Wat Chet Lin, Chiang Mai - a building that has a lot of statues on it
1 / 10

Wat Chet Lin Chiang Mai

4.6
·2k reviews·, Thailand

A serene Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai's Old City, known for its tranquil pond, charming rattan bridge, and welcoming monks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

For ultimate peace and quiet

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Wat Chet Lin, Chiang Mai - a building that has a lot of statues on it

Wat Chet Lin Chiang Mai

Best Time

Early mornings

For ultimate peace and quiet

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai's Old City, known for its tranquil pond, charming rattan bridge, and welcoming monks.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Discover a hidden gem: a peaceful temple with a charming bridge and monks eager to share their wisdom."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Dress Respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Bridges

Walk the bamboo bridge for unique photos and views of the pond.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rattan Bridge

The Rattan Bridge

Behind the main temple building

A charming, albeit slightly flimsy, bamboo bridge over a tranquil pond filled with lotus plants and fish.

InstagramReddit
Monk Conversations

Monk Conversations

Engage with resident monks for insightful discussions on Buddhism and their way of life. A truly enriching cultural experience.

Reddit
Peaceful Pond and Gardens

Peaceful Pond and Gardens

Discover a hidden oasis with a serene pond, lush gardens, and abundant aquatic life. A perfect spot for quiet contemplation.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Wat Chet Lin offers a peaceful escape from Chiang Mai's bustle. Visit early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds. Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship. TikTok

Connect with Monks

This temple is known for its welcoming monks who are often available for conversations about Buddhism and monastic life. It's a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and learning. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
For ultimate peace and quiet
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors than weekends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@mommamignon shows us what it’s like to visit one of the prettiest festivals in the world 📍 This is the Yi Peng Lantern festival in Chiang Mai Thailand 🇹🇭 People from all over the world gather for this festival to release lanterns to signify a fresh start! 🕯️ Is Thailand’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival on your bucket list?? #thailandtravel #lanternfestival #yipeng #chiangmaithailand #thailandtrip #Pla...
@destinationinspiration
168.6K likes • 1.3M views

🤫 Dress Respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Bridges

Walk the bamboo bridge for unique photos and views of the pond. InstagramReddit

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand 🇹🇭 happens for 2 days every year in November 🗓️ and it’s such a bucket list experience to get done. I made a full breakdown of tips on how to get there on my TikTok page and a vlog. Check it out 🥰 and follow for more fun travel bucket lists #lanternfestival #chiangmai #novembertravel #yipenglanternfestival #travel #thailand #loykrathong #yipeng...
@johnacharicee
138.7K likes • 1.2M views
Bamboo bridge Wat Chet Lin Just peace and quiet 🪷 Chiang Mai Old Town Thailand 🇹🇭
francescasassi93
13 likes • 364 views

💬 Chat with Monks

Engage in respectful conversations about Buddhism and monastic life. Reddit

🙏 Donate Appreciated

Entry is free, but donations or purchases from the small shop are encouraged. Reddit

🇹🇭 10 things to do in Chiang Mai ⬇️⁣ ⁣ 1. 🎋 Go bamboo rafting in Mae Wang National Park⁣ 2. 🏮 Lanna Square Night Market - open nightly from 5pm⁣ 3. 🪷 Wat Phra That Doi Suthep⁣ 4. 🎏 Carp Cafe - cafe surrounded with waterfalls & ponds filled with Koi fish. ⁣ 5. 🥭 Try mango sticky rice, a popular Thai dessert ⁣ 6. 💦 Dantewada Land of Angels Waterfall Park⁣ 7. 🍽️ Have drinks & dinner at Another World⁣...
@kelseyinlondon
98K likes • 2.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Dress Respectfully

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active temple. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Bridges

Walk the bamboo bridge for unique photos and views of the pond. InstagramReddit

💬 Chat with Monks

Engage in respectful conversations about Buddhism and monastic life. Reddit

🙏 Donate Appreciated

Entry is free, but donations or purchases from the small shop are encouraged. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The rattan bridge and serene pond offer beautiful, tranquil photo spots. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wat Chet Lin for its unexpected tranquility and beauty, especially the charming rattan bridge over a pond teeming with fish. The opportunity to engage in respectful conversations with welcoming monks is a highlight, offering a unique cultural insight. While smaller and less visited than other temples, its peaceful atmosphere and hidden charm make it a memorable stop. InstagramReddit

"A quiet but interesting temple near the Sunday weekend market. There is a unique rattan bridge where you can walk to take photos, but it is a little flimsy imo.

You can chat with the monks here about Buddhism, life of a monk etc. They welcome visitors."

Darren

"Smaller temple and much quieter than the other one in the city but absolutely magnificent. There is a lovely bridge to cross at the back of the temple, over a body of water covered with lotus plant.

They seem to do meditation and conversation sessions during the day for free.

Remember that it is a temple, so behave with respect."

Julien Antoine

"Pleasant and peaceful temple with monks available to chat with as they have a dwelling across the bridge for studying. The temple itself has new chairs inside if needed. The garden area has two bridges to explore on foot (one is bamboo) where sea life can be seen in the water if you're lucky.
A small shop selling drinks and gifts is here too. It's free to enter but donating or buying something is encouraged.
I was impressed with this place. It seems a less visited wat"

Tellus 12

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Rattan bridge and pond
Monk conversations

What People Dislike

Bridge can be flimsy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Chet Lin is located within Chiang Mai's Old City. You can easily reach it by songthaew (red shared taxis), tuk-tuk, or by walking if you're staying nearby. It's a short distance from the popular Sunday Walking Street Market. TikTok

Yes, songthaews frequently pass by the Old City walls, making it convenient to get to Wat Chet Lin. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available. TikTok

For exploring the Old City, including Wat Chet Lin, walking is a great option. Alternatively, songthaews are an affordable and common way to get around. TikTok

Parking within the Old City can be challenging. It's often easier to use public transport or walk. If you arrive by private vehicle, look for designated parking areas outside the main temple grounds. TikTok

Cycling is a popular and enjoyable way to explore Chiang Mai's Old City. There are many bike rental shops available, and Wat Chet Lin is easily accessible by bike. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Wat Chet Lin is free to enter. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain the temple and support the monks. Reddit

Wat Chet Lin is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the grounds. TikTok

There are no tickets to book for Wat Chet Lin as it is a free-to-enter temple. You can visit spontaneously. Reddit

As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Loud behavior or disruptive actions are not permitted. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds, but always be mindful and respectful. Avoid taking photos of monks without their permission. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the ornate temple architecture, walk across the unique bamboo bridge over a serene pond, observe the fish, and potentially engage in conversations with resident monks. InstagramReddit

Yes, families can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the novelty of the pond and bridge. It's a good place for children to learn about Buddhist culture in a calm setting. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated meditation hall for public use, the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds is conducive to personal reflection and quiet contemplation. Reddit

Basic facilities are usually available at temples in Chiang Mai. It's always a good idea to use restrooms before you arrive or be prepared for simple facilities. Reddit

The rattan bridge is a picturesque feature that allows visitors to walk over the temple's pond, offering a unique perspective and photo opportunities. It adds to the temple's tranquil charm. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a small shop selling drinks and gifts. For a wider variety of dining options, you'll find numerous restaurants and street food vendors in the surrounding Old City area. Reddit

Eating is generally not permitted within the main temple buildings. You can enjoy refreshments from the small shop or dine in designated areas outside. Reddit

Near Wat Chet Lin, you can find classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, Mango Sticky Rice, and Khao Soi, a Northern Thai specialty. TikTok+1

Chiang Mai offers many vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially within the Old City. Look for signs indicating 'jay' or 'vegetarian'. TikTok

Yes, Chiang Mai's street food is famous and delicious. Just ensure you choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The rattan bridge over the pond, the serene garden views, and the temple's architectural details are prime photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

It's best to ask for permission before photographing monks. Many are happy to oblige, but always be considerate of their privacy and spiritual practice. TikTok

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the temple's peaceful ambiance. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites and in urban areas. It's best to avoid using drones to prevent any issues. TikTok

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the bridge and pond, while a telephoto lens can be good for temple details. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Chet Lin offers a calm and engaging experience for families. Children will likely be fascinated by the rattan bridge and the koi fish swimming in the pond. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to a different culture and the peaceful nature of Buddhist temples in a non-intimidating environment. Reddit

Encourage them to observe quietly and perhaps even try to spot different types of fish. The opportunity to potentially chat with monks can also be a memorable learning experience, fostering curiosity and respect for different ways of life. Remember to ensure children are dressed respectfully and behave calmly within the temple grounds. TikTok

🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers seeking peace and introspection, Wat Chet Lin is an ideal destination. The tranquil pond, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the quiet ambiance create a perfect setting for meditation or simply enjoying a moment of solitude. InstagramReddit

The chance to engage in conversations with monks is a significant draw for those interested in spiritual exploration. It offers a unique opportunity to gain deeper insights into Buddhism and Thai philosophy directly from practitioners. This personal connection can be profoundly enriching. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Wat Chet Lin is a gem for photographers looking for serene and aesthetically pleasing shots. The rattan bridge over the pond, with its reflections and surrounding greenery, is a highly photogenic spot. Capture the interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the temple architecture, and the natural beauty of the gardens. InstagramReddit

Early morning visits are recommended for the best light and fewer distractions. The temple’s understated beauty and peaceful atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the more elaborate temples, offering a chance to capture unique and evocative imagery of Chiang Mai's spiritual side. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Serenity of Wat Chet Lin

Wat Chet Lin, meaning 'Temple of the Crystal Pond,' is a serene Buddhist temple nestled within Chiang Mai's historic Old City. Unlike some of the more grand and bustling temples, Wat Chet Lin offers a more intimate and tranquil experience. Its name hints at its most charming feature: a beautiful pond, often adorned with lotus flowers, and a picturesque rattan bridge that allows visitors to walk over the water. This peaceful setting makes it a favorite spot for quiet contemplation and photography. InstagramReddit

The temple grounds are well-maintained, featuring traditional Lanna architecture. What truly sets Wat Chet Lin apart is its welcoming atmosphere towards visitors interested in learning about Buddhism. Monks residing here are often open to engaging in conversations, sharing insights into their daily lives and spiritual practices. This offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange that goes beyond mere sightseeing. Reddit

While it might not be as famous as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chet Lin provides a more personal and less crowded encounter with Chiang Mai's spiritual heritage. It’s a place where you can slow down, appreciate the quiet beauty, and perhaps even have a meaningful interaction with the resident monks. Reddit

Cultural Exchange with Monks

One of the most rewarding aspects of visiting Wat Chet Lin is the opportunity to interact with the resident monks. Many of them are eager to share their knowledge and experiences, offering a glimpse into the daily life and philosophy of Buddhism. These conversations can be incredibly insightful and provide a deeper understanding of Thai culture. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to approach monks respectfully if they seem open to conversation. Topics can range from the intricacies of monastic vows to the general principles of Buddhist teachings. This informal exchange is a testament to the temple's open and welcoming nature, making it a place for genuine connection rather than just observation. Reddit

Remember to be mindful of their schedule and privacy. If a monk is busy or meditating, it's best not to disturb them. However, when the opportunity arises, these interactions can be a highlight of your visit, offering a unique perspective that you won't find at more tourist-heavy sites. Reddit

Photography at Wat Chet Lin

Wat Chet Lin offers a variety of beautiful and serene photo opportunities. The star attraction for photographers is undoubtedly the rattan bridge arching over the tranquil pond. The reflections in the water, the lush greenery, and the presence of koi fish create a visually appealing scene. Early morning light is particularly magical, casting a soft glow and minimizing crowds. TikTokInstagramReddit

Beyond the pond, the temple's architecture, including its stupas and intricate carvings, provides excellent subjects. Capture the details of the Lanna style and the peaceful atmosphere. Remember to be respectful when photographing the temple buildings and any monks you encounter. Always seek permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. TikTok

While the temple itself is relatively small, its charm lies in its quiet corners and the natural beauty of its surroundings. It’s a great spot for capturing a more intimate and less crowded side of Chiang Mai's spiritual landscape. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2