Wat Rong Khun is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai. It is popularly known as the White Temple on account of its pure whiteness. The temple was the brainchild of famous Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, whose patrons included King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Work on Wat Rong Khun began in 1998, and is expected to be completed in 2008.
Wat Rong Khun is very different from most other Buddhist temples because of that very whiteness which seems to cover everything. Chalermchai Kositpipat used whiteness to symbolize Buddha's purity. White glass is also used, to symbolize Buddha's wisdom as it shrines over all the earth.
Inside Wat Rong Khun are murals which are not white, but rather, given golden tones. These murals carry the theme of escape from temptation, a common Buddhist motif, to reach a supramundane state. On the roof are sculptures of four different beasts, the elephant symbolizing earth, the naga symbolizing water, the swan's wings represent wind, and the lion's mane represent fire. Chalermchai Kositpipat built the temple at his own expense as a gesture of merit, a common act in Buddhism.
As at time of writing (November 2008), Wat Rong Khun is still under construction. When completed, it would comprise nine buildings. .
What to see
Wat Rong Khun is a plain red brick gate with stout doors. As seen from its good state of repair, it is a modern reconstruction rather than the actual.
Getting there
Wat Rong Khun is located on the west end of the kilomter-long Tha Phae Road.
Chiang Rai is a moderate-size town. When selecting budget accommodation in Chiang Rai, I would recommend looking for a place near the town centre, so as to be able to explore more easily. For places outside the town centre, such as Wat Rong Khun, it may be advisable to get a tuk tuk. To find accommodation, go through the list of Chiang Mai hostels to pick one.
Location of Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Mai
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