Chiang Rai Clock Tower
The Chalermphrakiat Clock Tower is one of Chiang Rai's most recognisable landmarks, built in 2005 to commemorate the 60th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand. Designed by celebrated local artist Chalermchai Kositpipat — the same visionary behind the famous White Temple — the tower is covered in intricate golden patterns and ornate detailing that reflect the artistry and cultural identity of northern Thailand. Beyond its striking appearance, the tower comes alive each evening with free light and music shows at 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm, each lasting around seven minutes. The surrounding area is lively throughout the day, with cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and shops clustered nearby, making it a natural gathering point for both locals and visitors. The central location in Tambon Wiang also makes it a practical base for exploring other attractions across central Chiang Rai on foot. Good to know: The nightly light shows are a highlight worth planning around, so arriving a few minutes early to secure a good viewing spot is advisable. During the day, the early morning and late afternoon offer cooler temperatures and better light for photography. The tower is a public landmark with no admission fee and no set opening hours, so it is accessible at any time.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chiang Rai Clock Tower, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
We visited the Chiang Rai Clock Tower today (Chalermphrakiat Clock Tower) it is a stunning golden landmark in the city center, designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat (creator of the White Temple) with intricate patterns, known for its captivating nightly light and sound show at 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM. It serves as a traffic roundabout and a significant artistic attraction, showcasing traditional Thai temple aesthetics with a modern artistic touch, especially vibrant when illuminated at night. Key Details: Name: Chalermphrakiat Clock Tower (หอนาฬิกาเฉลิมพระเกียรติฯ). Location: In a traffic circle where several main roads meet in central Chiang Rai. Designer: Achan Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned Thai National Artist. Appearance: A distinctive golden structure with ornate, intricate details, resembling a Buddhist temple. Light & Sound Show: A 10-minute show occurs nightly at 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM, transforming the tower with colors and music. Purpose: Built in 2005 to commemorate the 60th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Why Visit: Art & Architecture: A beautiful piece of Thai modern art, reflecting the style of the famous White Temple. Evening Spectacle: The nightly light show offers a memorable visual experience for tourists. City Landmark: A central point of interest and a great photo opportunity in Chiang Rai.
This beautiful clock tower was built in 2005 to commemorate the 60th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand. The tower is adorned with intricate golden patterns making it a standout landmark, especially when illuminated at night. Its located centrally in Chiang Rai. Every day at 19.00, 20.00, 21.00 visitors can enjoy a 10 minute light and sound show. Do not miss this beautiful clock tower if in Chiang Rai.
An iconic location within chiangrai! Light shows of the clock tower on daily basis, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm. Last about 7mins or so per show. A must to see when in town!
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Also Popular in Chiang Rai
Golden Triangle
Educational park at the intersection of Myanmar, Laos & Thailand, once known for opium production.
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Compact night market offering street food, apparel, jewelry & gifts, plus live entertainment.
Singha Park Chiang Rai
Scenic park in a farmlike setting with tea plantations, orchards, trails, a tram & a petting zoo.
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Relaxed riverside outfit with a garden prepping international fare made from seasonal ingredients.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. Scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)