Wat Chet Yot, Chiang Mai
Wat Chet Yot in Chiang Mai. Photo © Tanit Follett.
The seven spires of Wat Chet Yot. Photo
John Wigham.
Lanna-era relief on the base of Wat Chet Yot. Photo
John Wigham.
Detail of another bas-relief. Photo
John Wigham.
Leafy window and glimpse into the temple. Photo
Gi+Cri Fargilli.
Wat Chet Yot (also spelled Wat Jed Yod) in Chiang Mai is a unique and elegant temple located in peaceful green grounds. Built in 1453 to host the eighth World Buddhist Council, it is named for its seven spires.
History
Wat Chet Yot was built in 1453 during the reign of King Tilokkarat, whose remains are in one of the temple's small chedis. In 1477, it hosted the eighth meeting of the World Buddhist Council, convened to clarify doctrinal matters.
What to See
Located near a major highway, the grounds of Wat Chet Yot are nevertheless green and peaceful. The temple's architecture is patterned after the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya, India, where the Buddha found enlightenment. The seven spires represent the seven weeks he subsequently spent in meditation there.
The temple also incorporates Thai, Lao, Indian, and Chinese influences, giving it a unique but elegant appearance.
The rectangular base of the pagoda is decorated with 70 weathered bas-reliefs, considered masterpieces of Lanna art. The temple roof can be climbed, but unfortunately only male visitors can enjoy this privilege.
Quick Facts
Site Information |
| Names: | Wat Chet Yot; Wat Chedi Yot (Seven-Spired Pagoda); Wat Jed Yod; Wat Photharam Maha Viharn |
| Location: | Chiang Mai, Thailand |
| Category: | Buddhist Temples |
| Faith: | Buddhism |
| Status: | active |
Visitor Information |
| Coordinates: | 18.808915° N, 98.971823° E (view on Google Maps) |
| Hours: | Daily 6am-5pm |
| Cost: | Suggested donation 20B |
Travel Resources for Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai Map - our detailed interactive map of Chiang Mai, plus hand-picked links to more
- Chiang Mai Guided Tours - book sightseeing tours and activities in Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai Hotels - check availability, maps, photos and reviews, then book at the guaranteed lowest rate
- Chiang Mai Hostels - reserve budget lodgings with no booking fees
- Chiang Mai Travel Forum - tips, answers and advice on Chiang Mai tourism
Location Map
Below is a location map and aerial view of Wat Chet Yot. Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. For a larger view, see our Chiang Mai Map.
Article Sources
Article written by Holly Hayes with reference to the following sources:
- Wat Chet Yot - Asian Historical Architecture
- Wat Jed Yod - Frommer's Thailand
- Wat Chedi Yot - Fodor's Thailand
Article last updated: 06/20/2009.
