Wat Lok Molee
Massive 16th century chedi
Chiang Mai
Just outside the old walled city center of Chiang Mai, the Wat Lok Molee is one of the city’s older temples. The temple that is also known as the Wat Lok Moli houses one of the largest and most impressive chedis in Chiang Mai.
14th Century temple
Although the exact founding date of the temple is not known, it is likely that the first structures were built during the 14th century. The temple was probably a Royal Wat, since the Kings of the Mengrai dynasty maintained the temple.
King Kuena who ruled Lanna during the second half of the 14th century is said to have invited a number of monks from present day Myanmar to Chiang Mai to spread the teachings of the Buddha. During their stay in Chiang Mai the monks lived in the Wat Lok Molee temple.
The massive chedi of the Wat Molee
The massive chedi was built in 1527 when it must have dominated the area. It has been restored several times over the centuries and is in good condition. The chedi sits on a large square base. Each side of the upper part of the chedi has a niche that contains a Buddha image. The niches are flanked on both sides by thevada figures, a kind of celestial beings.
Ashes of several Kings
The chedi contains the ashes of several Kings of the Mengrai dynasty, who ruled the Lanna Kingdom from the end of the 13th century until 1558 when the Burmese invaded the Kingdom.
Viharn and ubosot
A viharn was built around the same time as the chedi. Of this building nothing remains. The chedi and the brick foundations of the ubosot (ordination hall) are the only original structures still in existence today.
Temple lost its importance
At the end of the Lanna Kingdom and the rule of the Mengrai dynasty the temple probably lost its importance. In 1558 the Burmese invaded Lanna and it became a tributary state. Burmese rule lasted more than two centuries and ended in 1775 after a revolt led by Chao Kawila of Lampang.
Abandonment and renovation
During the end of the 18th century the city of Chiang Mai was abandoned and the Wat Lok Molee was likely left deserted and fell into disrepair. Only during the second half on the 20th century the temple was renovated.
New Lanna style viharn
The viharn in front of the chedi was built in 2003. This wooden structure is built in traditional Lanna architectural style. The front entrance of the building is guarded by two large Nagas, the mythological serpents. The panels on the front of the viharn contain finely sculpted wooden carvings.
The viharn contains a large Buddha image in meditation mudra seated opposite the entrance.
Other structures
A teak wooden pavilion in the temple complex holds a statue of Queen Chiraprapha, who ruled the Lanna Kingdom from 1545 until 1546. The Wat Lok Molee temple complex also contains kuti, the living quarters for the monks.
The large decorated gateway providing entrance to the temple complex is guarded by two large guardian figures.
How to get to the Wat Lok Molee
The Wat Lok Molee is located just outside of the old walled city on Thanon Manee Nopparat Soi 2.
To get there, exit the old city on the North end though Chang Puak gate and turn left. The temple is at about 400 meters from the gate.
Opening hours
The temple complex is open daily from 6 am until 5 pm.
Entrance fee
Admission is free.