Polaroid of the Week: Temple Hopping in Chiang Mai's Stunning Wat Monthiang
When I departed Chiang Mai earlier this week, I couldn't stop thinking: This trip was far too short! It was a whirlwind revisit to the northern Thai city where I spent much of my previous Thailand adventure. I had grand plans—mostly involving devouring my favorite street foods and discovering new eateries. Instead, we immersed ourselves in temple hopping (did you know Chiang Mai boasts over 300 unique temples?), browsing weekend markets for souvenirs, cycling through the streets, enjoying vibrant ladyboy cabaret shows, and spending a full day with rescued elephants at the renowned Elephant Nature Park—a true highlight of my Thailand travels.
Featured here is Wat Monthiang, located at the northern edge of the square defining Chiang Mai's Old Town, encircled by a 6.5-kilometer moat. Though within the historic core, it often escapes the main tourist trail. Yet it dazzles with a massive golden Buddha statue beside the temple and an intricate burgundy-and-gold facade, making it one of Chiang Mai's most striking temples, in my experience. While visiting, don't miss Wat Lok Moli across the moat—one of the city's oldest, featuring a towering 14th-century brick chedi (stupa) behind the main structure.
Beyond its brevity (and intense heat at 38°C/100°F daily), our Chiang Mai stay was idyllic: exceptional cuisine, superior coffee after lackluster island brews, heartwarming elephant encounters, shopping sprees, and rediscovering the city's timeless allure.
