Time to go temple hopping in Chiang Mai. The city is often referred to as the “City of Temples,” unsurprisingly when you realise tbat it’s home to over 300 Buddhist temples, known as “Wats.”
Be warned we visit 7 in this chapter, so if its not your thing, you’ll be forgiven for not continuing to read on. However, note that some of them are absolutely exquisite.
Our first stop is Wat Lok Moli, one of Chiang Mai’s oldest and most beautiful temples, located on the north side of the Old City’s moat on Manee Nopparat Road. Known for its historical significance and stunning Lanna-style architecture, it is a must-visit for those exploring Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage.
Built in the 14th century, it is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai.
The temple has ties to the Mengrai Dynasty, which ruled the Lanna Kingdom. It was historically used to house Buddhist monks invited from Myanmar to spread Buddhist teachings in the area.
The large brick chedi, built in the 16th century, is one of the most striking features. It houses the ashes of several members of the Mengrai royal family.
The temple grounds are serene, adorned with beautiful gardens, statues, and traditional lanterns.
Our next stop just across the road, is
Wat Rajamontean a small yet striking Buddhist temple. It’s notable for its impressive Lanna architecture and the large Buddha statue at its entrance.
Brownie takes a break from temple hopping whilst I walk over to
Wat Chiang Yeun.
Wat Chiang Yuen is believed to predate the founding of Chiang Mai in 1296, making it one of the oldest temples in the region. Historically, it was the temple where Chiang Maiās rulers would visit to pay respects and seek blessings before their coronation.
The temple is home to the Phra Suppunyu Chao, a sacred seated Buddha statue with a unique golden crown. It is highly revered by locals for its blessings of stability and prosperity.
Temple number 4,
Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the city’s founding in 1296 by King Mengrai. Located within the Old City walls, it is a significant historical and spiritual site, showcasing beautiful Lanna architecture and ancient relics.
Wat Chiang Man was the first temple built in Chiang Mai, established by King Mengrai while he was overseeing the construction of the city. The temple served as the Kingās residence during the city’s early development.
The Chedi Chang Lom (Elephant Chedi): A unique stupa supported by 15 stone elephant statues at its base. The design symbolises the strength and importance of elephants in Lanna culture.
Temple number 5, don’t apologise if I’ve lost you now and you need to do something else. Wat Lam Chang is a relatively small but significant temple, believed to date back to the time of the founding of Chiang Mai in the late 13th century during the Lanna Kingdom.
The name “Lam Chang” means “resting place of elephants,” and the temple’s history is tied to its use as a rest stop for elephants that were part of the royal processions or construction efforts for other temples in the city.
Temple number 6, Wat Pan Ping has the most exquisite stained glass temple and there’s virtually no one here. It’s quiet breathtaking in its modern beauty and in complete contrast to the more traditional temples that we’ve visited.
Temple number 7 and you’ll be relieved to hear the last is
Wat Umong Mahathera Chan is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, as well as its connection to the early days of the Lanna Kingdom. The templeās name translates to “Temple of the Tunnel of the Elder Monk.”
Wat Umong Mahathera Chan is believed to have been established during the reign of King Mengrai (the founder of Chiang Mai) in the late 13th or early 14th century. It was initially a royal temple and served as a centre for Buddhist learning and meditation.
We take a taxi back to our hotel and stop at Rimping to buy some sushi for a late lunch and some booze as we’re off to JP’s and Mui’s for dinner later.
We’re thwarted in our attempt to buy alcohol as its after 2pm and we have to wait until 5pm!! It’s a country-wide law so we return to our hotel for another swim.
At 4.55pm our basket is loaded and we stand at the till watching the clock tick down. Finally, it reaches 5pm and we swiftly pay for our purchases and high tail it out of the store in search of a taxi. JP and Mui’s house is a short taxi ride from our hotel. They have a lovely house and we enjoy Mui’s signature dishes of Butter Chicken and Kao Soi whilst sitting under the shade of the trees in their lush tropical garden and being introduced to their ridiculously pampered cats!!
They’re very generous hosts and we have a really great evening.
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