Tickets, opening hours and dress code

Entrance fee

Since 1 January 2026, foreign visitors pay 200 baht, double the previous 100 baht. The ticket now includes the Cave of Art, which used to charge its own small fee. Thai citizens enter free, as do children under 120 cm tall and visitors aged 70 and over.

If you're on an organised tour, check whether the listing includes entry fees.

Opening hours

The temple is open every day from about 8:00 to 17:30, with last entry around 17:00. Staff can stop admitting people earlier on busy days, so try to arrive well before closing.

Go early. Before about 9:30 on a weekday, the bridge is quieter and the white is easier to photograph before the midday glare. Day tours from Chiang Mai tend to arrive late morning, so if you are staying in Chiang Rai you can beat them.

Dress code

This is a place of worship, and the White Temple checks clothing more strictly than most temples in the area. Staff at the entrance will stop you if you're not covered.

• Shoulders covered: no vests, tank tops or strappy tops
• Knees covered: no shorts or short skirts, and watch for slits that open above the knee
• Nothing see-through or very tight. Loose, light cotton or linen is comfortable in the heat.

If you arrive underdressed, sarongs and wraps are available to rent or buy near the entrance, but bringing your own scarf or sarong is easier.

Inside the main hall (ubosot)

• Take off your shoes before going in
• No photos or video inside. The murals are the thing everyone wants to photograph, and it isn't allowed.
• Keep your voice down and give space to people praying
• Don't point your feet at the Buddha image if you sit down

Photography is fine everywhere outside, but don't climb on or touch the sculptures to get a shot.

How long to allow

An hour to an hour and a half covers the bridge, the main hall, the golden building and the grounds. Allow up to two hours if you also want the Cave of Art and the gallery. See what to see for the route.