Wat Chedi Luang is an old temple in Chiang Mai province. Built in the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, the seventh king of the Mangrai Dynasty. The exact year of the construction is unknown but it is assumed that this temple was built between 1928 – 1945.
Wat Chedi Luang is an ancient royal monastery and it has been restored several times in the past. At present, the width of the chedi is around 60 meters on each side and is considered as one of the most important pagodas in Chiang Mai. It is located in the center of Chiang Mai which was originally considered to be the administrative center of the Lanna Kingdom.
What to see in Wat Chedi Luang?
- Viharn Luang. This Viharn Luang was built by the master Chao Khun U-balikhun (or Sirijantathera) and Chao Kaew Nawarat in 1971.
- Phra Chedi Luang. It was built during the reign of Phraya Saen Muang Ma and Phraya Ti Lokkaraj in 1934 with the height of 80 meters and square base of 56 meters wide of each side. There are 28 elephant statues at the four corners of the chedi and was believed to promote the power and strength of the city. There is also a ritual worshipping all elephant statues because they believe that it will bring auspicious welfare and peace to the country.
- Inthakhin Pillar. According to the legend, the original Inthakhin Pillar is located in Chiang Mai area and it is called “Sai Due Muang”.
How to get there?
- By car
- By red taxi