The renowned Golden Horse Monastery located in the environs of Chiang Ra in the highlands of Thailand has acquired a reputation that sets it apart from other places of worship. Although it does not feature imposing architecture or extravagant decorations this secluded temple has a special mystique of its own. The story of this Buddhist monastery is truly unique.
To reach this tranquil location you must take an hour’s journey from Chiang Rai. After reaching the serene hamlet where the monastery stands, the visitor will find the sanctuary atop a verdant cliff top.
The Golden Horse Monastery was founded in the early 90s by the monk Kru Ba, a former Muay Thai kick-boxer previously known as Samerchai. Samerchai was an exceptionally talented fighter who only lost three bouts in a career spanning 15 years. It is said that he was actually training to challenge the world champion in a world title bout when, to the surprise of all, he relinquished his worldly life and was ordained as a Buddhist monk.
Kru Ba retreated to a forest cave to meditate where, for seven consecutive nights he experienced the same vision; to live and create a monastery at the long-abandoned Golden Horse, a holy shrine where the Buddha himself is reputed to have left a footprint. Accordingly the newly ordained monk went to reside alone at the shrine, gradually winning the trust of the local villagers.
At this time this region was controlled by Khun Sa, a notorious warlord and drug trafficker. Kru Ba was undeterred and undertook the task of advising and protecting the villagers from the drug centred menace. Numerous stories of the warrior monk’s exploits in fighting the warlord’s minions are well known.
Today Golden Horse Temple is a thriving monastery which is known for sheltering local orphans who have been given new homes as novice monks. The monastery also breeds horses and the novices ride, groom and feed them daily. As one might expect the young monks are also instructed in the Muay Thai skills in order to defend themselves and the monastery.
If you plan to visit the area and are considering Chiang Rai hotels an attractive choice would be the Anantara Golden Triangle Thailand. This appealing hotel Chiang Rai offers is reputed for its attractive accommodations and courteous hospitality.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
