Wat Rong Khun is 15kms south of the northern town of Chiang Rai. Although it follows the same general outline as a standard temple, it differs significantly in that it is finished in a brilliant white and is adorned with literally thousands of statues and bas reliefs.
There are representations of mythical Hindu deities plus ones themed on the likes of nuclear warfare and Harry Potter. Nobody could ever accuse the brains behind the project, artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, of not having a creative mind.
The bridge at what most people refer to as the White Temple is marked by images of grasping hands and Kinnaree birdmen. The bridge represents the entrance to heaven. On the other side is the main chapel which is currently closed for safety reasons as it was damaged by an earthquake in May 2014.
Farther into the temple compound there is an art gallery with some exhibits for sale. There is a great choice of knick-knack and souvenir stores on both sides of the road near the entrance. The White Temple is barely 50 metres from AH2 This road is the main northbound highway from Bangkok to Lampang, Chiang Rai and Maesai.
Buses running along this highway will drop passengers off at the White Temple. 12GO sells tickets for buses on this route as well as to other principal destinations in Thailand.
Journeying to Chiang Rai’s iconic White Temple
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The architectural style and outer décor of Thailand’s signature temples does not vary too much over the length and breadth of the country. Typical features are whitewashed walls and sweeping, multi-tiered red roofs. The walls are inlaid with the likes of mosaic patterns and gaily painted window shutters.