Wat Chedi Luang
Northern Thailand Region
Wat Chedi Luang is a significant Buddhist temple located in the historic center of Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. Originally constructed in the 14th century, it was once the tallest structure in the Lan Na Kingdom, standing approximately 82 meters high with a base diameter of 54 meters. The temple complex originally comprised three temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Ho Tham, and Wat Sukmin. The temple is renowned for housing the Emerald Buddha in its eastern niche during the 15th century, a sacred statue later relocated to Luang Prabang. The upper part of the chedi collapsed in 1545 due to an earthquake, and it was partially reconstructed in the 1990s with support from UNESCO and the Japanese government. The reconstruction, however, sparked debate due to stylistic differences between the original Lanna architecture and the newer Central Thai elements. The temple grounds also include the city pillar of Chiang Mai, Sao Inthakin, relocated there in 1800, and several notable Buddha statues such as Phra Chao Attarot and a reclining Buddha. Wat Chedi Luang remains a vibrant spiritual site, hosting daily monk chats where visitors can engage with monks about Buddhism and local culture, enriching the visitor experience beyond its historic and architectural significance.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Wat Chedi Luang is during the annual Sao Inthakin Festival in May, which honors the city pillar and lasts 6–8 days, offering a unique cultural experience. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the daily monk chats to gain deeper insight into Buddhist practices and Thai culture. It's advisable to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the temple grounds peacefully. While tickets are generally affordable, purchasing any necessary passes in advance can save time. Respectful attire is recommended, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship.
Faits intéressants
- •Wat Chedi Luang was once the tallest building in the Lan Na Kingdom at 82 meters high.
- •The Emerald Buddha was housed in the temple's eastern niche before being moved to Luang Prabang in 1551.
- •The temple hosts the city pillar of Chiang Mai, Sao Inthakin, which was relocated there in 1800.
- •The temple grounds feature a late 14th-century Buddha statue named Phra Chao Attarot, measuring eighteen cubits tall.
- •A replica of the Emerald Buddha made from black jade was placed in the reconstructed niche in 1995 for the chedi's 600th anniversary.
Histoire
Construction of Wat Chedi Luang began in the 14th century, initiated by Saenmueangma to enshrine his father's ashes.
The building process spanned several decades, completed during King Tilokaraj's reign in the mid-15th century.
In 1468, the Emerald Buddha was installed in the temple's eastern niche, marking its religious prominence.
However, in 1545, an earthquake caused the collapse of the upper 30 meters of the chedi.
Subsequently, in 1551, the Emerald Buddha was relocated to Luang Prabang.
The temple underwent partial reconstruction in the early 1990s, funded by UNESCO and Japan, aiming to restore its former grandeur, though some architectural controversies remain due to style differences.
Guide du lieu
The Main Chedi (Stupa)14th-15th century, reconstructed 1990s
The massive central stupa was originally 82 meters tall and served as the temple's focal point. Though partially collapsed due to an earthquake in 1545, it was partially reconstructed in the 1990s. The stupa's eastern niche once housed the Emerald Buddha and now contains a black jade replica.
City Pillar Shrine (Sao Inthakin)Relocated in 1800
This shrine houses Chiang Mai's city pillar, which was moved to the temple grounds in 1800 by Kawila. It is surrounded by three resin trees believed to protect the city. A major festival in May celebrates this pillar with ceremonies lasting up to eight days.
Phra Chao Attarot Buddha StatueLate 14th century
Located near the temple entrance, this Buddha statue dates back to the late 14th century and is notable for its height of eighteen cubits.
Reclining Buddha Pavilion
Opposite the main chedi, this pavilion houses a reclining Buddha statue, symbolizing the Buddha's entry into Nirvana.
Contact
Téléphone: 097 195 4695