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Wat Rong Khun: The Ultimate Guide to Chiang Rai’s White Temple

Living in Bangkok, I’ve come across a lot of temples. Anyone who has traveled extensively in Asia can relate to that feeling of being “templed-out.” But let me tell you, Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple in Chiang Rai, is different. This isn’t just another temple—it’s a masterpiece. Often called the most beautiful temple in Thailand, it’s a claim that lives up to the hype.

What’s the White Temple Chiang Rai all about?

Wat Rong Khun is a unique, modern Buddhist temple designed by the renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat in 1997. Unlike traditional temples, its intricate white exterior represents the purity of Buddha, while the reflective glass details symbolize wisdom. What makes it even more fascinating is that Chalermchai self-funded the project, rejecting external donations to ensure his creative freedom.

The temple is still a work in progress, but the artist’s ultimate goal is for it to rival global icons like the Taj Mahal. Judging by its breathtaking design and global recognition, he’s well on his way to achieving that dream.

Where is ‘the White Temple in Chiang Rai’? (AKA Wat Rong Khun?)

The White Temple in Chiang Rai is actually found just outside Chiang Rai city centre. Chiang Rai is in the north of Thailand, a 3 or 4-hour bus ride from the more famous Chiang Mai. Although you can also fly directly to Chiang Rai from Bangkok (I flew with Nok Air for $20 each way!). It’s possible to do as a day-trip from Chiang Mai, but there are a few nice things to see in Chiang Rai, so I’d recommend you stay a couple of days.

Wat Rong Khun then is about 13km outside of Chiang Rai city. It’s too far to walk, trust me. So jump in a taxi for about 100THB ($3) and you’re there. Give yourself around 2 hours or so to explore the temple and it’s surrounding features, it’s all pretty spectacular.

You can get to Chiang Rai via:

• Bus from Chiang Mai: A 3-4 hour journey.

• Flight from Bangkok: Direct flights are available, often costing as little as $20 one way (I flew with Nok Air).

Once in Chiang Rai, take a taxi to Wat Rong Khun for about 100 THB ($3). The journey is quick and hassle-free.

How to Visit Wat Rong Khun ‘The White Temple’:

Short answer

1. Arrive in Chiang Rai

Whether by bus or plane, getting to Chiang Rai is straightforward.

2. Take a Taxi to Wat Rong Khun

From the city center, a short 15-minute ride will get you to the temple.

3. Buy Your Entry Ticket

Tickets cost just 50 THB ($1.40)—an absolute bargain for such an incredible experience.

4. Explore the Temple Grounds

Spend at least 2 hours marveling at the architecture, symbolic features, and surreal sculptures.

Longer answer

First you have to get to Chiang Rai (bus from Chiang Mai, or flight from Bangkok normally). Once you take your taxi from Chiang Rai city to Wat Rong Khun, you’ll be greeted by arguably the most beautiful temple you’ve ever seen. I had wanted to see this place ever since I taught English in Chaing Mai in 2007 but never made the extra effort. Finally, once I had seen it, I was angry with myself for not having done it sooner. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.

50thb Entry Ticket

The temple isn’t that huge, but the architecture is so intricate. Instantly you get hit with the sheer whiteness of it, reflecting in the ornamental ponds dotted around the outside of the temple. You filter through the ticket office. Pay your 50THB White Temple Chiang Rai ticket price ($1.40) and then you have free reign of the grounds, and what grounds they are.

As you cross over the bridge, you see thousands of hands reaching out from the moat. They symbolize desire and envy and it’s a pretty spooky scene. You cross over, and through the main temple. It’s impossible not to notice the amazing workmanship, and actually, an earthquake in 2014 destroyed a large chunk of the temple, but everything has been repaired and even improved upon, so nothing to worry about there.

Most beautiful toilet in the world

The surrounding grounds are home to the most beautiful toilet perhaps in the world. Check out the picture of the gold toilets above! Other than that, they are a fascinating assortment of the most surreal structures imaginable. From Wolverine to Terminator to Buddha, yup. They assume the historic Buddhist battles of good vs evil but they are a contemporary approach to the good vs evil! Keep your eyes peeled and you’ll see some crazy things!

There are additional Buddhist stupas dotted around too, and various Thai Buddhist ‘donations’ where you can buy small trinkets. Scribble your memories and dates on them, and hang them on the various structures around grounds. It’s beautiful, and there are thousands of things!

What Makes Wat Rong Khun Unique?

As you approach the temple, its dazzling white facade immediately captures your attention. The surrounding ornamental ponds reflect the temple, enhancing its otherworldly charm. Here are some standout features:

• The Bridge of “Rebirth”

Cross a bridge flanked by thousands of hands reaching out from below, symbolizing human desire and suffering.

• The Main Hall (Ubosot)

The intricate artwork inside combines traditional Buddhist elements with modern cultural references, including depictions of superheroes and movie characters like Wolverine and Terminator.

• The Golden Toilet

Yes, even the restrooms here are spectacular! These golden facilities are often referred to as the most beautiful toilets in the world.

TIPS FOR THE WHITE TEMPLE CHIANG RAI

• As I said, it IS doable as a day-trip from Chiang Mai but it would be a hell of a long-day (12 hours+ probably), better to spend 2 or 3 days in Chiang Rai and also visit the tea plantations, the ‘Black Temple’, Singha Park, and Phu Chi Fah, Thailand’s difficult-to-get-to, but most beautiful sunrise spot
• Dress appropriately. Cover shoulders and knees ladies, and no vests or short-shorts for guys either
• Wat Rong Khun ticket is only 50THB, so if you’re on a budget, you can do it cheaply. If you want the whole history then there are guides outside.
• Don’t just check out the main temple. Make sure you find the gorgeous toilets, and spend at least half an hour wandering around the grounds. There are surprises in every nook and cranny. 

Enjoy! The north of Thailand is the gem of the country in my opinion, better weather, friendlier people, cheaper prices. Sure, it doesn’t have the beach, but with the different cultures, the mountains, the food etc. That all more than makes up for it! So yeah, when you’re spending your 3 days in Chiang Mai, make sure you swing over to its little brother, Chiang Rai, to check it out too.

Why Visit Wat Rong Khun?

IT’S THAILAND’S MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLE, that should surely be enough?! But Wat Rong Khun isn’t just a temple—it’s an experience. From the surreal artwork to the symbolic designs, every corner tells a story. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to northern Thailand.

The north of Thailand itself is a gem. It offers cooler weather, friendlier locals, and cheaper prices compared to the south. So while Chiang Mai often steals the spotlight, make sure you set aside time for its little brother, Chiang Rai, and Wat Rong Khun.

FAQs About Wat Rong Khun

1. Is Wat Rong Khun worth visiting?

Absolutely! The temple’s unique design and cultural significance make it one of the most memorable landmarks in Thailand.

2. How much does it cost to visit Wat Rong Khun?

The entrance fee is just 50 THB ($1.40), making it accessible for all budgets.

3. What is the best time to visit Wat Rong Khun?

Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

4. What is the dress code for Wat Rong Khun?

Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees out of respect for the temple’s sacredness.