Blue Temple Chiang Rai – A Masterpiece in Blue and Gold
The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) is an incredible, magical space – like entering another dimension! Stepping inside feels like entering another world entirely!
It’s a recent addition to the local landscape, having only been built in 2016. Also known as “Dancing Tiger Temple”, as it stands on an abandoned temple where tigers once roamed freely.
The Ethereal Blue Facade
Blue Temple stands out with its vibrant blue hues and intricate golden accents that transform its interior into something out of a fairy tale. At its center is a large white Buddha statue in Bhumisparsha mudra position, which represents enlightenment; surrounding this statue are colorful nagas and deities each telling their own unique tale. As its popularity increases it is becoming part of many guided tours in Chiang Rai; to ensure you visit in peace however book your tickets in advance as it can get very crowded quickly!
Though only recently opened, Thailand’s Blue Temple has already made an enormous impactful on Thailand’s tourism industry. Once only visited by locals, now it draws visitors from all over the globe and causes changes to its surrounding environment such as new structures being constructed both before and behind its main building. But perhaps most noticeable of all has been an increase in visitors to this popular attraction.
Reminding visitors that a temple is still a place of worship is key and should be treated accordingly. Visitors should adhere to several rules when visiting, including no hugging or kissing and being silent. Furthermore, dressing appropriately and covering up is highly encouraged – as many local Buddhist people come here to pray and must be shown respect at all times.
The Blue Temple may be small compared to its more well-known siblings White and Black Temples, but its growing reputation makes it worth visiting for any travelers in the region who seek something a bit out of the ordinary.
Reaching the Blue Temple is relatively straightforward. Grabs or taxis may work, though it’s best to use a ride-sharing app with flat rates for long-distance trips (such as InDriver or Grab). Tuk tuks may also be available outside the temple and cost approximately 100 Baht per person.
The Intricate Sculptures
Not only is the Blue Temple beautiful in terms of hue; every surface features intricately detailed designs and ornaments that make it one of Chiang Rai’s most captivating temples for art enthusiasts. Glinting gold accents add an air of luxury, further contributing to its aesthetic charm.
Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of Thailand’s premier artists, is best known for combining traditional Buddhist symbolism with contemporary artistic expression in his signature work – Blue Temple. Its meticulous design and decor are testament to his dedication and craftsmanship.
Wat Rong Suea Ten, commonly referred to as its main building, boasts a striking facade decorated with golden spires and intricate motifs, symbolizing purity while wisdom respectively in Buddhist philosophy. Additionally, two statues depicting Kinnaras–half-man/half-bird creatures found throughout Thai folklore–stand on either side of its main structure.
Visit the Blue Temple at just the right time, and you may witness an astounding sight as the sun’s rays reflect off its white facade and illuminate it with an intoxicating glow reminiscent of fairytale. Each shade and hue stands in contrast against each other for an incredible scene reminiscent of fairy tale.
Inside the temple is equally remarkable, featuring a breathtaking Bhumisparsha Mudra pose symbolizing when Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Additionally, you’ll find exquisite pillars decorated with various patterns and ornaments; paintings depicting scenes from Buddha’s life can also be found.
At the Blue Temple, visitors are permitted to take pictures in most parts. Please respect monks’ privacy by not entering certain sections. It’s a beautiful attraction worth revisiting regularly to witness its evolution over time – much like visiting White and Black Temples when traveling through Chiang Rai.
The Spectacular Surroundings
If you’re searching for Chiang Rai’s most vibrant and colorful temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) should be on your itinerary. Just recently completed, this recently opened structure has recently gained attention and can now be seen on many guided tours from Chiang Mai. But if you prefer exploring independently from Chiang Rai it can easily be visited within one day by yourself without hassle from taking tours.
The Blue Temple is an architectural beauty from every angle, yet what truly sets it apart are its breathtaking surroundings. Nestled at the edge of a lake, this temple truly makes an impactful statement about nature’s power to mesmerize visitors. Two naga serpents painted blue and gold guard the entrance – these creatures represent semi-divine beings who may sometimes take human forms.
Once you pass through the nagas you’ll arrive in front of a massive white Buddha sitting in the main hall and in Bhumisparsha Mudra position which signifies his moment of enlightenment. This attraction should not be missed while visiting Chiang Rai, and you are sure to get some fantastic photographs here! The Blue Temple is definitely worth your time for those visiting Chiang Rai as you’ll certainly get great photo opps here!
Keep a keen eye out as you walk through a temple for details and designs that you might otherwise miss. Keep in mind that this is a place of worship; although photography may be allowed, visitors should remember this is still a place of prayer and should respect its visitors by not being too loud or inappropriate – touching statues or other items within the temple would be considered disrespectful and dress appropriately as with all religious sites in Thailand – covering at least your shoulders and knees when covering yourself up.
Photography Paradise
No wonder the Blue Temple Chiang Rai is such an irresistible photograph-taking destination! Its serene blue hues symbolize purity and wisdom while intricate golden accents add an extravagant feel. Together these components create an eye-catching architectural masterpiece which attracts both religious devotees and art enthusiasts.
For optimal photographs, be sure to visit when the sun is directly overhead; its illumination will cast shadows onto sculptures while emphasizing gold detailing. Also consider visiting in the morning when it will likely be less crowded.
When visiting the Blue Temple, make sure you bring along a wide-angle lens as there are so many details you won’t want to miss! As you stroll the grounds and check out other buildings, don’t forget to keep an eye out for any hidden treasures such as an unassuming small temple in the middle of a pathway or an oddly-posed sculpture with its dress twirled around its waist – these might just be among your treasured finds!
Putha Kabkaeu, a student of White Temple architect Chalermchai Kositpipat, designed the Blue Temple. Both temples share similar designs; both contain elements that add contemporary artistry while still upholding tradition.
Both the Blue and White Temples in Thailand are newly-constructed temples built upon existing ones, an increasingly common trend that allows for the preservation of historical structures while adding fresh design elements that attract visitors.
Though its stunning blue facade may draw most people in, what really stands out about the Blue Temple is its interior. Marvelous murals depict scenes from Buddhist scripture as well as modern pop culture references; such fusion of tradition and modern artistic expression is hallmark of Chalermchai’s craftsmanship and truly sets this temple apart.
The Blue Temple has quickly become one of the top attractions on many guided tours, so for an easy experience book a tour through a local company – they will arrange transportation as well as visits to White Temple and Black House!