Wat Chedi Luang is a revered Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Its construction began in 1391 under King Saen Muang Ma and was completed during the reign of King Tilokaraj in the mid-15th century. The majestic chedi once reached a height_ of 82 meters with a base diameter of 54 meters, making it the tallest structure in the ancient Lanna Kingdom.

The temple was originally composed of three separate temples—Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Ho Than, and Wat Sukmin. In 1468, the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred religious relic, was enshrined here. However, in 1545, a devastating earthquake collapsed the upper portion of the chedi. Following the disaster, the Emerald Buddha was moved to Luang Prabang.

The Collapse of the Chedi
In 1545, a powerful earthquake caused the top 30 meters of the chedi to collapse. Later studies by Silpakorn University suggest that subterranean tunnels under the temple may have weakened its foundation, leading to structural failure. Despite the damage, the chedi remains a majestic symbol of Chiang Mai's spiritual heritage and has undergone partial restoration.

Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta's Connection to Wat Chedi Luang
Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta (1870–1949), the highly respected founder of the Thai Forest Tradition (Kammatthana), once resided and practiced here. In 2002, a viharn was built in his honor within the temple grounds, housing a statue and a molar relic. The site continues to attract spiritual seekers and practitioners of meditation.

Notable Sites within the Temple Grounds

• Chedi Luang: The massive ancient chedi that was once the tallest in the north.

• Main Viharn (Viharn Luang): A large wooden Lanna-style building featuring intricate carvings.

• City Pillar Shrine (Sao Inthakhin): A sacred pillar believed to protect Chiang Mai city.

• Viharn Phra Chao Tilokarat: Houses a significant Buddha image from King Tilokaraj’s era.

• Old Kuti and Meditation Area of Luang Pu Mun: Spiritually important site for practitioners.

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 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM