Joanna James
A unique and different type of temple from what you will usually encounter in Thailand, the White Temple is a beautiful sight. There is a lot of symbolism behind its appearance. Read on to find out more.
Unlike the rest of the temples in Thailand which are ornately decorated in gold and precious gems and metal-work, this temple is resplendent in white. The reason for the white is to reflect the purity of virtue of the Buddha. Every single aspect of the temple structure is in brilliant white! The spectacular construction and layout of the White Temple is the creation of Thai artist, Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat, who funded its construction. He is a native of the city of Chiang Rai, where the temple is located.
Chalermchai Kositpipat is another famous Thai artist, who is devoted to renovating and keep improving the White Temple. Which is recognised by the locals as Wat Rong Khun.
The decorative elements seen within the temple carries with it a symbolic message. From the creatures who act as guardians to the various deities, all of which presents a common theme. Escaping the samsaric cycle of birth and death through the elimination of greed, hatred and delusion, with the help of the Buddha's teaching. Visitors perhaps won't notice at first view but the White Temple has several roofs. Spurred by the conventional styles of Buddhist temple tradition in Thailand, the construction has a three-tiered rooftop. It is adorned with extraordinarily elaborate Naga serpents. It is a magnificent sight from a distance and up close.
The restroom however is not white, and it is perhaps the most beautiful you have ever seen in your life! The building structure is plated entirely in gold. The decorations are exquisite and richly ornamental, true to Thai architectural styles. The gold carries symbolic meaning as well, it is meant to depict the worldly desires of common people that keep them entrapped in the cycle of birth and death.
The interior artwork of the temple departs from tradition in another way. The artwork includes famous historical and cultural icons, such as Michael Jackson, Spiderman, Hello Kitty and even Darth Vader! These are interspaced with depictions of demons and the fires of hell. Many tragic scenes in history are portrayed as well. The exact meaning behind it is unknown, some reckon it is to show the futility of the obsessions of the human species.
On the 5th of May in 2012 an earthquake hit Thailand's Mae Lao District of the Chiang Rai Province. Nevertheless, after being examined by a team of builders, it was declared that the temple had no significant damages to its structure. The temple was soon enough opened to the people for visits Accommodation in Chiang Rai is very good, you may find quite a lot of boutique hotel in Chiang Rai. Places like Hotel Sooknirund come well recommended.
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.
