Wat Umong, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is home to many temples, especially on and at the foot of Doi Suthep. With limited time on the last few days, I followed the mountain road from the campsite, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and Wat Pha Lat, and then followed the navigation for a few more minutes on a motorcycle to Wat Umong. Although I was exhausted after the day's journey, I couldn't help but take photos as I walked. Wat Umong is like its name, which means "tunnel" in Thai. From its stupa, you can walk down to the main temple, which is built in several intersecting tunnels with many Buddha statues scattered around. The lighting makes the temple even more solemn. In front of the main temple is a place where incomplete Buddha statues are placed. Although each is incomplete, the Buddha's demeanor and charm remain. They are placed together and blend in with the temple's forest, creating a harmonious and serene atmosphere. My heart calmed down, and I stood there for a long time, silently enjoying the peace. If you look closely, you can find many trees with various Zen sayings hanging on them, mostly in Thai, but some in English. Reading them slowly, I felt comforted and moved. Perhaps this is the power of the temple.