Joe Louis talks to the silver buddha
There are so many Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Worshipers can ask for help, give thanks, and pray without having to journey far. For tourists though, visiting so many similar buildings often leads to “temple fatigue”. Guidebooks tend highlight specific temples for travelers to hone in on. The temples that stand out usually have some distinct feature, physical or spiritual.
Some religious structures, like Angkor Wat, distinguish themselves by sheer size. Others contain relics such as hairs from the original Buddha that increase their holy and historical status. Wat Sri Suphan has become a sight to visit because it is known as the Silver Temple. The name is a little misleading – the building does not appear to be a solid silver edifice – much of it is probably plated or even just painted. But you still get the sense that the wat sets itself apart from the typical run of the mill temple.
The Buddha statue itself in the inner sanctuary is actually gold colored. Despite being surrounded by many expensive looking gifts donated by visiting worshipers, the Buddha is very approachable and he does not roll his eyes if no gift is provided.
Outside of the main sanctuary are additional statues that are worth a quick look. Women, who are not allowed into the inner temple, must settle for viewing and praying to these outer statues.
The Silver Temple isn’t even the most famous or popular in the area. That distinction most likely goes to the White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, just outside Chiang Rai.
See what other blogs are saying about Wat Sri Suphan:
“The Wat Sri Suphan is one of the oldest in Chiang Mai. Built originally between 1495 – 1515 it’s been destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries. There are still boundary stones in the complex that show the original building. Within the complex there is a stone tablet over 500 years old. The language on the tablet is Faak Khaam which predates the Lanna.
The actual Silver Temple itself is now the main shrine or Ubosot. It’s made from silver which represents Yin energy which is linked to the moon which in turn is meant to be very old and wise.”
–The Longest Way Home
“The silverware created in this area of Chiang Mai is known for its raised textures, and the more you look at this small yet impressive temple, the more you notice all of its incredibly intricate details. Unfortunately, women aren’t allowed to enter the main ordination hall, but the temple’s exterior is unusual enough that it’s still worth a visit, regardless.”
–Ways of Wanderers
“Wat Sri Suphan, or The Silver Temple. Most are gold — this is the only silver one in Thailand!”
–R2D2 Backpacking
