Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai
· ·

The 12 Best Temples In Chiang Rai, Thailand

ByAbbie Bevan Hours

Last Updated: August 31 2024

Chiang Rai is a city in the mountainous region of Thailand, close to the border of Laos and Myanmar. This popular destination is well-known for its relaxed vibe, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

There are so many incredible temples in Chiang Rai too, ranging from Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) to Wat Phra Kaew. We’d highly recommend visiting as many of these temples as possible, as each one has something special to offer!

In this guide, we’ll cover the very best Chiang Rai temples. We’ll also include helpful information for each temple such as their location, opening hours, and entrance fees.

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you buy or book something through these links, we earn a small commission, but at no extra cost to you! If you want to learn more, you can take a look at our privacy policy!

The Best Temples In Chiang Rai

1. Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple

Couple at Wat Rong Khun, temples in Chiang Rai
Girl at the White temple in Chiang Rai

Wat Rong Khun is quite possibly one of the most famous temples in Thailand. The temple was created by a local architect, Chalermchai Kositpipat, who funded the project himself by selling paintings.

The White Temple in Chiang Rai is famous for its unusual design. First of all, you’ll need to walk over a bridge to reach the temple grounds, where intricately designed hands reach out towards you.

Inside, you’ll find various contemporary scenes rather than traditional Buddha life depictions. These scenes include Pokémon, Michael Jackson, Superman, and The Matrix. There’s even a mural of a monster attacking the Twin Towers. Unfortunately, you can’t take photographs of these.

Interestingly enough, there are even golden toilets on-site.

2. Wat Rong Suea Ten – The Blue Temple

Wat Rong Suea Ten, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Wat Rong Suea Ten is another famous temple in Chiang Rai. Also known as the Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten stands for the ‘House of the Dancing Tiger’ after the tigers which used to roam this area.

The Blue Temple in Chiang Rai is known for its intricately designed architecture and elaborate carvings (including its dragon sculptures). The temple also has murals which depict the story of the Buddha’s life, and a large white Buddha statue which is located in the main building.

Wat Rong Suea Ten is free to visit and is one of the most beautiful locations you’ll find in the city. To avoid the crowds, head here early in the morning or during late afternoon.

3. Wat Phra Kaew

Wat Phra Kaew, temples in Chiang Rai
the front of Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai

Although not as popular as the White Temple or Blue Temple, Wat Phra Kaew is certainly worth a visit. Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it’s the most revered Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai.

Wat Phra Kaew was once home to the Emerald Buddha, which is now located in Bangkok. Even without the Buddha, the temple is very impressive. There’s also an adjacent building which houses Lanna artefacts. While here, make sure to appreciate the temple walls which are full of murals.

This temple isn’t very big so you won’t need a lot of time to explore. However, it’s a great place to take in the city’s tranquil vibe as the gardens are beautiful.

4. Wat Saeng Kaeo Phothiyan

Wat Saeng Keao Phothiyan, Thailand

There’s no shortage of incredible temples to explore in Chiang Rai. However, if you don’t mind heading out of the city, Wat Saeng Kaeo Phothiyan is around an hour’s drive away.

Wat Saeng Kaeo Phothiyan is one of the most beautiful temples in northern Thailand. Known for its intricate architecture and large ornate statues, this place has so much to offer, especially as you’ll be treated to mountain views. Not to mention, it’s a relatively quiet temple so doesn’t attract the crowds.

While here, you’ll want to explore the temple gardens and there’s also a skywalk. It’s located next to the temple’s biggest statue but there’s a fee to head up there.

Just be aware that a recent fire (June 2024) damaged this temple so certain areas may be inaccessible.

5. Wat Huay Pla Kang

Wat Huay Pla Kang in Chiang Rai from above

Next up is Wat Huay Pla Kang, which is around a 15-minute drive from the city centre. It’s one of the most popular temples in the area and it’s not hard to see why!

Boasting a beautiful white temple, striking nine-storey chedi, and a huge statue, this place will blow you away. The statue depicts Guan Yin, the Buddhist ‘Goddess of Mercy’, which stands approximately 90 metres (295 feet) high.

For the best experience, you’ll want to head inside the statue as the views are breathtaking (especially as you’ll appreciate them through the statue’s eye). There’s an elevator or you can take the stairs.

6. Wat Phra Singh

sculptures at Wat Phra Singh, temples in Chiang Rai

Wat Phra Singh is a must-see in Chiang Rai. This beautiful temple dates back to the late 14th century, making it one of the city’s oldest temples. As well as having a rich history, this temple offers classic Lanna architecture.

Originally, Wat Phra Singh enshrined Phra Phuttha Sihing, a sacred image of Buddha which is revered by the local people. Phra Phuttha Sihing was later moved to Chiang Mai, but this temple has an impressive copy.

Wat Phra Singh also boasts a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, which is thought to have been built during the reign of King Mengrai the Great, so it’s a great place to take in the city’s culture.

Just be aware that parking is relatively limited.

7. Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong

Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong in Thailand

There are so many incredible Chiang Rai temples to visit. One of these is Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, which is around a 5-minute drive from the city’s Clock Tower. Alternatively, you can walk from the city centre.

It’s one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, with legends stating that Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong was in existence before the city itself.

This historic Buddhist temple is home to a rare Lanna-style pagoda which is golden in colour (meaning it shines brightly in the sunlight). Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong is a very peaceful place to visit and you’ll get fantastic views of the surrounding landscape from here. What’s not to like?

8. Wat Phra That Chom Kitti

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti temple architecture

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is located near the border of Laos and is around an hour’s drive from Chiang Rai. It’s believed the temple was constructed in 940 (along with Phrathat Chom Thong) to house the Buddha’s relics, so it’s got a rich history. It wasn’t until 1487, that the original pagoda was built.

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is set upon a hill overlooking the ancient city of Chiang Saen and Laos. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and isn’t very touristy, so you can enjoy this temple without the crowds. Listening to the temple’s bells and gongs only adds to the experience.

While in Chiang Saen, you should also visit the city’s Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang.

9. Wat Phra That Doi Tung

the front of Wat Phra That Doi Tung, temples in Chiang Rai

Wat Phra That Doi Tung is between a 1-1.5 hour drive from Chiang Rai (depending on the traffic). This temple is located on top of Doi Tung, the tallest mountain in Chiang Rai province. The mountain stands at around 2,000 metres (6,561 feet) above sea level, so as you can imagine, the views are pretty spectacular.

Wat Phra That Doi Tung dates back to the 10th century and was later restored in the 13th and 20th centuries. The temple is made up of two Lanna-style stupas, one of which is very sacred – It’s believed to contain a collarbone of Lord Buddha. As such, devout Buddhists from Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand all visit here.

For the best experience, try to time your visit with a clear day!

10. Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang

Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang is located in the ancient city of Chiang Saen, next to the Chiang Saen National Museum. It’s around an hour’s drive away but is certainly worth the visit.

Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang is believed to have been built in the 14th century by Phrachao Saen Phu. This temple has four different chedi, one of which is bell-shaped (in the classic Lanna style). It’s very historic, making it a great place to explore. There are also some fantastic statues.

Wat Phrathat Chedi Luang also boasts a very peaceful atmosphere as it’s not a touristy location. Like many of the temples in Northern Thailand, it’s also free to visit. However, there are plenty of trees surrounding the temple so make sure to pack mosquito spray.

11. Wat Jed Yod

Buddha statue in Wat Jed Yod temple

Wat Jed Yod is certainly one of the most beautiful temples in Chiang Rai. It’s also one of the least-visited so you can enjoy the area’s tranquil vibe as you explore.

Wat Jed Yod’s exterior is beautiful, with its red and golden shades and golden dragon statues. However, the temple’s interior will blow you away. Inside, you’ll find a huge golden Buddha statue surrounded by smaller Buddha statues, beautiful murals, and intricate detailing on the temple walls.

Wat Jed Yod isn’t a large temple so you won’t need much time to explore. It’s also just a short walk from the city’s Clock Tower and Chiang Rai Night Bazaar so is in a very central location.

12. Wat Mung Muang

Wat Mung Muang, temples in Chiang Rai
  • Location: Uttarakit, Tambon Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8 am – 5 pm (opening hours may vary depending on religious events)
  • Entry Fee: Free

Wat Mung Muang is another popular temple in Chiang Rai. This temple may be known for its unique design, but it’s also famous for something else. During WWII, the province experienced bombing, but somehow this temple remained free from harm, which many people view as a miracle.

Although the temple’s history is unclear, it’s believed that Wat Mung Muang dates back to 1839. This is due to its architectural style and ancient remains. It’s predicted to have been built in the 20th Buddhist era.

Highlights of Wat Mung Muang include its ancient Lanna-style chedi, large Buddha statue, and impressive golden Katyayana. Many tourists also seem to bypass this temple which is certainly a mistake in our opinion!

Other Honourable Mentions

Wat Ming Muang temple in Chiang Rai

There’s a seemingly endless number of temples in Chiang Rai, with some offering a more peaceful and relaxing experience. If you’re looking for more temples to visit, here are some other honourable mentions:

  • Wat Tham Phra – Buddha Cave Temple
  • Wat Ming Muang
  • Wat Doi Ngam Muang
  • Wat Klang Wiang
  • Wat Chetawan (Wat Pra Non)
  • Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong
  • Wat Khua Khrae
  • Wat Phrathat Chom Wae
  • The Golden Temple

Tips for Visiting Temples in Chiang Rai

Wat Klang Wiang temple in Thailand

Here are some helpful tips if you’re planning to visit some of Chiang Rai’s temples:

  • Dress modestly – While visiting temples in Chiang Rai, you’ll want to keep your shoulders and knees covered. Some temples may have sarongs which you can rent.
  • Arrive early – When visiting the city’s more popular temples such as Wat Rong Khun and Wat Rong Suea Ten, you’ll want to arrive early, preferably before the temple has even opened as it can get very crowded.
  • Be cautious when taking photographs – Make sure you’re respectful when taking photographs. That means avoiding dramatic poses and taking note of each location’s photography rules.
  • Avoid public displays of affection – These are often seen as inappropriate on temple grounds.
  • Respect temple customs – Each temple in Chiang Rai may have its own customs so keep this in mind. You’ll also want to keep quiet during your visit and remove footwear when entering the temple grounds.

Popular Tours In Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai White Temple sculptures

You can explore the temples in Chiang Rai independently, but there are some fantastic tours available too. If you head out on a guided tour, you’ll get local insight from your guide as well.

Here are some popular tour options in Chiang Rai:

  • Chiang Rai Temples Guided Tour – This Chiang Rai temples tour will see you visit some of the city’s most popular sites including Wat Rong Khun and Wat Rong Suea Ten.
  • Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour – This full-day tour will see you visit temples, taste freshly brewed tea, and indulge in a local Thai lunch. It also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off.
  • Chiang Rai Sightseeing Tour – This sightseeing tour lasts for approximately 8-12 hours. Highlights include Wat Rong Khun, the Baan Dam Museum, and the House of Opium.
Powered by GetYourGuide

Final Thoughts on Visiting Temples In Chiang Rai

There are so many incredible temples in Chiang Rai that you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s a good chance you won’t be able to visit every temple in the city, especially if you’re only staying for a few days.

We’d suggest prioritising Wat Rong Khun and Wat Rong Suea Ten, as these are two of the most striking Chiang Rai temples (in our opinion anyway). However, if you have the time, you’ll want to visit a few other temples on this list as each one has something special to offer.

If you have any questions about the temples of Chiang Rai then be sure to get in touch with us via Facebook, Instagram, or in the comments!

Here are some other Thailand guides that you may find helpful:

PIN IT FOR LATER!

temples in Chiang Rai
Abbie Bevan

I breathe all things travel and nature, with my favourite place being the great outdoors! After exploring 3 continents, I’ve discovered my passion for travelling on a budget, and I want to help you all do the same. I honestly believe travel broadens the mind which is why I want to share all of our adventures!

Similar Posts