White Temple

Introduction Of White Temple

The White Temple Thailand is also known as “Wat Rong Khun” and is a current Buddhist temple located in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was designed and built by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The temple is made of white concrete and is covered in complex shaping and sculptures. The main building of the temple is the ubosot. It is also the ordination hall. The ubosot is enclosed by a pond and a bridge, after crossing this bridge to reach the temple. The bridge is said to represent the path to knowledge and learning. The temple’s unique architecture and symbolism have been described in many different ways.

Some see it as a representation of Buddhist heaven, while others see it as a remark on the modern world. The temple has also been criticized by some for its unorthodox depiction of Buddhist imagery. Despite the controversy, the Wat Rong Khun White Temple remains a popular and important religious and cultural site in Thailand. It is a testimonial to the creativity and vision of Chalermchai Kositpipat, and it is a must-see for any visitor to Chiang Rai.

Important Information

The construction of the White Temple Chiang Rai began in 1997 and it is still going, as Chalermchai Kositpipat is continually expanding and renovating the temple over the years. The White Temple Chiang Rai, Thailand covers an area of approximately 12 acres (4.9 hectares). This includes the temple itself, as well as the surrounding grounds, which include a pond, a bridge, and other structures. The temple itself is approximately 60 meters (197 feet) long and 30 meters (98 feet) wide. 

The main building of the temple, the ubosot, is approximately 20 meters (66 feet) tall. The total worth of the Wat Rong Khun White Temple Chiang Rai, Thailand is difficult to estimate, as it is still under construction. However, it is estimated that the artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, has spent over 1 billion Thai baht (approximately $30 million USD) on the temple so far.

Location and Timing

The Wat Rong Khun White Temple Chiang Rai, Thailand address is as follows:-

Wat Rong Khun White Temple

Moo 1, Pa O Don Chai

Amphoe Mueang

Chiang Rai 57000

Thailand

The temple is open to visitors from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and there is a small entrance fee. The entrance fee for the White Temple Chiang Rai, Thailand is 50 Thai baht (approximately $1.50 USD) for foreign visitors. Thai nationals are admitted for free. Over millions of people visit Wat Rong Khun White Temple Thailand, each year.

Inside Spots:

• The Ubosot (Main Hall)

The ubosot of the white temple chiang rai Thailand is the main building of the temple and is considered to be the most holy building and also located in the center of the temple. Other buildings near the ubosot are the vihara (assembly hall), kuti (monks’ quarters), and chedi (stupa).

It is a white concrete building (only building in the temple compound that is allowed to have) with a three-tiered roof and complex designs and sculptures. The interior of the ubosot is decorated with paintings that portray scenes from the life of the Buddha. The paintings are also said to contain hidden messages and symbolism. 

The most important feature of the ubosot is the central Buddha image. It is made of white marble and is almost 5 meters tall. This is a place where Buddhist monks and nuns come to pray, worship, learn and for meditation. In ubosot the important Buddhist ceremonies are arranged, such as ordinations, funerals and weddings. The ubosot of the White Temple is a unique and beautiful work of art. It is an evidence of the creativity and vision of Chalermchai Kositpipat and it is a must-see for any visitor to the White Palace Thailand.

• The Bridge of “The Cycle of Rebirth”

The Bridge of White temple Chiang Rai is a symbolic bridge that leads the path to knowledge and awareness. It is located in front of the ubosot and every visitor must cross it to reach the central temple. The bridge is made of white concrete and in Buddha’s philosophy the white color is the symbol of purity and wisdom.

The length of the Bridge is approximately 100 meters (328 feet) and the width of the bridge is approximately 10 meters (33 feet).

The bridge design contains very meaningful elements like sculptures of hands and arms. And when we are crossing the bridge we notice sculptures of human hands reaching out from the water. These hands are the symbol of our inner desire, greed, attachments and wishes. But in Buddhist philosophy these are the source of sufferings. And when we pass over these sculptures, it means that we left our all desires and attachments behind and we are one step closer to our spiritual peace. It is another must see place for any visitor.

• The Gate Of Heaven

The Gate of Heaven at Wat Rong Khun White Temple is a symbolic gate that is the entrance to Buddhist heaven. It is located at the end of the Bridge and is guarded by two statues. One of Death and one of Rahu.

The statue of Death is approximately 5 meters (16 feet) tall and is made of white concrete. It is described as a skeletal figure wearing a black robe and holding a scythe in its right hand. The scythe is a symbol of death and which means that death comes for everyone, either they are rich or poor. The statue of Rahu is approximately 10 meters (33 feet) tall and is also made of white concrete. 

It is described as a half-human and half-snake creature with a huge mouth and sharp teeth. It is associated with eclipses and other sky events. In Buddhism, Rahu represents the mental sins/violations that keep people trapped in the cycle of rebirth.

The Gate of Heaven is a reminder that we all have potential to achieve peace if we are willing to work on ourselves and overcome the challenges that we face.

• The Golden Building

The Golden Building or Phra Phothi Nimit is a stunning golden building that houses a large Buddha statue. The Golden Building construction began in 2010 and is still under construction but it is open to visitors. The Golden Building is made of white concrete and is covered in gold leaf. The roof of the building is topped with a golden spire. The Buddha statue inside the building is over 9 meters (30 feet) tall and is made of white marble. Which is a symbol of purity and enlightenment.

This building is the symbol of the Buddhist teachings and it represents the purity and light of the Buddha. It is also a reminder of the importance of trance and prayer. The golden color shows the purity and brightness of the Buddha. 

Golden Building Visitors are greeted by a pair of golden lions alongside the entrance. The interior of the building is painted in a golden glow and the Buddha statue is truly amazing. The Golden Building is a unique and beautiful work of art. It is one of the most popular attractions at Chiang rai white temple and is a must see spot for any visitor.

• The Giant Murals

The murals are painted on the walls and ceilings of the temple buildings as well as on the ground and on the bridge. They are painted in many colors and they are all very detailed and realistic.

Some of the most famous murals at the White Temple:

• A mural of hell that describes modern-day figures such as George W. Bush, 
• Osama bin Laden, and Michael Jackson being tortured.
•  A mural of heaven that describes Buddhist monks and deities.
• A mural of the Buddha riding a motorcycle.
• A mural of a Coca-Cola can being poured into a monk’s bowl.
• A mural of a giant spider web that traps people from all walks of life.

Outside Spots

• The Golden Bridge

The Golden Bridge is a stunning bridge also known as the Bridge of the Golden Thread. The bridge is made of white concrete and is covered in gold leaf. It is decorated with complex shapes and sculptures and the railings are shaped like giant hands.The Golden Bridge construction began in 2009. The bridge was completed in 2015 and opened to the public in 2016. The bridge is approximately 100 meters (328 feet) long and is 10 meters (33 feet) wide.

The Golden Bridge is a symbol of the path to light. Its golden color represents the purity and light of the Buddha. The complex shapes and sculptures on the bridge represent the teachings of the Buddha. The hand-shaped railings represent the guidance of the Buddha. The bridge is also a symbol of the connection between heaven and earth. 

The bridge is a popular tourist attraction and is often photographed. It is also a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.

• The Silver Temple (Ubosot)

The Silver Temple (Ubosot) of white temple in Chiang Rai Thailand is an amazing silver building. The Silver Temple is made of white concrete and is covered in silver leaf. The Buddha statue inside the building is over 9 meters (30 feet) tall and is made of white marble. The Silver Temple construction began in 2004 and the building was completed in 2016 and opened to the public in the same year.

The interior of the Silver Temple is also unique. The walls and ceiling are decorated with murals that describe scenes from the life of the Buddha and from Buddhist mythology. The murals are painted in a variety of colors, and they are all very detailed and realistic. Visitors to the Silver Temple are greeted by a pair of silver lions alongside the entrance. The interior of the building is painted in a silvery glow, and the Buddha statue is truly amazing. 

• The Art Bridge

The Art Bridge at Wat Rong Khun  White Temple connects the temple grounds to the surrounding community. It is also known as the Bridge of the Golden Thread because it is painted gold. The bridge is approximately 100 meters (328 feet) long and 10 meters (33 feet) wide. It is decorated with different shapes and sculptures and the railings are shaped like giant hands. The Art Bridge construction began in 2009 and the bridge was completed in 2015 and opened to the public in 2016. 

In addition to its symbolism, the Art Bridge also serves a practical purpose. It provides a safe way for people to cross the busy road that separates the White Temple from the surrounding community. The bridge is surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds. Tourists can enjoy the views of the White Temple and the surrounding mountains.

In this blog I am discussing the third bridge. Despite their different ages, all three bridges share a common theme, they are all the representations of the Buddhism path to enlightenment. The Golden Bridge represents the purity of the Buddha, the Art Bridge connects the White Temple and the surrounding community and the Bridge of the Cycle of Rebirth represents to leave greed, attachments and desires behind in order to achieve peace.

• The Meditation Hall

The Meditation Hall is a beautiful and peaceful space where visitors can come to meditate. The hall is located in a separate area of the temple complex surrounded by gardens and ponds. Meditation Hall is a large white building with a traditional Thai roof. The interior of the hall is simple and tidy. There is a large Buddha statue in the center of the hall and cushions are available for visitors to sit on.

The Meditation Hall is a popular place for both Thai people and tourists to come to meditate. It is a quiet and peaceful place where people can come to relax and focus on their spiritual rehearsal and calm their minds to focus on the present moment. It is a way forward for inner peace and wisdom. Either you are Buddhist or belong to any religion, you are welcome to come and meditate for as long or as little as you like.

• The Wishing Well

The Wishing Well at the White Temple is a popular spot for tourists to make a wish. The well is located in the center of the temple complex. The Wishing Well is a large white well with a golden roof. Not exact but approximately the well is 10 meters deep and 5 meters in diameter.

The Wishing Well is a symbol of hope and dreams. It is a place where people ask for whatever they desire, whether it be for good health, financial success, or true love. To make a wish, visitors simply throw a coin into the well and make their wish. These coins collected from the Well are used to support the construction and maintenance of the White Temple. It is a tradition to throw three coins into the well. The first coin is to make a wish for yourself, the second coin is to make a wish for your loved ones and the third coin is to make a wish for the world.

• The Bell Tower

The White Temple Bell Tower is a beautiful and unique structure. The bell tower is made of white concrete and is topped with a golden bell, which is rung three times a day to signal the beginning of the morning, afternoon, and evening prayers. The bell tower is also a holy place for Buddhists as they come to ring the bell to make offerings to Buddha and ask for blessings.

Cafeteria and Restaurants

There are a number of restaurants and cafeterias available near the White Temple Thailand. 

Here are some most popular options:

• Khao Kwan Restaurant

If you want to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine then this restaurant is the right place for you. It is located just a short walk from the White Temple and offers a variety of dishes including pad Thai, green curry and massaman curry.

• Surf and Turf

A western restaurant that serves a variety of steaks, burgers, and seafood dishes. It also has a bar and offers a variety of cocktails and wines.

• Baan Chivitmai Bakery Cafe Restaurant

A cafe and restaurant that serves a variety of Thai and Western dishes. It also has a bakery and offers a variety of fresh baked foods.

• Connect Cafe

If you are a coffee lover then this cafe is the best choice for you. A cafe that serves a variety of coffee, tea, and smoothies. It also offers a variety of snacks and light meals.

If you are traveling from other country you can Book Hotel near White Temple online from here

Festivals and Events

There are a number of festivals and events that are held in White Temple throughout the year. Here are a few of the most popular Festivals and Events are:

• Light Fest

The White Temple Light Fest is an eye-catching light and sound show that is held every year from November to December. Over 100 laser projectors and 3D mapping techniques to highlight the temple and its neighboring grounds.

• Loy Krathong and Yi Peng

Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are two Thai festivals celebrated on the same night usually in November. People float small boats made of banana leaves and candles on rivers and lakes during Loy Krathong. During the Yi Peng festival people launch sky candles into the night sky. Visitors can participate in both festivities by floating a krathong or launching sky candles.

• Makha Bucha Day

Makha Bucha Day is a Buddhist holiday to remember the first preach that the Buddha gave to his followers. The holiday is celebrated every year in February or March.

• Songkran

It is the Thai New Year festival and is celebrated every year in April. Families and friends gathered to come and celebrate at the New Year. People throw water at each other to wash away bad luck and start the New Year with fresh intent.

• Visakha Bucha Day

It is a Buddhist holiday that celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha. This holiday is celebrated every year in May or June and it is a time for Buddhists to gather and reflect the Buddha’s teachings.

FAQs

Why is it called a temple?

It is called a “temple” because it’s a place of worship and devotion in Buddhism. It’s a holy site where people come to engage in religious practices.

Why is it called the White Temple?

The famous White Temple is known as “Wat Rong Khun” in Thailand. It is located in Chiang Rai. And it is often referred to as the “White Temple” due to its prominent white exterior. The whole temple, including its buildings, sculptures and artwork has a dominant white color scheme.

What religion is the White Temple?

The White Temple is a Buddhist temple, specifically of the Theravada Buddhist tradition, which is the dominant form of Buddhism in Thailand. 

It is a place of Buddhist worship.

Why was the White Temple made?

The White Temple was created as an offering to Lord Buddha and as a means of promoting Buddhism and Thai culture. It was designed to be a place of spiritual reflection, artistic expression, and cultural heritage.

Who could enter the White Temple?

The White Temple is open to visitors of all backgrounds and beliefs. It welcomes all who are interested in experiencing the beauty of art work and the scenes of its surroundings.

Why is the White Temple White?

White color symbolizes the purity, light and the peace that Buddhists seek to attain. White also represents the path of virtue and purity in Buddhist teachings.

What period was the White Temple built?

The construction of the White Temple began in 1997 and still continues. It is considered as an artistic masterpiece, blending traditional and modern elements.

Is the monk in White temple real?

The monk in the White Temple is a wax figure. It is located in the Ubosot and is seated cross legged with closed eyes. The figure is so realistic that many visitors mistake it for a real monk.

Can you go inside the White temple?

Yes, visitors are allowed to enter the White Temple and explore its interior, exterior, different art galleries and the Main Hall (Ubosot). However, it is important to note that photography is not allowed inside the ubosot. Visitors are also asked to dress respectfully when entering the temple. This means covering your shoulders and knees. You may also be asked to remove your shoes before entering the ubosot.

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