Chiangrai Contemporary Art Museum
Tucked among rice paddies and agricultural land in the Rim Kok area, this free-entry contemporary art museum offers a striking contrast to Chiang Rai's temple circuit. Spread across five floors, it houses a rotating mix of artworks, large-scale sculptures, and installations from Thai and regional contemporary artists. A second-floor small theatre adds another dimension to the experience, and the fifth-floor skywalk delivers open views across the surrounding countryside. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried, drawing visitors who want something quieter and less crowded than the city's headline attractions. Some galleries may be under renovation or in the process of rehinging works at any given time, so the full collection is not always on display — something worth keeping in mind when planning a visit. That said, the scale of the building and the quality of individual works on display make it a worthwhile stop, particularly for those with an interest in modern art. Practically speaking, there is no public transport serving the location, so visitors should arrange private transport, a rental vehicle, or a ride-hailing app to get here. Its position between central Chiang Rai and the airport also makes it a convenient final stop before a departure. Allow at least one to two hours to explore comfortably, and verify opening hours locally before visiting, as they are not consistently listed online.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chiangrai Contemporary Art Museum, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Really nice place full of contempory art on five floors. Surrounded by Paddy fields and othe agricultural areas. Great views from the 5th floor sky walk. Free entry however you might need your own transport to get here. Cafe on 3rd floor. With 360deg views.
It’s good to have a free-entry art gallery in the town but no public transport heading to this place. There are 3 floors with different contemporary arts. The 2nd floors has small theatre.
I was impressed of this big Art Gallery in Chiangrai. Many nice Artwork and beautiful structure located in the middle of nowhere. Great pit stop before the airport. Free entry.
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.
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)