Wat Jed Yod, Chiang Mai

The Wat Jed Yod or the Temple of the Seven Spires is a large quiet temple complex near a busy highway in Chiang Mai. It contains modern as well as ancient ruined assembly halls.

The Wat Jed Yod or Seven Spires Wat gets its name from the seven Chedis or Stupas that form the roof of an ancient assembly hall in the temple. It was here that the eighth World Buddhist Council was held in 1477 to revise the doctrines of the Buddha. It is designed as a replica of the Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya in India where the Buddha attained enlightenment and was built by King Tilokkarat. Another Chedi located within the temple complex contains the last remains of the King. The structure with the seven Chedis has architectural elements from Burma and China. There is also a modern Viharn or assembly hall in front of the ancient building.

The Wat Jed Leod is one of the least visited temples in Chiang Mai. Visitors who prefer visiting quieter attractions of the city, far from the madding crowd come here to see the 15th century sculptures and carvings on the walls of the old temple. There are also many large ancient trees that add to the greenery and serenity of the complex.