Chiang Mai city has over 36 active temples most of which are tranquil and beautiful places of meditation for the thousands of monks and novices that are ordained. Most temples are social centers for various small villages that still exist within the city. Many are very impressive and well worth a visit.
Wat Suan Dork
Wat Suan Dork, meaning flower garden is the resting place for the old royal family of Chiang Mai. Their impressive tombs and cenotaphs in shapes of pagodas and painted in white are a reminder of the past glory of the Kingdom of Lanna that Chiang Mai used to be the capital of. There remains today descendants of these kings who still posses northern royal titles.
Wat Umong
Wat Umong is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai with a painting dating back five centuries, and old monastic cells buried underground for meditation. Wat Umong is famous for its open zoo where many Thais release animals to earn merit. The temple is not easily accessible but its shady and peaceful atmosphere is conductive to the study of
Dhama.
Wat Chedi Luang
Wat Chedi Luang dates back to 1401 and is famous for its massive pagoda that was struck by lightning in 1545. The remains of this pagoda is still impressive in its sheer size even though it has never been restored.
Wat Phra Singh
Wat Phra Singh was founded in 1345 and is one of the most respected temples in Chiang Mai. The temple has one of the best preserved buildings in Chiang Mai dated to the 1800s and beautiful murals and old scrolls are preserved in this little building. Wat Pra Singh is a popular place to go to on religious holidays and anybody can join in by lighting candles, incense and walking around the temple three times with the crowd of other worshipers that are invariably always there.
Other temples of interest
- Wat Jet Yod
- Wat Doi Suthep
- Wat Chiang Man
"Use the menu below for more travel articles on Chiang Mai attractions"
