Wat Chiang Man
13th-century temple with a gold chedi offering ancient Buddha & elephant statues on scenic grounds.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Chiang Man, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Wat Chiang Man (วัดเชียงมั่น) is Chiang Mai’s oldest temple and a must-see for history lovers. It was founded in 1296 by King Mangrai, the city’s founder. Highlights include the famous Crystal Buddha (Phra Sae Tang Khamani) and the Marble Buddha (Phra Sila), plus the elephant-supported chedi, which is one of the most photographed spots in the Old City. A beautiful, meaningful temple with real Lanna heritage—best visited respectfully and ideally earlier in the day for a calmer atmosphere.
One of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever visited. It made the day absolutely wonderful. It was very quiet, with very few visitors. The area is huge, with lots of benches to relax on. It would be easy to spend hours here without even noticing the time pass. The inside of the temple is breathtaking, especially the wall paintings. I only wish there were information in English to better understand the meaning behind the stories depicted on the walls.
Beautiful temple to catch around sunset. The main hall has beautiful gold on red images and the smaller hall has striking paintings. Despite the churn of visitors, the temple grounds are peaceful with a few places to sit. Behind the main hall is a beautiful stupa with a foundation of carved elephants. Well worth the visit.
Location Info
171 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, ThailandTips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
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Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
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Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Monumental Buddhist temple right on the river, with an iconic, ornately tiled central prang (spire).
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)