Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Chiang Rai

Wat Rong Khun is considered one of the most significant religious sites in Chiang Rai Province. It was designed and constructed by Ajahn Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned Thai painter known for his diverse works of traditional Thai art. In 2011 (B.E. 2554), he was honored as a National Artist in the field of visual arts (painting). With devotion, he created this magnificent temple as an offering to the Buddha, intending it to be a heavenly place on Earth that humans could experience. The temple also serves as a reminder for people to practice Dhamma and lead virtuous lives.

History of Wat Rong Khun

When Ajahn Chalermchai returned to his hometown of Rong Khun Village in Chiang Rai, he noticed that the original “Wat Rong Khun,” built by the previous generation, had fallen into severe disrepair. This inspired him to rebuild the temple using modern art styles suited to Thailand, under the benevolent reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). He also wanted to create a grand artistic masterpiece to leave as a legacy for his homeland. Construction began in 1997 (B.E. 2540), with Ajahn Chalermchai dedicating his life and savings from over 20 years of selling his artwork to this final project.

Inside Wat Rong Khun

The most striking feature of Wat Rong Khun is the “Ubosot” (ordination hall), which stands out due to its unique architecture and intricate design. Unlike other temples, the Ubosot is predominantly white, symbolizing the purity of the Buddha’s virtues. The shimmering glass pieces embedded throughout represent the radiant wisdom of the Buddha, illuminating both the human world and the universe.

The Bridge: Symbolizes crossing the cycle of Samsara (the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth) toward Buddhahood. Before reaching the bridge, there is a small semicircular path representing the human world, while the larger circle with sharp teeth represents the mouth of Mara (or Rahu), symbolizing inner defilements and hellish suffering. To enter the presence of the Buddha, one must mentally release their cravings and impurities, allowing their mind to become pure before crossing the bridge.
Roof Design: The roof incorporates three essential principles of mental cultivation: morality (Sila), concentration (Samadhi), and wisdom (Panna), leading to emptiness (liberation).
- Main Spire (Chofa): Represents Sila and consists of four creatures symbolizing the elements: earth (elephant), water (Naga), wind (swan wings), and fire (chest). Above the main spire is a stupa, symbolizing various levels of precepts such as the Five Precepts, Eight Precepts, Ten Precepts, 227 Monastic Rules, and the 84,000 Dhamma teachings.
- Second Spire: Represents Samadhi, depicted by two mythical beings—a Naga and a swan. The Naga’s fangs symbolize evil within humans, while the swan represents goodness. When the mind conquers defilements through moral discipline, concentration arises, leading to mindfulness and wisdom.
- Third Spire (Highest Level): Represents Panna (wisdom) and is depicted by a swan-headed Garuda lying calmly without desire, aiming for the complete extinction of internal defilements. The seven patterns at the tail of the third spire represent the Seven Factors of Enlightenment, while the eight patterns supporting the umbrella symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path. The umbrella itself represents Nirvana. Additionally, the decorative motifs along the eaves of the top roof symbolize the Ten Fetters, and the four corner pillars outside the Ubosot are flags (Tung) offered as a tribute to the Buddha according to Lanna tradition.
Murals Inside the Ubosot: The interior walls, ceiling, and floor are adorned with stunning golden murals painted by Ajahn Chalermchai. These depict liberation from worldly desires and the journey toward transcendence. The roof design reflects the three stages of mental training—morality, concentration, and wisdom—used to guide the creation of these artworks.

Visitors should not miss the opportunity to admire these exquisite murals inside the Ubosot, which convey profound spiritual messages about overcoming defilements and achieving enlightenment. The murals, painted by Ajahn Chalermchai, are a masterful blend of traditional Buddhist teachings and contemporary imagery, depicting the eternal struggle between good and evil, virtue and vice. Scenes from the life of the Buddha are interwoven with modern symbols, such as popular movie characters and global events, creating a unique visual narrative that resonates with both spiritual seekers and casual observers. These murals serve as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of worldly desires and the importance of cultivating inner peace, wisdom, and compassion.

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Chiang Rai

History of Wat Rong Khun

Inside Wat Rong Khun

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