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White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand. An unconventional, contemporary Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Construction began in 1997 and is not yet complete. The white color symbolizes Buddha's purity. The bridge to the temple symbolizes crossing over from the cycle of rebirth to the realm of Buddha. This site holds particular significance in the history of Thailand, from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya kingdoms to modern Bangkok. Like many notable places in Thailand, it combines regional character with the legacy of the Chao Phraya, the Mekong and Buddhist tradition. Thus, this place contributes to the diverse profile of Thailand, between the Andaman coast, rice paddies and tropical forests.

Location: Thailand
Top sights: Akha Museum · Singha Lion · Doi Hua Chon
Nearby: Chiang Rai (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	19	22	25	28	27	27	26	25	25	24	22	19
Rain mm	19	5	26	72	178	141	245	284	210	99	34	15

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is open daily, the exterior is freely accessible, the interior requires entry fee. Modest clothing is required, shoes must be removed before entering the main building.

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Typical hours

The temple typically opens at 8:00 and closes at 17:00. The entrance fee for foreigners is about 50 baht, but check current prices on site.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, especially the white architecture provides great subjects. However, photography inside the main building is prohibited to protect the artworks.

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Time needed

A visit to the White Temple takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Allow more time for detailed viewing and photos.

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Combine with

The temple is about 15 km south of Chiang Rai. Combine with the Black House (Baan Dam) or the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten).

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Getting there

From Chiang Rai bus station, best take a Songthaew or taxi. Alternatively rent a scooter for the ride on the highway.

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Insider tip

Visit the temple on a sunny day so the white facade shines against the blue sky. Best time is late morning.

Geography

Coordinates

19.82420, 99.76300

Facts

An unconventional, contemporary Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.
Located within the Kingdom of Thailand.
Shaped by the monsoon climate of Southeast Asia.
Linked to the heritage of the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya kingdoms.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Singha Park Agriculture3 km · NExplore →

Chiang Rai8 km · NExplore →

Doi Tung Royal Villa & Gardens10 km · NWExplore →

Mae Sai18 km · NWExplore →

Loi Pangnao29 km · WExplore →

Mae Moh Lignite Mine29 km · EExplore →

Kengtung33 km · SWExplore →

Wang River Valley41 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) (11)

Akha Museum 🏛 museum

A cultural museum showcasing the traditional dress, tools, and history of the indigenous Akha hill tribe.

Singha Lion 📍 landmark

A massive golden statue of a mythical Singha lion standing at the entrance of the sprawling Singha Park.

Doi Hua Chon🌿 nature

A forested mountain peak rising in the landscape south of Chiang Rai city.

Doi Ton🌿 nature

A mountain peak located in the rolling hills surrounding the famous White Temple region.

Doi Kongkhao🌿 nature

A prominent hill overlooking the agricultural plains and temples of the Chiang Rai area.

Singha Park 📍 landmark

A vast agro-tourism park featuring rolling tea plantations, flower gardens, and a landmark golden lion statue.

Wat Rong Khun - White Temple 📍 landmark

A world-famous contemporary temple known for its unconventional stark white exterior and intricate mirrored glass mosaics.

🌐 watrongkhun.org🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-17:00

White temple Art Gallery 🏛 museum

An art gallery on the White Temple grounds showcasing the surreal paintings of artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-17:00🆓

Buddhist Province of Chiang Rai ⛪ religious

A religious center in Chiang Rai that serves as a focal point for Buddhist activities and ceremonies.

Wat Sob Huai temple ⛪ religious

A modest riverside Buddhist temple situated at the confluence of local streams.

Pratu Lo Market 🎭 culture

A spirited local market where residents shop for fresh produce and traditional Thai street food.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is it white?

White symbolizes Buddha's purity and wisdom.

Where is this temple?

It is located near Chiang Rai in the north.

Is it a historical temple?

No, it is a modern work of art, built starting in 1997.

Can you take photos inside?

Inside the main building, photography is strictly forbidden.

How much time to plan?

1 to 2 hours are more than enough.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): where is it located?

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is located in Thailand.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): what is there to see?

Highlights include Akha Museum, Singha Lion, Doi Hua Chon.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): why is it worth visiting?

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Best time to visit & climate