The first temple we visited in Chiang Rai is Wat Rong Khun, more widely known as the White Temple. The present form of Wat Rong Khun is the work of Chalermchai Kositpipat, a national artist from Chiang Rai who began rebuilding the temple in 1997. By the end of the 20th century, the original structure was in poor condition and lacked funds for restoration.