Getting to the White Temple from Chiang Rai

The easiest way: take a tour

A tour from Chiang Rai takes care of the transport and fits more into the same day: the Blue Temple, the Black House or the Golden Triangle.

Going on your own

By local bus (cheapest)

Local buses heading south leave from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1, the old bus station in the town centre, and pass the temple on Highway 1. They run roughly every 20–30 minutes in the daytime, you pay the small fare on board, and the ride takes about half an hour. Tell the driver or conductor "Wat Rong Khun" and you'll be let off at the entrance.

Platforms and timetables change, so ask at the terminal which bay the White Temple bus leaves from. To get back, wait at the roadside stop on the temple side of the highway for a bus heading north into town.

By Grab or taxi

Grab (the ride-hailing app) works well in Chiang Rai and drops you right at the entrance. Order your ride back from inside the grounds 10–15 minutes before you want to leave, because there are fewer cars waiting at the temple than in town.

If you want to add the Blue Temple, Black House or Wat Huay Pla Kang, the simplest option is a private tour from Chiang Rai. With the Chiang Rai Private Bespoke Sightseeing Tour, you pick the stops, including all four temples, and a private driver-guide takes you round.

Songthaew

Shared red pickup-trucks (songthaews) wait around the bus terminal and in town. You can hire one to the temple and back, but agree the price and the waiting time before you get in.

Scooter or car

It's a straightforward ride down Highway 1, and there's parking at the temple. The highway is busy with fast traffic, so only ride if you're experienced, and always wear a helmet. Rental shops in town can give you directions.

Coming from Chiang Mai?

The White Temple is on the main road from Chiang Mai, before you reach Chiang Rai town. If you're coming for the day, see day trips from Chiang Mai. If you're staying in Chiang Rai, go early, before the tour groups from Chiang Mai arrive.