WAT RONG SUEA TEN BLUE TEMPLE

Wat Rong Suea Ten is one of Chiang Rai’s most eye-catching modern temples and is commonly known as the Blue Temple.

The vivid blue exterior with gold patterns and carved details of this highly decorated temple is a stark contrast to the common red, gold, and white colors of other temples in Thailand.

At the temple entrance you will pass by tall mythical Naga Serpent guardian figures and the ornate Hor Rakang blue and gold colored bell tower.

Inside the main hall, the ceiling is filled with blue-toned murals, Buddhist imagery and decorative patterns. A central white Buddha image sits in strong contrast to the surrounding blue interior.

Although Wat Rong Suea Ten has become a popular stop for tourists, it is still an active Buddhist temple. Visitors should dress respectfully, remove their shoes before entering the main hall and avoid loud behaviour inside the temple buildings. As with many temples in Thailand, a little quiet respect goes a long way and helps maintain the peaceful feeling of the site.

If you visit early in the morning then the softer colors work well for a very appealing photo. The temple is also attractive in the evening when the blue and gold tones become more dramatic.

You can also combine other close-by Chiang Rai attractions when visiting Wat Rong Seua Ten. Many visitors include it on a temple route with Wat Rong Khun White Temple, and Baan Dam Black House.

See below for map and directions to Wat Rong Suea Ten Blue Temple.

The Blue Temple is only about 6 km from central Chiang Rai city and takes about 10 minutes.

Hailing a tuk-tuk would be the easiest way to get to the temple and you will most likely see several waiting at the entrance when you want to return.

Using the Grab app for a taxi would also be a good option, it works like Uber but is the most popular ride service that is used in Thailand.

Opening hours are normally 7am until 8pm.

See the interactive map below to show the exact location.