From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples & Lalitta Cafe Tour

Traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai for a day offers a fantastic way to explore some of Northern Thailand’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. This tour promises a full day packed with stunning temples, cultural spots, and a memorable cafe experience. We’ve reviewed countless similar excursions, and this one truly shines in its mix of impressive architecture, cultural insights, and comfort.

What we really like about this tour is the diverse itinerary — visiting the famous White, Blue, and Red Temples offers a varied visual feast, each with its distinctive style. The Lalitta Cafe is a highlight for Instagram lovers and those craving a relaxing break. Plus, the stop at Mae Khachan Hot Springs adds a touch of local charm and a good stretch after a long drive. The optional Long Neck Village visit offers insight into the Karen community, adding a meaningful cultural layer.

However, keep in mind that the trip involves a long drive, typically around 13 hours, which might be tiring for some travelers. The journey’s length is a factor to consider if you prefer more leisurely day trips. This tour suits those with an interest in architecture, culture, and quick escapes from Chiang Mai, especially if you’re eager to see Chiang Rai’s most famous sights in one day.

Good To Know

• Impressive Temples: Visit the White, Blue, and Red Temples, each with unique architecture and photo opportunities.
• Comfortable Transport: Small group tours with a dedicated guide make the long day manageable and informative.
• Cultural Insights: Optional visit to Long Neck Village offers authentic exposure to Karen traditions.
• Great Value: Entrance fees to Lalitta Cafe are included, and the tour covers multiple iconic sites.
• Flexible Scheduling: Pickup times are around 7:00–7:45 am, with return around 8 pm, though delays can happen during peak season.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Koi and Joe for their knowledge and care.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Early Drive

The tour kicks off around 7:00–7:45 am from your Chiang Mai accommodation. The van ride is approximately 1.5 hours to Mae Khachan Hot Springs, a perfect spot to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and enjoy the scenery. While you won’t be swimming here, it’s a quick stop that sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Mae Khachan Hot Springs

This stop isn’t just about hot water (although it’s tempting to dip your toes in); it’s more about the atmosphere. Reviewers mention that it’s a pleasant break and a chance to snap some photos of the bubbling springs, as well as pick up some local snacks from the stalls.

Long Neck Village (Optional)

If you’ve opted for the Long Neck Village visit, this is your chance to learn about the Karen people’s unique tradition of wearing neck rings. Reviewers note that if you haven’t purchased the optional beforehand, you can pay a small entrance fee or wait at the entrance for about 30 minutes. The visit provides a genuine glimpse into their community, which many find enriching, though some mention it can feel a bit rushed or commercialized depending on the day.

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Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple

This iconic temple is the highlight for many travelers. Known for its dazzling white exterior and intricate details, it’s a photo magnet. Reviewers point out that the design is highly detailed, and spending about an hour here allows for plenty of pictures and exploration. One visitor noted that it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Chiang Rai, and it’s easy to see why.

Lunch Break

After the White Temple, the group enjoys a roughly one-hour lunch. Usually, this is at a local restaurant, providing a chance to savor authentic Thai cuisine and recharge for the afternoon.

Wat Rong Suea Ten – The Blue Temple

Next, the tour takes you to the Blue Temple, famous for its vibrant blue roof and gold accents. It’s a peaceful place, and many appreciate the calm atmosphere after the bustling White Temple. The ornate decorations make it another Instagram-worthy spot, with plenty of time to soak in the tranquility.

Wat Huay Pla Kang – The Red Temple

This is the largest Buddha in Chiang Rai, complete with a 9-floor pagoda and surrounding structures. The impressive size and detailed architecture make it a memorable stop. Visitors often remark on the impressive stature of the Buddha and the panoramic views from the top floors.

Lalitta Cafe

A real treat for those who love a good aesthetic. The Lalitta Cafe is known for its eye-catching decor and is considered a must-check-in spot in Chiang Rai. The entrance fee is included, and you can relax here, order drinks or snacks (pay on-site), and enjoy the lush, stylish setting. Many reviews highlight the beautiful design, making it perfect for a leisurely break and some photos.

Return Journey

After about 3.5 hours of sightseeing, the journey back to Chiang Mai begins. Expect to arrive around 8 pm, though during peak seasons, it could be closer to 9-9:30 pm. The van ride is smooth, with comments emphasizing the professionalism of the driver and the well-organized nature of the trip, even if the long hours can be tiring.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a small van with a maximum of 12 participants, making it more personal and less crowded than larger group options. Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendly manner, expertise, and attentiveness. Having a knowledgeable guide like Koi or Joe adds a lot of value, as they share insights that you wouldn’t get from just reading about the sites.

Pricing and Value

Considering that entrance fees are included (such as Lalitta Cafe), plus the convenience of transportation and guided commentary, the tour offers solid value. It’s a premium experience in terms of comfort and company, especially for the price. Travelers comment that the guides worked hard to meet everyone’s needs and made the long day enjoyable.

What’s Noteworthy Based on Reviews

• Guide Excellence: Guides like Koi, Joe, and Bee are praised for their knowledge, humor, and caring attitude.
• Cultural Appreciation: The Long Neck Village visit gets mixed reviews—while many appreciate the cultural insight, some find it a bit rushed if not pre-selected.
• Photo Opportunities: Each temple offers unique and highly Instagrammable scenery, making it a favorite for social media lovers.
• Long Drive: The 13-hour day is packed, but reviews suggest that the smooth organization and engaging guides make it worth the effort.
• Food and Breaks: The included lunch and Lalitta Cafe’s aesthetic are appreciated, though some mention the food quality can be average.

The Sum Up

This Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai tour hits the mark if you want a comprehensive, well-organized day exploring Northern Thailand’s most famous temples and cultural sights. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a long day and want to see the key highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The small group size, friendly guides, and inclusive pricing make it a convenient, value-packed choice.

If you’re after stunning architecture, authentic cultural encounters, and a stylish cafe break, this tour offers a balanced mix of all these elements. Keep in mind the lengthy travel time, but with the excellent guides and engaging stops, most travelers find it a rewarding experience.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable mini-van for all transfers, with pickup from designated areas in Chiang Mai.

What should I wear when visiting the temples?
Respectful dress is required — cover shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering the temples.

Can I bring large luggage or backpacks?
No, large luggage isn’t allowed in the van. You can carry one small bag (up to 50cm x 35cm x 20cm, 7kg), which must stay on your lap.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts around 13 hours, returning to Chiang Mai around 8 pm, though it may extend during busy seasons.

Is the Long Neck Village visit included?
It’s optional; if you haven’t purchased it beforehand, you can pay THB 300 at the entrance or wait at the gate for about 30 minutes.

What if I want to book last-minute?
Bookings for the next day need to be made before 9 pm Thai time. After that, you can select dates for the following days.

This tour offers an excellent balance of cultural depth, stunning sights, and hassle-free organization. Whether you’re a temple enthusiast or just want a taste of Northern Thailand’s highlights, it’s a well-rounded choice that many travelers find worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby