Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang

Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang, originally an abandoned temple, was once the site of the Inthakhin Pillar (City Pillar) of Chiang Mai. It was built by King Mangrai the Great, the founder of Chiang Mai, around 1839 BE, and is located in the heart of Chiang Mai. The name 'Inthakhin' comes from the Pali word 'Inthakhila,' which means pillar, stone pillar, or city pillar. The term 'Sadue Muang,' meaning 'navel of the city,' refers to the temple's central location in Chiang Mai, leading locals to commonly call it 'Wat Sadue Muang.' Thus, the temple was officially named Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang. The temple houses an important Buddha image that has been a symbol of Chiang Mai for a long time, known as 'Luang Por Khao.' This Lanna-style Buddha image has a serene and radiant face, resembling the full moon, and exudes compassion. Worshippers often feel peace, happiness, and confidence when paying homage to it, inspiring hope and determination to succeed in their endeavors. The temple was originally a royal palace and a place of worship for kings and Buddhists of the time. It covers a vast area, and visitors today can see the Luang Por Khao Buddha image in a Lanna-style wooden viharn. Interestingly, the viharn extends slightly onto the road, as the road was constructed later during a period when the temple was abandoned. Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang is one of Chiang Mai's most beautiful temples, though it remains relatively quiet and less frequented by visitors. Those who stop by to pay respects and explore will not be disappointed. The exquisite Lanna art and architecture are still preserved, and the temple offers much more than one might expect.