Overview:

is a contemporary, unconventional and stunning Buddhist temple complex located in Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. It was designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat in 1997 and remains incomplete to this day. Wat Rong Khun, or the White Temple, is widely known for its shimmering white color and handcrafted details. Every aspect of the Wat Rong Khun is symbolic, from the colors, to the shapes, to the use of traditional Buddhist imagery. The Wat Rong Khun is meant to serve as a place of meditation and spiritual refuge, inspiring visitors to reflect on the Buddhist teachings of True Wisdom and Perfect Virtue. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Unique Architecture – Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is a stunning example of an unconventional Thai temple, with its unusually white color and pieces of glass embedded in its exterior. It stands out from traditional Buddhist temples due to its surreal flair. 2. Intricate Details – The interior of the White Temple is decorated with hundreds of hand-painted murals, sculptures, and reliefs of Thai mythology and Buddhist teachings. 3. Spiritual Connection – The temple is meant to serve as a link between the human and divine realms, with Buddhists believing in its power to connect with the gods and become closer to enlightenment. 4. Ancient Relics – Inside the temple is a replica of the Emerald Buddha, a sacred ancient relic that symbolizes success and good fortune. 5. Grand Hall – The Hall of the White Temple is massive, with its main hall ceiling reaching over 40 feet in height and featuring an awe-inspiring blend of white, gold, and mirrored walls. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is a contemporary art-filled Buddhist temple complex located in Baan Rong Khun, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Construction of the 'White Temple' began in 1997 by renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Kositpipat is a local from Chiang Rai and drew his inspiration from Buddhist and Hindu teaching. It is unique as it has a blend of modern and traditional Thai art and architecture. The White Temple stands as a noticeable landmark in the Chiang Rai area and is one of the must-visit places in Thailand. The temple is distinguished by its white color, hence its name. The walls of the temple and the grounds hold a plethora of sculptures and murals depicting various ancient mythological scenes as well as modern pop culture references. The main building of the temple consists of nine interconnected buildings made of white concrete. Ornamental stucco designs and intricate mosaic covers the walls of the temple complex. On the outside of the building, visitors can witness a variety of sculptures, such as an alabaster hands coming out of the base of the structure, reaching towards the sky, as well as giant hands acting like 'gatekeepers’. Wat Rong Khun is constantly changing and evolving as Kositpipat continues to add his artworks to the existing structure. He was inspired to create Wat Rong Khun after his failed attempt to restore the 700 year old Chiang Rai’s oldest temple, Wat Luang Phor Lamai. As of 2019, Kositpipat is planning to build a 'Mirror Palace' surrounded by reflecting pools, a bridge, a toilets building, and a museum to further enhance the architecture of the White Temple. The White Temple is the biggest single attraction in Chiang Rai and thousands of visitors from all over the world come to admire the beauty and intricate design of the White Temple. Wat Rong Khun is open to all visitors at no cost and the entire project is funded solely by Kositpipat himself, however donations are welcome. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is a contemporary Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand. 2. This iconic temple was designed and built in 1997 by the Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. 3. It features traditional Buddhist mural designs, as well as some relatively modern, even avant-garde, designs. 4. Its stark white color stands out in stark contrast to the adjacent golden temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, and it often appears dazzlingly bright in certain light conditions. 5. Despite its physical beauty, Wat Rong Khun is also a reminder of the spiritual lessons of Buddhism as its architecture and symbolism allude to Buddha’s Four Noble Truths. 6. It has an incredible collection of fountains, ponds, and statues. 7. The temple also features mythological creatures such as the ogres and creatures from the Hindu epic, Ramayana. 8. Wat Rong Khun was closed from 2005 to 2008 for renovation work. 9. It is considered as one of the most unique looking temples in Thailand. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.