Chiang Mai: Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour

Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, beckons travelers with its historic temples and vibrant city life. The "Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour" offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the city’s oldest shrine, Wat Chiang Man, and other iconic sites. With a knowledgeable local leading the way, guests can explore Lanna architecture and the sacred spaces that have shaped Chiang Mai’s rich heritage. This budget-friendly tour promises an informative and sustainable exploration, leaving visitors eager to uncover more of the city’s captivating wonders.

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided walking tour that explores the historic temples and cultural heritage of Chiang Mai, Thailand.
• Visits significant sites like Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.
• Provides insights into the Lanna architecture and history from a knowledgeable local guide.
• Emphasizes sustainable and low-impact exploration to minimize environmental impact.
• Includes water, entrance fees, and recommendations for appropriate attire and items to bring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Chiang Mai: Historic Temples and City Guided Walking Tour is a 3-hour excursion that takes participants through the city’s most iconic religious sites.

Priced from $20.70 to $19.66 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 guests and is conducted in English.

Travelers can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve now and pay later.

The tour explores Wat Chiang Man, the Three Kings Monument, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang, offering insights into the temples’ history and architecture from a knowledgeable local guide.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour begins at Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai dating back to 1296. After a 30-minute introduction, the group moves on to the Three Kings Monument for a quick photo stop.

Next, they explore the classic Lanna architecture of Wat Phra Singh for 40 minutes. The teak wood Wat Phan Tao, with its historical throne, is visited for 15 minutes.

The tour culminates at the impressive Wat Chedi Luang, featuring a large chedi and standing Buddha, for 40 minutes. Throughout, the knowledgeable local guide shares insights on the temples’ history and design.

Tour Features

A knowledgeable local guide leads this tour, sharing insightful commentary on the temples’ rich history and unique Lanna architecture. The experience focuses on low-impact exploration to minimize environmental impact. Along with the guide, the tour includes a bottle of water and entrance tickets to Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.

| Tour Features | | |

|— |— |— |

| Local Guide | Sustainable Experience | Included |

| Shares insights on history and architecture | Focus on low-impact exploration | Local guide, water, entrance tickets |

| Knowledgeable about Lanna culture | Minimize environmental impact | For Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang |

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes, a hat, an umbrella, and sunscreen are essential items to bring on this walking tour. The tour involves exploring historic temples and navigating the city streets, so you’ll want to be prepared.

Plus, it’s recommended to bring:

1. Comfortable, modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for temple visits.

2. Cash for the entrance fees at Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang.

3. A scarf to wrap around your shoulders or head when entering the temples.

4. A water bottle to stay hydrated during the 3-hour tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Dress code is an important consideration for this tour. Visitors must cover their shoulders and knees when entering temples. Casual attire is acceptable, but avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts.

The weather is also a factor, as the rainy season runs from July to mid-October. Bringing an umbrella or raincoat is recommended during this time.

Exploring Wat Chiang Man

Though the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man sets the stage for the tour with its historic charm.

As the starting point, visitors can:

1. Admire the temple’s two magnificent Lanna-style chedi, which date back to the 13th century.

2. Witness the intricate wood carvings and ornate murals that adorn the interior.

3. Spot the revered Buddha statues, including the renowned Emerald Buddha replica.

4. Stroll through the peaceful grounds and soak in the tranquil atmosphere that has endured for over 700 years.

This iconic temple lays the foundation for the exploration of Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering the Three Kings Monument

After admiring the ancient Lanna wonders of Wat Chiang Man, the tour moves on to the lively Three Kings Monument.

This statue commemorates the three legendary kings who ruled the region centuries ago. The guide provides a quick history lesson, explaining the significance of the monument.

Travelers snap photos of the striking bronze figures, surrounded by detailed carvings. It’s a popular spot for both travelers and locals alike, who often pause to admire the artwork and offer prayers.

The guide then leads the group to the next stop, Wat Phra Singh, to explore its classic Lanna architecture.

Visiting Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang

The tour now leads visitors to Wat Phra Singh, renowned for its classic Lanna architecture.

Next, guests explore:

1. Wat Phan Tao, a teak wood temple that houses a historical throne.

2. Wat Chedi Luang, featuring an impressive chedi and standing Buddha statue.

3. The guide shares insights on the history and significance of each temple.

Entrance fees for Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang are included, making this a budget-friendly way to discover Chiang Mai’s iconic temples.

After visiting these sites, the tour concludes at the impressive Wat Chedi Luang.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour’s itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences, though extra fees may apply. Speak with the tour operator to adjust the stops or duration to match your interests and budget.

Is There an Option for a Private or Semi-Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private or semi-private tour. You can book a private tour with just your party or a semi-private tour with a small group of up to 10 participants to get a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility accommodations. However, the guide can likely provide assistance as needed. Visitors with mobility issues should inquire about any special arrangements when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Temples?

Visitors can take photographs inside the temples, but they should be respectful and avoid disrupting worship. Some temples may have restrictions, so it’s best to ask the guide about photography policies before entering each site.

What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travellers to easily change their plans without penalties if needed.

The Sum Up

This guided walking tour offers an immersive exploration of Chiang Mai’s historic temples and cultural heritage. Visitors can discover the city’s ancient Lanna architecture, learn from a knowledgeable local guide, and experience a sustainable way to discover Chiang Mai’s sacred spaces. With a focus on key highlights like Wat Chiang Man and Wat Phra Singh, this tour provides an engaging and budget-friendly way to uncover the rich history of this captivating northern Thai city.

You can check availability for your dates here: