Wat Chiang Man : Exploring the Hidden Gem of Northern Thailand

A Journey through the Magnificent Wat Chiang Man in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, has preserved its rich history for more than 700 years. Among the city’s most significant landmarks is Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. This sacred site is not only a center of Buddhist devotion but also an invaluable historical monument that records the very founding of the city.

📜 The Wat Chiang Man Inscription – Proof of Chiang Mai’s Birth

Wat Chiang Man is renowned for the Wat Chiang Man Inscription (known as “Chiang Mai Inscription No. 1”). Written in ancient Thai script, it records the establishment of Chiang Mai on April 12, 1296 CE (1839 BE) by King Mangrai, together with King Ngam Muang of Phayao and King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai.

This inscription is of immense importance, as it confirms the exact founding date of Chiang Mai. Remarkably, the stone stele is still preserved today at Wat Chiang Man, placed at the entrance hall of the ordination hall, allowing visitors to see this historical treasure firsthand.

🌄 The Founding Legend of the Temple

According to legend, the grounds of Chiang Man temple were once the campsite of King Mangrai when he first arrived to establish his new capital. After constructing Chiang Mai’s city walls and moat, he ordered the building of Wat Chiang Man as the city’s first royal temple, symbolizing both spiritual protection and the beginning of the new kingdom.

🌿 Atmosphere and Visiting Experience

Visitors today will find Wat Chiang Man a serene and tranquil space, with shaded courtyards, ancient architecture, and a sense of living history. Exploring its viharns, chedis, Buddha images, and inscriptions offers a unique opportunity to step back into the origins of Chiang Mai and the spirit of the Lanna Kingdom.

💎Highlight Structure of the Temple

The temple features several stunning architectural and artistic elements, including intricate carvings, elaborate murals, and beautiful golden chedis. The temple also houses several important religious relics, including a crystal Buddha image and a set of ancient scriptures.

Phra Sila and the Crystal Buddha

Wat Chiang Man also houses two highly revered Buddha images:

• Phra Sila, a stone-carved Buddha in the Subduing the Elephant Nalagiri posture, believed to have protective powers and often invoked in rain-making rituals.

• The Crystal Buddha (Phra Saetang Khamani), a small but sacred quartz image thought to safeguard the city and its people.

Both images are considered protective deities of Chiang Mai and hold great significance for the city’s residents.

Chedi Chang Lom – The Elephant-Supported Stupa

One of the temple’s most iconic structures is the Chedi Chang Lom, or “Elephant Chedi.” Believed to have been built around 1840 BE (1297 CE) by King Mangrai, it features a square base surrounded by 15–16 sculpted elephants, half-emerging from the structure as if carrying the weight of the stupa on their backs.

Beyond its visual beauty, the elephant motif symbolizes strength and sacred protection, reflecting Lanna beliefs in elephants as guardians of Buddhism. Later, in the reign of King Tilokaraj, the chedi was restored with laterite stone, and subsequent rulers continued to renovate it over the centuries. Today, it remains a model for other elephant stupas across the Lanna region.

The Main Viharn and the Standing Buddha with Alms Bowl

Inside the main viharn (assembly hall) stands a bronze Buddha image in the alms-holding posture, locally known as Phra Chao Um Ong (“Lord Holding the Alms Bowl”). This sacred statue was cast around 2008 BE (1465 CE) during the reign of King Tilokaraj. At its base is an inscription naming the donors and including Buddhist verses, making it one of the oldest inscribed Buddha images in Chiang Mai.

The viharn itself is decorated with traditional murals, narrating the history of Chiang Mai and the temple, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere for visitors.

📍How to Get There

Wat Chiang Man is located on Ratchapakhinai Road in Chiang Mai’s Old City.

• 🚗 By car or motorbike: Enter through the Old City gates and follow the road along the moat.

• 🚕 By public transport: Simply tell the red songthaew or tuk-tuk driver “Wat Chiang Man” – it is a well-known landmark.

🕰️ Opening Hours

• Daily: 06:00 – 18:00

• Admission: Free (donations are welcome for temple maintenance)

• Dress Code: Modest clothing is required when visiting sacred sites.

Discover the vibrant history and cultural heritage of Northern Thailand at Chiang Man temple, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. Our tour agency provides private tours with knowledgeable guides who can offer fascinating insights into the temple’s importance in the region. Marvel at the intricate wood carvings and murals that adorn the ancient structures, learn about the past Lanna culture that thrived before Thailand was formed, and witness the religious relics housed within the temple. A visit to Wat Chiang Man is a must for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Book a private tour with us today to experience the temple’s unique charm and significance firsthand.