CHIANG RAI – A tense moment at Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) in Chiang Rai turned into a fight after tourists crowded near the entrance. People waiting behind reportedly got upset with those in front who stopped to take photos and didn’t move forward.
The argument escalated into a brawl, and both sides later went to the police station for mediation. In the end, they apologized, and the matter ended peacefully.
Reporters noted that a short video clip, about 12 seconds long, has been shared widely on public platforms. The footage was filmed from the White Temple bridge leading toward the ubosot, near the area known as the “Gate to Heaven,” a popular front section of the temple where visitors gather in large numbers.
In the clip, two groups of tourists can be seen fighting in the middle of a long line. One group appeared to be a Chinese man and a Chinese woman. The other appeared to be a Chinese man and a Thai woman.
During one moment, while people were holding onto the barrier rail, a woman moved in and threw punches. It quickly turned into a chaotic scuffle, and it was hard to tell who was hitting whom. Temple staff and nearby tourists stepped in to stop it and advised both groups to file a report at Mueang Chiang Rai Police Station.
Heat and Crowding Triggered Tempers
Narongchai Thepthon, 54, owner of the Sala Luang Pho To shop in front of Wat Rong Khun, said he witnessed the incident. He explained that it happened on January 15. At the time, tourists were lining up to cross the bridge to enter the white ubosot.
The sun was strong, and the weather was hot. People in the back tried to rush those in front to move faster, which led to frustration and, eventually, punches. The situation later moved to the police station, and he heard it continued as a dispute for a while before settling.
Narongchai said the incident felt inappropriate because a temple should be a place of peace and forgiveness. As Buddhists, he said, people should be more careful with their actions, words, and mindset.
He also added that Thais are the hosts and should greet visitors with a calm, friendly attitude, especially since Wat Rong Khun is known worldwide. When news like this spreads, it can hurt the image of the place and the country.
He mentioned that the area under the bridge features “hell” artwork, which is meant to feel intense and fiery. Combined with real heat and a packed line, it can make people lose patience. Once tempers flare, everyone ends up stressed, time is wasted, and what should be a meaningful visit turns into a legal problem.
Both sides agreed to settle
Police at Mueang Chiang Rai Police Station said both parties met with officers and agreed to mediation. The dispute came down to a misunderstanding. Officers stated neither side intended to cause serious harm. Everyone accepted the legal fine and apologized to each other, which closed the case.
Wat Rong Khun staff have posted signs and use recorded announcements in multiple languages, reminding visitors not to stop or take photos while crossing the bridge into the ubosot. The goal is to prevent crowding and accidents. The temple asked tourists of all nationalities to follow the rules closely.
Both temple staff and police said the incident was a personal matter and didn’t affect the overall tourism atmosphere at Wat Rong Khun. Visitors continue to come in large numbers as usual.
Chalermchai Kositpipat, the well-known Chiang Rai artist who created the works at Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) in Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai, also commented on the brawl and explained where the fight happened.
He said it occurred at the “Gate to Heaven,” the point after visitors pass the “hell” section. That area features art related to Yama and Rahu, and many people stop there for photos. He said this spot creates repeated congestion because visitors often pause to take pictures, even when a long line stretches outside.
The White Temple has made recorded announcements in several languages asking people not to stand for photos and to keep walking first. While the site has a split path to the left and right, many visitors still crowd into the same photo area.
He added that if people compromise and share the space, there’s no issue. The problem starts when no one gives way and tempers rise. He said the matter ended calmly after police helped both sides settle and agree to move on.
