The White Temple

As your driving up to Wat Rong Khun it becomes evident how it got it’s english name.

No Parking Poles

Once you get even closer you start to see that this is not your ordinary Temple. A contemporary and unconventional art exhibit in the style of a Buddist Temple. Owned by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a succesful Thai businessman who opened it to visitors in 1997.

Pathway to the Ubosot

Why white? This temple stands out through the white color and use of pieces of glass that sparkle in the sun. The white color signifies the purity of Buddha while the glass symbolizes Buddha’s wisdom.

Approaching cycle of rebirth bridge

To get to the Ubosot (Ordination Hall) you walk a bridge passing over a small pond and hundreds of hands reaching upward.

Reaching Up

The outreaching hands symbolize unrestrained desire. The bridge proclaims that the way to happiness is by foregoing temptation, greed and desire.

Face on a hand

You feel as if these hands are reaching up from hell and makes you think about doing right from wrong and leading a respectful life.

Mural inside the Ordination Hall

Inside the Ubosot or Ordination Hall the decor switches to fiery golds and reds in a very non traditional feel. Images of Freddy Kruger, Terminator, nuclear warfare and terrorist attacks signify the destructive impact that humans have had on Earth.

Skull detail on the fences

Within the grounds there are many points of interest, continuing the theme of good or bad within the world we live.

Fence detail

There are several trees with Villain heads hanging from the branches

Villains

Life size robot statue sitting on a bench in front of the temple

From the slightly bizzare items to more traditional temple points of interest it does make you think about life in a different way.

Saying a prayer at the wish makers

For a small price you can purchase a beaded aluminum wish maker and write your wish on it.

My wish

Definately one of the more unique Temples in Thailand and very much worth a visit when in northern Thailand.