Wat Chedi Luang
A massive partially-ruined 14th-century brick chedi in the heart of the Old City, once the tallest structure in the kingdom.
- Category
- Temples (Wat)
- Entrance fee
- ~40-50 THB foreigner; as of 2026, confirm locally
- Hours
- Daily ~06:00-18:00 (some areas to 22:00)
- Best time
- Late afternoon; lit up nicely after dark
- Time needed
- 45-60 min
About Wat Chedi Luang
Right in the middle of the Old City, this temple centers on a massive brick chedi that's been left partially in ruins rather than fully rebuilt, and that's what makes it interesting. It was once the tallest structure in the old kingdom, and even weathered, you can tell it was built to impress.
It's an easy add-on if you're already wandering the Old City on foot, and it holds up well at different times of day. Some areas stay open later into the evening, and the chedi is lit up nicely after dark if you want to see it a second way.
Straightforward and worth the short stop. Late afternoon light suits the old brick particularly well.
Highlights
- Massive, partially-ruined 14th-century chedi
- Once the tallest structure in the kingdom
- Central Old City location
- Chedi illuminated in the evening
Tips
- Visit late afternoon for the best light on the brick
- Come back after dark to see it lit up if you're nearby
- It's walkable if you're already exploring the Old City, otherwise a short songthaew or Grab ride
- Bring cash for a small foreigner entrance fee
How to get there
Walkable within Old City; red songthaew ~30-40 THB or Grab ~60 THB