CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – The management of Wat Rong Khun announced that starting 1 January 2026, international visitors will face a doubled entry fee of 200 Baht to access Chiang Rai’s iconic White Temple.
Foreign Entry Fee to Increase on January 1, 2026
On 1 January 2026, the entry fee for foreigners at Wat Rong Khun, located in Chiang Rai Province, will increase from 100 Baht to 200 Baht, according to temple administrators. Thai citizens will continue to enjoy free admission, consistent with national policy for cultural and religious institutions.
A spokesperson for the temple explained that the measure will apply to entry to both the main temple building and the Cave of Art exhibition hall, two of the most visited sections of the complex.
“The increase is necessary for maintenance and improvements.”
said Temple Representative, Wat Rong Khun Administration
Maintenance and Improvement Funding
Temple officials in Chiang Rai cited maintenance demands as the key factor driving the change. Ongoing upkeep of the white-painted exterior and mirror-embedded facade requires continuous restoration efforts. The temple’s administration said revenue from the new ticket price will fund upgrades to public facilities and visitor spaces.
“We want to preserve the distinctive appearance,”
said Temple Spokesperson, Wat Rong Khun
Visitors Exempted from the Fee
Under the new policy, children under 120 centimeters in height and visitors aged 70 and above will remain exempt from entry charges. As before, Thai nationals will be able to visit the temple at no cost, ensuring that the cultural site remains accessible to local citizens.
Officials said these exemptions aim to promote appreciation for the country’s artistic and religious landmarks among residents.
Background of the Iconic Temple
The White Temple, officially known as Wat Rong Khun, was designed in 1997 by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The privately funded structure blends traditional Thai motifs with modern artistic design and has become one of Northern Thailand’s leading tourist attractions.
Despite its temple form, no monks currently reside at the site. The complex also features the Cave of Art, which presents sculptural depictions of buddhist cosmology, ranging from hellish realms to nirvana.
Tourism and Future Plans
Local tourism authorities reported that Chinese nationals represent the largest group of foreign visitors to the White Temple each year. The management said the fee increase will help sustain infrastructure amid expanding visitor volumes and ensure that the site continues to operate as a major tourism landmark in Chiang Rai.
Summary of Changes Effective 2026:
– Foreign visitor fee: 200 Baht (up from 100 Baht)
– Effective date: 1 January 2026
– Thai citizens: Free entry
– Children under 120 cm: Free entry
– Ages 70 and over: Free entry
– Funding purpose: Maintenance, renovations, and visitor facility upgrades
The administration emphasized that the added income will ensure the structure’s longevity as Thailand’s most recognizable contemporary temple and a highlight of the Chiang Rai tourism circuit.