Chiang Rai is home to some of the strangest and most beautiful temples in Thailand. The White Temple alone looks like it has been pulled out of a fantasy film, while the Blue Temple and Wat Huay Pla Kang are completely different and unique in their own right. When searching online I had to include this a destination during my 3 Days in Chiang Mai
The White Temple is an attraction in of itself to merit a day trip to Chiang Rai. It is a bit far but it is best done when visiting Chiang Mai. This is exactly what I did, and while the journey is long, it remains one of the best day trips you can take in northern Thailand. Touring the temples aren’t the only things to do in Chiang Rai. In this guide I’m listing all the things to do and see in Chiang Rai on your day trip or otherwise.
A standard tour normally visits the Mae Kachan Hot Springs, the White Temple, the Blue Temple and Wat Huay Pla Kang. Some tours replace the final temple with the Black House Museum or Lalitta Café, so you need to check the exact itinerary before booking. You can also hire a private driver as the jump wasn’t really a lot more than booking with a grouped tour. More on this later on.
You can also book a longer tour that continues towards the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. I did not take that option personally as it was on our last day in Chiang Mai and wanted to relax a bit, but I have included it separately so you can decide whether the extra driving is worth it.
Table of Contents
- Chiang Rai Day Tour Prices and Timings
- Things to See on a Day Trip to Chiang Rai
- Lunch on a Chiang Rai Tour
- Tours Visiting the Golden Triangle
- Can You Visit Chiang Rai Without a Tour?
- Other Things to Do in Chiang Rai if You Stay Overnight
- Practical Tips for a Chiang Rai Day Trip
- Is a Day Trip to Chiang Rai Worth It? Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions – Things to Do in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai Day Tour Prices and Timings
Hotel pickups normally begin between 6:30am and 7am. Depending on your operator, traffic and hotel location, you will usually return to Chiang Mai between 7:00pm and 8:30pm.
Most standard Chiang Rai temple tours from Chiang Mai last between 11 and 13.5 hours.
A normal group tour costs approximately 1,200–1,800 THB per person.
The price normally includes:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Chiang Mai
- Transport in an air-conditioned minivan
- An English-speaking guide
- Lunch
- Drinking water
- Entrance to some or all attractions
- Basic accident insurance
Never assume that every entrance fee is included. Some of the cheapest listings exclude the White Temple ticket or charge separately for optional stops.
The White Temple entrance fee for international visitors increased from 100 THB to 200 THB in January 2026. The new price also includes entry to the Cave of Art. This is worth checking because many older Chiang Rai guides and booking pages still show the previous price.
Some tours also charge extra for hotel pickup outside Chiang Mai Old City and the Nimman area.
Typical Chiang Rai Day Tour Schedule
The exact order changes between operators, but a standard itinerary usually looks something like this:
7:00am–7:45am: Hotel pickup in Chiang Mai
9:00am–9:30am: Mae Kachan Hot Springs
10:30am–12:00pm: White Temple
12:00pm–1:00pm: Lunch
1:30pm–2:15pm: Blue Temple
2:30pm–3:30pm: Wat Huay Pla Kang, Black House or Lalitta Café
3:30pm–4:00pm: Start returning to Chiang Mai
7:00pm–8:30pm: Arrive back in Chiang Mai
Tours to Chiang Rai
You can find plenty of tours to Chiang Rai on GetYourGuide as you can see some of them below.
For a private option I wholeheartedly recommend Chaing Mai Driver on facebook. His van was the most comfortable thing I ever rid on with reclining seats and leathered cushions. Contact him here: Chiang Mai Driver
Things to See on a Day Trip to Chiang Rai
Here I am going to be listing the top attractions that most tours go to so you can read on them and compare which ones you want to go to when checking on your own tours.
Mae Kachan Hot Springs
The first stop on most Chiang Rai tours is the Mae Kachan Hot Springs, located roughly halfway between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Do not expect a peaceful thermal spa where you will spend the morning swimming. This is mostly a rest stop where tour groups can use the toilets, buy coffee and stretch their legs after the first part of the drive.
The natural spring is extremely hot and you can normally see steam rising from the water. Small fountains shoot hot water into the air, while local vendors sell eggs that can be cooked inside the spring.
Some areas have shallow foot baths, although the amount of time provided depends on the tour. Most groups stop for only around 15–20 minutes. I don’t know if this was the norm or not but I didn’t dare to wash my feet. The water stinks of rotten eggs and it wasn’t really inviting. Nevertheless it was a good stop to stretch our legs a bit and break the drive in two.
White Temple – Wat Rong Khun
The White Temple, officially called Wat Rong Khun, is the main reason most people book a day trip to Chiang Rai. It is absolutely stunning and no picture can do it justice.
The complex is huge and the temple itself is in steps.
Before reaching the main building, you cross a bridge over hundreds of sculpted hands stretching upwards from the ground. These represent greed, temptation and human suffering, with the bridge symbolising the journey towards enlightenment.
The entire temple is decorated with white plaster and small mirrored pieces which reflect the sunlight. On a clear day, the building looks like it is sparkling. Every angle you can look at it it’s absolutely beautiful. It is a challenge to get a photo without other people in shot though so be weary.
Inside the main hall, the artwork becomes even more unexpected. Traditional Buddhist imagery appears alongside references to modern films, superheroes and popular culture. Photography is not permitted inside the main hall, so you will need to put your phone away before entering.
The temple was created by Chiang Rai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat and opened to visitors in 1997. Construction around the wider complex remains ongoing.
White Temple Entrance Fee and Visiting Time
The entrance fee for international visitors is 200 THB as of 2026. Thai citizens enter free, while certain children and visitors aged over 70 may also qualify for free entry.
The 2026 ticket includes access to the Cave of Art.
Most organised tours provide around one hour at the White Temple. Some allow closer to 90 minutes if lunch is served nearby.
One hour is enough to cross the bridge, enter the main hall, walk around the grounds and take photographs. However, it can feel rushed if the temple is crowded.
The biggest problem is that most tours from Chiang Mai arrive at a similar time. You should expect crowds around the main bridge and the best photography locations.
Make sure you also look around the buildings surrounding the main temple. The golden toilet building is probably the fanciest public toilet you will see during your entire Thailand trip. Even if you don’t need to go, I really suggest you go it was the most beautiful toilet facilities I ever been.
For updated visitor information, check the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Wat Rong Khun page.
Further down the complex there was also another temple it seemed like but honestly I didn’t know what it was, it was covered in gold and was beautiful in its own right.
Blue Temple – Wat Rong Suea Ten
The next major stop is normally Wat Rong Suea Ten, better known as the Blue Temple. Like the name suggests, almost every part of the temple is covered in deep blue, gold and turquoise decorations.
Two large naga serpents guard the entrance, while a white Buddha sits inside the main hall surrounded by detailed blue artwork. Behind the temple, you will also find a large standing white Buddha.
The Blue Temple is much smaller than the White Temple. You can comfortably see the main hall and exterior in around 30 minutes.
Entrance to the Blue Temple is free, although donations are welcome.
Even though the temple is free, remember that it remains an active religious site rather than just a photography location. Remove your shoes before entering the main hall and avoid standing directly in front of people who are praying.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Wat Huay Pla Kang is regularly advertised by tour companies as the Red Temple or Big Buddha Temple.
The complex contains a nine-storey red and gold pagoda, a white temple and an enormous white statue overlooking the surrounding landscape. The statue is commonly called a Big Buddha in tour listings, although it actually represents Guanyin, the goddess of mercy.
The size of the statue is difficult to appreciate until you are standing directly underneath it.
Entry to the main Wat Huay Pla Kang complex is free. You can walk around the temple, pagoda and base of the statue without buying a ticket.
There is an elevator inside the Guanyin statue which takes visitors towards the upper viewing area. This normally costs around 40 THB. I didn’t bother climbing up as the heat got the better of me after a long day, however the statue is still absolutely massive.
From the top, you can look across Chiang Rai through windows built into the statue. Most tours only provide around 30–45 minutes here, so decide quickly whether you want to use the elevator.
Black House Museum – Baan Dam
Some tours visit the Black House Museum instead of Wat Huay Pla Kang.
Baan Dam is not a single temple. It is a collection of dark wooden buildings created by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee.
Inside the buildings, you will find artwork, animal skins, bones, horns, wooden furniture and unusual sculptures. The atmosphere is deliberately dark and creates a complete contrast with the bright White Temple.
The entrance fee is normally around 80 THB, although this may already be included in your tour.
Whether you should choose the Black House or Wat Huay Pla Kang depends on what interests you if you are with a private tour.
Choose the Black House if you want contemporary art and something slightly strange. Choose Wat Huay Pla Kang if you prefer large temples, statues and viewpoints.
Lalitta Café
Lalitta Café has become another common stop on Chiang Rai day tours, particularly those promoted through social media.
The café has artificial waterfalls, mist, greenery and elaborate fantasy-style decorations. It looks impressive in photographs, but it is more of an Instagram attraction than an essential Chiang Rai landmark.
Entrance is normally charged, although part of the fee may sometimes be used as credit towards food or drinks. Some tours include admission while others do not.
I would not choose a tour specifically because it visits Lalitta Café. If it is already included and you enjoy photography, it can be a pleasant final stop. However, I would prioritise Wat Huay Pla Kang or the Black House if you are visiting Chiang Rai for the first time.
Lunch on a Chiang Rai Tour
Lunch is included with many organised tours, usually after visiting the White Temple.
This is commonly a buffet or set meal at a restaurant used by several tour companies. Expect simple Thai dishes such as rice, vegetables, noodles, curry and chicken.
Vegetarian food is normally available, but you should tell the operator when booking instead of waiting until you arrive at the restaurant.
Drinks other than water may cost extra.
The lunch will probably not be the best meal of your Thailand trip, but it is convenient and prevents the group from losing time while everyone searches for a restaurant.
Tours Visiting the Golden Triangle
The second main type of Chiang Rai day trip continues north towards the Golden Triangle.
The Golden Triangle is the area where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet around the Mekong and Ruak rivers. The region was once strongly associated with the opium trade, although it is now one of northern Thailand’s established tourism areas.
I did not take this tour personally. I chose the standard temple tour instead, so I cannot give a first-hand review of the Golden Triangle experience. It was already a long day as it was I didn’t want to pile on.
What I can tell you is that it makes an already long day considerably longer.
A Golden Triangle tour from Chiang Mai normally lasts between 13 and 15 hours. Pickup often begins at around 6:30am or 7:00am, with some tours not returning to Chiang Mai until 9:00pm or 10:00pm.
Prices generally range from 1,500–2,700 THB per person, depending on whether the boat ride, entrance fees, lunch and village visit are included.
What Is Included in a Golden Triangle Tour?
A typical itinerary may include:
- Mae Kachan Hot Springs
- White Temple
- Blue Temple
- Black House or Wat Huay Pla Kang
- Golden Triangle viewpoint
- Mekong River boat ride
- House of Opium or Hall of Opium
- Chiang Saen
- Lunch
No tour can provide a relaxed visit to all these places in a single day from Chiang Mai. Expect short stops and plenty of time inside the vehicle.
Golden Triangle Viewpoint
The main viewpoint looks across the rivers towards Laos and Myanmar.
There are signs and monuments marking the Golden Triangle, along with shops, cafés and places to take photographs.
Standing at the viewpoint is free. You do not cross an international border simply by visiting the viewing area.
The scenery is pleasant, but the importance of the area comes mainly from its geography and history rather than it being one of Thailand’s most dramatic natural viewpoints.
Mekong River Boat Ride
Many Golden Triangle tours include a long-tail boat journey along the Mekong River.
The boat usually travels close to the borders, providing views towards Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. Some itineraries advertise a brief stop on the Laos side, while others remain on the river and return directly to Thailand.
Read the booking description carefully. A tour saying “Golden Triangle boat trip” does not automatically mean you will enter Laos.
Boat rides may be included in the total price or charged separately. Where excluded, a shared ride can cost around 300 THB per person, although prices vary between operators and group sizes.
Do not assume immigration formalities are handled unless the tour specifically confirms a border crossing. Rules can change, and your passport nationality may affect what is permitted.
House of Opium
The House of Opium is a small museum near the Golden Triangle viewpoint.
It explains the history of opium cultivation, trade routes and the equipment once used in the region.
The museum is open daily, and admission currently costs 50 THB per person. The visit usually takes around 30–45 minutes.
This should not be confused with the Hall of Opium, which is a larger and more detailed museum located elsewhere within Golden Triangle Park.
You can check current information through the official House of Opium website.
Hall of Opium
The Hall of Opium is the larger museum and provides a more comprehensive explanation of the region’s history, the international opium trade and the consequences of drug use.
Foreign adult admission is listed at 200 THB.
It normally takes at least one or two hours to see properly, which means it is not included in every fast-paced tour from Chiang Mai. Many cheaper tours visit the smaller House of Opium instead.
Before booking, check which museum is actually named in the itinerary. Several tour descriptions use the terms House of Opium and Hall of Opium as though they are the same attraction.
Is the Golden Triangle Tour Worth It?
The Golden Triangle option is worth considering if you are particularly interested in border regions, Mekong River scenery or the history of the opium trade.
For most first-time visitors, I think the standard temple tour offers the better balance. I would go near the golden triangle if I would have stayed in Chiang Rai overnight.
The White, Blue and Red Temples are the visual highlights of Chiang Rai. Continuing to the Golden Triangle adds several more hours of travel and can make the day feel rushed.
Can You Visit Chiang Rai Without a Tour?
It is possible to travel independently from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus. I would heavily advise against it unless you’re spending a night there. It is also very hectic to organise.
Buses leave from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 and usually take around three and a half to four hours. Once in Chiang Rai, you would then need to arrange taxis, Grab rides, a scooter or a private driver between the temples.
The White Temple is south of the city, while the Blue Temple, Wat Huay Pla Kang and Black House are spread across different areas.
Trying to reach Chiang Rai by public bus and return to Chiang Mai on the same day would leave very little sightseeing time. You would also need to keep watching the clock so that you do not miss the final bus.
For a day trip, an organised tour is easier and usually provides better value once you include local transport between all the attractions.
Public transport makes more sense if you stay in Chiang Rai for at least one night.
Other Things to Do in Chiang Rai if You Stay Overnight
A one-day tour from Chiang Mai does not properly explore Chiang Rai city.
With an overnight stay, you can also visit the Chiang Rai Clock Tower, Wat Phra Kaew, the Night Bazaar, local cafés and the Saturday Walking Street when it is operating.
You could then visit the White Temple early the following morning before most of the Chiang Mai tour buses arrive.
Staying overnight also gives you more time to visit attractions outside the standard route, including Singha Park, tea plantations, Doi Tung and the Golden Triangle.
Chiang Rai is much calmer than Chiang Mai, so an overnight visit may suit you if you prefer slower travel instead of trying to squeeze everything into one tour. However there isn’t much to do other than the attractions right outside of the city
Practical Tips for a Chiang Rai Day Trip
Prepare for the Long Drive
Bring headphones, a downloaded film or something to read. The mountain scenery is pleasant, but several hours inside a minivan can still drag.
Wear Temple-Appropriate Clothing
Your shoulders and knees should be covered when entering the temples.
Light trousers, a long skirt or clothing that covers the knees is the safest option. Carrying a light scarf can help, but some attractions may still refuse entry if the rest of your outfit is unsuitable.
Shoes that are easy to remove will make the day more convenient because you will repeatedly take them off before entering temple buildings.
Carry Some Cash
Even when entrance tickets and lunch are included, you may need cash for snacks, drinks, the Wat Huay Pla Kang elevator, souvenirs or attractions excluded from your package.
Small notes are more useful than trying to pay with a 1,000 THB note at a tiny food stall.
Check the Pickup Area
Free pickup is normally limited to central Chiang Mai, particularly the Old City and Nimman areas.
Hotels further away may require an additional fee or meeting at a central pickup point.
Is a Day Trip to Chiang Rai Worth It? Conclusion
A day trip to Chiang Rai is worth doing if you are staying in Chiang Mai and want to see the city’s famous temples without changing hotels and locations. I definitely recommend going to Chiang Rai when in Chiang Mai and have included it in my 3 and 4 Day Chiang Mai Itineraries These temples are really a work of art and is just something unique that you have to see for yourself in person.
It is a bit of a longer day but in reality there is no other way to do them unless you are going to travel anyways to Chiang Rai and spend a night there.
I would go for a private tour if you are 3 or more persons as the cost will average themselves out. Otherwise the standard temple tour is the option I would recommend for most travellers. It normally costs around 1,200–1,800 THB and gets you back to Chiang Mai at a reasonable time.
The Golden Triangle is available if you want to see the meeting point between Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, but be prepared for a 13–15-hour day. I did not personally take this option, and unless the border region is high on your list, staying overnight in Chiang Rai would be a much better way to visit it.
If you are interested in temples then you need to check out the old city of Ayutthaya and its temples, just an hour drive away from Bangkok. Read all about my Ayutthaya Day Trip for more details.
For more help planning the rest of your time in Thailand, read my guides to visiting Maya Bay and the best things to do in the Phi Phi Islands, which are musts if you are traveling to the south of the country
