Chiang Rai Clock Tower

By day it glows a regal gold; by night it flips to neon and music. Chiang Rai’s gilded clock tower anchors the city’s central roundabout, a baroque burst of filigree designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat (the artist behind the White Temple) and unveiled in 2008 to honor King Bhumibol. It’s the landmark you navigate by and the photo you’ll end up framing. Come for the nightly light-and-music show when the tower cycles through vivid colors at 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm. Bells chime, traffic slows, scooters line the curb, and everyone looks up. It’s free, it’s short, and it’s best a few minutes before the hour so you can grab a spot and catch the first note. Photographers: blue hour is your friend here. You’ll find it where Jetyod, Suk Sathit, and Baanpa Pragarn roads meet — a short walk from the Night Bazaar and plenty of street eats. Swing by after dinner or on your way to a bar on Jetyod Road; the show runs nightly and the tower is worth a look any time of day. Last checked: 2026.