Wat Lok Molee

Situated on the north side of Chiang Mai’s moat (on the outer road) between the north gate and northeast corner, Wat Lok Molee catches your eye with its unique entryway, dark temple building, animal figures and impressive crumbling chedi, which was built in the early 16th century by the Lanna (Northern Thai) king, Phra Muang Kaew. Many chedis in Chiang Mai are covered, but here you can see all the bricks making up the large structure. The temple itself is different as well, made with very dark, polished wood instead of the usual whitewashed walls. What makes the temple particularly unique is the seemingly random mix of statues and decorations through the complex. While Thailand is primarily a Buddhist country, Hinduism and ancient animist traditions also play a role in people’s beliefs and you’ll regularly notice depictions of Ganesh, Vishnu and Brahma. At Wat Lok Molee, the Brahma statue towards the entrance to the temple grounds stands out. Additionally, the temple is also home to a small coffee stand serving typical Thai drinks like sweet Thai iced tea and olieng, Thai coffee, as well as a massage shop offering traditional Thai and foot massages.
Location:
Manee Nopparat Road about 400 metres east from Chang Phuak Gate