Homboon, Full of Joy with DPU Travel Guide

Driven by our curiosity and desire to experiment, we set out to explore the use of the orange bicycles available in Chiang Mai.

Now that I'm here, let me give it a try.

Group photos are a must-have on any trip. 1...2...3...Say Cheese...

The area in front of the Three Kings Monument has a large number of bicycles available for rent. Feel free to choose one that suits your needs.

Starting from Wat Pan Tao as the first temple, cycle straight along the road from the Three Kings Monument.

For friends who like to watch videos, follow here.

The Royal Ho Kham Hall

The most beautiful and complete viharn in Chiang Mai province. The building is a teakwood house in the Chiang Saen style. It was originally the Ho Kham or royal residence of King Muang Kaeo, the 5th ruler of Chiang Mai. During the reign of King Inthawichayanon (the 7th ruler), he ordered the demolition of the Ho Kham and donated it to Wat Phantao as a viharn.

Venue for the Loy Krathong and Candle Floating Ceremony

The main stupa of the temple, located behind the Ho Kham Luang, is a golden bell-shaped stupa on an octagonal base, surrounded by a beautiful array of smaller stupas.

Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan

An ancient royal temple of Chiang Mai, located in the heart of the city on Phra Pok Klao Road. It covers a spacious area. Upon entering, one will find the Lanna-style main chapel in the center. It was built in 1928 by Chao Khun Ubali Khunparamat and Chao Kaeo Nawarat.

The entrance archway to the temple is for foreign tourists only, who are required to pay an entrance fee. Thai citizens are welcome to enter free of charge.

Tourists flock to the temple in droves. If you have the opportunity to visit this temple, according to the belief that once you have visited, you will have greatness, honor, and widespread fame. This is due to the fact that the Phra That Luang Chedi is the tallest in the north, reaching 80 meters, and is located in the heart of Chiang Mai. You must come!

The Grand Chedi Luang: A Timeless Monument in the Heart of Chiang Mai

Wat Chedi Luang, a towering landmark in the heart of Chiang Mai, effortlessly draws visitors with its historical significance and architectural grandeur. Situated conveniently near backpacker hostels and restaurants, this ancient temple offers a glimpse into Thailand's rich past.

Dating back to the 15th century, Chedi Luang once held the title of the tallest structure in Thailand. Its massive brick and stucco construction evokes a sense of awe and transports visitors to a bygone era. The temple's exterior is adorned with intricate elephant statues, a testament to the craftsmanship of its builders.

While an earthquake in the 16th century left its mark on the structure, Chedi Luang remains a captivating sight. A leisurely stroll around the temple grounds allows visitors to appreciate its impressive scale and immerse themselves in its historical aura. The sheer size of the monument serves as a humbling reminder of the passage of time and the enduring legacy of Thailand's cultural heritage.

The principal Buddha image, Phra Attharasa, is enshrined in the posture of granting forgiveness, following the early Chiang Mai artistic style influenced by Pala art (India). In front of the entrance to the viharn, there is a naga staircase with its tails intertwined, forming an archway that enhances the beauty of the viharn. This pair of nagas is an ancient work of art that has been there since the beginning and is considered the most beautiful naga in the north.

The Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan temple houses the largest chedi in Chiang Mai province. It was built during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, the 7th king of the Mangrai dynasty. Later, King Tilokaraj ordered the chedi to be expanded in height and width, and the Emerald Buddha was enshrined there for 80 years. In 1545, during the reign of Queen Chiraprapha, an earthquake caused the top of the chedi to collapse.

Coincidentally, during our visit, the temple was holding a free food stall for the summer novice ordination ceremony.

The results are shown in the image.

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan

The temple was once home to the Phra Singh Buddha, so the Lanna people called it Wat Phra Singh, which we are familiar with. This signifies the Buddhist belief (Lankavamsa) because wherever the Phra Singh or Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha is found, it indicates that Theravada Buddhism of the Lankavamsa lineage has spread there. Therefore, it should be considered that the Buddha statue called by this name is a symbol of Theravada Buddhism.

The Phra Singh Buddha, also known as Phra Buddha Sihing, is an ancient Buddha statue in the Chiang Saen style. It is depicted in the Mara-Vijaya attitude, with legs crossed in the vajra posture. Created in 700 CE, it is renowned as the "Chiang Saen Singh One" and is revered as a sacred Buddha statue of Chiang Mai and the Lanna region.

A notable highlight of Wat Phra Singh is the "Golden Lacquer Pavilion", which houses the Phra Buddha Sihing image. The "Golden Lacquer" refers to the intricate red and gold patterns adorning the rear wall and roof structure. These colors symbolize sacredness and majesty, reflecting the exquisite local artistic style.

Mural painting of Suwanna Hong

The mural painting of "Sangkhathong" has been around for many rounds, but I just got to see it. Don't forget to go see it, friends.

Let's see if we can find "wild rambutan".

Inthakin Temple, the Navel of the City (Wat Inthakin)

We started our journey early in the morning and arrived at this temple just in time for sightseeing. We have already planned on Google Maps to continue to the "kuay jap" shop behind the Three Kings Monument. For now, let's continue exploring the temple.

Wat Inthakhin Sadue Mueang

This temple, originally a deserted one, served as the first pillar of Chiang Mai city. It once housed the Inthakhin pillar (city pillar) of Chiang Mai.

The temple is located in the heart of Chiang Mai, hence its nickname "Sadue Mueang" (Navel of the City). The temple is officially named Wat Inthakhin Sadue Mueang. It houses the revered Luang Pho Yai, a Lanna-style Buddha statue with a serene face resembling the full moon, radiating compassion and bringing peace to those who pay their respects.

Wat Inthakin

The Lak Mueang (city pillar) of Chiang Mai is known as Inthakhin. According to legend, King Mangrai erected the pillar on April 12, 1296 CE, marking the city's founding. The pillar was initially located at Wat Sadue Mueang ("Temple of the Navel of the City"), also known as Wat Inthakhin, on Inthawarorot road. In 1800 CE, Lanna king Kawila relocated the pillar to its current location within a shrine on the grounds of Wat Chedi Luang.

Three Kings Thick Rice Noodle Soup Shop

As soon as noon struck, my stomach started to rumble. Following the clock, I quickly cycled from Wat Inthakhan, the heart of the city, to a nearby location. Just open Google Maps and follow me!

Look how delicious it is! My stomach is growling!

Crispy pork belly, I completely forgot I was on a diet. If you visit, I can only say one thing: "Eat it" and then go on a diet again...

Replenished and energized, we continued our journey, for our devout spirits yearned for more...

But I'm going to take a car now, I can't ride a bike, my stomach is full!!!! Wat Chiang Man

The Enduring Legacy of Wat Chiang Man: A Haven of Stability and Prosperity

Conclude your Chiang Mai journey with a visit to the revered Wat Chiang Man, a temple whose very name evokes stability and enduring prosperity. Local beliefs hold that a pilgrimage to this sacred site bestows blessings of unwavering stability and long-lasting fortune, mirroring the temple's auspicious name.

A Royal Legacy: Wat Chiang Man's Profound Significance

Wat Chiang Man stands as a testament to the profound legacy of King Mengrai, the revered founder of Chiang Mai. As the first royal temple of the Mengrai dynasty, it held immense significance as a center for both religious and academic pursuits. Its hallowed halls resonated with the teachings of Buddhism, shaping the spiritual landscape of the era.

A Journey Through Time: 700 Years of History

Established alongside the city of Chiang Mai over 700 years ago, Wat Chiang Man stands as a living testament to the city's rich history. Its ancient walls whisper tales of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual tapestry of the Lanna Kingdom.

A Haven of Tranquility: Seeking Solace and Stability

Step into the serene embrace of Wat Chiang Man and find solace amidst the bustling city. The temple's tranquil atmosphere invites reflection and introspection, offering a sanctuary for those seeking inner peace and stability. Embrace the blessings of this sacred site and allow its aura of prosperity to permeate your being.

Elephant-guarded pagoda at Wat Chiang Man

Wat Chiang Man: A Historical Gem in Chiang Mai

Wat Chiang Man, the city's oldest temple, boasts a rich history intertwined with Chiang Mai's foundation. Two sacred Buddha statues, crafted from crystal and marble, grace the temple grounds.

The Chedi Chang Lom, or "Elephant Chedi," stands as the temple complex's oldest structure. Its square base supports a second level adorned with the front halves of 15 life-sized elephants, seemingly carrying the upper levels on their backs. The gilded upper portion houses a bell-shaped relic chamber beneath the pinnacle.

Chiang Mai: A Journey of Joy and Fulfillment

This trip to Chiang Mai was a truly enriching experience, filled with spiritual contentment and culinary delights. The ancient city walls alone offer access to numerous temples, each with its own unique charm and history. This was merely a glimpse into the wonders that Chiang Mai holds, and we hope that our friends can share in this joy and spiritual fulfillment. Until next time, farewell!