Brick Chedi constructed in the Mondop style (left) and Viharn (worship hall) at Wat Jet Lin in Chiang Mai, Thailand, dates back to the 16th century. But the real surprise of this temple complex is found behind the Viharn. Here, a bridge covered in woven bamboo mats leads across a pond, where humongous lily pads float and giant catfish break the mirrored surface to slurp insects. It is believed that a king of the Mangrai dynasty ordered the temple built around the pond, which was used by the Royal Family for ceremonial baths. Beyond the bridge, dormitories where the monks live are often draped in a sea of freshly laundered orange robes drying in the sun. The interior of the Lanna-style Viharn is decorated with red enameled pillars that frame a Mara Vichaya Buddha image. And on the way out, check out the rare ancient Buddha’s image mounted just inside the entrance.
