Wat Rong Khun is a contemporary
unconventional buddhist and Hindu temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was
designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. Construction began in 1997.
This temple, on
Singhakhlai Road, is a fine example of Lanna Thai religious
architecture. The Phra Buddha Singh image now hourse in Chaing Mai's Wat
Phra Singh was formerly enshrined here.
Formerly called Wat Pa Yia (bamboo forest), this is where
the Emerald Buddha image was found. Thus the name of
the temple was derived.
On 21 Oct 1990, Buddhist clerics and laity agreed to build
the Jade Buddha (commonly called Phra Yok Chiang Rai) to
celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Princess Mother's
birthday. The Buddha image was officially name Phra
Phuttha Rattanakonnawuttiwatsanuson Mongkhon, which means
the Buddha who is the source of gems.
In the main prayer hall tands a huge bronze Buddha image in
the posture of "sub-duing mara, or demon". This is
commonly known as Phra-Chao Lan Thong in Chiang Rai.
It was transferred from Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong to this
temple in 1961. The main hall itself was built in 1960
in the neo-Lanna style with double-tiered roof decorates
with colored glass along the eaves and the beams. The
front portal posts and gable are decorated with intricate
golden patterns. The doors are showpieces of northern
wood-carving techniques.
Known in Thai as
Maenam Kok, this scenic 130-kilometre long waterway runs through the
heart of Chiang Rai. The river is a major transportation artery from
neighboring Chaing Mai province, especially the town of Tha Ton (180
kilometres north of Chaing Mai provincial capital), whence tong-tailed
boats make the 3-4 hour journey every day at 12.30 PM (Chaing Rai-Tha
Ton: 10.30 AM). The river passes several hilltribe settlements and
elephant camps from where jungle treks originate.
Located 30
kilometres south of Chiang Rai provincial capital, along Routes 1211 &
1208, the 70-metre high Khun Korn Waterfall is considered the highest
the most beautiful in Chiang Rai.
