Exploring Chiang Mai Temples

Chiang Mai is located in Northern Thailand. A lot of backpackers seem to love Chiang Mai because of the relaxed and slow paced atmosphere. There aren't a ton of things to do but you won't be bored! I stayed in Chiang Mai for four days and had lots to do. You will find most of the temples are free unlike the ones in Bangkok, but you are free to donate if you choose.

​Wat Kuankama

There are an insane amount of Buddhist Temples in Chiang Mai. I think I photographed maybe 10. They all have the same idea but are all uniquely different. The first temple I came across was Wat Kuankama. It's very noticable because of the golden horse statues outside the temple.

When you go through the gates you are welcomed by this beautiful temple. The good thing about the temples here are that most of them are small.

Even the walls around the temple were beautiful.

---

​Wat Maukamthong

I walked by Wat Maukamthong not wanting to stop but I love Thai temples.

---

​Changpuak Gate

Changpuak Gate is the northern part of the old Chiang Mai city gates (currently a moat).

I loveeeee graffiti. I saw this random graffiti wall as I was walking to find a cold beverage.

The side street in Chiang Mai are so lively and inviting.

---

​Wat Chiangman

This is currently one of my top 3 favourite temples in Thailand. I love elephants and I loved the detail all of the buildings here had. Plus it wasn't overwhelming, it was very peaceful.

Elephant Pagoda

I thought this building in the pond was really neat, because these aren't really seen in Thailand. ​​

---

​Wat Lamchang

Lam Chang means shackled elephants. At the front of Wat Lamchang you are greeted by a large elephant statue. This temple is relatively small but still very beautiful. As you walk around, you will notice lots of sculptures and statues.

---

​3 Kings Monument

3 Kings Monument is located in the center of Chiang Mai. The monument was created to recognize the founders of Chiang Mai; King Mengrai, King Ramkamhaeng and King Ngam Muang.

---

Wat Chedi Luang​

Wat Chedi Luang is another of my top 3 favourite temples in Thailand. This one was huge and quite busy. The temple grounds used to be made up of three different temples which is why it's so large. This is one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai.

I was really suprised to find the one of the shrines had men only signs. I've never seen that before and the shrine was actually really beautiful, so I was kinda sad I couldn't go inside.

At the far end of the temples you will find Chedi Luang. It is an interesting looking stupa. You will see what is left of the elephant statues all around the building. ​​

Also, you will see pillars with Buddhas in them. The reclining Buddha is the most popular.

There are a lot more temples that weren't mentioned. I didn't want to go to every single one because I didn't have the time and it was hot. Although there are lots to chose from.