Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as The Blue Temple is located a few km outside of Chiang Rai centre. To symbolize dharma, the Buddha’s code of morals, the temple is predominantly painted blue. This is associated with wisdom, the infinite, purity and healing.
Rong Suea Ten translates as ‘house of the dancing tiger’. This area used to be a natural habitat for wildlife and the tigers used to leap over the Mae Kok River. And this is where its name derives from.
The temple is relatively new and still under construction. The site had the ruins of an ancient temple which was abandoned 100 years ago. Building commenced in 2005 with the main hall being completed in 2016.
Phuttha Kabkaew designed the monastery. He is a protégé of Chalermchai Kositpipat, the local artist who you will recall from the previous post about the amazing White Temple here in the city.
Having seen many wats and temples over the years, I must say, this one is a standout and well worth a visit. Entry is free, donations are welcome.
