Wat Chet Yot

Wat Chet Yot, also known to the locals as Wat Jed Yod, is a beautiful temple located north-west of the old city just off the superhighway.

The unique Buddhist temple was commissioned in 1455 by the then King Tilokarat and was then used by the Buddhist World Council to renew the Tripitaka (the Pali Canon).

Wat Chet Yot Buddhist Temple & Dress Code Chiang Mai, Thailand

The temple is located close to the highway, yet the temple’s grounds offers a serene getaway away from the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s major towns. The intricate patterns of Wat Chet Yot were inspired by Mahabodhi Temple in India. This is key because it is believed that this is the precise location where Buddha was enlightened.

One of the most obvious traits of Wat Chet Yot is the seven spires that rise above the temple’s structure. These spires are symbolic of the seven weeks that Buddha took to immerse himself in meditation. It is impossible to miss the different cultural influences that are evident of a diverse community in Thailand. Wat Chet Yot is also considered to be the “temple of the snake”, so visitors will be able to observe a number of snake offerings (toys, pictures, etc) around the temple.

At the base of the temple, you will spot ancient bas-reliefs, all of which are prized works of art in the community. Men are permitted to climb to the temple’s roof, but unfortunately women are not. As with all temples in Thailand, visitors must ensure they are dressed respectfully. This includes covering knees, shoulders and midriffs.

Wat Chet Yot can be reached by red truck or tuk tuk. Any red truck (songthaew) can take you to the temple from the old city for around for 40 THB per person.