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Lok Moli Temple

298/1 Manee Nopparat Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

"Located near the city center of Chiang Mai, about 400 meters west of Chang Phuak gate to the west, Lok Moli is among the oldest temples in the city. The temple was built along the north-south axis while most of the temples were built along the north-south axis. Buddhist temples all face east in the direction of the rising sun.Lok Moli Temple does not have many visitors as often as other temples, so it is suitable for those who like peace and quiet. The temple grounds include a prayer hall, many small stupas, and an ancient stupa in the back."

It is unclear exactly when Lok Moli temple was built but it was first mentioned in a charter in 1367, when King Kuena (1355-1385) - the sixth king of the Mangrai dynasty, invited ten houses. A knowledgeable Buddhist monk from Burma came to Chiang Mai to spread the Buddha's teachings. During their stay in Chiang Mai, the monks lived in the Lok Moli temple. In 1527, King Ket (also known as Mueangketklao) built the stupa and in 1545 he also built the Viharn house (house to worship Buddha and pray). During its existence, the Mengrai royal family was responsible for the preservation of this temple.

From the outside, the temple gate is beautifully shaped, the small entrance is guarded by two giant Hanuman monkey gods, looking very majestic. Through the gate, go straight in and you will see two large elephants facing each other and the Viharn building behind. The Viharn of Lok Moli Pagoda has bold Lanna architecture with a two-story roof, elaborately sculpted front, and two sides of the stairs leading to the temple decorated with Naga snake staff.

Lok Moli Temple is also home to one of the largest and most impressive stupas in Chiang Mai. This huge stupa is made of brick, while other stupas in Chiang Mai are mostly made of mortar. The stupa is placed on a large square base, the upper part of the stupa has four sides, each side has a small corner containing a Buddha image. Since its construction until now, the stupa has been restored many times over the centuries but has almost kept its original condition intact. The stupa contains the ashes of several kings of the Mengrai dynasty, who ruled the Lanna Kingdom from the late 13th century until 1558 when the Burmese invaded the Kingdom.

In the campus of Lok Moli, there is a small coffee shop, during the visit to the temple, you can rest and have refreshments. The shop has hot and cold drinks for about 30-40 baht and some snacks to help you have enough energy to continue the journey.

Opening hours: Lok Moli Pagoda is open every day of the week from early morning to 17:00

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