[JOIN TOUR] Chiang Rai Temples Tour: White Temple, Blue Temple & Black House
The White Temple. If you’re looking for ancient ruins, you might be surprised to find a modern architectural masterpiece designed and built by local artist Chaloemchai Khositphiphat. He was rumored to have spent over THB 40 million of his own money to create this unconventional art exhibit to gain immortal life!
The Blue Temple or Wat Rong Seua Ten literally translates to ‘temple of the dancing tiger.’ It was built on a site where tigers were said to have jumped over the river.
If the White Temple was meant to be a stairway to heaven, the Black House has been called a “dark, mysterious, and almost sadistic” representation of hell, complete with preserved animals and a collection of bones.
Built by Thailand national artist Thawan Duchanee (who incidentally was the mentor of Chaloemchai, the White Temple guy), the Baan dam Museum (Black House) is a cluster of nearly 40 small shadowy structures exhibiting art dating back to the Ayutthaya period.
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Highlights
Visit the White Temple or Wat Rong Khun, a modern architectural masterpiece built by a local artist to gain immortal life
Take a break at the Blue Temple, built on a site where tigers jumped over the river
Get chilled to the bone at the Black House, called a “dark, mysterious, and almost sadistic” representation of hell
Things to Note
Health Requirements: Participants should be in good health and able to handle a full day of walking and exploring.
Accessories: Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. A light scarf or shawl can be useful for additional coverage at the temples.
Facilities: Restrooms are available at the temple sites, but they may be basic. Plan accordingly and bring necessary personal hygiene items.
Rainy Season: During the rainy season (June to October), be prepared for sudden showers. Bring a lightweight raincoat or an umbrella.
What to Expect
The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): Prepare to be swept away by the ethereal beauty of the White Temple. Unlike traditional Thai temples, this modern architectural masterpiece designed by Chaloemchai Khositphiphat stuns with its gleaming white facade and intricate details. Evoking a sense of serenity and awe, the White Temple, believed to represent a stairway to heaven, is a must-see for any Chiang Rai visitor.
The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Seua Ten): Immerse yourself in a vibrant explosion of color at the Blue Temple, also known as the "Temple of the Dancing Tiger." This landmark gets its name from the site's history, where tigers were said to have gracefully leaped over the river. Lush blue hues dominate the exterior, adorned with intricate sculptures and mosaics, creating a visually stunning spectacle.
The Black House (Baan Dam Museum): Intrigue awaits at the Black House, built by Thailand's national artist Thawan Duchanee, who also mentored the White Temple's creator. This collection of nearly 40 dark-colored structures offers a unique blend of traditional Thai architecture and contemporary art. While some consider it "dark" and "mysterious," the Black House offers a thought-provoking exploration of art and philosophy, housing exhibits dating back to the Ayutthaya period.
Location
Operating Hours
7.45 am - 7.00 pm
- SUNDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- MONDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- TUESDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- WEDNESDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- THURSDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- FRIDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
- SATURDAY : 07:30 - 19:00
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