Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai
Wat Rong Khun is a majestic modern Buddhist Temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was designed and funded by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a famous Thai artist.
Photo by Pinky Kulada
Wat Rong Khun is a product of great devotion and inspiration towards the sacred teachings of Buddhism. Indeed, the artist might have been taken to heavenly heights as the Wat Rong Khun temple in Chaing Rai can take anyone into an out of this world experience.
The temple attracts numerous local and international tourists. Once seen in photographs, one cannot resist but to see the temple personally the time he gets a chance. Nobody would want to miss the magical feeling of the temple. It is sparkling white and looks enchanting under the moonlight. The temple is fronted by water as if to separate heaven from earth. An elaborate bridge connects the temple to the land. It is believed that the water represents the obstacles that one might surpass in order to reach the nirvana which is offered in the temple. In simpler words, humans must struggle to find the better meaning of his existence.
The whiteness of the temple signifies the purity of the Lord Buddha. The white-hued glass reflects even more light to the surrounding area which parallels the wisdom that brightens the humanity as well as the entire universe. The design of the temple is utterly amazing. It has delicate curves and very artistic sculptures. When you cross the bridge you will be stunned by the pleading hands of men suffering from hell. There are Buddha sculptures in meditation on a lotus while surrounded by different spirits. You can also see giant figures along the bridge.
Inside the temple are awesome paintings glittering in shades of gold. The wall, the ceiling and the floor are also painted showing the mysterious as well as the frightening effects of sin and transgression. The paintings are loud suggestions of deep consciousness, reflection of one’s behavior and motives. There are a number of Buddha altars which are bathing in golden lights and surrounded by golden things.
At the roof, there are four animal sculptures representing the four elements. An elephant symbolizes the earth. A naga or a serpent represents water. Fire is characterized by a manned lion and the wings of a swan represent the element of the wind.
A visit to Wat Rong Khun Temple in Chiang Rai is not only for a mystical experience. It is also to cause awareness of one’s existence and a continuous search for ways to become a better person.
Note: This amazing picture of the temple Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai came No 2 of our Photo Contest Amaze Me Thailand 2011. The picture is taken by Pinky Kulada.
