Thailand Travel Pages – Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple, Chiang Rai Province

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Wat Rong Khun - The White Temple:

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In the northern city of Chiang Rai there is a rather unusual temple called Wat Rong Khun. What makes this temple stand out is that unlike most other Buddhist temples, Wat Rong Khun is completely white. But don't be fooled into thinking that this temple is somewhat plain, because what it lacks in color, it makes up for in the very intricacy of its design.

Wat Rong Khun – the white temple entrance

The brainchild of renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat the temple is said to recreate the artist's vision of heaven. Chalermchai Kositpipat chose to use white as he felt it symbolized Buddha's purity. Mirrored glass has also been incorporated into the design because the glass twinkling in the sunlight shines just as Buddha's wisdom shines brightly all over the world.

By way of showing honor and love for his Lord Buddha, Chalermchai Kositpipat undertook to pay for the creation of the temple himself. The artist raised money by selling his artwork and it took him nearly thirty years before he had raised enough funds to start the project.

As you wander around the temple you will be enthralled by the marvelous sculpted decoration that adorns every surface. The white stucco used in the decoration evokes the feeling of an intricate ice sculpture. Construction of the temple complex began in 1998. When complete, the complex will consist of nine buildings. The roof of the main assembly hall (Phra Ubosot) is adorned with many great beasts, look out for; the naga (serpant god) symbolizing water, the elephant symbolizing earth, the swan's wing symbolizing water and the lion's mane symbolizing fire.

One other unusual thing about this site is it is home to the most elaborate and highly decorated public restroom (toilet) that you are likely to ever see. Entirely covered in gold and elaborate carvings, it really is a restroom fit for a king.

Getting there
Taxis and tuk-tuks can be picked up easily from Chiang Rai town. There are also regular buses to the temple. By car, from Chiang Rai take Phahon Yaothin (Highway 1) for approximately 13 km. The temple is situated on Highway 1208, which you can reach from Highway 1 by making a u-turn at Nhongseejaeng Road, you can than take Highway 1208 and the temple will be on your left.