Wat Silver, A Temple of Intricate Silver Craftsmanship

50100, Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

Decorated in white cowhide

4.2

Introduction

In my years of travel in Southeast Asia, nowhere else has crafted temples with the same ingenuity as Thailand. The Iron Temple is one breathtaking example, adorned with silver-white embossed iron carvings that intricately decorate the temple. Every element is rendered with embossing. Despite its grandeur, this temple is oddly absent from travel guides and even material about Buddhism. Upon entering, it appears to be an ordinary, small temple with white walls and a red sign. However, upon entering a small temple on the left side, I was stunned by the glittering silver scene! Although some smooth areas are yet to be decorated, every single wall, door, pillar, top, window, and mural is an intricate embossing. On one side wall in the compound sitting area, there are 12 squares featuring a famous Buddhist stupa and zodiac sign, separated by a pattern. There was also a magnificent Buddha statue outside the small courtyard. I spoke with a monk who kindly gifted me a beautifully crafted temple guidebook. I highly recommend this place, it is a must-see!

Address

50100, Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

Transportation

On the main street of the Saturday night market, you can see a small pavilion in the middle, with a white sacred cow inside and two smaller ones in front of it. On the left side of the sacred cow, there is a big blue sign with a narrow alley underneath it. The sign is written in Thai only, showing that it is a place for locals.

Website http://www.silvertemple.org/