This magnificent temple, about half an hour from Chiang Rai town, is a living work of art. It is the culmination of the dream of renowned Thai artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, who wants to take traditional Buddhist art into the contemporary world, make an offering to the Budda and create his life’s greatest work.
This project began in 1997 and is still under construction. Most of the funds for the project comes from Khun Chalermchai himself. Although the temple accepts donations, to maintain artistic integrity, nothing more than 10,000 baht is accepted.
The main building is painted white to symbolise the Buddha’s purity, and is covered in mosaics of mirrors, sparkling in the sun, representing the Buddha’s teaching to look back on ourselves and observe the mind. Actually, there seem to be meanings to every detail in the temple. In order to go to the main hall (heaven), you’ll have to cross the pit of hell.
The main hall is finished, although the mural in the hall is only partially completed. This mural is quite interesting, combining traditional buddhist motifs with modern themes complete with monsters and images like the burning twin towers of September 11, Keanu Reeves from The Matrix, figures from Star Wars and spaceships. Amongst the chaos on the walls, the buddha sits serenely in the middle of the hall.
2009 is the 12th year of the temple’s construction. To date, Wat Rong Khun has been visited by over five million people. Definitely not to be missed if you’re planning to go to Chiang Rai.
Interested in visiting the White Temple? You’ll be able to combine it with a visit to Chiang Rai. Contact us for more information or to book a tour.
on Sep 13th, 2009 at 1:09 pm
I agree; Wat Rong Khun is a MUST on any trip to the north of the country! The spectacular clock tower in the centre of town is another creation by the same artist - and worth a visit too!
Thanks for sharing some information of the beautiful north - the photos on your site really do justice to each location!