Chiang Mai is a city which does not lack temples. Nearly 300 of these operate in the city. One of the special ones is undoubtedly Wat Chang Man, which also holds the title of the oldest in the city.
This historic temple was built at the end of the 13th century, under the instruction of Mengray, who was the ruler of the ancient kingdom of Lana. It was established as part of the new city that was built at that time and was planned to be the capital of the kingdom - Chiang Mai. The king was involved in the construction process, he took an active part in planning and supervising the works.
This is actually the first temple built in the city, but newer parts have been added over the years. Thanks to this, you can see in the complex several types of architecture from different periods, side by side.
Already at the entrance to the temple two Buddhas are waiting for you which are considered very important. The first and largest among them is the standing Buddha statue. Every April, before the Songkran festival, it is customary to pray to him and ask him to send the much needed rain to the rice fields. The smaller statue is made of crystal and is believed to have special healing powers.
In the temple there is also the oldest surviving Buddha statue from the period of the kingdom of Lana.
The two main prayer halls in the temple are similar in their design and combine red and gold elements, with many statues and figures of Buddha. There is also a separate library building made of wood that houses important Buddhist scriptures as well as some impressive meditation halls.
The visit can also take several hours. You will get a glimpse not only of the history of Chiang Mai but also get to know Buddhism and its principles a little more closely. The temple also has green, spacious and shady gardens. It is worth walking through them and even stopping for a light rest in the shade.
The temple is open to visitors daily from 6 am to 6 pm. Entry is free.
