WAT CHIANG YUEN RED TEMPLE

Hidden within the city of Chiang Rai is the lessor known temple of Wat Chiang Yuen. This temple is commonly known as the Red Temple because of its dramatic red color overlaid with elaborate gold decoration. Deep shades of red cover much of the main building while delicate gold patterns extend across the walls, columns, doors and roof edges. Best time to appreciate this is in bright sunlight when these colours become especially vivid.

The main viharn (hall) displays the graceful characteristics of northern Thai temple architecture. The stairway is bordered by golden naga serpents. These mythical creatures are commonly seen guarding the entrances of Buddhist temples throughout Thailand and are traditionally associated with protection. Elephant sculptures stand close to the entrance holding large golden spheres with their trunks.

One of the temple’s most important sacred objects is Phra Chao Sapao Kham. This bronze Buddha image is believed to have been brought from the region around Chiang Rung, now known as Jinghong in China’s Xishuangbanna area.

Its a quieter temple with fewer visitors and is not one of the usual sight seeing destinations. You will be able to see this temple on any day without the usual tourist crowds. Expect to stay for about a half to one hour to view the viharn and temple grounds. Wat Chiang Yuen is well worth visiting if you are interested in Lanna architecture and Buddhist art.

See the map and directions below for how to get to the Red Temple.

The temple is located on San Khong Luang Road within Chiang Rai city and is only a short journey from the central Clock Tower area. Hailing a tuk-tuk is the simplest way to reach the temple, although you could also take a short bicycle ride if you have rented one for touring the city centre.

See the interactive map below for the exact location.