Sights at the White Temple complex, Chiang Rai, Thailand
This is probably the No. 1 tourist site in Chiang Rai and we can see why. It is absolutely amazing. I found the following description for it ...
"The White Temple is a stunning contemporary Buddhist temple and art exhibit designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, symbolizing purity with its white exterior and glass reflections, representing the Buddha's wisdom and journey to enlightenment ... with a bridge signifying the path from Hell to Nirvana." Apparently, the artist funded the entire complex on his own.
We liked it for the architecture, statues, and definitely interesting artwork. Temple is a misnomer - it's more like a huge complex with a number of other sights worth visiting - such as the Golden Temple, the Art Cave (an extra 50 Baht but well worth it), numerous smaller buildings and 2-3 museums. Two museums featured the artist's works and they were amazing - but no photography at all is allowed and they are strict about that - what a bummer. The Art Cave was a very pleasant surprise. Take your time, use your mobile phone's flashlight, and check out all the weirdness on the walls that most people don't even notice.
For 100 Baht entrance fee ($3 USD) this place was well worth it. Get there early, like right at opening time, before the tour buses arrive and it turns into a zoo.
Sights at the White Temple complex, Chiang Rai, Thailand
This is probably the No. 1 tourist site in Chiang Rai and we can see why. It is absolutely amazing. I found the following description for it ...
"The White Temple is a stunning contemporary Buddhist temple and art exhibit designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, symbolizing purity with its white exterior and glass reflections, representing the Buddha's wisdom and journey to enlightenment ... with a bridge signifying the path from Hell to Nirvana." Apparently, the artist funded the entire complex on his own.
We liked it for the architecture, statues, and definitely interesting artwork. Temple is a misnomer - it's more like a huge complex with a number of other sights worth visiting - such as the Golden Temple, the Art Cave (an extra 50 Baht but well worth it), numerous smaller buildings and 2-3 museums. Two museums featured the artist's works and they were amazing - but no photography at all is allowed and they are strict about that - what a bummer. The Art Cave was a very pleasant surprise. Take your time, use your mobile phone's flashlight, and check out all the weirdness on the walls that most people don't even notice.
For 100 Baht entrance fee ($3 USD) this place was well worth it. Get there early, like right at opening time, before the tour buses arrive and it turns into a zoo.