Three iconic temple sites in Chiang Mai—Wat Chedi Liam, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Umong—suffered damage in the recent earthquake that struck neighbouring Myanmar on March 28.
While none of the structures face imminent structural collapse, the authorities are moving quickly to stabilize and restore these sacred landmarks that are central to the city’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
The tremor sent subtle but significant shockwaves through northern Thailand, revealing cracks and deterioration in centuries-old structures. In early April, the Culture Ministry confirmed damage to three major heritage sites.
Cracks appeared in the walls of the 700-year-old underground tunnels at forest monastery Wat Umong.//Photo: Fine Arts department
Restoration works will now be undertaken to preserve the sites' integrity and ensure visitor safety.
Wat Chedi Liam, a striking five-tiered stepped pagoda in Saraphi District that dates back to the 13th century Hariphunchai period, suffered multiple surface cracks to its main chedi.
Wat Chedi Liam's 13th-century chedi shows surface cracks after recent quake in Chiang Mai.//Photo: Fine Arts Department
The stucco, already vulnerable to time and the elements, peeled and flaked from the exterior. A smaller chedi to the northwest collapsed completely.
Located in the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, 10 kilometres south of Chiang Mai’s old town, Chedi Liam is the principal stupa located behind the viharn building and oriented toward the east.
The historic monument is built in the prasat style—a tiered, tower-like form characteristic of ancient temple architecture. Its layout follows a square plan, with a base featuring lotus-petal mouldings and ornate moulded bands.
The overall form and decorative details of Chedi Liam closely resemble those of the Ku Kut Chedi at Wat Cham Thewi in Lamphun Province, reflecting the distinctive Hariphunchai artistic tradition, an early school of northern Thai Buddhist architecture.
According to conservation authorities, plans are in place to reinforce damaged sections and reapply stucco in keeping with traditional construction techniques. Other parts of Wiang Kum Kam archaeological site remain open to visitors.
Stucco weakened by time peeled and flaked off Wat Chedi Liam after the March 28
quake.//Photo: Fine Arts Department
In the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city, Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan, another historical landmark, was also affected. The main viharn building developed hairline cracks along its interior plaster walls—from the window sills through to the rear section of the structure.
A smaller chedi on the northern side exhibited similar surface-level fissures, and some of its decorative brass sheets, known locally as jangko, became dislodged. Restoration efforts will include re-plastering with a traditional lime mixture and colour-matching to maintain the temple’s authentic appearance.
The most structurally concerning damage occurred at Wat Umong, the 700-year-old forest monastery famous for its labyrinthine meditation tunnels and tranquil, moss-covered grounds. Cracks were found in the walls of the underground tunnels.
In response, the Fine Arts Department will undertake excavation of accumulated soil and install reinforced concrete or lightweight structural materials to relieve pressure on the aging tunnel system.
A new drainage solution is also being developed to protect against further water damage.
Delicate murals within the tunnels—many of them faded but historically significant—will be temporarily removed for safekeeping. Once the tunnel structure is reinforced, these wall paintings will be reinstalled in their original positions, with an emphasis on preserving their colour, lines and intricate detail.
Speaking during her visit to the sites in early April, Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol emphasized that while the physical damage was largely cosmetic, the impact on these treasured cultural sites is significant.
Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol (center) meets the abbot of Wat Chedi Luang to discuss restoration.//Photo: Fine Arts department
She has directed the Fine Arts Department to accelerate restoration efforts using scholarly conservation methods.
“These historic sites are not only national heritage assets,” Sudawan said, “but also key attractions that connect locals and visitors alike to the enduring legacy of Lanna culture.”
The restoration of Wat Umong, due to its structural vulnerability, will take priority. Temporary supports are being installed to prevent further degradation while conservation specialists begin the meticulous process of long-term repair.
Chiang Mai, long celebrated as a spiritual capital of northern Thailand, relies heavily on cultural tourism. Sites like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Umong draw thousands of visitors each month who come to marvel at the ancient architecture, participate in meditation retreats, or simply wander through serene temple grounds steeped in history.
At Wat Chedi Luang, several decorative brass sheets, or jangko, were dislodged
by the quake.//Photo: Fine Arts department
The swift response from Thai authorities is aimed not only at preserving these historic structures, but also at maintaining public confidence and ensuring visitor safety in the wake of the quake.
Restoration work is underway at several historic temples in Chiang Mai following the tremor, with authorities aiming to maintain public access while ensuring long-term preservation. However, most temples and historical sites in Chiang Mai remain open to visitors.
