Temples of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn in Lampang province, Thailand

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Floating temples. Thailand's floating temples

Greetings from the mountain peaks of northern Thailand, near the city of Lampang, where these golden and white 'floating' stupas and pagodas have majestically transformed the landscape. Constructing them was a massive effort, with materials hauled up in pieces by around 50 workers under the direction of a Lampang monk over two years. The resulting temple complex of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn is off the beaten path, but enjoys spectacular views from the top. Perhaps that’s why Thailand is nicknamed the Land of Smiles?