Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is one of the oldest and most important temples in the city and was built in the 14th century. The temple is renowned for its large, iconic chedi, which is the tallest structure in Chiang Mai. Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is a popular tourist attraction and an important place of worship for the local Buddhist community.
History
Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara was originally built in the 14th century by King Saen Muang Ma. It was originally much larger, with a height of nearly 200 feet, but it was damaged by an earthquake in 1545 and only the base remains. The temple has been renovated and restored several times over the centuries and the current structure is just a fraction of its original size.
The temple has been an important center of Buddhism in Chiang Mai since its foundation. It was home to the Emerald Buddha for several centuries before it was moved to Bangkok. The temple is also home to the Phra Kaew Morakot, a large emerald Buddha image, which is believed to have been created in the 15th century.
Architecture
Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is one of the most iconic temples in Chiang Mai. The main structure is a large chedi, or stupa, which is the tallest structure in the city. It is surrounded by four smaller chedis and a cloister. The temple also features several ornate statues and carvings, including a Buddha statue that is more than three meters tall.
The Main Chedi
The main chedi of Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is the most iconic part of the temple. It is a large, bell-shaped structure that stands at nearly 90 feet tall. It is decorated with carvings of mythical creatures, as well as statues of the Buddha. The chedi is also surrounded by four smaller chedis, which are said to represent the four Buddhas.
The Cloister
The cloister at Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is a walled courtyard that surrounds the main chedi. It is decorated with a variety of statues and carvings, including a large reclining Buddha. The cloister also features several small shrines and stupas, as well as a large hall for meditation.
What to Do
Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see when visiting Chiang Mai. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the architecture, statues, and carvings. The temple also hosts a number of ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, such as the Songkran festival in April.
Visitors can also join in the daily chanting and meditation sessions that take place in the main hall. There is also a small museum on the grounds, which houses a collection of artifacts and artworks related to the temple and Buddhism in general.
Conclusion
Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is one of the most iconic temples in Chiang Mai. It is an important center of Buddhism in the city and is a popular tourist attraction. The temple is renowned for its large chedi and its ornate statues and carvings. Visitors can explore the grounds and join in the daily chanting and meditation sessions.
