
One thing I noticed, all the Buddha statues are similar. Peacefully serene and calmly meditative."

Ameeta Agnihotri

"The place is very serene and beautifully maintained. You can walk around the stupa and explore the wat also. The wat had table fans for sitting and relaxing inside. The Buddha and the architecture also reminded me of Laos."

Madhava Prasad

"A serene temple. Been living in town for almost a year and I had just set foot in this temple. It’s not a huge complex, but so quiet, well-maintained, and charming. I saw some photos taken during winter when flowers were still blooming, this place looked definitely charming. I went here during summer in May, still a great experience to just have a reflection and chill time for a while"

Anggita Indari

What People Like

Historical significance
Serene atmosphere
Beautiful grounds

What People Dislike

Similar Buddha statues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Chiang Man is conveniently located in the heart of Chiang Mai's Old City. You can easily reach it by songthaew (red shared taxis), tuk-tuk, or even by walking if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll from other Old City attractions. TikTokInstagram

Parking directly at the temple can be limited. It's best to use public transport like songthaews or tuk-tuks, or consider renting a scooter and finding parking on a nearby street. Instagram

For exploring multiple temples like Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, and Doi Suthep, songthaews are a popular and affordable option. You can also hire a private taxi for a more comfortable experience. Instagram+1

Yes, ride-sharing apps like Grab are available in Chiang Mai and can be a convenient way to get to Wat Chiang Man, especially if you prefer a direct ride. TikTok

The main temple grounds are relatively flat and accessible, but some areas might have stairs. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details if you have significant mobility concerns. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Wat Chiang Man. It's a freely accessible temple, though donations are greatly appreciated to help with its upkeep. Reddit

Wat Chiang Man is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon/early evening. Specific closing times can vary, but it's usually accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

Since there's no entrance fee, advance booking is not required for Wat Chiang Man. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

Yes, as with most temples in Thailand, it's important to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and courtyards of Wat Chiang Man. However, it's respectful to refrain from taking photos inside the main viharns where Buddha images are housed, especially during prayer times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the Elephant Chedi, the Crystal Buddha, and the Marble Buddha. The peaceful gardens and intricate Lanna architecture are also highlights. InstagramReddit

A visit to Wat Chiang Man can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the grounds, admiring the architecture, and reflecting. Reddit

Basic restroom facilities are usually available. While there might not be shops inside, you can often find vendors selling water and snacks just outside the temple complex. Reddit

Compared to some other major temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man is often described as quieter and less crowded, making it ideal for a more serene experience. InstagramReddit

The Elephant Chedi is a prominent feature of Wat Chiang Man, with its base adorned by life-sized stone elephants. It's a significant example of Lanna architectural style and a symbol of the temple's history. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Elephant Chedi offers iconic shots, especially with the surrounding greenery. The intricate details of the viharns and the peaceful gardens also make for beautiful photographs. Instagram

Using drones is generally not permitted at most temples in Thailand due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to stick to handheld photography. Reddit

The early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while the late afternoon provides a warm, golden hour glow. Both times are excellent for capturing the temple's beauty. Reddit

While outdoor areas are generally fine, it's respectful to avoid photographing the Buddha images inside the viharns, especially if people are praying. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Elephant Chedi and temple grounds. A prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of the architecture and Buddha images. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Chiang Man offers a gentle introduction to Thai temples for families. The Elephant Chedi is often a hit with children due to its unique design. While the temple is serene, it's a good opportunity to teach kids about respecting religious sites by dressing modestly and speaking softly. Reddit The relatively uncluttered grounds make it easier for kids to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Consider bringing a small offering or explaining the significance of the Buddha statues in simple terms to engage them. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

For solo travelers, Wat Chiang Man is an excellent stop for a peaceful break from the usual Chiang Mai itinerary. Its location within the Old City makes it easily accessible, and the lack of overwhelming crowds allows for personal reflection and photography. InstagramReddit It's a great place to simply sit, observe, and absorb the local culture without feeling rushed. Many backpackers find it a refreshing contrast to more bustling attractions. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Culture Enthusiasts

Couples looking for a tranquil cultural experience will appreciate Wat Chiang Man's serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet stroll hand-in-hand, admiring the ancient architecture and the spiritual ambiance. Reddit Culture enthusiasts will be fascinated by the temple's historical significance as the oldest in Chiang Mai and the chance to see revered Buddha images like the Crystal Buddha. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Wat Chiang Man

Wat Chiang Man holds the distinction of being the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, founded in 1297 by King Mangrai, the city's founder. It was originally built as his royal palace before being converted into a temple, making it a cornerstone of Chiang Mai's spiritual and historical identity. Reddit The temple complex houses two revered ancient Buddha images: the Crystal Buddha (Phra Kaew Khao) and the Marble Buddha (Phra Sila). These artifacts are not only religious icons but also significant historical relics, offering a tangible link to the region's past. Reddit

The architecture itself is a testament to the Lanna style, characterized by its elegant, multi-tiered roofs, intricate wood carvings, and distinctive stupas. The most striking example is the Elephant Chedi, a bell-shaped stupa supported by a base adorned with life-sized stone elephants, a motif commonly found in Lanna art. Instagram Visiting Wat Chiang Man provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the foundations of Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage. Reddit

Exploring the Serene Grounds and Architecture

Beyond its historical importance, Wat Chiang Man is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and beautifully maintained grounds. Visitors often describe it as a peaceful oasis within the bustling Old City, perfect for quiet contemplation. Reddit The temple complex features lush gardens, ornate assembly halls (viharns), and smaller stupas, all contributing to its serene ambiance. Instagram

The viharns are particularly noteworthy, showcasing exquisite Lanna craftsmanship with their golden embellishments, detailed murals, and impressive Buddha statues. The presence of table fans inside some of these halls offers a welcome respite from the heat, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the spiritual environment. Reddit The overall design and layout of Wat Chiang Man encourage a slow, mindful exploration, allowing visitors to appreciate the details of the architecture and the sense of peace that pervades the site. Reddit

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