Wat Chedi Luang, Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Wat Chedi Luang is a Buddhist temple in the historic center of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. The central tower measures 60 meters wide at the base and displays elephant figures at each corner, characteristic of the Lanna building tradition.
King Saen Muang Ma began construction in 1391, and later rulers expanded the structure to reach a height of 82 meters. An earthquake in the 16th century damaged the upper half of the tower, which was partially restored in the 1990s.
A section of the compound functions as a monastic training center where Buddhist novices study and practice. The assembly hall is adorned with murals from northern Thailand depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha.
Visitors should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to respect Buddhist customs. The compound is accessible during daylight between 6 AM and 6 PM.
In the 15th century, the temple housed the Emerald Buddha before the statue moved to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. During restoration in the 1990s, workers chose to leave the upper half of the tower in its damaged state.
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