Wat Chediliem (GPS: 18.75391, 98.99595; Thai: วัดเจดีย์เหลี่ยม ) is a Thai Buddhist monastery on the western side of the Wiang Kum Kam Historical Park. Its name means Monastery of the Square Chedi. That chedi in question is indeed an unusual landmark, as it is square, with four sides, instead of the usual conical shape.
Wat Chediliem, by virtue of its chedi, is one of the oldest Buddhist monastery in the area. That chedi dates back to between 1288-9, when the place was first settled. This chedi is in fact a copy of the Mahapol Chedi in Wat Ku Kut of the Mon people. Having captured the Mon people, King Mangrai had his chedi designed in the Mon style.
The chedi of Wat Cheiliem was restored in 1908 when Burmese elements were added. Looking somewhat like a Hindu gopuram, it rises five tiers and is topped with a slender pyramid, culminating in a hti or parasol.
Wat Chediliem, Wiang Kum Kam. (26 October, 2006)
Viharn (assembly hall) of Wat Chediliem, Wiang Kum Kam. (26 October, 2006)
Viharn of Wat Chediliem. (26 October, 2006)
The chedi of Wat Chediliem, Wiang Kum Kam. (26 October, 2006)
The distinctive chedi of Wat Chediliem, as seen from one corner. (26 October, 2006)
The chedi of Wat Chediliem, as seen against the sun. (26 October, 2006)
The chedi of Wat Chediliem. (26 October, 2006)
Standing Buddha statues fill niches on each tier of Wat Chediliem. (26 October, 2006)
A chinthe stands at each corner of Wat Chediliem. (26 October, 2006)
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