Wat Chiang Man

Wat Chiang Man is the oldest Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, located inside the walled Old City in Si Phum Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District. Founded in 1296 by King Mangrai, founder of Chiang Mai, it is notable for its historic elephant-supported chedi, well-preserved Lanna architecture, and housing two highly revered Buddha images, the crystal Phra Sae Tang Khamani and marble Phra Sila. The temple remains an active religious site and important historical landmark.

Visitors can expect a compact, active temple compound inside Chiang Mai Old City with two main viharns, an ancient elephant-supported chedi, manicured grounds, and historic Lanna architecture. Areas open to visitors include the main prayer halls housing revered Buddha images, the chedi courtyard, and surrounding gardens. The atmosphere is quiet and religious, with opportunities for sightseeing, photography of exterior structures, and observing local worship practices.

Wat Chiang Man was founded in 1296 by King Mangrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, and is considered the first temple built in the city. King Mangrai is said to have lived at the site while supervising construction of the new capital. The temple houses a stone stele dated to 1581 that records the city's founding history. Its Chedi Chang Lom, with elephant buttresses, reflects early Lanna architecture influenced by older Hariphunchai and Sukhothai styles.

Wat Chiang Man is an active Theravada Buddhist temple and holds high religious importance for housing two highly revered Buddha images: Phra Sae Tang Khamani, a small crystal Buddha believed to have protective powers, and Phra Sila, a marble standing Buddha. It exemplifies Lanna cultural and architectural heritage and remains a center for religious ceremonies and community worship in Chiang Mai Old City.