Anastasia Smith
As the location of some of Thailand's most breathtaking temples and religious sites, Chiang Rai can rightly be described as a city of temples. From iconic Lanna style edifices to more modern architectural masterpieces, here's a rundown of the top temples to explore in this northern province.
Famously known as Chiang Rai's iconic White Temple, Wat Rong Khun is a modern temple that has re-imagined what a religious compound can encompass. As a building project that's still ongoing in spite of its grand scale and existing resplendence, the White Temple is the passion project of local artist and architect Chalermchai Kositpipat. The ornate carvings and elaborate murals featured in various areas of this large complex is what keeps devotees enchanted as they can gaze upon some of Buddhist philosophy's edicts showcased and illustrated using art installation-style sculptures. Located just a few miles away from the heart of Chiang Rai, no trip to northern Thailand would be complete without a tour of this unique spiritual epicentre.
As one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong is an unassumingly simple pagoda at first glance. Ranked among the oldest structures in the city, legends state that the temple actually pre-dates the founding of Chiang Rai. Boasting classic Lanna-style architectural features in its towering pagoda, the impressive height of the temple and its gold adorned pagoda can be seen for miles around, especially during the magical hour of sunset. Located near the Kok River, the venue welcomes visitors from 6 am to 5 pm daily.
Wat Rong Suea Ten which is better known as Chiang Rai's Blue Temple is another must-visit point of interest that's not just reserved for the religiously inclined. The blue and gold hued temple which showcases conventional Lanna architectural features boasts interiors that are just as awe-inspiring as its shining exteriors. With the exception of the mammoth white Buddha sculpture that occupies the centre of the temple, all else inside the temple has been painted a shade of luminescent blue. The best time to visit this popular tourist attraction is during the early morning hours as hundreds of tourists and pilgrims descend on the temple as the day goes on.
Travellers based at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort or any similar resorts will find that few activities in Chiang Rai are as engaging as climbing up to see the Giant Buddha at Wat Huay Pla Kang. Towering above the surrounding landscapes at a height of 100m, the massive Buddha statue and the temple it's contained in is also one of the best lookout points in Chiang Rai. Ideally situated close to Ban Huay Pla Kung, this temple is open to visitors from 7 am to 9.30 pm.
Arguably the most atmospheric and mystical edifice among Chiang Rai's temples, Wat Phra Kaew sets itself apart from similar places of worship thanks to the plants and foliage that define its location. The red and gold coloured temple is also a free attraction tourist can explore in Chiang Rai despite the fact that the venue is home to countless relics and artifacts of historic significance dating back to the golden age of the Lanna Kingdom.
