With so many beautiful temples in Chiang Mai you might be wondering which ones are worth a visit. In which case these top 10 Chiang Mai temples will lead you to the best ones in the city!
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most popular temples in Chiang Mai as it is both historic and eye-catching. The centre of the temple grounds features a massive Chedi that is partly in ruins and incredible to look at. Surrounding the Chedi are small temples and shrines, as well as a museum, a school, and an ordination hall. Without a doubt it’s one of the best temple grounds to explore and learn.
Price: 40 baht
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Wat Chiang Man is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and it dates back to 1296. Not only is it historic but it also houses some beautiful Buddha images as well. Here you can also see the 7 Buddha images for each day of the week and a beautiful elephant decorated Chedi. Wat Chiang Man should definitely be on your list of temples to visit in Chiang Mai.
Price: Free
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Upon entering Wat Jet Lin you might be a bit unimpressed at first. However, what lies within is where you’ll see its charm. Besides the golden Buddha inside, you will also find an interesting Chedi behind the temple. Along with this flowery pathway above a catfish-filled pond. There’s actually food here to feed them and they are quick to eat! Wat Jet Lin is a nice place to wander as it is much quieter than the more popular temples.
Price: Free (small donation for fish food if you want to feed them)
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Wat Lok Moli is an intriguing temple because no one is quite sure when it was built. Though the Lanna style architecture indicates that it has a long history, and it was first mentioned in the late 14th century. This temple is definitely one of the more picturesque temples as it is decorated beautifully with gardens and statues. Including guardian warriors, elephants, serpents, and shrines. but what you might truly be impressed with is the towering Chedi that is just behind this temple.
Price: Free
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Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is its full name but of course Wat Phra Singh is easier to say. This temple is one of the more eye-catching upon entering with its high ceilings and bright red and gold interior. But the beauty does not end there! The (sort of hidden) grounds features huge golden stupas, well-kept nature paths, and smaller Buddha images all around. Thus making it one of the more fun temples to explore.
Price: Free
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Wat Suan Dok is a little further outside the historic centre but definitely worth a visit. The temple itself is huge and contains a variety of Buddha images within, and many Chedi’s outside. In fact, pictured is the royal family mausoleum. It’s quite the sight on a beautiful day!
Price: Free
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Wat Muen Ngoen Kong is a smaller temple but a surprising hidden gem within the historic centre of Chiang Mai. There is a lot more colour here compared to other temples, and quite a few wonderful points of interest. Including a diverse selection of Buddha images and sculptures. As well as some golden Chedi’s to gaze at. Even though it’s small, Wat Muen Ngoen Kong is certainly memorable.
Price: Free
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Wat Loi Kroh is situated just outside the centre, and despite being on a fairly busy street, it doesn’t seem to get a lot of visitors. That being said, don’t walk by without checking it out! There are a lot of beautiful details around the temple – and very cute baby Buddha’s along the side. Also, the dazzling golden Buddha’s inside are a must-see!
Price: Free
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Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham is located at the bottom of Doi Suthep, so you’ll need to take a taxi or tour (see below for a recommended tour) to get there. The temple serves as a meditation centre within its tunnels. On the grounds you’ll find an ancient Chedi, a small lake, and what looks like a Buddha graveyard with many new and ruined Buddha images scattered along the ground. For all these reasons, Wat Umong is a fascinating temple to visit!
Price: 20 baht
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Last on this list of top 10 Chiang Mai temples is Wat Rajamontean. This temple is not only beautiful to look it, but it also has a giant Buddha sitting outside! Unless you’re there to worship, this temple visit will be a quick one. Apart from what’s shown above, there is of course, the Buddha images inside, and a small balcony to walk around. Even so, it is a great stop on your Chiang Mai temples tour!
Price: Free
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Thanks for reading and be sure to check out the Chiang Mai City Guide for convenient trip planning and travel inspiration.
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