Tortoises and carp swimming beneath red parasols? You can only find it here at Wat Chet Lin. This 16th-century temple, also known as Wat Jet Lin, Wat Nong Chalin, or Wat Chedlin, offers a peaceful escape right in Chiang Mai’s old walled city.
Wat Chet Lin is often overlooked. Many visitors appreciate its serene and historic charm. It’s less ornate than other Chiang Mai temples. Yet Wat Chet Lin possesses an understated elegance that captivates.
Inside the viharn, a vibrant pink carpet invites you to kneel and pray. A large golden Buddha image watches over you. Tall red columns rise to the ceiling. Seats line the sides, welcoming contemplation.
Outside, discover large stone balls and small statues. Behind the viharn, a tall stone chedi features niches on each side. Each niche holds a small Buddha statue.
One of Wat Chet Lin’s most enchanting features is its charming bridge. Lined with red parasols tied with saffron cloth, it is perfect for photos. Below the bridge, a small pond teems with tortoises and carp. Water lilies add to the beauty. Monks reside at the end of the bridge. While you can admire their quarters from outside, venturing inside is not permitted.
Don’t miss the “dhutanga” walking path. Monks use this bamboo-lined path with small round stones for meditative walking. It fosters concentration and mindfulness. The quiet mood here contrasts sharply with the city’s bustle.
The temple complex includes the main viharn with intricate wood carvings. You can admire traditional Lanna-style architecture and the chedi. Smaller shrines dot the area. Artwork and decorations reflect the Lanna Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage. Murals and statues depict Buddhist stories and teachings.
Lotus ponds enhance Wat Chet Lin’s aesthetic appeal. These ponds and lush gardens create a picturesque setting. It’s perfect for meditation or simply enjoying the calm.
Before you leave Wat Chet Lin, look for a bizarre five-eyed panda-like creature. It eats hot coals and poops out gold. You can also find an open-air pavilion. A seated skeleton sporting sunglasses and a dashiki shirt sits here.
Most chedi in the region are covered in copper, brass, or white plaster. The chedi at Wat Chet Lin remains in its original state. It is made of lime mortar and red clay bricks. Halfway up, niches contain Buddha images on all four sides.
The interior of the Lanna-style viharn features red lacquered columns. You’ll also see a large golden Buddha in the Earth witness position. This symbolizes Buddha’s enlightenment. King Mekuthi was crowned here.
After exploring, relax at the quaint coffee shop behind the bridge. Sip coffee and enjoy views of the pond and Wat Chet Lin. Remember the name “Jet-lin” means seven channels. Royal members once bathed here under seven channels.
Pour sacred water over the Buddha’s left shoulder. The water flows through naga monsters before reaching its destination. This fun blessing ritual is unique to temples like Wat Chet Lin.
Wat Chet Lin offers a unique experience of Chiang Mai’s spiritual and cultural traditions. It provides tranquility and reflection amidst the city’s vibrant life. As you leave, carry with you the peace of this hidden gem. Remember the gentle rustle of the parasols and the serene faces of the Buddhas.