The Chiang Rai Clock Tower is a golden tower on a roundabout in the centre of Chiang Rai. It was designed by the artist who also created the White Temple, and its surfaces are covered in elaborate golden patterns. Each evening at 7, 8 and 9 pm the tower is lit for a short light and music show, and its colours shift as the show runs. The show is free and you can watch it from the pavement. Most of the town's main streets begin near the tower, so it is an easy place to start an evening in Chiang Rai.
Design and history
The tower was designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, the artist who also designed Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, which lies about 13 km from the town centre. The tower was built to honour the Thai royal family and is decorated with elaborate golden patterns. Its twisting spires and curved forms will look familiar to anyone who has seen the White Temple.
The evening light show
At 7, 8 and 9 pm each evening, the tower is lit in a show of about ten minutes set to music. The colours move through pink, green and other hues as the show runs.
Some visitors have found the show less impressive than they expected, and it has not always run as scheduled. Treat it as a bonus to a daytime or evening visit rather than a fixed event.
Visiting the tower
The tower stands in a busy roundabout, and vehicles keep moving around it during the show. Watch from the pavement and stay clear of the road.
A paid car park is available on site. The tower is visible at any hour, but the light show is the main reason to come after dark.
Nearby sights
The tower sits close to the main streets of the town, so a walk through the centre is simple. Wat Jet Yod, a Northern-style temple, is adjacent to the tower area.
The King Mengrai Monument honours King Mengrai (1262 to 1311), the founder of the Lanna Kingdom. Kad Luang Market, with stalls inside a building and along the alleys around it, is a few minutes' walk away. The Night Bazaar covers several blocks to the southeast, with hill-tribe crafts and stalls that become busy after 7 pm.
FAQ
Is the light show at the Chiang Rai Clock Tower free?
Yes. The light and music show is free and can be watched from the roadside. Traffic continues to pass during the show.
What time does the light show start?
The show runs at 7, 8 and 9 pm each evening and lasts about ten minutes. It has not always run as scheduled, so arrive a few minutes early.
Where is the Chiang Rai Clock Tower?
The tower stands in a roundabout in the centre of Chiang Rai, close to the town's main streets. A paid car park is available on site.
What is near the Clock Tower?
Wat Jet Yod temple is adjacent to the tower area. The King Mengrai Monument, Kad Luang Market and the Night Bazaar are all within a short walk.
