Why you should not miss Chiang Rai Blue Temple: Thousands shades of blue

Chiang Rai is beautiful, mostly because of its diversity and some of the most gorgeous Buddhist temples we have ever seen. Chiang Rai Blue Temple, or Wat Rong Suea Ten, stands out as a must-see landmark in northern Thailand.

Nestled in a quiet corner of the city, this mesmerising temple promises a stunning visual sensation unlike any other. Our day itinerary in Chiang Rai started with a visit to the White Temple first to get a complete overview of two of the city’s main sights.

We can’t recommend this itinerary enough. If you’re a backpacker looking to uncover the gems of Chiang Rai, this guide will provide all the insights you need. In fact, this is a complete overview of Chiang Rai Blue Temple, with tips on how to have the best experience, and of course, entrance fee, opening hours and how to get there, even from Chiang Mai.

Is Chiang Rai Blue Temple worth visiting?

Yes, The Blue Temple of Chiang Rai is not just another temple; it’s an experience that leaves you spellbound. From the moment you step onto the temple grounds, you’re greeted by statues painted in a vibrant blue that you won’t find anywhere else in Thailand.

I mean, it is unusual even outside of Thailand. This is a revered place, and the peaceful contrast of the shiny white marble Buddha statues against the blue background is nothing short of breathtaking. The intricate designs and motifs, along with the protective dragon and tiger statues, add to the temple’s mystical allure.

Our experience at the Blue Temple in Chiang Rai - Thailand

Without hesitation, we can clearly state that the Blue Temple is an unmissable sight when planning a Chiang Rai itinerary. Our journey to the Blue Temple was nothing short of extraordinary and gave us a sense of calm and relaxing mindset (as many say it can be the blue colour and contrasts).

You can organise the day in Chiang Rai, starting at the White Temple, to avoid the crowds and groups arriving mainly from Chiang Mai. After navigating the busy grounds of the White Temple, the peaceful ambience of the Blue Temple provided a perfect balance.

We remember standing at the entrance, completely awestruck by the vibrant blue statues—a shade so unique it felt like stepping into something unexpected. Believe us, the photos don’t give justice. Something even more extraordinary is the white marble Buddha statues, especially the one at the entrance of the Ubosot and the revered one inside.

Incredibly, a temple of that beauty is free to enter. We recommend following our schedule:

• Visit the White Temple early in the morning to beat the crowds and then head to the Blue Temple in the afternoon.
• Have a local lunch (cheap and very tasty) around Wat Rong Suea Ten.
• Make your way to Lady Buddha Temple.

History of the Blue Temple

Back to business and with some interesting facts about the Blue Temple Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten, which translates to “House of the Dancing Tiger,” sits in what was once a wild jungle predominantly ruled by tigers. The temple was completed only recently, in 2016, making it one of the newer attractions in Chiang Rai.

The visionary artist Phuttha Kabkaew, a student of Chalermchai Kositpipat (the creator of the White Temple), designed the Blue Temple. His inspiration was to create a space where the traditional meets the contemporary, and he definitely succeeded brilliantly.

Where is the Blue Temple

Often mistaken as the Blue Temple of Chiang Mai. Instead, this superb example of modern Thai Temple architecture is in the northernmost city of Chiang Rai, only a handful of miles from the border with Laos. Wat Rong Suea Ten is on a side street (Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai District) of the busy expressway that connects Chiang Rai with the rest of the province.

It is mainly a local area, that’s why it is cheap to eat here or get a coffee. If you want to refresh and relax before or after the visit, we suggest Bike Coffee. If you are getting to the Blue Temple by bike, it is easy to park right next to the entrance.

How to get to the Blue Temple in Chiang Rai

You can get to Chiang Rai Blue Temple in many ways. From the city centre, you can either jump on a tuk-tuk (but they will ask for an extortionate amount of money).

If you are a backpacker like us, take a traditional Songtheaw for about 30 THB and show the driver your final destination before on board. We walked to the Blue Temple, and it was (not easy) 45 minutes from the centre.

Another way to get around Chiang Rai is by renting a scooter, as we did to visit the White Temple and the Lady Buddha Temple.

If you are travelling to Thailand, remember to download the Grab or Bolt App. These will save you money, as Taxis will charge you a lot. Instead, web apps like this save you money. A ride with Grab or Bolt from Chiang Rai town will cost about 70/100 THB.

Chiang Rai Blue Temple from Chiang Mai

Most of the people visiting Chiang Rai only stay in the city for the day to explore the main attractions. If you are in Chiang Mai and want to visit Chiang Rai, we suggest two options.

The budget-friendly way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is by taking a van with a local company from Arcade 2 Bus Terminal. It takes about 3 to 4 hours to get to Chiang Rai and tickets are very affordable (Tickets from 250 THB per person). Check here the routes and availability.

The alternative (hassle-free) is to sign up for a day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. The local companies take care of everything. You can book a tour easily in Chiang Mai town at a local agent or look for cheaper online alternatives here.

Blue Temple practical information

Blue Temple Chiang Rai entrance fee

One of the highlights for backpackers and travellers to Chiang Rai is that entry to the Blue Temple is free. For such temples is fantastic, as they could easily charge a small amount, like the White Temple or others. Still, if you feel like giving an offer when there are plenty of containers around the temple, it is always a nice gesture.

Opening hours

Wat Rong Suea Ten - Chiang Rai Blue Temple is open every day from 7 AM to 8 PM.

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.

Dress code at the Blue Temple

Like most temples in Thailand, a respectful dress code is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Men are usually fine wearing shorts that are at least to the knees. If you are not dressed appropriately, you might be declined entry to the temple. However, at the entrance, they provide sarongs at no extra cost for both men and women.

Before entering the Ubosot or any other internal part of the temple (including corridors), remember to take off your shoes. We suggest always carrying a scarf or similar to cover yourself while in temples. We carry two, as one can act as a sarong for me (Toti).

Best time to visit the Blue Temple

The best time to visit the Blue Temple is in the late afternoon. This not only avoids the peak heat but also offers a serene atmosphere as the day winds down. The temple’s meaning and architecture are designed to offer a chilled experience to devotees and visitors.

So, to experience the temple at your own pace and get those calm and chill vibes, the afternoon after lunch is perfect. We explored it after a busy morning at the White Temple.

Shops around and local food

The blue temple is on a secondary road but in a very busy neighbourhood of Chiang Rai. It is more of a local area, with a pinch of tourist shops, mainly surrounding the temple entrance.

There are several eateries and food stalls nearby that offer a variety of dishes, from spicy papaya salad (som tam) to delicious pad Thai. Quench your thirst with a refreshing Thai iced tea or coconut water. These local delicacies provide a perfect end to a day of temple hopping.

What to expect exploring the Blue Temple

Walking up the secondary road to the Blue Temple, we were immediately captivated by the striking blue statues. The main temple features a large White Buddha statue inside, surrounded by intricate blue and gold designs that give the place a celestial vibe.

Every corner reveals something new and fascinating, from dragon and tiger statues to the detailed murals that adorn the walls.

Intricate architecture

The architecture of the Blue Temple fuses the traditional Lanna style with modern artistic elements. The main hall, or Ubosot, is adorned with elaborate blue and gold designs.

The ceiling is a masterpiece in itself, with intricate patterns and celestial motifs that make you feel as if you’re gazing into the heavens. The use of blue throughout the temple symbolises purity, wisdom, and the infinite nature of the cosmos.

Cultural Significance

The Blue Temple is highly culturally and spiritually significant to the local community. It is a place of worship and reflection where locals come to pay their respects and seek blessings.

You can participate in traditional rituals, such as lighting incense and offering flowers, to gain a deeper understanding of the local customs and beliefs.

Tips on how to engage with the local culture

While visiting the Blue Temple, take the time to engage with the interactive elements. Many people enjoy ringing the large bells and spinning the prayer wheels, which are believed to bring good fortune.

These activities provide a hands-on way to connect with the spiritual essence of the temple. Follow what locals do with discretion, and look for Monks’ chats to ask about the local culture and ways to join in the daily celebrations.

Things to Do in Chiang Rai

Besides visiting the Blue Temple, Chiang Rai offers so many activities that you can count, and most of them are unexpected:

• White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): Start your day early here to avoid the crowds. The White Temple is a contemporary, unconventional take on a traditional Thai temple and offers an otherworldly experience.
• Black House (Baan Dam Museum): This museum showcases a collection of traditional northern Thai buildings interspersed with modern, sometimes dark, art pieces.
• Lady Buddha Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang): An off the beaten path temple in Chiang Rai, with fantastic pagodas, stairs and viewpoints. Visit at sunset and stay after the blue hour for the best photos.
• Night Bazaar: In the evening, head to the night bazaar for some delicious street food, local crafts, and live performances.
• Clock Tower: Designed by the same artist as the White Temple, the golden Clock Tower in the city centre is a sight that glows at night.
• Singha Park: For nature enthusiasts, Singha Park offers scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and adventure activities such as zip-lining and cycling.

Where to stay in Chiang Rai

• Boutique Hotel with Pool: A fantastic accommodation is Nak Nakara, one of the most and best rated on Booking. The hotel has beautiful rooms and a fantastic pool, offering a premium location. CHECK THEIR RATES!
• HomeStay - Best Rated: Who said that you need to make a compromise staying in a Guest House? Homestay Chiang Rai is top-rated with a 9.1 Rating in a central location, offering a pool and beautiful room for a cheap price. BOOK NOW BEFORE IT’S GONE.
• Backpacker/On a Budget: The Hostel Baan Mai Kradan is perfect for staying on a budget without compromise. This great affordable accommodation is perfect for backpackers or, if you want to stay longer, taking advantage of communal areas. CHECK AVAILABILITY!

FAQ | Chiang Rai Blue Temple