Discovering the Blue Temple in Chiang Rai
As its name implies, the Blue Temple boasts stunning sapphire blue hue. Inside it resembles an elaborate maze with intricate designs and golden-framed art hanging everywhere – almost creating the impression that everything inside has an interweaved pattern or design that brings life and colour into this extraordinary structure.
After an ancient temple that stood here was demolished by tigers nearly 100 years ago, this modern-day replica serves as a place to make merit and celebrate Buddhist events.
How to get there
Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as Chiang Rai’s Blue Temple, offers breathtaking architecture that combines ancient religious rituals with contemporary artistic design. Additionally, its less crowded nature makes it a worthwhile visit. If you want the most from your trip here, arrive before 9:00 am so as to avoid crowds of visitors!
Chiang Rai is easily reachable by public transport or tuk tuk; bus stations can be found nearby from which yellow songthaew (Thai:) leaves to take visitors to Wiang Kalong every hour; this journey should last around 2 hours and cost 100 baht per person.
Another option for visiting Chiang Rai is hiring a taxi from its main street; however, be mindful that this could take quite some time depending on traffic conditions and your negotiation skills. You should always carry with you both a map as well as contact details of any tuk tuk/taxi drivers you hire.
As soon as you step inside the temple, the first thing you’ll notice are two large statues depicting angel-like beings in turquoise hues, followed by an elegant fountain. Furthermore, its courtyard boasts many fascinating sculptures and carvings worth discovering as much as possible.
Within the ubosot, you’ll discover a serene Buddha and various statues, while its walls feature elaborate Buddhist art displayed within elaborate golden frames and patterns depicting his story. But the real gem here lies above your head – its ceiling presents an eye-catching kaleidoscopic spectacle of color sure to catch anyone’s attention!
Behind each Ubosot is a majestic white Buddha statue, representing tranquillity and wisdom. The entire temple offers stunning visuals for visitors to enjoy while relaxing or taking some photos.
Wat Rong Suea Ten is an ideal destination to experience Thailand in a different light, as its tranquil environment allows visitors to truly take in its incredible artwork while remaining peaceful. Unlike most Thai temples, this one doesn’t attract as much foot traffic and allows visitors to savor some peace and quiet while taking in its stunning artwork.
Getting there
The Blue Temple stands out as one of the more unusual Buddhist temples in Thailand and it’s well worth a visit. The name derives from its striking color – blue paint symbolizes tranquility, ascension and infinity – rather than any religious iconography or symbols found therein. Additionally, this unique structure boasts intricate golden details which truly set it apart from others in Chiang Rai where many tourists now join guided tours to experience it firsthand.
Chiang Rai bus services depart from the main city center and cost roughly 20 baht each way; alternatives to taking this method would include taxi or tuk-tuk rides from within Chiang Rai city itself, but these will likely be much more costly.
Once at the bus station, tell the driver you want to visit Wat Rong Suea Ten and they will inform you when and where to alight. Expect 30-40 minute ride that is both relaxing and comfortable.
As soon as you arrive, an admission fee must be paid before entering the temple. Inside its ubosot (ordination hall), visitors will find a giant Buddha statue in bhumisparsha mudra pose representing when Buddha achieved enlightenment.
Walls in an ubosot are decorated with intricate patterns and tales about Buddha’s life in modern artistic styles, along with blue and purple nagas that guard its entrance – meant to symbolize how divine force interacts with humanity on a daily basis.
When visiting the Blue Temple, remember it is a place of worship and be mindful that this should be treated accordingly. Dress appropriately and refrain from touching anything inside. Photos should also not be taken in front of Buddha statues without first consulting locals for advice on attire.
Visit the Blue Temple during morning hours when it’s less hot and crowds tend to be smaller; note however, the Blue Temple remains closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Inside the temple
The Blue Temple, completed in 2016, is an exciting new addition to Chiang Rai’s temple landscape. Offering less-crowded alternatives to White Temple, its interior boasts lavishly colored paintings and decorations which combine traditional religious values with modern art to make an unforgettable experience. It’s well worth paying it a visit!
As it is a place of worship, visitors should show proper courtesy toward both the area and statues within. No hugging, kissing or turning back from Buddha should take place as this would be considered very disrespectful. Furthermore, they are advised to remove their shoes before entering and try not to touch any carvings as touching these could bring bad luck and must remain out of reach from other visitors.
Although colorful and gorgeous, the temple still exudes an austere spiritual atmosphere. Here you can learn about Buddhist beliefs as well as meditate or pray peacefully in tranquil surroundings – it truly offers something special in Thailand! Seeing it for yourself makes visiting one of its temples well worth your while!
On its exterior, the Blue Temple is an eye-catching blue and gold structure. Inside its walls is a Buddha statue standing in meditation – thought to be guardians against evil spirits – standing guard as it ascends the stairs leading up to it. Outside there are Naga guards standing watch. Inside there’s also a centerpiece – an intricate mural painted in blue depicting Buddha meditating – standing watch over this breathtaking structure.
The Blue Temple’s ceiling features gorgeously painted fractals that provide an eye-catching sight, making it a must-visit destination for any interested in Thai culture and architecture.
There are a couple of shops outside the temple where you can purchase food and refreshments, so it is advisable to arrive early before crowds become overwhelming.
As with other aspects of Thailand, public transport may be available; however, for a smoother experience it’s best to hire a tuk tuk or taxi as these should be easy and relatively cheap to find on the streets.
Getting around
Wat Rong Khun Temple is a stunning sight, yet can become very crowded at times. To take photos without anyone in them can be near impossible! Therefore, to avoid crowds it’s advisable to arrive early – preferably just as the temple opens – in order to ensure an easier visit.
The Blue Temple in Chiang Rai was only completed in 2016, yet has already become increasingly popular since. Though now part of many guided tours of the region, its quieter presence may make it less frequented than other tourist spots like White Temple due to being smaller in scale with fewer gold details.
One thing that sets this temple apart from others is its photo taking policy. This allows visitors to truly admire all of the intricate interior details while getting some awesome Instagram shots. Of course, keep in mind that temples are places of prayer so try not to be too noisy and don’t hug or kiss strangers as doing so may be considered disrespectful.
As this temple is on the same street as both Black House and White Temple, making it easier than you may realize to access all three in one day. Simply take the bus to Mae Sai and tell the driver when you reach either White Temple or Blue Temple to let off for you (or both!). It won’t cost too much either and is much cheaper than taking an organized tour!
Keep in mind that it rains frequently in this region, and if you want to visit, consider going from May through October. Crowds will likely decrease since many tourists will cancel due to rain – you might even enjoy your trip without anyone around! Moreover, Tuk Tuks are always available and willing to transport passengers wherever necessary.