Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan, Chiang Mai

I am a little sad about this majestic temple ruin in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I have been a regular long stay visitor in Chiang Mai for many years and one place I liked to visit regularly was Wat Chedi Luang. I would ride my bicycle there early in the morning just to see the shifting morning light on the ruined Chedi itself and also on the orange robes of the monks as they made their morning rounds. There would be no tourists, just me an my bicycle and my camera, sitting on a bench, in the shade of a very old tree. Fast forward to today and someone has figured out that the large numbers of tourists now visiting are all willing to pay an entrance fee. So there are now security gates and uniformed enforcers running around making sure no-one gets in without paying. The peace and tranquility that once enveloped this temple has been trampled on in exchange for a very poorly planned and laid out method of making an income of what once was a very beautiful place to spend a few moments in the shade contemplating the majesty of man's many great attempts to put meaning to this life. Suggestion for enjoying Wat Chedi Luang as it is now: I am not really sure, maybe arrive very early, the entrance fee is not very high, so that is not what I am complaining about. It is all the commotion that goes on because of the increase in tourism and the enforcement of the entrance fee structure that is annoying to me, Maybe wear ear plugs and dark glasses while dealing with security and the arrival of tour groups.

Fabulous legendary Buddhist temple of Chiangmai dated since 580 years ago. A finest collection of old statutes of Buddha's image in the big chapel. Some are more than 700 years of age.

Some of the most impressive structures in the heart of Chiang Mai's Old City. Try to come here before 7am as you will essentially have the entire places to yourself. Taking your time to stroll through the smaller temples surrounding the Chedi.

This is a truly magnificent peice of Chiang Mai culture and history. Definitely don't leave the city without visiting these ruins! It's only 40baht to get in and definitely worth the price! Beware that you must follow the dress code which is similar to many other residents Buddhist temples throughout Asia. This temple has many smaller temples and shrines all around it so I'd recommend wearing shoes that are easy to put on and take off.

Beautiful place for 40 baht each. The ruined Chedi is majestic and has a tinge of Burmese influence (and I’m assuming there’s a historical connection as this part of Thailand is very close to Myanmar). If you’ve been to Bagan then this may not be as impressive as it sounds. The main Sanctuary has a huge Buddha statue and is decorated with intricate designs. There’s also a daily monk chat corner that you can participate. You can spend an hour or an hour and a half to take photos, sit down at the bench to relax and enjoy the view.