A dark stupa
Aged, unpainted brick.
Flying Pharmacist — CC BY 3.0 · Jakub Hałun — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Christophe95 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Christophe95 — CC BY-SA 4.0
A striking temple just outside the old city's northern moat, centred on a massive sixteenth-century stupa of dark brick, left unpainted and unclad, so its natural aged colour sets it apart from the gold and white stupas elsewhere in the city. It is believed to hold the ashes of several kings of the ruling Mangrai dynasty. In front of the stupa stands a teak prayer hall recently built in traditional Lanna style, its facade rich in fine wood carving and gold ornament, with statues and parasols around the grounds. The temple is especially beautiful in the evening, when the stupa is lit. Entry is free; it is open in the daytime and lit after dark. Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees covered, and shoes off before entering the halls. From February to April, smoke from farm burning often hangs over the north, cutting visibility and air quality. A short stop for photographers, near the northern Chang Phuak gate; a quarter to half an hour is enough.
Aged, unpainted brick.
Fine wood carving.
The best time for photos.
Manee Noparat Road, outside the old city's northern moat
Wat Chiang ManChiang Mai's oldest temple, built by King Mangrai in 1297 on the spot where he c10 minutes walk
Three Kings MonumentThe symbol of Chiang Mai's founding: three large bronze statues of three kings a10 minutes walk
Wat Phra SinghOne of Chiang Mai's most revered and architecturally beautiful temples, at the w11 minutes walk
Wat Phan TaoA small wooden gem right beside famous Wat Chedi Luang that many visitors miss. 13 minutes walk
Wat Chedi LuangThe ruins of a colossal stupa at the heart of Chiang Mai's old city, one of its 14 minutes walkBecause the stupa was left in its original brick without plaster or gold, keeping the natural dark colour of its age.