Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
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Also known as: Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten
Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, is a modern marvel of Thai religious architecture located in the city of Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. Known for its distinctive vivid blue coloring and intricate carvings, the temple has become a popular destination if you want a blend of tradition and innovation in Buddhist architecture.
Constructed and opened to the public in 2016, Wat Rong Suea Ten was designed by Putha Kabkaew, a student of the renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, who created the famous White Temple in the same city. Drawing on traditional Thai design principles and injecting a touch of modern artistry, the Blue Temple is a visual feast for visitors.
The name ‘Rong Suea Ten’ translates to ‘House of the Dancing Tiger,’ a nod to the site’s history as a place where tigers supposedly roamed and jumped over the river that runs through the area. Today, the temple’s primary lure is its striking aesthetic appeal rather than its historical association with tigers.
As the name implies, the temple’s dominant color is a mesmerizing, rich blue, symbolizing the Dharma, the Buddha’s teachings, which are a central doctrine in Buddhism. The temple is profusely decorated with ornate carvings, stucco work, and Naga serpents, traditional mythical creatures often found in Thai temples. These elements are beautifully rendered in various shades of blue, gold, and other colors, creating an rich and dynamic spectacle.
Upon entering the temple, visitors are greeted by a large white Buddha statue seated against a deep blue backdrop, surrounded by intricate patterns and designs. The interior, with its detailed artwork and calming aura, offers a space for contemplation and appreciation of the temple’s architectural grandeur.
Wat Rong Suea Ten showcases the creativity and craftsmanship that characterize contemporary Thai religious architecture. Its remarkable beauty, combined with the calm and tranquil ambiance within its walls, makes it a worth visiting attraction in Chiang Rai for spiritual seekers and lovers of unique architectural designs.
Visitor Information
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Entry Fee: Free (Thai nationals: Free)
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Opening Hours: Daily 07:00-20:00
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Contact: 0643473636
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Website: www.facebook.com
Getting There
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) is located at 306, Moo 2, Maekok Rd, Tambon Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100. View on Google Maps.
Tips for Visitors
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Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs may be available at the entrance.
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Remove your shoes before entering any building.
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Keep your voice low and your head below any Buddha images when seated.
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Avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images or monks.
Good to Know
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On site
Location & Directions
306, Moo 2, Maekok Rd, Tambon Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Show your taxi or Grab driver
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Within Walking Distance
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours and entrance fee for Wat Rong Suea Ten?
The Blue Temple is open daily from 07:00 to 20:00 and entry is free for both Thai nationals and foreign visitors.
Where exactly is the Blue Temple located in Chiang Rai?
It sits at 306 Moo 2, Maekok Road, Tambon Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai District — roughly on the northern edge of Chiang Rai city. The coordinates are 19.9233° N, 99.8418° E, easy to drop into Google Maps.
What does 'Wat Rong Suea Ten' mean and why is the temple blue?
The name translates to 'House of the Dancing Tiger,' referencing the site's history as a place where tigers supposedly roamed and jumped over the river that runs through the area. The predominant blue colour symbolises the Dharma — the Buddha's teachings — in Buddhist tradition.
Who built the Blue Temple and when did it open?
The temple was designed by Putha Kabkaew, a student of Chalermchai Kositpipat, the artist behind Chiang Rai's famous White Temple. It was completed and opened to visitors in 2016.
What is there to see inside the Blue Temple?
The interior is dominated by a large white Buddha statue set against a deep blue backdrop, surrounded by intricate carved patterns and stucco work. The walls and ceilings are covered in detailed artwork featuring Naga serpents and gold ornamentation rendered in multiple shades of blue and gold.
What is the dress code at Wat Rong Suea Ten?
Shoulders and knees must be covered — sarongs may be available at the entrance if needed. Shoes must be removed before entering any building. Keep your voice low, your head below any Buddha images when seated, and avoid pointing your feet toward Buddha images or monks.
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