Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Thailand. It is located in the old city of Chiang Mai and has been a significant part of the city’s history for centuries. The temple houses a large stupa, or chedi, which is believed to contain the remains of the former King of Chiang Mai. The temple is also home to many other important Buddhist artifacts and structures, and is a popular tourist destination.
History
Wat Phra That Chedi Luang was built in the 14th century and was once the center of the Lanna Kingdom. The temple has seen many renovations over the years, with its most recent renovation taking place in the early 19th century. During this renovation, the temple was expanded and the chedi was reconstructed to its current size. Since then, the temple has been an important part of Chiang Mai’s history and culture.
Chedi
The most iconic feature of Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is its chedi, or stupa. This large structure stands at over 60 meters tall and is made of brick and stucco. It is believed to contain the remains of the former King of Chiang Mai and is considered to be an important symbol of the city. The chedi is also decorated with numerous Buddha images, as well as carvings of elephants and other animals.
Other Features
In addition to the chedi, Wat Phra That Chedi Luang also houses a number of other important structures and artifacts. There is a large viharn, or assembly hall, which is used for Buddhist ceremonies and worship. There are also several smaller chedis, as well as a large Buddha image. The temple also houses a museum, which contains a number of artifacts from the Lanna Kingdom.
Visiting
Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is open to visitors every day from 8am to 5pm. Entrance is free, but donations are appreciated. The temple is a popular tourist destination and can get quite crowded, so it is best to arrive early in the morning. Visitors should also dress modestly and respect the temple’s rules and regulations.
Conclusion
Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Thailand and a must-see for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. It is a beautiful and sacred site, and a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Lanna Kingdom. Visitors should make sure to dress appropriately and respect the temple’s rules and regulations when visiting.