Skip to main content
Visit Thailand Today

White Temple Workshop

A contemporary Buddhist temple and art installation in Chiang Rai, known for its striking all-white design.

4.7(80)
Directions

Why go, and how to do it well

Located in the Pa O Don Chai area of Mueang Chiang Rai District, this Buddhist temple is the creation of a local artist-owner whose vision has produced a visually arresting complex that blends traditional religious architecture with contemporary artistic expression. The all-white exterior, ornate decorative details, and thoughtfully designed surrounds make it a distinctive point of interest in the Chiang Rai region, drawing visitors with an interest in both spiritual spaces and modern artistry.

Visitors can expect a rich visual experience throughout the grounds, with intricate detailing on and around the main structure, an on-site museum, and a souvenir shop within the complex. Reviewers note that two hours is a reasonable amount of time to take in everything at a comfortable pace. It is worth noting that the site leans more toward artistic interpretation than traditional heritage, which some visitors find refreshing while others may find less aligned with expectations of a conventional temple.

Entry to the inner yard requires a fee of 100 baht per person, which most visitors consider fair given the scope of the artwork and design on display. Those on a tighter budget can view much of the exterior without paying. As with most temples in Thailand, modest dress is advisable out of respect for the site as a place of worship. Opening hours are not confirmed in advance, so checking locally before visiting is recommended.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Aug 2026

Stay within reach of White Temple Workshop

Sponsored

Search Chiang Rai hotels with your dates. Filter for free cancellation if you want to hold a room and decide later.

See hotels near White Temple Workshop

Opens Booking.com with your dates

Also compare on Expedia · Trip.com

Tours that include White Temple Workshop

Guided visits and day-tour combos that include White Temple Workshop.

Sponsored · GetYourGuide

Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of White Temple Workshop, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Reviews from Google

100 baht per person to get in is a great price for the amazing art and design on and around the building. So much to see at this place. Plan on spending at least two hours there. Take your time.

Pretty cool but a bit over hyped. Must pay to get into the yard of the temple but you can see most of it without paying

If you’re looking for something with a strong sense of heritage, this may not be for you. Credit to the artist-owner for their work, but it wasn’t quite my cup of tea.

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 80 reviews on Google.

RQC7+Q37, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand

Open in Google Maps

More temples & culture nearby

All within a 3-minute walk of White Temple Workshop.

Golden Ganesha temple

Golden Ganesha temple

100 m walk4.3(89)
RQC7+W34, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
A Ganesha-dedicated Hindu temple in Chiang Rai, open around the clock for prayer and quiet reflection.
Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun

150 m walk4.6(25,149)
Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
The White Temple, Chalermchai Kositpipat's mirror-glass masterpiece 13 km south of Chiang Rai. ฿200 for foreigners, open daily from 08:00.
Cave of Art
Hidden Gem

Cave of Art

220 m walk4.5(75)
RQF6+GVJ Wat Rong Khun, Tambon Pa O Don Chai, อ.เมือง Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
A mysterious underground art space near Wat Rong Khun blending natural cave formations with eerie sculptures.

Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

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.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

White Temple Workshop: Frequently Asked Questions

Is White Temple Workshop worth visiting?

White Temple Workshop holds a 4.7★ rating from 80 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Chiang Rai.

When is the best time to visit White Temple Workshop?

The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).

Where is White Temple Workshop located?

White Temple Workshop is at RQC7+Q37, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city center); Songthaews.

Also popular in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

4.2(15,299)
WR4M+5M2, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Come hungry, grab a table near the stage early, and treat it as a whole evening rather than a quick browse.
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar

Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar

4.6(7,203)$$$$
179 หมู่ที่ 2 Bannrongseartean Soi 3, Tambon Rim Kok, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
A colonial-style house on the Kok River where the garden, the food and the prices all run higher than average.
Soon Wipassana Rai Cherntawan (W.Wachiramethi)

Soon Wipassana Rai Cherntawan (W.Wachiramethi)

4.6(2,187)
217 หมู่ที่ 25 Tambon Huai Sak, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
A working vipassana center, not a spa, so come for meditation and quiet, not for a massage table.
Singha Park Chiang Rai

Singha Park Chiang Rai

4.4(13,072)
99, Tambon Mae Kon, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
A 30,000-rai tea estate you tour by golf cart or bike, but mind the rental time limits.

Similar Temples & Culture across Thailand

Wat Phra That Doi Kham

Wat Phra That Doi Kham

4.7(23,054)
Moo 3, Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Free hilltop temple where the crowd is mostly Thai worshippers, and the giant white-and-gold Buddha is visible for miles.
Wat Nam Hu

Wat Nam Hu

4.4(1,068)
9C77+X77, Wiang Tai, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand
A peaceful Buddhist temple in Pai with a fish pond, resident chickens, and a genuinely local atmosphere.
Wat Khao Sap

Wat Khao Sap

4.6(78)
J97Q+7JX, Phe, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong 21160, Thailand
A hilltop temple on Koh Samet offering a peaceful spiritual retreat and scenic island views.
Wat Khao Phra Angkhan

Wat Khao Phra Angkhan

4.5(1,071)
GRMM+PQH, Charoen Suk, Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buri Ram 31170, Thailand
A hilltop Buddhist temple in Buriram offering scenic views and traditional religious architecture.