Chiang Mai: White, Blue & Big Buddha Temples in Chiang Rai

Chiang Mai serves as the perfect launchpad to explore the stunning temples of Chiang Rai. This captivating day tour takes visitors on a journey to three architectural marvels – the all-white Wat Rong Khun, the vibrant blue Wat Rong Suea Ten, and the majestic Wat Huay Pla Kang, home to a towering 25-meter Guan Yin statue. Each temple offers a unique spiritual experience, blending art, culture, and breathtaking vistas. Prepare to be enthralled by the region’s religious heritage and natural beauty.

Good To Know

Key points:

• A full-day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai visiting the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Big Buddha Temple.
• The tour lasts 12 hours and costs between $45.92 and $43.64 per person.
• The White Temple features intricate carvings and murals with a surreal, all-white exterior.
• The Blue Temple has a striking blue and gold design, with murals depicting local mythology and Buddhist teachings.
• The Big Buddha Temple showcases a colossal 25-meter statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, with panoramic views from the observation platform.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour is a full-day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, where you will visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and Big Buddha Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang).

The trip lasts 12 hours and costs $45.92 to $43.64 per person, with up to 5% savings.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The small group is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from a hotel in downtown Chiang Mai. Guests travel by air-conditioned van, first stopping at Mae Kachan Hot Spring for a 20-minute break.

The group then visits the iconic White Temple, known for its intricate carvings and murals. After, they enjoy a 30-minute lunch at a local restaurant.

Next, they explore the striking Blue Temple, with its vibrant blue and gold design.

Finally, they visit the Big Buddha Temple, featuring a 25-meter Guan Yin statue with an observation platform offering panoramic views.

The tour concludes with the return to Chiang Mai.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Stunning Thai art and architecture greet visitors at the White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun. This modern Buddhist temple’s intricate carvings and murals depict Buddhist themes alongside pop culture references.

The dazzling all-white exterior resembles melting snow, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, peer into the dark and twisted bridge representing the cycle of rebirth, and marvel at the hundreds of hands reaching out from the walls.

With its unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements, the White Temple is a must-see attraction on any Chiang Rai itinerary.

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Striking in its blue and gold design, Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, captivates visitors with its murals depicting local mythology and Buddhist teachings. The temple’s unique color scheme and intricate artwork create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere, transporting visitors to a realm of spiritual contemplation. A closer look reveals the temple’s symbolic meaning, as seen in the table below:

| Symbol | Meaning |

| — | — |

| Blue | Represents the color of the sky and the universe. |

| Gold | Symbolizes prosperity, wealth, and the divine. |

| Murals | Illustrate local legends and Buddhist principles. |

| Architecture | Blends traditional Thai and contemporary elements. |

| Atmosphere | Evokes a sense of peace, harmony, and enlightenment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang)

Looming majestically over the surrounding landscape, Wat Huay Pla Kang, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, features a colossal 25-meter statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin.

Visitors can ascend to the observation platform at the top, offering breathtaking views of the lush countryside.

Some highlights of the temple include:

• The striking gold-and-white color scheme, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

• Ornate carvings and intricate details that showcase the impressive craftsmanship.

• The opportunity to make merit by ringing the large bell and making a wish.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch (or a set menu if the restaurant is closed, with vegetarian options available), drinking water, insurance, and entry fees for the White Temple. However, donations at the Blue Temple and tips are not included. Guests can also choose to visit the Long Neck Village, which requires an optional ticket costing 300 THB. Luggage and infant seats are available for purchase at 500 THB each. Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer or tissues, and are not allowed to bring pets, alcohol, or drugs.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — |

| Round-trip transportation | Donations at Blue Temple |

| Buffet lunch (or set menu) | Tips |

| Drinking water | Long Neck Village visit (optional) |

| Insurance | Luggage and infant seats (additional charge) |

| Entry fees for White Temple | |

Important Information

What should guests bring for this tour? Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and footwear are a must. Bring along sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the elements. Don’t forget personal hygiene items like hand sanitizer or tissues.

Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and footwear are a must. Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the elements. Don’t forget personal hygiene items.

Plus, guests should be aware of the following:

• No pets, alcohol, or drugs are allowed on the tour.

• Modest dress is required when visiting the temples.

• Visitors should be prepared for winding roads and potential use of a larger minibus during peak seasons.

• Infants aged 0-2 don’t have a designated seat.

• Inform the tour operator in advance if you need to end the tour in Chiang Rai.

Planning Your Visit

When planning your visit, be sure to pack the essentials.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Carry hand sanitizer or tissues.

Keep in mind the dress code for temples – cover up and remove shoes.

Be prepared for winding roads and a possible 42-seat minibus during high season. Infants aged 0-2 don’t have a dedicated seat.

If ending the tour in Chiang Rai, inform the tour operator in advance.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to explore the stunning White, Blue, and Big Buddha Temples in Chiang Rai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour guidelines clearly state that only service animals are permitted, and all other pets are prohibited from joining the excursion for safety and logistical reasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Chiang Rai?

Yes, travelers can inform the tour provider in advance if they’d like to end the tour in Chiang Rai instead of returning to Chiang Mai. This option is available for an additional fee.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Clothing Allowed?

The tour requires modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees when visiting the temples. Visitors should avoid revealing or disrespectful attire. Appropriate wear is necessary to enter the sacred sites.

Is There a Camera Fee for Taking Photos at the Temples?

There is no camera fee for taking photos at the temples. However, visitors should dress appropriately in modest clothing as it is required to enter the sacred sites.

Can I Purchase Additional Luggage or Infant Seats During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional luggage or infant seats during the tour for 500 THB each. This service is available if you need to bring more luggage or accommodate an infant on the trip.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai takes visitors on a spiritual journey through the region’s stunning temples. From the intricate carvings of the White Temple to the vibrant blue and gold architecture of the Blue Temple, and the majestic Big Buddha statue, this tour offers a unique blend of art, culture, and spirituality. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a profound and unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: