Wat Rong Khun — universally known as the White Temple — is one of Thailand's most striking pieces of contemporary religious art. Designed and built by local artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, who began construction in 1997 and has funded it entirely from his own earnings, the temple is unlike any other in the country. Every surface is coated in white plaster and embedded with millions of tiny mirror tiles that shimmer and glitter in sunlight.
The approach to the main hall crosses a bridge over a pond filled with outstretched hands — representing souls in hell reaching upward. The gate is flanked by mythological figures, and the interior of the main hall features Kositpipat's irreverent murals that blend traditional Buddhist iconography with contemporary pop-culture imagery including Superman, Predator, and cartoon characters. Photography inside the main hall is not permitted.
The compound also includes a striking gold building (the bathroom facilities — representing wealth and earthly pleasures, as a deliberate contrast to the pure-white main hall representing purity). Construction and decoration are ongoing; Kositpipat intends the project to continue for decades after his death.
Highlights
- All-white main hall encrusted with millions of mirror glass fragments
- Bridge over 'hell pond' lined with outstretched hands
- Provocative interior murals blending Buddhist imagery with pop culture
- Gold bathroom building representing earthly wealth
- Active construction — a living work of art in progress
- Full artist's vision: gold, blue, and white buildings in one compound
How to Get There
Wat Rong Khun is 13 km south of Chiang Rai city. Take a songthaew or tuk-tuk from Chiang Rai bus station for around 100–150 THB. Most visitors rent a motorbike or join a half-day Chiang Rai temple tour. No direct public bus service.
Visitor Tips
Photography inside the main ordination hall is strictly forbidden — respect this.
Overcast or slightly cloudy mornings give the best photos — direct sunlight creates harsh reflections from the white surfaces.
Combine with the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) and Black House Museum in the same half-day.
The gift shop on site sells prints of Kositpipat's art and funding certificates if you want to contribute to the project.
Arrive at opening time — tour buses fill the parking lot by 9:30 am on most days.
Dress Code Required
Frequently Asked Questions
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