Another important temple, Wat Chedi Luang was one of the first temples built in Chiang Mai and is home to the city pillar, which is thought to house Chiang Mai’s guardian spirits and help protect the city. First built around 1400 when Chiang Mai was being settled, the temple has gone through many changes, but all have centred around the impressively large brick and stucco chedi. Though today the chedi stands at 42 m tall, it had a maximum height of 96 m back in 1481. Like Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang also holds many local and Buddhist festivals throughout the year including the Inthakin Festival venerating the city pillar. Here you’ll also find a daily “Monk Chat” where foreign visitors can go meet with monks staying at the temple and chat with them about…well just about anything. This is your chance to ask any questions you may have about Thailand, Thai culture, Buddhism, or anything else you have on your mind. When you’re done exploring Wat Chedi Luang, pop by Wat Pan Tao that’s just next door. The temple is one of the last wooden temples in Chiang Mai, and one of the most beautiful.