Chiang Rai White, Red, Blue Temples Tour + Lunch (Fr. Chiang Mai)

Discovering Chiang Rai: White, Red, and Blue Temples Tour from Chiang Mai

Trying to decide whether a day trip from Chiang Mai to see the temples of Chiang Rai is worth your time? Based on the tour details and traveler feedback, this journey offers a compelling mix of impressive architecture, cultural insights, and peaceful retreats—all for a reasonable price.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines iconic landmarks like the White Temple with lesser-known but equally fascinating spots such as the Red Temple and Blue Temple. The included Thai set lunch provides a tasty break amid sightseeing, and the visit to Lalita Café is an unexpected highlight—imagine sipping coffee surrounded by waterfalls and greenery.

One thing to keep in mind is the travel time: with approximately 3.5 hours each way, this is a long day on the road. If you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer more relaxed pacing, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re eager to see Chiang Rai’s top temples in one day, this tour delivers solid value and memorable sights. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural exploration, appreciate good guides, and don’t mind a bit of a journey.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers three standout temples plus cultural stops.
• Includes a Thai set lunch, making it easy to enjoy local flavors without extra hassle.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning makes the long drive more pleasant.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing insights and answering questions.
• Lalita Café offers a peaceful break surrounded by nature, a lovely contrast to temple visits.
• Good value for money considering the full-day experience, transportation, and meals.

Exploring the Temples of Chiang Rai

This tour is a carefully curated exploration of Chiang Rai’s most striking temples, with stops at three distinctly different sites—each showcasing unique architecture and symbolism.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

The White Temple is often the star of the show, and for good reason. Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it looks like a work of art come alive. Its all-white façade is adorned with intricate details that symbolize purity, and the use of mirror shards makes it shimmer in the sunlight. It’s not just a traditional Buddhist temple; it’s a contemporary art piece packed with symbolism and thoughtful design.

According to reviews, visitors loved the “breathtaking” feel of the White Temple, with one mentioning how the “intricate details and symbolic art” make it a truly impressive sight. The tour allows roughly 50 minutes here—a good amount of time to wander around, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Keep in mind, there’s an optional 40 THB elevator ride at the Red Temple, which some may find worth the extra cost for the panoramic views.

The Red Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

The Red Temple, with its bold color scheme and striking modern design, offers a different kind of visual impact. Known for its deep red and blue accents, it’s less crowded than the White Temple but equally photogenic. The interior hall, with its impressive Guan Yin statue, adds a spiritual and cultural layer to this stop.

While the Red Temple isn’t included in the admission fee (which is around 160 THB, expected to increase to 260 THB from 2026), many travelers find the entrance fee justified by the incredible architecture. The site also features a small pagoda and an elevator that visitors can pay to ascend for better views, giving a sense of how modern temples are blending art and spirituality.

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Laung)

Known for its stunning blue hues and gold accents, the Blue Temple is a feast for the eyes. Its architecture is inspired by traditional Buddhist temples but with a contemporary twist, making it a favorite among social media fans and art lovers alike. The vibrant colors and intricate murals make this a perfect spot for photography.

This stop typically lasts about 50 minutes, giving you plenty of time to admire the craftsmanship, snap photos, and appreciate its tranquil ambiance. The guided commentary highlights the symbolism behind its design, enriching the visit beyond just the visual appeal.

Cultural and Scenic Stops Along the Way

Mae Khachan Hot Spring

Before reaching the temples, travelers often stop at Mae Khachan Hot Spring, a lush spot where you can soak your feet or boil eggs in natural hot spring pools. It’s a fun, relaxing break and a great way to stretch your legs. Local reviews mention how it’s surrounded by greenery, adding to the calming vibe.

Longneck Karen Village (Optional)

This optional stop showcases the traditions of the Kayan Lahwi or Padaung people, famous for their long-necked women. While not included in the standard price, many find it interesting to see how this community lives. The 300 THB fee is payable on the spot, and some tours include this stop for a cultural glimpse.

Wat Huay Pla Kang

Perched atop a hill, Wat Huay Pla Kang features a towering white Guan Yin statue and offers sweeping views of the countryside. The 9-story pagoda adds to the site’s visual appeal, and an elevator ride is available for those who want to skip the climb. It’s a peaceful spot that complements the temple sightseeing with scenic vistas.

Lalita Café

A highlight for many, Lalita Café stands out with its enchanting forest-like setting, complete with waterfalls and fairy sculptures. The 40-minute visit here is perfect for relaxing, enjoying a coffee or snack, and taking in the lush surroundings. Reviewers often mention how this stop provides a calming break after the busy temple visits.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Transportation

The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, starting early at 7:00 am. The round-trip journey from Chiang Mai is made comfortable by air-conditioned vehicles, which are crucial given the long travel time. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience, and the guide, who is certified and fluent in English, helps bring the destinations to life.

Cost and Value

At around $32.27 per person, this tour delivers good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and meals included. The Thai set lunch, which features local flavors, is an appreciated addition. Additional costs—such as temple entrance fees (which total around 160 THB, with an increase anticipated in 2026), optional elevator rides, and the longneck village visit—are extras to budget for.

What You Should Know

Travelers have praised the tour organizers for punctual pickup and smooth logistics. The long drive is a downside for some, but many find the sights and cultural insights well worth the time spent on the road. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate, but those sensitive to long bus rides may want to prepare accordingly.

Reviews and Personal Experience

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—one mentioned that the guide explained the history and symbolism of each temple clearly and engagingly. Others noted that the itinerary was well-structured, giving enough time at each site for photos and exploration. The included meals and scenic stops, like Lalita Café, added to the overall enjoyment.

A negative review pointed out the long hours on the bus, emphasizing the importance of knowing what to expect beforehand. The official description states the travel time clearly, which is helpful for planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for culture enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those eager to see the most iconic temples of Chiang Rai without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided commentary and good value, as the cost covers transport, meals, and expert insights.

If you’re okay with a long day on the road and are looking for an efficient way to check off some of the most impressive temples in Northern Thailand, this tour offers a solid package. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, given the travel time involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
The round-trip journey takes about 7 hours, with travel each way approximately 3.5 hours. This long drive is a key part of the experience, so be prepared for a full day.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a Thai set lunch, drinking water, seasonal fruits, an English-speaking guide, and accident insurance.

Are temple entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. The White Temple’s admission is free, but the Red Temple requires a 160 THB fee (expected to increase in 2026). The optional longneck village visit is an extra 300 THB payable on the spot.

Can I visit the Long Neck Karen Village?
Yes, it’s an optional stop available for an additional 300 THB. It’s not included in the standard package but offers a look into the traditions of the Kayan Lahwi community.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the long bus ride might be tiring for very young children or elderly guests. The pace is generally comfortable, and stops are frequent enough to stretch.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance, especially during peak seasons. Early booking ensures availability and possibly better planning.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water. A camera for photos and some cash for optional extras or souvenirs are also recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Chiang Rai temples tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of some of Thailand’s most striking modern and traditional Buddhist sites. With expert guides, a comfortable ride, and thoughtful stops like Lalita Café, it balances sightseeing with relaxation. The inclusion of a tasty Thai lunch makes the long day more manageable and enjoyable, giving you energy to appreciate every temple’s unique beauty.

While the travel time is considerable, the experience is rich, making it a good choice for those eager to see the highlights of Chiang Rai without the hassle of organizing their own multi-day trip. If you love exploring impressive temples, appreciate cultural storytelling, and don’t mind a full day on the road, this tour offers a rewarding way to spend your day outside Chiang Mai.

In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided exploration of Chiang Rai’s most famous temples at a reasonable price. It is especially suited for those who enjoy engaging guides, scenic stops, and authentic Thai cuisine. Just remember to pack patience for the drive and an appetite for beautiful sights and cultural insights.