Description of the attraction
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the central and most impressive temples in Chiang Mai. It was built in 1391 during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, the 8th representative of the Mengrai dynasty. The temple was originally intended to house the ashes of his father, King Ku Na.
Subsequently, inside the chedi (stupa), which is the main structure on the territory of the temple, other relics were added, such as the famous Emerald Buddha. The majestic multi-headed nagas and elephants, set at the base of the chedi, remained to guard its peace. Over time, it was expanded and by 1475 reached its final shape: 44 meters - the width of the base and 60 meters - the height. Until now, chedi Luang remains the largest in Chiang Mai.
Later, the stupa suffered a sad account - in 1545, lightning hit it, severely damaging the structure. For another 6 years after the incident, the Emerald Buddha remained in the chedi, but was then transported to Luang Prabang in Laos.
The central statue of Buddha in the main building of the temple, the viharna, is of great historical importance. The statue has its own name, Pra Chao Attarot, and dates from the late 14th century, like the famous chedi.
On the territory of Wat Chedi Luang there is a huge and very old tree of the Dipterocarp breed. It is considered one of the shrines of Chiang Mai. Legend has it that if the tree falls, an imminent catastrophe will overtake everyone.
Another protector of Chiang Mai is in the temple. Lak Muang, or “Spirit of the City”, was transferred to a small building next to the great tree from its original location - the Wat Sadoe Muang temple in 1800.
On the territory of Vata Chedi Luang, there is a Club of Communication with monks, anyone can come here and talk about both religion and ask personal questions about life.
