Wat Chedi Luang is an important Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Its history dates back to the 14th century, during the reign of the seventh ruler of the Mangrai Dynasty, King Saen Muang Ma. Construction of the stupa began in 1391 and was completed in the mid-15th century under King Tilokaraj. At its peak, the stupa reached 82 meters high with a base of 54 meters, making it the tallest structure in the Lanna Kingdom at the time.

The complex originally comprised three temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Ho Than, and Wat Sukmin. In 1468, the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered religious artifact, was placed here. However, after a devastating earthquake in 1545, the top 30 meters of the stupa collapsed, and the Emerald Buddha was moved to Luang Prabang.

The Collapse of the Stupa
The disastrous event that caused the upper portion of Wat Chedi Luang to collapse occurred in 1545 due to a strong earthquake. The causes of the collapse have been studied, with researchers from Silpakorn University suggesting that the tunnels beneath the temple may have contributed to the structural instability. Despite the damage, restoration efforts are ongoing, and the stupa remains one of Chiang Mai's most important historical sites.

Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta and his Connection to Wat Chedi Luang
Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta (1870–1949), a revered Thai Buddhist monk, is closely associated with Wat Chedi Luang. Together with his teacher Ajahn Sao Kantasīlo, he founded the Thai Forest Tradition, also known as the Kammatthana tradition, which has profoundly influenced Thai Buddhism.

In 2002, a viharn (ordination hall) dedicated to Luang Pu Mun was erected within the complex. This viharn houses a statue of him and one of his molars, becoming a place of meditation and reflection for those who follow the Thai Forest Tradition.

Main attractions within the temple:

The Great Chedi (Stupa): Once the tallest stupa in northern Thailand.

Viharn Luang (Main Hall): A large wooden building with carved Lanna-style details.

Sacred Pillar of Inthakhin: A sacred pillar symbolizing protection for the city of Chiang Mai.

Viharn Phra Chao Tilokarat: A hall housing Buddhist statues dating back to the time of King Tilokaraj.

Old monastic cells and areas where Luang Pu Mun practiced meditation: These are spiritual sites of great importance.

Wat Chedi Luang is centrally located in Chiang Mai's Old City on Phra Pok Klao Road, within Phra Sing Subdistrict. There are multiple convenient ways to reach it:

• From Chiang Mai Airport:
  A 15-minute drive (about 5 km) via Airport Road, Chang Klan Road, then turning onto Phra Pok Klao Road. The temple will be on the left near Tha Phae Gate.

• By Local Transportation (Red Songthaews):
  Take the popular red songthaew (shared taxi), which operates throughout Chiang Mai. Just inform the driver to stop at Wat Chedi Luang. The fare is inexpensive and convenient.

• By Motorbike or Rental Car:
  There is parking nearby for private vehicles. You can park in the vicinity and walk into the temple.

• By Walking:
  If you're staying near Tha Phae Walking Street, the temple is within 1 km walking distance, taking approximately 10–15 minutes.

• Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees).

• Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds.

• Explore the smaller shrines and viharns for a deeper spiritual experience.

• Free Monk Chat sessions are sometimes available for cultural exchange.

Admission fee:

• No admission fee for Thai citizens. Foreigners: 50 Baht per adult, 20 Baht per child.

Opening time:

• Open daily from 05:00 AM – 10:30 PM.