Wat Rung Khun Chiangrai, also called White Temple in Thailand.

Some of the best of traditional art and culture of Thailand can be witnessed in the city of Chiang Rai, which is in the northernmost portion of Thailand. One of the most popular attractions near Chiangrai, about five km to the south, is the gorgeous White Temple, called Wat Rung Khun (Thai: วัดร่องขุ่น). This is not just an attraction of Chiang Rai, but a real piece of Art and also an attraction for the entire nation. This is one of the popular and well respected temples in Thailand that attracts a huge number of tourists all year through.

What makes Wat Rung Khun different from other temples is its stunning construction designed in white. The entire construction of the temple is made up of glowing white color with embedded mirror glass mosaics. The main intention for the construction of this White temple was to reflect the purity of Lord Buddha. One of the most respected artists of Thailand, Chalermchai Kositpipat was the initiator of this construction that started in 1997. The construction is referred as the master work of the artist who developed it as his contribution to the nation and Lord Buddha. They are still working to add differents parts to this magnificient temple.

Entrance. This picture was taken in 2006 and
you can see only ONE giant-like figure on the left.

The main entrance of Wat Rung Khun gives a different kind of experience. There are two huge giant-like figures at the entrance, and they look quite scary. While moving towards the floor, the grasping hands will catch the attention. The hands are outstretched and look as if to be pleading. The art work is definitely a master craftsmanship and one cannot stop raving about it, which depicts the hell and the suffering of people out there.

Next, you need to climb the bridge to access the main hall of the temple. While reaching there, you will observe that a big pond with love fountain and beautiful white fishes that encircle you. This portion of the temple bears huge significance as well. The pond here means Si Tarndon, which is the river that separates heaven from the ordinary world.

While reaching the end-point of the bridge, you will witness the calming effect. Here you can see the various sculptures of Lord Buddha doing meditation in a lotus, which is covered by different spirits.

The main hall of the White Temple is very different from its external appearance. Where the outer portion of Wat Rung Khun is glittering white showcasing the purity of Lord Buddha, the inner portion of the main hall displays the Buddha Altars inside of the chapel of golden flame. You will be mesmerized to see the stories and teachings of Buddhism on the walls, described in a modern style. It is completely contrasting to the outside appearance as you will find the messages of Buddha are told by the larger than life icons of present times.

Wat Rung Khun is still not complete yet, and it will take few more years. Upon completion, it is expected to include nine buildings- the ubosot (chapel), hermitage, pagoda, preaching hall, monastery hall, crematorium, pavilion, museum, and rest room.