Chiang Mai: Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour

Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage comes alive on the "Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour." This 3-hour excursion invites visitors to explore the city’s most iconic temples, uncovering their historical significance. With knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the captivating stories behind Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chedi Luang. At just $19.70 per person, this tour offers an affordable way to experience Chiang Mai’s spiritual and architectural wonders. But there’s more to discover beyond these hallowed walls…

Good To Know

• A guided walking tour that explores the historic temples and city of Chiang Mai, including visits to Wat Chiang Man, Three Kings Monument, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.
• The tour is priced at $19.70 per person, lasts 3 hours, and is limited to 10 participants, conducted in English.
• Highlights of the tour include learning about the intricate Lanna-style architecture, ancient Buddha statues, and the historical significance of the sites.
• The tour begins at Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, and concludes at the impressive ruins and standing Buddha of Wat Chedi Luang.
• The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This guided walking tour, titled "Chiang Mai: Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour," offers visitors an immersive experience exploring Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.

Priced at $19.70 per person, the 3-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English.

Highlights include visits to Wat Chiang Man, Three Kings Monument, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.

The tour emphasizes Lanna architecture, sacred Buddha images, and authentic Buddhist culture.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible and sustainable way to experience Chiang Mai’s historic gems.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai dating back to 1296. Visitors explore this historic site for 30 minutes.

Next, they head to the Three Kings Monument, learning about Chiang Mai’s past rulers.

The tour then visits Wat Phra Singh, the finest example of classic Lanna architecture, for 40 minutes.

At Wat Phan Tao, guests admire the wooden ordination hall made entirely of teak wood, spending 15 minutes there.

Finally, they explore the impressive ruins of Wat Chedi Luang and its majestic standing Buddha, concluding the 3-hour tour at Watchediluang Varaviharn.

Exploring Wat Chiang Man

Visitors begin their Chiang Mai temple tour at Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the historic city. Constructed in 1296, this sacred site offers a glimpse into Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can:

• Admire the intricate Lanna-style architecture, characterized by ornate roof designs and delicate carvings.

• Marvel at the ancient Buddha statues, some dating back to the 15th century, which reflect the city’s deep Buddhist roots.

• Wander the peaceful grounds, feeling the weight of history and the tranquility of the present moment.

Exploring Wat Chiang Man sets the stage for a captivating journey through Chiang Mai’s renowned temples.

Admiring the Three Kings Monument

After exploring the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, visitors then make their way to the Three Kings Monument. This iconic statue depicts the three monarchs who ruled the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century. The three bronze figures stand tall, representing the unity and prosperity of the region’s historical leadership.

| Monarch | Reign | Significance |

| — | — | — |

| King Mengrai | 1259-1317 | Founder of Chiang Mai |

| King Ramkhamhaeng | 1279-1298 | Renowned for Sukhothai script |

| King Ngam Muang | 1271-1311 | Expanded Lanna kingdom’s influence |

The monument provides a glimpse into Chiang Mai’s regal past, setting the stage for the remainder of the walking tour.

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Discovering Wat Phra Singh

From the Three Kings Monument, the group proceeds to Wat Phra Singh, one of Chiang Mai’s most revered and finest examples of classic Lanna architecture.

The guide explains the temple’s historical significance and its exquisite design:

• The temple’s iconic three-tiered roof, intricate woodcarvings, and ornate façade exemplify the region’s distinctive architectural style.

• The main chapel houses a famous Buddha image, Phra Buddha Sihing, which is believed to have been brought from Sri Lanka centuries ago.

• Visitors are encouraged to explore the temple’s serene courtyards and admire the craftsmanship that has endured for over 600 years.

Visiting Wat Phan Tao

Next, the group arrives at Wat Phan Tao, a unique wooden temple that commands attention. The ornate ordination hall, constructed entirely of teak, showcases Lanna-style architecture at its finest. As the tour guide explains, visitors can admire the intricate carvings, sloping roofs, and overall elegance of this 15th-century structure.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | All-teak ordination hall |

| Architecture | Classic Lanna style |

| History | Dates back to 15th century |

| Highlights | Ornate carvings, sloping roofs |

| Duration | 15 minutes |

The group spends 15 minutes exploring this hidden gem before continuing on to the next stop on the tour.

Exploring Wat Chedi Luang

The group then makes its way to the imposing Wat Chedi Luang, one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic and historically significant temples.

This 14th-century temple once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred religious relic. Though the chedi is now in ruins, its sheer size and grandeur remain impressive.

Visitors can:

• Admire the massive stone chedi, measuring over 60 meters tall

• Observe the standing Buddha statue and learn about its history

• Explore the temple’s serene grounds and soak in the tranquil atmosphere

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the temple’s rich heritage to life.

Tour Experience and Sustainability

While the tour is guided by a knowledgeable local, it also emphasizes low-impact experiences to minimize the group’s environmental footprint.

The tour includes a bottled water and entrance tickets to two temples – Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, umbrella, and sunscreen, and have cash on hand. Certain attire, such as shorts, large bags, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts, aren’t allowed in the temples.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography Restrictions Enforced in the Temples?

Photography restrictions are generally enforced in the temples. Visitors should check with their guide or temple staff about any specific rules, as they may vary. Respectful photography is usually allowed, but flash photography and climbing on structures are typically prohibited.

Do Participants Need to Bring Their Own Water?

The tour includes a complimentary bottle of water for each participant, so they don’t need to bring their own. This is a convenient and sustainable provision to help keep guests hydrated during the 3-hour walking tour.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

The tour does not specifically accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies. Participants are advised to bring their own snacks and beverages as needed. The tour focuses on the cultural and historical aspects of the temples.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration, which is fixed at 3 hours. The tour operator focuses on providing a comprehensive experience within the scheduled timeframe. Extending the tour isn’t available, but private tours with custom itineraries may be an option to consider.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues. It involves extensive walking and visiting sites with uneven terrain. However, the tour operator notes it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, suggesting some accessibility limitations.

The Sum Up

The "Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour" in Chiang Mai offers an immersive cultural experience for just $19.70 per person. This 3-hour tour takes visitors through the city’s iconic temples, providing insights into their historical significance. With flexible cancellation policies and a small group size, it’s a convenient and sustainable way to explore Chiang Mai’s rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: