Wat Chiang Man located on Ratchapakhinai Road, this temple is the oldest and the first of its kind in Chiang Mai. After the establishment of the city in 1296, King Mangrai ordered the construction of the stupa at Ban Chiang Man. This particular location was chosen because it had served as a temporary royal pavilion for the King as he waited for the completion of the city construction. He named the pavilion “Wiang Lek” meaning ‘city of steel’. Later, as a sign of his dedication to the faith of Buddhism, King Mangrai made an offering of this historic site and proclaimed it as the first royal temple. Thus, the auspicious name “Wat Chiang Man” meaning ‘Temple of the City of Strength’ was given.
Interesting Facts:
Chedi Chang Lom (Stupa Surrounded by Elephants)The highlight of this Lanna style stupa is its bell shape surrounded by 16 elephants standing guard around the square base. The elephants signify strength and support for the strong faith of Buddhism.
Wiharn Chaturamuk (Four – Corner Balcony Wiharn)The worshiping shrine holds the Phra Se Taang Kamanee or Phra Kaew Khao (Crystal Buddha) dated back more than 1,800 years old. The Buddha image has great significant religious value to the people of Chiang Mai. It is carved from crystal clear rock depicting the Lord Buddha in a meditation position. The temple also holds Phra Sila dated as far back as more than 2,500 years old. It is a stone Buddha image carved in the Northern Indian Pala style depicting the Lord Buddha taming the Nara Kiri elephant.
The Buddha image stands on the lotus base under an arch; his right hand hovering over the crouching elephant while his left hand is held up in a forgiving blessing position or giving a sermon as his disciples look on from the left side. It is priceless Buddha image well respected and worshiped by the people of all ages. The four walls of the temple are adorned with golden gilded painting telling tales of the Chiang Mai city establishment. The Lanna calligraphy and exquisite designs brilliantly display Lanna’s ancient arts.
The Buddha image stands on the lotus base under an arch; his right hand hovering over the crouching elephant while his left hand is held up in a forgiving blessing position or giving a sermon as his disciples look on from the left side. It is priceless Buddha image well respected and worshiped by the people of all ages. The four walls of the temple are adorned with golden gilded painting telling tales of the Chiang Mai city establishment. The Lanna calligraphy and exquisite designs brilliantly display Lanna’s ancient arts.
RSS Feed (xml)