For me, the thought of studying abroad was always synonymous with independence and adventure. With my time in Thailand quickly nearing its end, I jumped at the opportunity to take a much anticipated solo trip to one of Northern Thailand’s cities, most famous for its unique temples. I booked my flights and hotel, and a mere twelve hours later, I began my first international solo adventure!
Wat Huay Pla Klang (Temple of Mercy)
Wat Huay Pla Klang is dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin. It sits atop a hill on the outskirts of Chiang Rai and blends Thai and Chinese architecture styles, yielding a structure distinct from other temples in Thailand.
My airplane window had a great view of the Goddess of Mercy, which I took as a sign to go visit right away. With sunset quickly approaching, I hopped on a motorbike to catch the temple in the last rays of daylight. When I arrived, there was a unique glow behind the Goddess of Mercy statue. The towering dragons leading up to her statue added to the striking effect.
The Wat Huay Pla Klang grounds feature other main structures, including a pagoda and a white temple. With the sun down, bright lights illuminated the nine-story pagoda, casting a warm glow upon the surrounding area.
After exploring the Temple of Mercy, I took a short motorbike ride to Lalitta Café, a picturesque location that includes a magical forest of flowers, plants, and a waterfall. Walking through the entrance is like stepping into a fairytale. The chicken pad thai and strawberry pomegranate soda I ordered at the café tasted truly delicious.
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue TEmple)
The next day, I set off just north of the city center to visit Wat Rong Suea Ten, which translates to Temple of the Dancing Tiger. This temple is the newest of the famous temples in Chiang Rai and is known for the blue interior and exterior color that lines the walls and statues across the site.
Towering cerulean statues depicting mythical beings guarding the temple greet visitors at the entrance gates.
The interior of the Blue Temple cemented Wat Rong Suea Ten as one of my favorites. The intricate, colorful imagery on the walls contrasted with the bright Buddha in the middle. Observing the tiny strokes of the hand-painted details on the walls made me even more impressed with the whole structure.
Gold accents on the exterior of the temple interrupted the blue, again providing a bold contrast similar to the interior. The fierce naga serpents protecting the main temple were jarring yet beautiful.
After exploring the temple, I stopped for lunch at a local restaurant that serves one of Northern Thailand’s most famous dishes, Khao Soi. This spicy noodle soup paired with an iced Thai tea was a great midday refresher.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Wat Rong Khun is arguably the most famous temple in Chiang Rai. Completely renovated by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat in the late 1990s, the White Temple proves to be both an art gallery and a temple.
One of the most unique features of the White Temple is the walkway leading into the main temple. A multitude of hands reach up from below the ground, grasping at those who enter the temple, representing the Buddhist principle of foregoing worldly desires. There are also some skulls, pots, and other artifacts scattered across the pit.
Though I couldn’t take photos inside the main temple, the fascinating mural sprawling across the walls depicting pop culture characters, figures, and historical events communicated one message: Humans are a detriment to the world.
The details of the White Temple are truly incredible. This statue, which was mirrored on the other side of the walkway, was particularly beautiful. Upon further research, I learned that these statues are Kinnarees: half-human, half-bird Buddhist mythological creatures that are said to protect humans.
After passing through the main temple and walking around to the back, I was met with a stunning view of the sunlight directly hitting the top of the temple. The reflective pieces lining the temple adornments glittered in the sun, offering a striking contrast against the clear blue sky.
After the temple grounds closed at 5 p.m., I bought a refreshing Singha soda from a nearby stall and sat down to watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon. The golden light reflected beautifully off the white architecture, and the peace and quiet contrasted with the bustling crowd at the temple earlier in the day.
Once the sun had set, I ended my day at the Chiang Rai Saturday Market, which boasted hundreds of vendors spanning multiple streets. I enjoyed eating the fresh street food and perusing the numerous stalls filled with vintage clothing – my favorite! I also tried a famous Thai dessert called red rubies, which included water chestnuts boiled in red tapioca flour atop coconut ice cream. A delicious end to my time in Chiang Rai!
I believe that if something scares you, you should do it; reflecting on my first international solo trip, I am struck by my ability to do something I never thought I was capable of. Chiang Rai turned out to be the perfect location where I truly felt like I was living abroad and immersing myself in Thailand’s rich culture. I will forever be thankful for this experience.
Lily Dosedel, University of Iowa, is studying in Bangkok, Thailand, with TEAN.
