The Blue Temple of Chiang Rai: Wat Rong Suea Ten

Wat Rong Suea Ten, known as the "Blue Temple," sits in the quiet town of Chiang Rai and captivates visitors with its vivid blue architecture and artistic design. This article introduces the temple's history and highlights.

The history and background of Wat Rong Suea Ten

Wat Rong Suea Ten, the "Blue Temple," is a Buddhist temple built on the site of a former abandoned temple.

80 to 100 years ago, this area had many old brick ruins and was home to abundant wildlife.

In particular, because people witnessed tigers leaping here, it was named "Rong Suea Ten" (the place where tigers leap), which later became the origin of the village name "Ban Rong Suea Ten."

In 1995, the villagers of Rong Suea Ten held a meeting to rebuild a temple on this site, aiming to have a place for Buddhist ceremonies as the village's spiritual center. Construction later began on October 27, 2005.

The construction was led by Putta Kabkaew, a disciple of Chalermchai Kositpipat — the artist behind Chiang Rai's famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). It was completed on January 22, 2016.

Highlights of Wat Rong Suea Ten

The main hall

The main hall of Wat Rong Suea Ten is 13 meters wide and 48 meters long, and the temple grounds cover about 5 rai (roughly 8,000 square meters).

The blue used at Wat Rong Suea Ten symbolizes the heavens, tranquility, and wisdom in Buddhist culture. This palette was chosen to evoke calm and spiritual purity.

Inside the main hall, vivid blue spreads as well. The walls and ceiling bear intricate murals depicting Buddhist mythology — also beautiful.

The principal Buddha image

The principal Buddha of Wat Rong Suea Ten is a 6.50-meter-tall image modeled after Phra Singh I.

Inside this Buddha image are enshrined 84,000 amulets and silver and gold rings, along with precious belongings brought by villagers and devotees. This principal image is named "Phra Phuttha Ratchamongkhon Bodhi Trailokanat" and symbolizes the Buddha's teachings.

The walls and ceiling bear intricate murals depicting Buddhist mythology. Rich in color and full of symbolism, these artworks help you understand the Buddha's teachings more deeply.

The naga statues

The temple grounds are guarded by naga (serpent) statues intricately designed in blue and gold. These mythical creatures are said to protect the temple and its visitors.

Getting to Wat Rong Suea Ten & basic info

Wat Rong Suea Ten is about a 10-minute drive from central Chiang Rai.

If using public transport, a tuk-tuk or taxi from the Chiang Rai bus terminal is convenient. Renting a bicycle or motorbike to visit is also recommended.

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Hours	7:00–20:00 (open daily)
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