Chiang Mai Temples Walking Tour (Self Guided), Chiang Mai

Amid the multitude of impressive sights in Chiang Mai, religious temples really stand out. The city isn't just about one or two of them but has over 300 ‘wats’, which is more than elsewhere in Thailand. Some of these temples are as old as the city itself and were built by the kings not only to demonstrate their faith, but also to show off their wealth and power.

In the past, apart from being places of worship, they also served as schools and hospitals. Today, the holy structures of Chiang Mai are very much as active as ever, representing invaluable bridges between the past and present, enabling people to maintain links with the timeless traditions of their ancestors.

The majority of Chiang Mai's temples are of the ‘Lanna’ style, characterized by curved wooden roofs pointing up at the top. Among them, Wat Chedi Luang complex in the middle of the Old City is a definite must-see. Loosely translating from the old Lanna language to “very big”, the enormous Luang temple certainly lives up to its name. Its main chedi stands 80 meters tall, which is the highest point in the Old City.

A walking distance from Luang is another not-to-be-missed – Wat Phra Singh. Thanks to a thorough renovation in the 19th century, followed by numerous licks of paint ever since, it has been one of the most visually impressive temples in Chiang Mai. Its main building steals the show with the iconic slanted Lanna-style roofs and intricately decorated façade that shines brightly in the sunlight.

To explore these and other temples of historic and cultural importance in Chiang Mai, take this self-guided walking tour.