Temples are everywhere in Chiang Mai; there are more than 300 scattered throughout the walled Old City, surrounding neighborhoods, and into the nearby mountains.

While they’re all worth visiting, these three stood out to me the most. This post is part of a short series featuring some of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai.

Wat Chiang Man

Wat Chiang Man (or, as I call it, The Elephant Temple) is the oldest Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. It was established in 1296 by King Mangrai, the founder of the Lanna Kingdom, and is located in the northeastern corner of the historic Old City. During the city’s construction, it actually served as the king’s residence.

Highlights

Chedi Chang Lom (Elephant Chedi)

The temple’s most iconic structure, with a gilded top and a square base surrounded by 15 life-sized brick and stucco elephants that appear to be carrying the structure.

Elephants, considered sacred in Buddhism, are integral to Thai history, art, and royal traditions. Elephants are everywhere. 

Phra Sae Tang Khamani (Crystal Buddha)

Phra Sae Tang Khamani is a small quartz statue believed to have been crafted around 200 CE in Lop Buri, revered for its healing and disaster-protecting powers.

Phra Sila (Marble Buddha)

Not my photo. Source: Photograph Collection 28 of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

An ancient stone bas-relief, likely from 8th-century Sri Lanka, believed to have the power to bring rain.

Lanna Architecture

The complex includes two meditation halls (viharns) decorated with intricate gold and red carvings, a raised scripture library (ho trai), and a lotus pond.

Exploring the Grounds

What I especially loved about Wat Chiang Man were the shaded sitting areas throughout the grounds. I arrived very early in the morning, before the crowds, and spent time moving from bench to bench and building to building. Just enjoying the peace and views.

Plus, it wasn’t a far walk from there to The Little Sunday Cafe, where I had a sumptuous breakfast and the best bacon I had in all of Chiang Mai. So, it makes for a nice morning.

Visitor Info

Location

171 Ratchapakhinai Road, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Right inside the Old City walls, so it’s very easy to reach.

Hours

Generally 6:00am-6:00pm.

Cost

Entry is free, though donations are appreciated.

Dress Code

As always when visiting Buddhist temples, visitors should cover shoulders and knees; robes are sometimes available for a small fee.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms are available.

More in This Series

This article is part of my Chiang Mai Temple Series exploring some of my favorite temples in northern Thailand.

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