Just 13 km from Chiang Rai lies Wat Rong Khun, a very young temple. It is the most visited monument in Chiang Rai province. Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat began his work in 1997, and the temple is constantly being expanded. Its creator himself announced that it would not be completed for 60 to 90 years after his death. Its distinctive feature: it is white. Completely white! Unique. Chalermchai Kositpipat combined traditional elements of Buddhist temples with contemporary elements. The main building is reached via a path that begins with two forests of hands raised to the sky, symbolizing desire. Some hold skulls, another a microphone, another a bowl… Inside the ordination hall is a rather traditional Buddha statue, but the walls are decorated with a fresco that combines Buddhist symbols with motifs from The Matrix, Star Wars, 9/11, and even Fu Panda – which is rather unusual for such monuments. The White Temple is primarily a work of art to be viewed. There is no place to linger or pray: no incense, no donation box, no candlesticks. Entry is only possible via a one-way system. A loudspeaker at the beginning of the raised walkway admonishes visitors who block the way to take photos, and another at the entrance to the Wihaan (prayer hall) repeatedly announces "No photography." This rule somewhat diminishes the experience, as a second visit is necessary to fully appreciate the temple. However, given the large number of visitors, this is essential. Around the main building are other works by the artist, such as heads of superheroes hanging in trees, souvenir shops, food stalls, and a gallery showcasing works by Chalermchai Kositpipat. The restrooms are located in a very elegant golden building.

Admission: 200 TB. Open from 8:00 to 17:00.

From Chiang Rai, you can reach the White Temple by taking bus 1246 (every half hour) or buses 1244 and 1241 from Bus Station 1. These are marked with a small "White Temple" sign. Alternatively, blue shared taxis (songthaews) go to the White Temple. These can be found at the songthaew stand on Uttrakit Road near the white clock tower. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 20 baht. The bus stops at the intersection, about 100 meters from the temple. For the return trip, go back to the intersection and hail the bus near the police station or take a songthaew.

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do I get to the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)? From Chiang Rai, you can take bus 1246 (every half hour) or buses 1244 and 1241 from Bus Station 1. These are marked with a small "White Temple" sign. Alternatively, blue shared taxis (songthaews) also go to the White Temple. These are located at the songthaew stand on Uttrakit Road near the white clock tower. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 20 baht. The bus stops at the intersection, about 100 meters from the temple. For the return trip, go back to the intersection and hail the bus near the police station or take a songthaew.