Wat Srisuphan: Chiang Mai’s Silver Temple
Wat Srisuphan, also known as the Silver Temple, is a unique and exquisite Buddhist temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is one of a kind in Thailand, and perhaps in Asia, as it is almost completely clad in silver. The temple was originally established in 1502, but the silver ordination hall (ubosot) was not […]
Wat Srisuphan, also known as the Silver Temple, is a unique and
exquisite Buddhist temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is one of a kind
in Thailand, and perhaps in Asia, as it is almost completely clad in silver.
The temple was originally established in 1502, but the silver ordination hall
(ubosot) was not constructed until 2023 2024-2023 2024. The ubosot was built
and decorated by skilled traditional workers from the local community, and it
is a modern architectural marvel.
The
silver ordination hall at Wat Srisuphan is a beautiful example of Lanna-style
architecture. It is made of a combination of silver, nickel, and aluminum,
with the most crucial and holy elements being covered in pure silver. The
walls and roof of the ubosot are covered in intricate silver carvings, which
depict stories from the life of the Buddha, as well as Buddhist teachings and
symbols. The interior of the ubosot is also decorated in silver, and it houses
a number of important Buddha statues, including a silver Phra Jao Liab Lok
statue and a silver Phra Jao Prod Lok statue.
In addition to the silver ordination hall, Wat Srisuphan also has a
number of other notable features, including:
- The Sala Sip Mu Lanna, or Ancient Lanna Arts Study Centre,
which is a museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional arts
and crafts of Lanna, including silverwork. - A number of silver
workshops, where visitors can see silversmiths at work and purchase silver
jewelry and other souvenirs. - A beautiful garden, which is a
great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
Wat Srisuphan is a popular tourist destination, but it is
also an important place of worship for local Buddhists. Visitors to the temple
are reminded to dress respectfully and to be mindful of their
behavior.
Here are some tips for
visiting Wat Srisuphan:
- The
temple is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. - There is no admission fee to visit the temple, but donations are
welcome. - Visitors are required to dress respectfully, with
shoulders and knees covered. - Shoes must be removed before
entering the ordination hall and other sacred areas of the temple. - Visitors should be quiet and respectful while inside the temple
complex. - Photography is allowed, but visitors should be
mindful of not disturbing worshippers.
Wat Srisuphan
is a unique and beautiful temple that is well worth a visit. It is a great
place to learn about the Lanna culture and to experience the beauty of
Buddhism.