Joanna James
The city of Chiang Mai is situated in the mountainous areas of northern Thailand. In Chiang Mai, you will encounter an array of captivating temples that are sure to interest the discerning sightseer, including those below.
This well-known temple has the distinction of being Chiang Mai's most renowned, most frequented and most venerated shrine. As you might expect, this temple attracts a steady stream of devotees as well as sightseers. You will find that the journey to reach this temple, along a twisting mountain roadway is an interesting experience in its own right, irrespective of whether you are travelling by hired car, scooter or in a 'songthaew' with local Thais. To complete the journey you must undertake a walk of 309 steps in order to arrive at the gleaming chedi which overlooks the surrounding buildings and the living quarters of the monks.
Largely due to a comprehensive renovation carried out in the 19th century, and regular painting in subsequent years, Wat Phra Singh may be considered to be amongst the most eye-catching of Chiang Mai's temples. The highlight at this place of worship is the principal building, which features distinctive Lanna style slanted roofs as well as an ornately adorned facade which gleams in the rays of the sun. You will also find a host of other pagodas and stupas within the temple compound that may be visited free of charge. This temple is typically packed with devotees at the time of the Thai Songkran festival.
Your tour of Chiang Mai's temples would not be complete without visiting Wat Chedi Luang. This noteworthy temple is accessibly situated within Chiang Mai's Old City and can easily be visited by sightseers. The principal chedi of this temple stands 80 m high and has the distinction of being the tallest structure in the Old City. History lovers may note that this temple was initially founded in the 14th century; however, it has experienced numerous additions and renovations in subsequent times. At one time Wat Chedi Luang housed the greatly revered Emerald Buddha statue, which is presently kept within the Grand Palace compound in Bangkok.
Wat Suan Dok may be counted amongst the less frequented temples of Chiang Mai, yet presents an imposing sight for the visitor. At this temple, you will see a gleaming gilded stupa surrounded by a number of shimmering chedis, shining white in colour. Wat Suan Dok was constructed by order of a local monarch in the 14th century; the original purpose of the temple was to provide a retreat for an esteemed monk. You will also have the opportunity to attend meditation classes and converse with monks at this temple. When it comes to hotels in Chiang Mai an accommodation choice to consider from which this temple would be within convenient reach would be Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.
The mysterious Wat Umong was initially constructed as long as 700 years ago and presents an intriguing sight for the visitor with its age-old features and more recent additions. The ancient inner stupa still presents an impressive sight, whilst the tidy lawns and meticulously maintained garden add to the allure of the temple. The principal stupa is a popular attraction for photographers due to its dilapidated yet imposing appearance. At this temple, you will also find a number of tunnels created in the distant past that will capture the interest of the sightseer. Visitors will also have the opportunity to feed the turtles and fish at the temple's pond.
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