Wat Chedi Luang is an important temple in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. It is actually three temples: Wat Ho Tham, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Sukmin.

King Saen Muang Ma planned to bury his father’s ashes on this site, so he started construction of the temple in the 14th century. He did not see the temple complex finished, but his widow continued the work. It was not until the middle of the 15th century before it was finished, however.

Wat Chedi Luang means “temple of the big stupa,” referring to the central structure in the complex. When it was finished in the mid 15th century, it was the largest structure in the Lanna kingdom at 82 meters high. Unfortunately an earthquake would take 30 meters off that figure in the 16th century.

Check back tomorrow for more pictures and details about the Wat Chedi Luang and the surrounding temples.

Title quote: Buddhist saying posted at the temple