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Photograph Wat Rong Khun - The White Temple

San Sai, Thailand

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Description

Added by John Maurizi

One of the most photographed temples in the world, The White Temple is a modern temple build on the site of the original Wat Rong Khun. The temple is designed and created by an artist using his own money. If you are visiting northern Thailand, this is a must see.

Wat Rong Khun is better known as "The White Temple" and is one of the most recognizable temples in the world.  It state of the current temple is a modern rebuild of an older temple that was in disrepair.  The best time of day to photograph the temple is early morning, before other tourist arrive.  It also gives you the best chance to capture the temple a pond at the foreground of the temple.  The advantage is that you have a better chance of no wind and the pond will reflect the temple like a mirror.

What I found most interesting is the section before crossing the bridge over the pond.  The ground is lined with hands reaching out, some holding skulls, as you walk to the bridge.  I've been to many temple but never seen anything like that.  When viewing this temple it's good to remember it has been redesigned by an artist who has used his own personal money to construct.

The best time of year to go is the dry season, late December through April, however, I was here in June and had very good weather.  The temple is located in Chiang Rai.  Most tourist will take a day trip with a tour company leaving Chiang Mai early in the morning.  Some other options is to spend the night in Chiang Rai or hire a private driver to get an earlier start.

There is an entrance fee for foreigners of 50 Baht (about $1.70). 

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Photograph Wat Rong Khun - The White Temple Reviews

The artist who created this temple has work all around Chiang Rai and his sculptures are incredible. The White Temple is definitely a must see if you are in the area, but I suggest going in the morning to avoid the crowds. You can get to the temple by the local bus as well (only 20baht!), just go to Bus Terminal 1 downtown Chiang Rai and find the blue local bus with White Temple written on the side

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Khun Korn Waterfall

Sunrise Hike at Phu Chi Fa

Catch the Sunset at Doi Pha Tang