Chiang Rai, located in Northern Thailand, is often overshadowed by its neighbor Chiang Mai, but it also has a few landmarks worth visiting. From the White Temple or the vibrant hues of the Blue Temple to the Big Buddha statue, we will explore the attractions you can’t miss in Chiang Rai.
1. White Temple
The White Temple in Chiang Rai or Wat Rong Khun in Thai is one of the most impressive temples in Thailand and the only full white Temple in Thailand. Although it is a work of contemporary art, it remains a functioning place of worship and visitors are expected to dress modestly and show respect for the religious. Apart from the white temple, the complex offers other attractions as a cave and a museum (each with a separate entrance fee). The prices to access the main temple are:
The White Temple is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 5:30 p.m. on weekends. But we recommend going during sunrise to get the best lighting and avoid the crowds as most people come to visit on day trips from Chiang Mai.
2. Blue Temple
The Blue Temple or Wat Rong Suea Ten which means “House of the Dancing Tiger,” is another main attraction in Chiang Rai, the entrance is completely free and there is free parking at the back of the temple. The hours of operation are from 7 AM to 8 PM. every day.
The best time to visit the Blue Temple is in the afternoon when most of the groups are gone, and the light is perfect for enjoying the vibrant colours.
3. Wat Huay Pla Kang (also known as the Big Buddha in Chiang Rai)
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a temple with 3 main attractions. The entrance and parking are free but you’ll need to pay if you want to go up the statue.
The first thing that will come to your attention is that very same gigant statue called Guan Yin Statue which is 69 meters (226 feet) tall and represents the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion. The base of the statue can be reached after climbing 300 stairs and you can then take the elevator to see the views from the top of the satue. The prices for the elevator are:
The other attractions are a 9-story colorful pagoda with a couple of dragons and a small white temple with a white Buddha. During sunset, the skies often turn into a beautiful orange and pinkish color which with the temple lights makes for an incredible view, so we recommend going during sunset. The temple opening hours are 7 A.M. to 9 P.M. daily.
Other Attractions
We don’t consider these must-sees. But they are worth a visit if you have some spare time in Chiang Rai.
The Black House / Baan Dam
Most articles and travel guides consider the Black Hous as a must-see, but in our honest opinion, we don’t consider it a must-see in Chiang Rai but rather something else to visit if you have some spare time in Chiang Rai.
The black houses serve as museums and are filled with taxidermied animals. They have everything from crocodiles to snakes and they have some strange paintings and artifacts too.
The hours of operation are 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. daily.
Clock Tower
Finally, if you are staying for the night in Chiang Rai. There is a clock tower that offers a free light and music show at 7, 8 and 9 P.M and that lasts for 10 minutes.
From there there are a few stands and a food market at a walking distance
Thank you for reading our list of must sees from Chiang Rai!
If you think we forgot to mention anything, don’t hesitate to write in the comment section. Stay Safe!
