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Wat Chedi Luang

Historic Temple in Chiang Mai
Wat Chedi Luang: Historic Temple in Chiang Mai

Brief history of Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara is a royal monastery located in Chiang Mai province. It was built during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma in the 7th century of the Mangrai dynasty. Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, it was originally considered the administrative center of the Lanna Kingdom. The Chedi Luang stupa is the tallest in the northern region, standing at approximately 80 meters tall, with a square-shaped base measuring about 60 meters on each side. Constructed in the early 20th century, it is regarded as the most significant chedi in Chiang Mai.

When was Wat Chedi Luang built?

Wat Chedi Luang dates back to the 14th century. King Saen Muang Ma (1385-1401) started the construction of the chedi in 1391 to bury the ashes of his father.

What happen to it?

A major earthquake occurred in the year 1545, causing the upper part of the Chedi Luang stupa to collapse. This resulted in the current state of the stupa, as seen before the restoration efforts by the Fine Arts Department.

wat chedi luang chiang mai
wat chedi luang temple
ceremony at wat chedi luang

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What to do in Wat Chedi Luang

Seek a blessing with three sacred objects in Wat Chedi Luang


Here are three sacred objects at Wat Chedi Luang that visitors should know about and not miss when seeking blessings:

The Inthakhin Pillar Shrine, or the City Pillar, for enhancing wealth and stability in life.
The Vessavana Throne, for luck, prosperity, and warding off dangers and evil.
Paying respects to the Indra’s Elephant-Throne, for overcoming obstacles and finding happiness and abundance.
All three sacred objects are located in front of the main hall at the entrance of Wat Chedi Luang. Many people come to pray here regularly, especially during the annual flower offering ceremony. If you have the opportunity to visit Chiang Mai, make sure to seek blessings from these three sacred objects.

Wat Chedi Luang dates back to the 14th century. King Saen Muang Ma (1385-1401) started the construction of the chedi in 1391 to bury the ashes of his father.

Making a merit in wat Chedi Luang

Making merit at Wat Chedi Luang is a deeply enriching experience, offering spiritual blessings and a chance to connect with Thai culture. The best time to make merit at the temple is during important Buddhist festivals or auspicious days, such as Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, or Wan Phra (Buddhist holy days). These occasions often see increased participation and special ceremonies, creating a more vibrant and meaningful atmosphere for your merit-making activities.

In addition to special occasions and festivals, many Thai people also make merit daily in the morning at Wat Chedi Luang. This daily merit-making often involves offerings of dried food, non-perishable items, or donations of money. These offerings symbolize generosity and support for the temple and its activities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wat Chedi Luang

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