If you only have time to visit a couple of Chiang Mai’s 300 temples, Wat Chiang Man is a good place to start. Besides being one of the city’s oldest temples, this wat is also one of only two to have a lotus pond.
Many sightseeing tours of the old walled city, including those on foot, by bike, or Segway, make a stop at Wat Chiang Man. For a more in-depth look at Thailand’s Buddhist heritage, opt for a city temples tour, which typically include visits to Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chedi Luang, and Lai Kham Chapel.
Wat Chiang Man is a must-visit for spiritual travelers and first-time visitors.
Remember to dress respectfully with your shoulders and knees covered.
Give yourself at least two hours to explore the temple grounds.
Wat Chiang Man is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
Wat Chiang Man is in the northeastern section of the moated Old City of Chiang Mai, within easy walking distance of most attractions in the Old City. If you’re coming from farther away, hire a tuk-tuk or songtaew (pickup-truck taxi). Alternatively, visit as part of a guided city or temple tour.
Wat Chiang Man is open daily from dawn to dusk. Since it’s located within the Old City walls, plan to visit while you’re in the area exploring nearby attractions such as Wat Phra Singh or the Three Kings Monument.
Wat Chiang Man is an excellent example of the Lanna-style architecture popular in Northern Thailand. The complex’s most notable feature is the Lanna chedi (Buddhist stupa) supported by buttresses shaped like elephants. The main sanctuary also houses the oldest-known image of the Buddha from the Lanna kingdom, made in 1465.
