Wats to see in Chiang Mai – Become a Yoga Teacher in Thailand
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep by Tevaprapas Makklay under license CC BY 3.0
Chiang Mai lies north of Bangkok and is very popular with travelers, especially those who want to become a yoga teacher in Thailand. This bustling city/province has cool weather and a unique culture that attracts thousands if not millions of tourists around the world every year.
Originally founded by King Maengrai in 1296, Chiang Mai is home to countless temples. There are 300 temples in the city alone and hundreds more outside of it. Tourists enjoy going to these temples in a variety of ways such as by tram, bike, or motorcycle. Out of all of the temples in Chiang Mai, there are five must-visits during your holiday.
The long way up to Wat Doi Suthep. ©Millevache
Wat Doi Suthep
Wat Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s crowning jewel. This 14th century temple is nestled atop Mt. Doi Suthep. It is home to hundreds of images and statues of Buddha. The glistening golden chedi and the Lanna style gold umbrellas surrounding it was recognized as the symbol of Chiang Mai’s illustrious past. There are two ways to get to this magnificent temple: go up the more than 300 steps at the base of the temple (free) or use the motorized cable car to get to the top (50 baht return trip for non-Thai nationals, free for Thais).
Wat Phra Singh
The 600-year old Wat Phra Singh, located in Chiang Mai’s Old Town, is revered by the locals because of its significance. The name means ‘Lion Buddha’, and the temple grounds are home to intricately designed structures that have detailed mural work and excellent roof lines. The main ceremonial hall found in this temple is very grand and picturesque. There is no entrance fee.
Wat Chedi Luang
Another noteworthy temple in Chiang Mai is Wat Chedi Luang. It takes its name from the square brick chedi located behind the compound. The temple also houses the city pillar and the Sao Inthakin. A ceremony is held in the Sao Inthakin annually to celebrate the city’s wealth and prosperity. Admission is free.
The reclining Buddha at Wat Chedi Luang. ©Kittipong khunnen
Wat Chiang Man
The Wat Chiang Man was built in 1292 and is the perfect example of Lanna-style design and architecture. The golden chedi flanked by elephant carvings are one of the main tourist draws of this temple. There are also exceptional gold carvings and ornate red roofs found all throughout this temple. Admission is free.
Wat Phan Tao
Sitting right next to the magnificent Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao still attracts quite a crowd despite its smaller size and fewer golden ornaments. The intricate and noteworthy wooden design of Wat Phan Tao makes it stand out. There is no entrance fee. If you want to become a yoga teacher in Thailand, do it in Chiang Mai as there are many things to do there. Visiting the temples is just one, as these temples are a direct connection to Chiang Mai’s illustrious past and one of the best ways to get to know its culture.
Become a Yoga Teacher in Thailand
Patanjali Institute has a unique program that combines yoga teacher training and clinical hypnotherapy training in Chiang Rai near Chiang Mai. If you want to become a yoga teacher in Thailand, check out our schedule for upcoming classes and availability.
Photo credits:
Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep by Millevache under license CC BY-SA 3.0
Wat Chedi Luang by Kittipong khunnen under license CC BY-SA 3.0
