Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Religious spot
★ 4.8 (6K+ reviews) • 78K+ booked
Discover the surreal beauty and intricate artistry of Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple in Thailand. This masterpiece of Buddhist art, located on the outskirts of Chiang Rai, is a mind-boggling creation defined by incredible detail, bizarre sculptures, hidden meanings, and surreal beauty. Explore this unique destination that captivates visitors from around the world.
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White Temple, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
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Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) Reviews

4.8 /5
6K+ reviews
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Klook User
1 Jul
trip was great, lunch was buffet system with lots of option. would definitely recommend
2+
Fung ******
1 Jul
The white temple and blue temple are magnificent, and the tour guide gave clear information of the temples, you wont regret joining this tour 🙂
2+
Mhark ***********
28 Jun
Amazing Chiang Rai Tour – A Day to Remember! I booked the Chiang Rai full-day tour via Klook, and it exceeded all my expectations! The journey from Chiang Mai was smooth and well-organized. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and shared fascinating facts throughout the trip.
2+
Klook Benutzer
26 Jun
If you want to cover a lot in one day, then this trip is highly recommended! I was actually only interested in the Golden Triangle, but that turned out to be a bit boring and short-lived. Luckily, there was enough variety during the trip to take some great souvenir photos. A great and helpful driver despite the VERY long drive.
Mark *************
23 Jun
This was a very exhausting tour yet informative and worth every money you spent. You just have to be lucky that all participants of this joiner are punctual and follow time schedule so you can enjoy all scenery and tourist spots covered. Suzy was our tour guide and she is very informative and engaging all throughout the tour. lunch buffet is also included in this tour.
2+
Klook 用戶
23 Jun
[One-day tour experience of White Temple, Blue Temple and Black Temple] There will be a special car to pick up downstairs of the hotel early in the morning. After picking up tourists in the same group, they will start the itinerary. XD The tour guide is very good at the scenic spot and will help take pictures~ 📍First stop: hot springs, you can soak your feet & buy hot spring eggs. 📍Second stop: White Temple, if you do not meet the dress code, you can rent an apron outside (rental 20 + deposit 100) but it is better to wear beautiful clothes that meet the regulations for taking pictures~ 📍Third stop: lunch is all you can eat. The restaurant is opposite the White Temple. The Thai restaurant has common curry noodles, pork noodles, fried rice and fried noodles. 📍Fourth stop: Blue Temple. The murals in the temple are very dreamy. If you do not meet the dress code when entering the temple, there are free aprons to borrow. 📍The fifth stop: the Black House Museum, which has a stray cat shelter. The cats all wear collars and are super cute. Donate 20 baht to get a small gift and meat paste to feed the cats. On the way back to Chiang Mai, we will stop at a famous product store to use the toilet and try cashews. The time we finally returned to Chiang Mai was around 6pm.
2+
ABD *******************
22 Jun
pros : well organized tour with friendly guide and driver... recommended.. 12 pax join in tour.. door to door pick up and drop off... great time management from the operator..... Things to improve... lunch maybe should opt for more authentic taste of Thai dishes restaurant .. Just so so lunch.
2+
Klook User
22 Jun
I definitely enjoyed this tour. I learned a lot about the history of the places we visited because our tour guide is very smart and knowledgeable about the story of these places.
2+

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What to know about Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

The White Temple

The White Temple, a creation of local artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, is a stunning masterpiece that first opened to the public in 1997. Admire the sparkling white exterior adorned with elaborate sculptures made of plaster and mirrored glass. Explore the intricate artwork inside the temple that conveys deep meanings and hidden messages.

Bridge of the cycle of rebirth

Cross the bridge adorned with outreaching hands symbolizing desire and be greeted by elegant Kinnaree creatures. The bridge signifies the path to happiness through renouncing temptation and greed.

Golden building

Marvel at the ornate golden building symbolizing worldly desires, contrasting with the white ubosot representing the mind. The gold signifies material focus, while the white promotes inner peace.

Culture and History

Wat Rong Khun is a testament to the artistic vision of Chalermchai Kositpipat and his dedication to restoring and creating this masterpiece. The temple's intricate artwork reflects Buddhist teachings and philosophical concepts, inviting visitors to contemplate the deeper meanings behind the sculptures and paintings.

Local Cuisine

After exploring the White Temple, indulge in delicious Thai cuisine at nearby restaurants. Try local favorites like mango sticky rice and immerse yourself in the flavors of Thailand. Enjoy a culinary experience that complements the cultural richness of the destination.

White Color Scheme and Symbolism

Wat Rong Khun's white color scheme symbolizes purity and the Buddha's teachings, reflecting a blend of traditional Buddhist architecture with contemporary art and societal concerns.

Elaborate Architecture and Sculptures

Marvel at the intricate carvings of dragons and mythical creatures adorning the main building, as well as the surrounding sculptures of skeletons, demons, and other fantastic beings that make Wat Rong Khun a paradise for art and architecture enthusiasts.

Artistic Elements and Pop Culture References

Experience the fusion of traditional Buddhist themes with modern art and pop culture symbols at Wat Rong Khun, where murals depict scenes from popular culture alongside traditional Buddhist deities, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.