Joanna James
Thailand is indeed a land of temples. In Chiang Rai, you will find dozens of such unique sites scattered all across the city. If you are lost regarding which ones to visit here is a guide to the most unique you will find there.
This temple is known as the 'White Temple' is one of the definite highlights in the city. The almost entirely white temple structure is exquisite and is a far cry from the traditional Buddhist temples you would encounter in Thailand. One of the highlights is the bridge that leads you to the temple environs; it is surrounded by the hands of the fallen who have found themselves in the hells. Interestingly unlike any other Buddhist temple, the walls have paintings of pop culture icons as well!
This spectacular temple is called the 'Blue Temple'. The temple name means 'tigers jumping over the channel 'as the tigers living close to the temple used to leap over the water channels. The exterior of the temple has a deep blue colour and is meant to symbolise the skies. Many frescoes that depict the life of the Buddha adorn the walls. An entrance fee is required for foreigners to visit this temple.
This temple site is immersed in local belief. It is thought that ancient spirits had made the temple their home before Buddhism arrived in the area. The spirits are believed to now co-exist within the temple grounds. The main pagoda of the temple is a blend of the artistic style of Lanna and Bhu-Ka from old Burma. This temple is also remembered for the elephant that had roamed off when King Paw Kuhn Meng Rai was watching it. The elephant appeared on the solitary hill near the river bank on Doi Chom Thong
This is one of the initial temples built in Chiang Rai. It is said to imitate the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodhgaya, India. The outside of the temple depicts various sculpted forms. Some of these have survived and is one of the main attractions on the temple grounds. While many parts are missing some details of the figures is still visible. There is a cavernous hall in the square base of the structure, it may not be the most pleasant to visit, due to sulphurous smells. The hall was built in the fifteenth century in honour of hosting the Eighth World Buddhist Council, it is not well maintained and overtime decay has set in.
This is a beautiful temple and is famous for holding a large number of relics of the Buddha. The best highlight of the temple is the two new bell-shaped stupas built in Lanna style. Further on one will come across a viewpoint with stunning views of lush greenery overlooking the temple. At the entrance, one will come across a white statue of well-known Buddhist monk Ven Kruba Sri Wichai. Interesting sculpture can be found all across the temple environs, the perfect place for an art lover who wants to contemplate the meaning of life! One can find many boutique hotel in Chiang Rai, try places like Hotel Sooknirund to explore all these amazing temples
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
