Also known as: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan
“Luang” means “large” in northern dialect, and as the name suggests, Wat Chedi Luang temple is home to Chiang Mai’s largest Buddhist chedi built featuring 98 meters tall and 54 meters in diameter. The construction of the original chedi was completed in 1481 during the reign of King Mengrai. But the current Chedi Luang is an restoration according to the deconstruction of the chedi in 1545 due to an earthquake. The ordination hall located in the front is also an example of beautiful Lanna architecture with its serpents are probably one of the most remembered elements. The entrance to the temple also has the northern region’s most impressive Naga staircase and the wooden “Sao Inthakil” or city pillar, which was erected when King Mengrai first established the city in 1296, remains in the temple’s small pavillion to this day. There’s an annual celebration on the 12th night of the 8th lunar month (usually around May-June) which is known as ‘khao Inthakil’ and is a celebration of the erecting of the city pillar. Opening hours: Daily 8.00 am-5.00 pm
Visitor Information
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Entry Fee: Free (Thai nationals: Free)
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Contact: 0 5381 43089
Getting There
Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is located at 103 Phra Pokklao Road. View on Google Maps.
Tips for Visitors
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Remove your shoes before entering any building.
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Keep your voice low and your head below any Buddha images when seated.
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Avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images or monks.
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Visit early morning to see monks collecting alms.
Within Walking Distance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Wat Chedi Luang?
Entry is free for both Thai nationals and foreign visitors.
What are the opening hours?
Wat Chedi Luang is open daily from 08:00 to 22:00.
Where is Wat Chedi Luang and how do I get there?
The temple is at 103 Phra Pokklao Road in the Phra Sing subdistrict of central Chiang Mai, within the old city moat area and walkable from most inner-city accommodation.
What is the significance of the chedi and why is it incomplete?
The original chedi, completed in 1481, stood 98 metres tall and 54 metres in diameter. An earthquake in 1545 caused a partial collapse, and what stands today is a restoration measuring around 42 metres — the largest Buddhist chedi in Chiang Mai.
What else is there to see inside the temple grounds?
Beyond the chedi itself, the grounds include an ordination hall in classic Lanna style with serpent carvings, a Naga staircase at the entrance, and a small pavilion housing the Sao Inthakil — the wooden city pillar erected when King Mengrai founded Chiang Mai in 1296.
What should I wear and are there any rules to follow?
Remove shoes before entering any building, keep your voice low, and avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images or monks. Visiting early morning gives you the chance to see monks collecting alms.
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