White Temple in Chiang Rai: Wat Rong Khun (Visitor’s Guide)

About Wat Rong Khun – White Temple

Wat Rong Khun, also known as White Temple, is one of the most well-known temples in Chiang Rai and Northern Thailand.

Designed by famous Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it makes a mark with its bold white exterior and glass-decorated plaster. Its fusion of classic and modern designs is different from other temples in Thailand.

The white color of Chiang Rai’s White Temple symbolizes Buddha’s purity, while the glass represents Buddha’s wisdom and teachings.

The temple you see at present was just completed in 2008 and is a restored version of the original Wat Rong Khun, which was in poor condition near the end of the 20th century.

Chalermchai Kositpipat initiated its re-establishment in 1997 and funded the project using his hard-earned money.

In 2014, a massive earthquake severely damaged the Chiang Rai temple. Chalermchai then decided to reconstruct and expand the complex. As of today, building works are ongoing at the site. The full completion of the tourist attraction is expected to be in 2070, with many new parts planned.

Even though the area is not yet 100% finished, the temple of Wat Rong Khun is, and it’s one of the must-visit Chiang Rai attractions.

Chiang Rai Travel Tips

But first, before we jump into things to know before visiting the White Temple in Chiang Rai, let’s cover the essentials and tips to help you have a more fun, enjoyable, and safer trip to the north and the rest of Thailand.

Opening hours and entrance fees of the White Temple

The White Temple in Chiang Rai is open daily from 8 AM – 5 PM with a 100 Thai baht ($2.8) entry fee for foreign visitors. You can also observe the temple from outside for free, but you can’t enter the temple grounds.

How to get to Wat Rong Khun – White Temple

Chiang Rai’s White Temple lies 13 km from the city center, and the ride usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Rent a car or motorbike

Renting a car or motorbike is the easiest option if you want to drive there yourself and explore the temple grounds at your own pace. There is free parking next to the temple.

By public transportation

You can catch the bus near the site of the night bazaar. Buses at the bus station going to the temple are easy to identify since they have a banner that says “White Temple.”

You can also take a songthaew to Wat Rong Khun, where you share a ride with other passengers. Riding a songthaew is one of the most affordable ways to go around the city, and they usually have fixed prices and routes displayed on the car.

By tuk tuk or Grab taxi

Finally, you can hire a tuk-tuk. But be sure to negotiate with the driver about the price before getting in.

An alternative option is to use the Grab app to book a motorbike or a car with a driver who will take you to the temple. You can see the price displayed before booking.

On a tour

If you’re short on time or don’t drive, visiting the White Temple in Chiang Rai on a tour is a great option.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the temple’s history and significance from a knowledgeable guide and also have the chance to explore other nearby temples and Chiang Rai attractions with transport included.

You can visit the White Temple, Blue Temple, as well as the Black House (another great artistic project), among other places.

Can you visit Chiang Rai’s White Temple from Chiang Mai?

If you’re wondering whether or not it’s possible to visit the White Temple in Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai, the answer is yes!

The two cities are roughly 180 kilometers or 3 hours apart, and there are frequent buses and daily tours, so a day trip to Chiang Rai to visit the White Temple from Chiang Mai is easy to organize.

The easiest and best way to visit the White Temple in Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai is to join a private or shared tour. That’s how many people do it, as you get included transport and a guide, plus other highlights of Chiang Rai province.

Another great option is a private car with a driver.

RECOMMENDED TOURS

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Things to see at the White Temple in Chiang Rai

The White Temple is a Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture, stunning white color, and artistic expression of the famous creator.

It’s hard not to miss the white, sophisticated architecture of the White Temple in Chiang Rai as soon as you arrive at the site. You will notice its three-tiered roof adorned with white Nagas with intricate details.

• Must read: Chiang Rai Complete Travel Guide

White Temple holds a lot of art pieces with hidden symbolism that’s sometimes hard to understand if you’re not familiar with the religion’s and culture’s background.

1. The cycle of rebirth bridge

To get inside the main temple, you must follow a pathway with a pool of arms reaching you from hell. Then, you will cross a bridge to reach the Gate of heaven with sculptures of Naga and the mythical creatures called Death and Rahu.

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2. Main building – Ubosot

The interior of Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai is small, and taking photos is prohibited. You will see contemporary scenes on the walls symbolizing samsara (the world of rebirth and delusion) and wall art unusual for a Thai temple.

In particular, you’ll find modern fiction and pop culture characters, such as Spiderman and Superman, Neo from Matrix, and Harry Potter, as well as real people like Michael Jackson and the animated series Doraemon. You will even see masks of some cartoon characters hanging in plants outside.

There are even images showing the destructive nature of humans, like the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and similar.

3. Golden Building – Thailand’s most beautiful restroom

Another outstanding building in the White Temple is the gold temple-like restroom, which is more than likely the best-looking toilet in Chiang Rai and Thailand.

• Read next: Koh Tao – best snorkeling and diving in Thailand

4. Golden Temple

Right next to the Golden Restroom at the White Temple grounds is the Golden Temple, dedicated to Ganesha, a Hindu God of New Beginnings, Wisdom, and Luck, Remover of Obstacles.

5. Murals, a wishing well, a golden bell, and an art gallery

A wishing well and a bell with a gold frame are other things you’ll find at the White Temple complex in Chiang Rai. And outside is Chalermchai Kositpipat’s art gallery, housing beautiful pieces you can see for free. And there are also shops selling cool souvenirs and plenty of restaurants to grab something to eat.

6. More is coming soon

Chalermchai Kositpipat has dedicated his life to the upkeep and expansion of the art pieces and exhibitions at the White Temple of Chiang Rai, his long-lasting contemporary art project. It is his life’s work.

• Also read: Blue Temple in Chiang Rai Visitor’s Guide

Best time to visit the White Temple in Chiang Rai

Being a famous tourist spot and tourist attraction, Wat Rong Khun tends to be very busy, even early in the morning. Hence, coming late afternoon when there’s a smaller crowd is your best bet not to deal with too many people. The bonus part is you can take advantage of the sunset lighting for the backdrop of your photos.

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Morning visits to the White Temple in Chiang Rai are still rewarding. But we recommend coming before or at its opening time. This way, you can avoid long lines to get tickets. After all, the place has thousands of visitors each day.

Remember: The White Temple in Chiang Rai is one of the most popular attractions of Northern Thailand and, in general, one of the most recognizable temples in all of Thailand. So a large number of visitors is always possible.

How long to spend at Chiang Rai’s White Temple?

The grounds of Chiang Rai’s White Temple are not that big, but expect to spend at least one hour there on your visit.

What is the temple dress code of Wat Rong Khun?

When visiting the White Temple, a Thai Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, you must dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. The dress code is primarily enforced for women; men are allowed in with knee-length shorts. You’ll also need to remove your shoes before entering the main temple.

• Read about the most unique Thailand experience: Floating Bungalows in Khao Sok

Temple etiquette in Thailand

Here are some basic rules you should know while visiting the temples in Chiang Rai and Thailand, especially if you’re entering the temples.

Rules for visiting temples in Thailand:

• Dress appropriately by covering your shoulders and knees.
• Take off your shoes before entering the temple.
• Keep your voice down.
• Be mindful while taking photos.
• Don’t touch the monks.
• Refrain from touching statues and other Buddhist relics.

• Also read: Visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok

Is the White Temple in Chiang Rai worth visiting?

The White Temple is a visual treat for all those who love art and architecture and is definitely worth visiting.

What to see after White Temple?

After exploring the stunning White Temple of Chiang Rai, there are plenty of other nearby attractions to check out. Read our full travel guide with all the best things to do in Chiang Rai.

One popular option is the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), which is just a 20-minute drive away. This unique temple features a different color scheme, with a striking blue and gold combination.

Another attraction worth visiting is the Baan Dam Museum (Black House) – also referred to as “Black Temple”, which showcases the intriguing work of another local artist, Thawan Duchanee. With its striking black buildings and eclectic collection of artwork, the Baan Dam Museum is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Other options include the serene Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park, the historical Golden Triangle, and the bustling Chiang Rai Night Bazaar in the center of Chiang Rai.