Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)

Introduction: Chiang Rai's Sapphire Jewel

Situated in Rim Kok Sub-district, just 3 kilometers (a 5-minute drive) north of Chiang Rai city center across the Kok River, Wat Rong Suea Ten (known worldwide as the Blue Temple) is one of Northern Thailand's most visually stunning contemporary temples. Built on the ruins of an ancient abandoned temple, construction of the modern sanctuary began in 2005 and was completed in 2016. The temple's unique name translates literally to "House of the Dancing Tiger," referencing historical local legends of tigers jumping across the nearby Kok River.

Designed by local Chiang Rai artist Putha Kabkaew (famously known as Phuttha Khamma), a student of Chalermchai Kositpipat (the master artist behind the White Temple), the Blue Temple stands out for its vibrant sapphire-blue walls, elaborate gold-leaf filigree, intricate Lanna-style stucco carvings, and a magnificent white seated Buddha inside the main sanctuary.

Key Attractions & Architectural Highlights

Wat Rong Suea Ten features vibrant color palettes, sacred sculptures, and dramatic artistic details:

1. The Sapphire-Blue & Gold Main Assembly Hall (Ubosot)

The main sanctuary building is painted in deep cerulean and sapphire blue, adorned with opulent gold-leaf trim, multi-tiered Lanna roofs, and ornate roof gables. Guarding the front entrance stairs are two towering, fiercely sculpted Naga serpents with gleaming scales and purple-gold accents.

2. The Great White Buddha (Phra Buddha Ratchamongkol Bophit)

Inside the main Ubosot, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking 6.5-meter-tall pure white seated Buddha statue carved from porcelain-like material. The surrounding interior walls and vaulted ceilings are painted in hypnotic deep blue murals with gold floral swirls and celestial beings, illuminated by soft blue and warm gold lighting that creates a peaceful, surreal atmosphere.

3. The Standing White Buddha (Rear Courtyard)

Standing against the blue rear facade of the Ubosot is another impressive white standing Buddha statue in the posture of forgiveness, surrounded by blue ceramic lotus pillars and manicured flower gardens.

4. Blue Coconut Ice Cream & Culinary Court

Directly outside the main plaza, local dessert vendors serve signature **Blue Coconut Ice Cream** colored naturally with blue butterfly pea flowers (*Anchan*), served in a fresh coconut shell with sticky rice and topped with a purple butterfly pea flower.

Key Highlights & Attraction Summary

• Sapphire-Blue Architecture: Vibrant blue exterior and interior embellished with gold filigree.
• 6.5m White Seated Buddha: Luminous white Buddha surrounded by psychedelic blue murals.
• Fierce Naga Guardians: Intricately carved Naga sea-serpent statues guarding entrance stairs.
• Butterfly Pea Blue Ice Cream: Famous local dessert served in coconut shells outside the temple.

How to Reach Wat Rong Suea Ten

Located in Mueang Chiang Rai District, easily accessible via local transport from the city center.

By Tuk-Tuk, Grab, or Scooter (Most Convenient)

Since the temple is located just 3 kilometers north of Chiang Rai Clock Tower and the Night Bazaar, taking a quick 5-minute tuk-tuk or Grab ride costs around **60 to 100 THB**. Renting a scooter is also a quick, direct way to visit.

By On-Foot Walk from City Center

Active travelers can take a pleasant 25 to 30-minute walk from central Chiang Rai city north across the Kok River Bridge directly to the temple gates.

Best Time to Visit

Operating hours and lighting conditions govern the ideal visiting strategy.

Opening Hours

Open daily year-round from **07:00 AM to 08:00 PM**.

Optimal Visiting Strategy

Arrive early between **07:00 AM and 08:30 AM** for cool morning air, quiet photography, and peaceful contemplation inside the main hall before tour buses arrive. Late afternoon (04:30 PM to 06:30 PM) is also ideal, as warm golden-hour light illuminates the sapphire-blue walls and gold trim.

Top Nearby Attractions in Chiang Rai

1. Wat Huay Pla Kang (Big Buddha of Chiang Rai) (6 km northwest)

A hilltop temple complex featuring a massive 23-story white statue of Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) and a 9-tier pagoda.

2. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) (16 km south)

Chalermchai Kositpipat's world-famous contemporary masterpiece built of pure white plaster and mirror mosaics.

3. Baandam Museum (Black House) (9 km north)

A dark, surreal complex of traditional wooden structures created by artist Thawan Duchanee.

Things to Do at Wat Rong Suea Ten

• Admire the Great White Buddha: Step inside the Ubosot to take in the white Buddha statue framed by deep blue murals.
• Photograph the Blue Naga Statues: Capture detailed photos of the blue and purple Naga serpents on the front steps.
• Taste Butterfly Pea Blue Ice Cream: Enjoy natural blue coconut ice cream served in fresh coconut shells.
• Light Candles & Pray: Purchase lotus flowers and incense to pay respects inside the temple courtyard.

Local Food and Culinary Options

The temple plaza and nearby Kok River banks feature charming cafes and Northern Thai noodle shops.

Must-Try Culinary Options Nearby

• Butterfly Pea Blue Ice Cream & Iced Anchan Tea: Signature sweet coconut treats sold at stalls directly outside the temple plaza.
• Khao Soi & Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage): Authentic Chiang Rai coconut curry noodle soup and grilled herbal pork sausage served at local eateries along the Kok River.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Visitors typically stay in central Chiang Rai city or along the Kok River.

Riverside & City Hotels ($20 – $140 USD / 700 – 4,800 THB per night)

• The Riverie by Katathani / Le Méridien Chiang Rai / Mora Boutique Hotel / De' Long Hotel: Luxury riverside resorts and charming city boutique hotels located within 5 to 10 minutes of the Blue Temple.

Budget Travel Guide & Admission Fees

• FREE Admission: Entrance to Wat Rong Suea Ten is completely **FREE** for all international and Thai visitors (donations welcome).
• Cheap Transport: Tuk-tuks or Grab rides from the city center cost under 60–100 THB.
• Affordable Snacks: Signature blue coconut ice cream costs around **40 to 50 THB**.

Sample Half-Day Itinerary

• 08:00 AM: Take a 5-minute tuk-tuk from central Chiang Rai to **Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)**.
• 08:15 AM: Explore the sapphire-blue Ubosot, photograph the Naga statues, and view the **Great White Buddha**.
• 09:30 AM: Enjoy a bowl of signature **Blue Coconut Ice Cream** in the temple plaza.
• 10:15 AM: Take a 10-minute taxi north to **Wat Huay Pla Kang** to ascend the 23-story Guanyin statue.
• 12:00 PM: Head to **Baandam Museum (Black House)** or return to the city center for lunch along the Kok River.

Essential Rules and Visitor Guidelines

• Modest Dress Code Required: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Sleeveless tops, shorts, mini-skirts, and open vests are forbidden.
• Remove Shoes Inside the Ubosot: Shoes must be removed before stepping onto the carpet inside the main assembly hall.
• Photography Guidelines: Indoor photography is permitted—maintain quiet respect when photographing near praying locals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is Wat Rong Suea Ten located?

It is located in Rim Kok Sub-district, Chiang Rai, Thailand, just 3 km north of the city center across the Kok River.

2. What are the operating hours?

Open daily year-round from **07:00 AM to 08:00 PM**.

3. Is there an entrance fee?

No, admission to the Blue Temple is completely **FREE**.

4. Why is it called the Blue Temple?

Because of its striking sapphire and cerulean blue exterior and interior walls decorated with gold trim.

5. Who designed the Blue Temple?

Local artist **Putha Kabkaew** (Phuttha Khamma), a student of Chalermchai Kositpipat.

6. What does Wat Rong Suea Ten mean?

It translates to "House of the Dancing Tiger," named after local legends of tigers in the area.

7. What famous dessert is sold outside?

Blue coconut ice cream colored naturally with butterfly pea flowers (*Anchan*) served in coconut shells.

8. What is the dress code?

Modest attire—shoulders and knees must be covered.

9. How far is it from the White Temple?

It is about 16 km (a 20-minute drive) north of Wat Rong Khun (White Temple).

10. How long does a visit take?

A typical visit takes **45 to 60 minutes**.

Conclusion

Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) stands out as Chiang Rai's ultimate sapphire treasure, where vibrant cerulean architecture, intricate gold filigree, majestic white Buddha statues, fierce Naga guardians, and butterfly pea coconut ice cream converge. From stepping inside the blue-and-gold Ubosot to enjoying local treats and exploring neighboring northern temples, the Blue Temple delivers an unmissable cultural experience. Dress modestly, take a short tuk-tuk ride, and explore Wat Rong Suea Ten Chiang Rai!