Chiang Rai Day Trip

After returning to Chiang Mai from the jungle, I did not have much time to relax…

The bus to Chiang Rai left at 7 am the next morning (Nov. 23).

To be accurate, the trip was to more to see the famous Wat Rong Khun or “White Temple” than the town of Chiang Rai itself.

Now, White Temple is truly a magnificent architectural masterpiece;  a work of art.  The Buddhist Thai architect, Chalermchai Kositpipat, designed the temple to represent heaven.  This illusion is achieved by the radiance of temple walls; the bright white walls are coated in small fragments of mirrors that literally sparkle in the sunlight.

However, no one gets to heaven without suffering – on the path to the temple, one must cross a pond of writhing and painful hands that represents despair.

Once you’re inside the temple, you will see no lack of creativity… The walls are painted in murals depicting contemporary figures including: Elvis Presley and Keanu Reeves in the Matrix.  You’ll also see Superman, Lara Croft and some animated heroes such as Kung Fu Panda and a minion from Despicable Me.  Sorry, but I respected the “No Photography” sign and cannot give you proof of these bizarre murals… Go see it for yourself!

Next stop: “The Golden Triangle”, where the borders of three nations (Laos, Thailand and Myanmar) converge.

The last stop was the village of the Akha people or “Long-neck” tribe.  This part of the tour was a bit disturbing for me, not because the women’s necks are extended and braced by stacks of brass rings, but for the fact that they were sitting in their bamboo huts for people to stare, gasp and take photos of them, as if they were zoo animals.  I understand that it is a means to make money.  However, where is the majority of the tourist money going?  I doubt it goes directly into the pockets of the villagers.

Back on the bus for a 4 hour ride back to Chiang Mai…