Overview:

is a Buddhist temple located in the old city of Chiang Mai in Thailand, and is one of the most important temples in the city. This temple was built in the 14th century, and is noted for its grand and magnificent gilded chedi (or stupa), which houses the Emerald Buddha. The temple grounds also include a large square surrounded by Buddha images, halls, and porches filled with sculptures. Visitors can explore the various buildings and courtyards, as well as learn more about the history of the temple and Buddhism in Thailand. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Grand Stupa: Wat Chedi Luang is home to a grand stupa made of brick and stone that has been standing since 1441. The stupa is 80 meters high and 55 meters wide, making it one of the largest in Southeast Asia. 2. Buddha Image: The famous Emerald Buddha image sits inside the central prang of the temple in a glass-enclosed box. The Emerald Buddha is actually crafted of jade rather than emerald, although it is said to be the most precious image in all of Thailand. 3. Restored Towers and Viharns: During the late 20th century, Wat Chedi Luang was restored to its original glory with the renovation of two of its viharns (assembly halls) and four of its chedis (stupas). 4. Thai Art and Architecture: Wat Chedi Luang is a wonderful example of traditional Thai art and architecture, with elaborate carvings and detailed statues throughout the complex. 5. Spirit Houses: Around the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang, you can find multiple spirit houses, built to honor the gods and spirits of the local area. These are intricately decorated with colorful images of gods, animals, and people, providing a beautiful contrast to the ancient temple grounds. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Chedi Luang was founded in 1441, during the reign of King Saena Pha (1402-1455). The temple is associated with the King’s royal palace, which was formerly located near the temple. Constructed in the ancient Lanna style of architecture, the original chedi was a remarkable 85 meters in height. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in a 1545 earthquake and now stands at a height of only 33 meters. After its destruction, Wat Chedi Luang was restored in the 14th century by King Tilokkarat (1441-1487) and his successor, Queen Chiraprapha (1487-1547). During this period, the temple served as an important royal temple and was the seat of the Archbishop of Chiang Mai. The temple also served as a center of learning for the entire region. In the 16th and 17th centuries, both known and unknown teachers taught Buddhism and Pali, the language of Buddhist scriptures, at Chedi Luang. King Mangrai (1239-1296) even sponsored the construction of two libraries at the temple. Wat Chedi Luang is particularly famous for its Emerald Buddha, which is a 15th-century statue of Lord Buddha made of jade. The statue was once housed in the temple’s chedi but was moved to Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew in 1784. However, in 1995, the statue was brought back to Chedi Luang and is now displayed in a specially constructed pavilion. Today, Wat Chedi Luang is a major attraction in Chiang Mai and Thai people from all over the country come to visit the temple. Every April, the temple hosts the famous Songkran festival to mark the start of the traditional Thai New Year. Although the temple has been badly damaged and restored several times throughout its long history, it still stands as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Buddhist culture in the region. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai and is considered as a symbol of the city. 2. It was constructed in 1411 by King Saen Muang Ma and was originally 147 meters in height. 3. This temple was initially used to enshrine the Emerald Buddha and many other valuable items. 4. During the 15th century, the towering chedi was the largest in the area until an earthquake destroyed the upper portion in 1545. 5. The Wat Chedi Luang area is also a site of many other important historical landmarks, such as a city pillar made of gold, a bronze Buddha image, and an ancient city wall. 6. Wat Chedi Luang is home to the Phra Chao Attarot, a standing Buddha image which was enshrined in the site since 1545. 7. In addition to being a religious site, Wat Chedi Luang also serves as a center for cultural activities, such as music and dance performances. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.