Unveiling the Mystique and Splendor of Wat Rong Suea Ten: Thailand’s Blue Temple

Almost equivalent in grandeur with the epitomic White Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten is yet another masterpiece embodying the vision of Chalermchai Kositpipat. The Blue Temple embellishes the banks of Kok River in Chiang Rai, almost 20 minutes away from its white counterpart. It is hard to miss, featuring a rich blend of bright sapphire and gaudy golden. The edges and curves are once again flashy, and a fantasyland theme dominates the narrative of the temple inside and out. More than a few hours will be enough to savor its imaginative spirit.

A large white Buddha statue is the centerpiece of the main building, which is open to visitors, unlike the White Temple. Inside, you will feel that quirky sense sinking in observing the artwork characteristic of Kositpipat. In Thai, Wat Rong Suea Ten literally means “Temple of the Dancing Tiger”, and the tiger theme appears everywhere around the building. The theme is inspired by the wild tigers that roamed in the region in old times. It is also part of an element that distinguishes the Blue Temple from the White Temple. It revolves around depictions of mythological creatures in Buddhism, rather than making a statement on spiritual concepts.

Outside the scene is definitely less hectic, but equally surreal. Two large statues of the naga serpent stand sentinel on both sides of the stairway leading into the temple. Female spirits also guard the temple to keep it safe from evil spirits. In Wat Rong Suea Ten, one thing is certain: you will get your share of awe-inspiring Buddhist beliefs.