Chiang Mai, Thailand, should be your main destination if you are traveling to fully explore Thai culture: it’s not only the city that retains most of its pre-empherical charm and demonstrates the minimal effects of industrialization, it is also the home of over three hundred Buddhist temples. Most of these times are centuries-old, dating back to the early days of the Kingdom of Lannes, which was founded in 1292 and became part of Thailand in 1774. More than religious centers, wat are cultural sites that have accumulated different styles of architecture, relics and works of art for hundreds of years. However, you may be amazed by the huge number of temples (also known as Wat in Thai) to see in Chiang Mai; The following guide gives you a starting point from which you should not miss.
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep located on the mountain Doi Suthep and is one of the most famous historical sites in the province; as such, it is imperative to see any traveler in Chiang Mai on a trip. Approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, it consists of a beautiful gilded chedi (pagoda), the famous white elephant Britannia, countless frescoes and gracefully made naga stairs - with 309 steps leading you upstairs (although you can always choose a cable instead for a small fee, 60 bg at the time of writing). At an elevation of 1,053 meters above sea level, it also offers a fantastic panoramic view of Chiang Mai, which is ideal for any postcard. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep began in 1371 as a single chedi, but was expanded several times by various monarchs of Chiang Mai and is still being added to today. The most recent addition, the glass tip for the golden lotus on one of the pagodas, was presented by the current King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadei.
Wat Chedi Luang represents a different style of architecture, which is purely the origin of Lanna. Built at the end of the 14th century to consolidate the remains of the king, Wat Chedi Luang had the honor of being the tallest structure in all of Chiang Mai for five centuries, until an earthquake in the 16th century reduced the height of ninety meters to now sixty. Its membership covers Mahamakut Buddhist University, monks. Campus. This temple is located in the Old Town district, near the Tapae Gate. From here, many other difficulties can be achieved in a few minutes walk, among them the famous Wat Phra Singh.
Wat chaimongkol It is a temple on the river bank, located on Chareon Pratha Street in the city center, north of the Night Bazaar. The temple is more than six centuries old and is quite remarkable for its shrines and a collection of relics; The style of its architecture shows influences from ancient Lanna, as well as Myanmar and Laos. One of the most popular temples in Chiang Mai for Loy Krathong (Lantern Festival) and the Buddhist tradition of releasing animals in the Mae Ping River, Wat Chaimongkol perfectly complements the city tour.
Wat suan dok identifies himself with a special center “Monk Chat” (technically, which conducts lectures and talks for English-speaking foreigners who are interested in Buddhism and / or conversion to Buddhism). There are also courses provided by the University of Chiang Mai. this feature, however, the temple is set in a large complex, in which there are many pagodas, one of which is said to contain one half of the relics that founded Wat Frathat Doi Suthep. Wat Suan Dock is located on Suthep Road to the west of Old Town, near the Chiang Mai Neurological Hospital.
