Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. With a rich history dating back over 600 years, this temple has become one of the most renowned and popular tourist attractions in the city. The temple was originally built in the 14th century, and over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations and expansions.
The temple grounds were originally made up of three temples, but now only Wat Chedi Luang remains. The most notable feature of the temple is the massive chedi, or stupa, which stands at over 80 meters tall. Although the chedi was damaged in an earthquake in the 16th century, it still remains an impressive sight to behold. Wat Chedi Luang is not only a significant religious site but also an important historical landmark in Thailand.
History
Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Over the centuries, it has undergone various changes, including restoration and renovation. In this section, we will explore some of the key events and figures in the history of Wat Chedi Luang.
King Tilokaraj
It was under the reign of King Tilokaraj that the construction work on Wat Chedi Luang was finally completed. A few years previously, he had instructed that the temple would be the home of the Emerald Buddha. The Emerald Buddha is one of the most revered religious relics in Thailand, and it was kept at Wat Chedi Luang for several years before being moved to the Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
King Saen Muang Ma
King Saen Muang Ma started the construction of the chedi in 1391 to bury the ashes of his father. He didn’t complete the pagoda during his reign, though. It was the Queen who constructed the upper part of the great pagoda, installed its spire, and gave it its finishing touches.
Earthquake
In 1545, an earthquake caused significant damage to the temple. The chedi was partially destroyed, and it remained in a state of disrepair for several centuries. It was not until the early 1990s that a restoration project was launched to repair the damage caused by the earthquake.
Restoration
The restoration work on Wat Chedi Luang was carried out in several phases. The first phase involved stabilizing the structure of the chedi. This was followed by the reconstruction of the base of the chedi, which had been destroyed in the earthquake. The final phase of the restoration work involved the reconstruction of the top of the chedi.
Japanese Government
The restoration of Wat Chedi Luang was made possible by the Japanese government, which provided funding for the project. The restoration work was completed in 1995, and the temple was reopened to the public.
Phra Chao Attarot and City Pillar
Wat Chedi Luang is also home to the Phra Chao Attarot, a revered Buddha image that is believed to have healing powers. The temple also houses the city pillar, which is an important symbol of Chiang Mai’s history and culture.
In conclusion, the history of Wat Chedi Luang is a fascinating tale of construction, destruction, and restoration. The temple has undergone many changes over the centuries, but it remains an important religious and cultural site in Chiang Mai. Whether you are a history buff or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Wat Chedi Luang is a must when in Chiang Mai.
Architecture and Grounds
Wat Chedi Luang is a magnificent temple complex that showcases ancient Thai architecture and craftsmanship. The temple grounds were originally made up of three temples – Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Ho Tham, and Wat Sukmin. Today, only the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang remain. The temple was built in the 14th and 15th centuries and was one of the most impressive temples in Chiang Mai at the time.
Viharns
The temple complex has several viharns or assembly halls. The main viharn is the largest and most impressive building in the complex. It houses a beautiful Buddha image, which is highly revered by the locals. The viharn is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations, which are a testament to the skill of the ancient Thai craftsmen.
Chedi
The Chedi is the main attraction of Wat Chedi Luang. It is a massive structure, which was once the tallest building in Chiang Mai. The Chedi was built to house the Emerald Buddha, which is now housed in the Wat Phra Kaew temple in Bangkok. The Chedi was damaged during an earthquake in the 16th century, and today only the ruins remain. However, the ruins still impress visitors with their grandeur and beauty.
Stupa
The Stupa is another impressive structure in the temple complex. It is a large, bell-shaped structure that is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations. The Stupa is said to contain relics of the Buddha, which makes it a highly revered structure among the locals.
Pagoda
The Pagoda is a smaller structure in the temple complex. It is a multi-tiered structure that is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations. The Pagoda is said to be the home of the Naga, a mythical serpent that is highly revered in Thai culture.
Dipterocarp Tree
The Dipterocarp Tree is an ancient tree that is located in the temple complex. The tree is said to be over 700 years old, and it is highly revered by the locals. The tree is believed to be the home of Sao Inthakin, a local spirit who is said to protect the city.
Overall, the architecture and grounds of Wat Chedi Luang are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Thai people. The temple complex is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Thai culture and history.
Religious Significance
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most significant temples in Chiang Mai and is an important site for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage. The temple complex has a rich history and is home to many sacred relics and artifacts.
Monks and Novices
Visitors to Wat Chedi Luang can often see monks and novices going about their daily routines, which can include chanting, meditating, and performing other religious practices. The temple is also a popular destination for Monk Chats, where visitors can speak with monks and learn about their way of life and beliefs.
Buddhism
Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple, and visitors should be respectful of the religious significance of the site. It is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering any of the temple buildings. Inside the temple, visitors can see beautiful murals and statues depicting important figures in Buddhist history and mythology.
Luang Prabang
One of the most significant artifacts at Wat Chedi Luang is the Phra Kaew, a sacred Buddha image that was once housed in the temple complex at Luang Prabang in Laos. The Phra Kaew was brought to Chiang Mai in the 16th century and is now housed in a special shrine at the temple.
Viharn and Reclining Buddha
The temple complex includes several buildings, including a Viharn (assembly hall) that houses a large Buddha image. Visitors can also see a stunning Reclining Buddha statue that is over 15 meters long and 8 meters high. The statue is made of brick and stucco and is one of the most impressive sights at the temple complex.
In conclusion, Wat Chedi Luang is an important site for Buddhist worship and pilgrimage and is a must-see destination for visitors to Chiang Mai. The temple complex has a rich history and is home to many sacred relics and artifacts. Visitors should be respectful of the religious significance of the site and take care to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering any of the temple buildings.
Visiting Wat Chedi Luang
If you’re visiting Chiang Mai, a trip to Wat Chedi Luang is a must. This ancient temple is one of the most significant and impressive landmarks in the city, and it is steeped in history and culture. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit.
Location
Wat Chedi Luang is located in the heart of the Old City in Chiang Mai. The temple is situated on Prapokklao Road, in the Si Phum sub-district of the Mueang district. You can easily find the temple by looking for the massive chedi that towers over the surrounding buildings.
Getting There
There are several ways to get to Wat Chedi Luang. If you’re staying in the Old City, you can easily walk to the temple. Alternatively, you can take a songthaew (red truck) or a tuk-tuk to get there. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a bicycle and cycle to the temple.
Tourist Attractions
Wat Chedi Luang is home to several tourist attractions that are worth checking out. The most notable attraction is the chedi itself, which stands at over 80 meters tall. The chedi was built in the 14th century, and it was once home to the famous Emerald Buddha. Other attractions include the temple’s beautiful grounds, which are filled with ancient ruins, statues, and intricate carvings.
Wat Ho Tham
Another attraction at Wat Chedi Luang is Wat Ho Tham, which is located on the temple grounds. This smaller temple is home to a beautiful Buddha statue, and it offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the main temple.
Wat Sukmin
Wat Sukmin is another temple that is located on the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang. This temple is known for its beautiful murals, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha. The murals are incredibly detailed and vivid, and they offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Thailand.
Overall, a visit to Wat Chedi Luang is a must for anyone who is interested in history, culture, and religion. The temple is a true gem of Chiang Mai, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Thailand, Wat Chedi Luang is a must-see attraction that should not be missed.
Conclusion
Visiting Wat Chedi Luang is a must-do when in Chiang Mai. The temple is not only a significant landmark in Thailand but also a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. With its impressive architecture and intricate craftsmanship of ancient Thai civilizations, the temple is a true wonder to behold.
One interesting fact about Wat Chedi Luang is that it used to house the city pillar, known as Lak Mueang. The city pillar is a sacred object believed to protect the city and its inhabitants. Visitors can still see the remnants of the city pillar in the temple grounds.
Michael Freeman, a renowned photographer, has documented the temple’s beauty in his book, “Lanna: Thailand’s Northern Kingdom.” His stunning photographs showcase the intricate details and grandeur of the temple.
The temple also plays an important role in Thai culture, especially for women. It is believed that making a donation to the temple can bring good luck and fortune. Women often come to the temple to make offerings and pray for blessings.
Queen Chamadevi, the first queen of Chiang Mai, was instrumental in the construction of Wat Chedi Luang. The temple was built to house the Emerald Buddha, which was later moved to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
One unique experience at Wat Chedi Luang is the cannon fire ceremony that takes place every day at noon. The ceremony is meant to ward off evil spirits and protect the temple and its visitors.
Overall, visiting Wat Chedi Luang is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Thai culture and history. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural significance, and unique experiences, the temple is a must-visit destination in Chiang Mai.