Wat Chiang Man: First Temple of the Lanna Kingdom

Step into a living museum where royal history and priceless artifacts are enshrined within the magnificent walls of Wat Chiang Man.

📜 History and Historical Significance

The name “Wat Chiang Man” translates to “Temple of the Stable City,” reflecting its role as the strong foundation upon which Chiang Mai was built. King Mangrai, the founder of the Mangrai dynasty, commissioned the temple on the land he used as his royal residence and command center during the city’s construction. As the very first temple built inside the city moat, it was the original heart of the community and was once known as “Wat Wiang Lek.” Significantly, this site was also where King Mangrai held council with his sworn allies, King Ngam Mueang of Phayao and King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of Sukhothai, to collaboratively design the layout of Chiang Mai. This history gives the temple immense strategic and foundational importance.

💎 Sacred Buddha Images and Priceless Artifacts

The most compelling highlight of Wat Chiang Man is that it houses two ancient and invaluable Buddha images, both enshrined within the “Viharn Chaturamuk” or “The Crystal Buddha Pavilion.”

• Phra Sae Tang Khamani (The Crystal Buddha): This is a small but magnificent Buddha image in the posture of conquering Mara, standing just 10 cm tall and exquisitely carved from a clear quartz crystal. According to legend, this statue was originally venerated by Queen Chamadevi of the Hariphunchai Kingdom (modern-day Lamphun) and was passed down through generations to King Mangrai. The Crystal Buddha is believed to possess the power to protect the city and its people from danger, most notably from fire.
• Phra Sila (The Marble Buddha): This is a stone stele depicting the Buddha taming the Nalagiri elephant, carved from red sandstone in the Pala style of Indian art. It is believed to have been created around the 14th-15th Buddhist century and was brought to the Lanna Kingdom during King Mangrai’s reign. It is famous for its perceived power to bring seasonal rains, and in historical times, a procession carrying this image was a common ritual to invoke rainfall.

🏛️ Exquisite Lanna Architecture

The architecture within Wat Chiang Man is a beautiful and valuable blend of Lanna artistic styles.

• The Main Chedi (The Elephant-Encircled Chedi): This is the temple’s most distinctive structure, built in a Lanna style that incorporates influences from Sukhothai and Sri Lankan art. The chedi rests on a square base, which is adorned with 15 life-sized stucco elephant figures emerging from the structure as if supporting it. This symbolizes the upholding of Buddhism for eternity. Each elephant is rendered with beautiful, lifelike detail. The upper part of the chedi is a classic, gleaming gold-leafed bell-shaped stupa.
• The Main and Small Viharns (Assembly Halls): The temple compound features two assembly halls: the large main viharn and a smaller one that enshrines the sacred Buddha images. Both are built in a pure Lanna architectural style with elegant, multi-tiered roofs. The gables are decorated with intricate stucco work and colored glass mosaics. Inside the main viharn, visitors can find the principal Buddha image and murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life.

• The Ubosot (Ordination Hall): Located behind the chedi, the ordination hall holds a key piece of history. A stone inscription at its base provides a historical account of the founding of Chiang Mai and Chiang Man temple, making it one of the city’s most important historical records.

🗺️ Visitor Information

• Location: Ratchaphakinai Road, Si Phum Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District (located conveniently inside the old city moat).

• Getting There: The temple is easily accessible by private car, the local red songthaews, or various ride-hailing services due to its central location.

• Opening Hours: Open for visitors every day from approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• Admission Fee: There is no entrance fee for Thai nationals (an admission fee may be in place for foreign visitors).

• Recommendations: Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. It is important to adhere to the temple’s rules and regulations during your visit.

Nearby Attractions

Wat Phra Singh

One of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, Wat Phra Singh is home to the Phra Buddha Sihing, a highly venerated Buddha image. The complex is known for its stunning viharn decorated with elaborate carvings and traditional Lanna murals.