Wat Phra Singh & Chedi Luang: A Temple Walking Tour in Old Chiang Mai

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What to Expect

Embarking on the walk from Wat Phra Singh to Wat Chedi Luang offers a unique perspective on two of Chiang Mai's most revered religious sites. Both temples are located within the confines of the old city walls and share historical significance while possessing distinct characteristics.

Wat Phra Singh, meaning 'Temple of the Buddha Image', is arguably one of Old Chiang Mai's most beautiful and significant temples. 👉 Book a guided Old City temple tour on GetYourGuide It sits prominently on Sutthaewa Road (formerly Sino-Thai Road), easily accessible from the main street. Founded in 1430 by King Maha Thamratcha I, it houses an impressive Phra Buddha Chedi Luang image, crafted entirely of solid gold and dating back to around 1550 CE. This central image is flanked by two large bronze figures representing his disciples, Ananda and Upaka. The temple complex features a grand, tiered main chedi (stupa) built in the late Ayutthaya period, ornate galleries housing numerous Buddha images, including some seated ones under glass domes for preservation, beautiful traditional Thai houses adorning the walls, and a large, peaceful ordination hall.

Just beyond Wat Phra Singh's main entrance lies Wat Chedi Luang. Its name translates to 'Temple of the Big Stupa', referring to the massive central chedi visible from afar. This temple is famous for its connection to King Rama V who, it is said, sought a relic of the Buddha (asa-haen) here in 1906 and was supposedly shown an empty niche by the Abbot Phra Maha Thammaracharacarya. The legend states that if visitors toss incense into this specific chedi, their wishes will be granted (though it's also said the abbot would take half). Inside Wat Chedi Luang, you'll find a large central chedi built from brick and ceramic tiles, surrounded by smaller stupas, numerous alcoves containing Buddha images, notably the Phra Bang Phan Tao Sok (a revered Lanna relic), and another ordination hall. The atmosphere here is often quieter than at Wat Phra Singh.

Practical Information

Wat Phra Singh typically opens its doors to visitors around 8:30 AM daily until approximately 3 PM. While specific closing times might vary slightly on weekends or holidays, it's generally safe to assume these opening hours unless you inquire locally beforehand. The entrance fee is a fixed amount of about $2 USD per temple (prices are subject to change but this reflects current standards).

A strict dress code applies at all major temples in Chiang Mai for modesty and respect. Both Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang require shoulders and knees to be covered – long trousers and shirts or blouses with sleeves are appropriate. Visitors should remove their hats upon entering the temple grounds, if possible.

These sites can get crowded, especially during peak hours (late morning) on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the day gives you a better chance of visiting when queues are shorter at the ticket booths and inside the temples themselves. While guided tours exist, exploring these two connected temples by walking yourself allows for flexibility and is often more efficient than waiting for a tour group.

Getting There

Both Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang are situated within the easily navigable Old City area of Chiang Mai, only about half a mile apart along Suttha (formerly Sino-Thai) Road. Starting from the city centre, particularly around the main road near Sutthaewa Road or directly in front of the Warorot Gate at the base of the walls, you can begin your exploration.

The walk connecting them is straightforward and takes approximately 5 minutes if you proceed unhurriedly. It involves walking along a path alongside the temple grounds, passing through some small side streets within the old city wall area. Alternatively, reaching either temple from the centre via songthaew (three-wheeled motorbikes) or taxi takes only about 10-15 minutes and costs very little.

Nearby Attractions

After exploring these two temples, your senses will be engaged by nearby attractions. The vibrant Night Bazaar (Sutthawithi Market), located just a short walk down Sisowat Road from Wat Phra Singh, is the perfect place to experience local life, sample street food delicacies, browse souvenirs, and hear traditional music. Its proximity makes it an easy afternoon follow-up.

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Also nearby, approximately 15-20 minutes' walk along Tha Pae Road (or a short taxi ride), you'll find Wat Umong, another significant temple with historical importance often overlooked by tourists who focus on the main circuit.

Plan Your Chiang Mai Trip

To ensure your visit to these temples is seamless and part of a well-rounded itinerary in Chiang Mai, consider using Sawadee. This platform allows travelers like you to plan their entire trip including transport options (like songthaew fares) and accommodation choices, all while providing details on other attractions such as the Night Bazaar or Doi Suthep.

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