CITY GUIDE
Chiang Rai travel guide: the White Temple and beyond
Thailand’s northernmost province, with dazzling modern temples, tea plantations and the Golden Triangle.
Chiang Rai is about 3 hours north of Chiang Mai and makes a great day trip or an easy 2–3 day stop. It’s famous for three unusual temples: the White Temple, the Blue Temple and the Black House.
Beyond the city, you’ll find tea plantations on misty hills and the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.
On this page: Quick facts · Top things to do · Nightlife · Shopping · FAQ
Quick facts
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | November to February |
| How many days | 1 day trip, or 2–3 days to explore |
| Getting there | Bus from Chiang Mai (about 3 hours) or flights to Chiang Rai (CEI) |
| Getting around | Grab, tuk-tuks, hired driver |
| Don’t miss | The White Temple early in the morning |
Top things to do in Chiang Rai
The famous temples are spread out, so a driver or tour makes it easy to see them in one day.
1. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
A dazzling white temple covered in mirrored glass, designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The murals inside mix Buddhist themes with pop culture.
- Entry: About 100 THB for foreigners
- Opening hours: Daily about 8:00am–5:00pm
Our tip: Arrive at opening time for photos without crowds.
2. Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
A vivid sapphire-blue temple with gold details and a white Buddha inside. Free to visit and close to the city.
- Entry: Free
3. Baan Dam (Black House)
An eerie, fascinating museum of dark wooden buildings filled with animal horns, skins and art, created by artist Thawan Duchanee.
- Entry: About 80 THB
4. Wat Huay Pla Kang
A huge white statue of Guanyin, the Chinese goddess of mercy, on a hill. Take the lift up inside for views.
- Entry: Free (small fee for the lift)
5. Golden Triangle
The point where the Mekong and Ruak rivers meet and three countries touch. Visit the Hall of Opium museum and take a boat ride on the Mekong.
- Getting there: About 1 hour north of the city
6. Singha Park and tea plantations
Rolling green hills, tea fields and cycling paths. Further north, the Choui Fong tea plantation has beautiful views and a café.
Prices and opening hours were checked in 2025–26 and change often. Please confirm with the official site before you go. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Nightlife in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is quiet at night, so evenings are mostly about the night markets and a few friendly bars.
Night Bazaar and food court
Phahonyothin Road
The heart of the city at night, with a food court, live music on stage and handicraft stalls.
Clock Tower light show
City centre
The golden clock tower, also by the White Temple artist, has a short light and music show in the evening.
Jetyod Road bars
Near the Clock Tower
A short street of relaxed bars with live music.
Shopping in Chiang Rai
Look for hill-tribe textiles, tea and coffee from the local mountains.
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
City centre
Crafts, clothing and souvenirs every evening.
Saturday Walking Street
Thanalai Road
A weekend market with local food, crafts and performances.
Good to know: Saturday evenings.
Central Chiang Rai
Phahonyothin Road
The city’s modern mall, with a supermarket and restaurants.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Chiang Rai as a day trip from Chiang Mai?
Yes. Many tours visit the White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House and Golden Triangle in one long day, but staying a night is more relaxing.
How should I dress for the White Temple?
Cover your shoulders and knees, as at all Thai temples.
