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    theTripPacker •  September 09 , 2014

    Wat Rong Khun

    Of all the temples that you’ll come across in Thailand, Wat Rong Khun is definitely one you’ll want to see. Since its construction, the temple has received many mixed reviews. Some have found it to be menacing and sacrilegious while others think of it as an intricate and modern interpretation of an artist’s view towards religion. In any case, this temple will be the most unconventional you’ll ever see.

    Wat Rong Khun, aka The White Temple, is situated nearby the northern city of Chiang Rai. Due to its complexity and unorthodox design, it has become an important landmark of the province that attracts an increasingly large number of visitors every year. Construction of Wat Rong Khun began in 1997. Acclaimed Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat volunteered to carry out the construction of the sanctuary as an offering to the Lord Buddha. The temple’s final plan comprises of nine buildings that includes the chapel, pagoda, hermitage, crematorium, monastery hall, preaching hall, museum, pavilion, and restroom facilities.

    As soon as you arrive, the mere sight of the temple’s white radiance gives you this overwhelming feeling. The ubosot (chapel) is designed white in color with white glass mosaic pieces embedded in the plaster. The color of white is to symbolize the Buddha’s purity whereas the glass symbolizes the Buddha’s wisdom that “shines brightly over all the Earth and Universe.” As you make your way to the chapel, notice the small semicircle just before the bridge; it represents the human world. The bigger circle with fangs is the mouth of Rahu; impurities of the mind, hell or suffering. What is striking to all visitors are the outstretched arms on the floor, as if calling out for help. The bridge represents the crossing over from the cycle of rebirth to the “Abode of the Buddha”. At the end of the bridge are several statues of the Buddha sitting on a lotus encircled by various spirits.

    Take notice of the chapel’s roof. Here you will find four kinds of animals representing one of the four elements. The elephant stands for earth, the naga serpent stands for water, the swan’s wings represent wind, and the lion’s mane represents fire. Once inside the chapel, there is a dramatic contrast of colors. The murals on all four walls, ceiling, and floor contain vivid colors and golden tones. The achievements of mankind and the Buddha’s journey to enlightenment are depicted using a combination of Thai and contemporary design. You may find it bizarre to find iconic characters from cartoons (Spiderman) and films (Predator alien), as well as objects (spaceship), inside a temple.

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    theTripPacker •  September 09, 2014
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    theTripPacker •  September 09 , 2014

    If all this doesn’t surprise you enough, ask for the restrooms. You will be directed to the golden colored building. What waits inside is for you and your bladder to find out. Once you’ve made your round of the temple, take a look at Chalermchai’s works inside the gallery. You can find postcard versions in the gift shop on your way out.

    Depending on your artistic preference and religious views, you may or may not find the temple and its conceptual elements aesthetically pleasing, but the temple is still nonetheless an amazing sight to see. The workmanship and attention to detail required in constructing the temple alone is quite a feat. If ever you’re in Chiang Rai, don’t forget to visit the White Temple of North Thailand.

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    theTripPacker •  September 09, 2014

    Editor's Comment

    • Strong point:
    • The intricacy of the temple’s design, the contemporary murals, and the elements of Buddhist principles are some of the features that make this temple more than just a religious institute, but a work of art as well.
    • Weak point:
    • The temple is packed with visitors during the weekend or holidays. Taking photos becomes a problem because you’ll have plenty of people in the background.
    • Conclusion:
    • Depending on your artistic preference and religious views, you may or may not find the temple and its conceptual elements aesthetically pleasing, but the temple is still nonetheless an amazing sight to see. The workmanship and attention to detail required in constructing the temple alone is quite a feat.
    Score
    • Posts-5
    theTripPacker •  September 09 , 2014

    General Info

    Address : Wat Rong Khun, Pa O Don Chai Sub-district, Mueang District, Chiang Rai 57000

    GPS : 19.824130, 99.763850

    Contact : 053 673 579, 053 673 967

    Website : www.วัดร่องขุ่น.comhttp://www.watrongkhun.org/

    Facebook : http://on.fb.me/rJYWwo

    Opening Hrs. : Open every day from 06.30- 18.00

    Best time : Early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler (also a good time for photographers to take photos).

    Highlight : Everything

    Activities : Sight-seeing/ Praying/ Photography

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    theTripPacker •  September 09 , 2014

    How to get there

    To get to the temple, drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai on Pahonyothin Rd. or Route 1. About 13 kilometers before you reach Chaing Rai town, turn left onto Route 1028 and drive towards Khunkorn Waterfall. The temple will be on your left.

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    theTripPacker •  September 09, 2014
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    theTripPacker •  September 09, 2014