Named after its seven spires, Wat Chet Yot temple was built in 1453 by king Tilokarat. It is said that monks were sent to Burma by king Tilokarat to study the design and architecture of Mahabodhi temple in Burma which in turn is inspired by Mahabodhi temple of Bodh Gaya in India. Hence, Indian architecture influences are evident in Wat Chet Yot’s makeup.
Jinakālamālī chronicle says that in 1455 a ‘Bodhi’ tree was planted on the spot by king Tilokarat on the occasion of completion of 2000 years of Buddhism. World’s 8th Buddhist council was also being held at the same place and at the same time; hence this occasion also marked the renewal of Tripitaka- which consists of three main Buddhist scriptures. Thailand Cars Rentals offer reasonably priced car hire at Chiang Mai Airport with several inclusions. Hence, hire a car at your arrival and travel extensively through Chiang Mai to know more about the city life, attractions, food streets and every other nook and corner by yourself.
Wat Chet Yot’s Structure
Its structure is known for its rectangular base, i.e. rectangular shaped windowless building crowned by seven spires. Adjacent to the rectangular base is a square base which has a pyramid shaped spire surrounded by four similar but smaller pyramid shaped spires. The interior of the structure consists of a barrel vaulted corridor at whose end stands a Buddha statue. It is said that there used to be a Bodhi tree that grew at the roof, but was removed in 1910 so as to prevent the structure’s collapse.
One should take a note that access to roof part of the structure is only allowed to men; therefore women should not ascend the stairs that start at the foot of the statue. Another interesting feature of the building is that its external façade holds about seventy weathered reliefs whose faces are said to be modeled after king Tilokarat’s family members and relatives.
Interesting fact
Temple’s grounds contain Chedis out of which the biggest one contains the ashes of king Tilokarat.
