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 Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. It was constructed in 1296 by King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Mai. The temple features typical Northern Thai temple architecture and contains several old artifacts. Wat Chiang Man houses two very important and venerated Buddha figures - Phra Sila (a marble bas-relief Buddha supposed to have come from Sri Lanka 2,000 years ago) and Phra Satang Man (a crystal Buddha from Lopburi, thought to be about 1,800 years old).
During King Tilokkarat’s period (1441-1487) the stupa fell down and was reconstructed. After a long period of deterioration, the temple was restored by King Kawila (1782-1813). Despite the fact that Wat Chiang Man has been renovated and reconstructed several times it still maintains its original charm and appearance.  The Sacred Elephant Encircled Stupa
In 1295 King Mengrai, King Ngam Muang (from Payao) and King Ramkhamhaeng (from Sukhothai) built a royal residence and sleeping quarters at the site of this chedi (stupa), and began construction of Wat Chiang Man. When the temple was fully completed, they constructed this chedi where the royal residence and sleeping quarters had been. A sacred hair relic of the Buddha is enshrined inside the chedi. The base of the chedi is decorated with 15 surrounding elephant statues. How to get there
Wat Chiang Man is located on Ratchaphakhinai Road, within the walls of the old city, near the Chang Puak gate. |
