Last week I was in Chiang Rai updating a few images, enjoying eating and photographing the local food, and seeing how badly the city was affected by the recent earthquake.

Known as the Gateway to the Golden Triangle, the city of Chiang Rai lies in a fertile valley 180 km north of Chiang Mai. The town has a less commercial feel than Chiang Mai and consequently a more relaxed atmosphere. The town is also an excellent base for treks into the surrounding hills, trips to the border town of Mae Sai, and up to the tea plantations at Doi Mae Salong.

One of the most popular attractions near Chiang Rai is the spectacular Wat Rong Khun, more commonly referred to as The White Temple. I visited on a typically overcast rainy season day which seem well suited to black and white and a grainy finish.

This beautiful temple is the on-going work of the renowned Thai artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat, and skilfully blends traditional Buddhist art with modern concepts. Unfortunately it was damaged in the recent earthquake but repair work is already underway.

The unique building is entirely white and decorated with thousands of pieces of mirrored glass. Inside it contains murals, paintings and Buddha images. Wat Rong Khun is particularly impressive when visited on the night of a full moon.

Despite the damage, the temple is still open to the public, although you cannot actually go inside at the moment.

Wat Rong Khun is located about 15 km outside the city of Chiang Rai.

There couldn’t be a better time to visit the temple. It is free to enter but donations for the repairs will be welcome.

While in Chiang Rai I also visited another famous temple, Wat Phra Singh. More on that later in the week.