Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples, Golden Triangle & Boat Tour

This full-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers visitors a chance to explore three of Thailand’s most renowned temples. Travelers will get to witness the stunning white brilliance of the famous White Temple, the serene blue hues of the Blue Temple, and the captivating Black House. The tour also includes a boat ride through the Golden Triangle region, allowing participants to take in the scenic landscape. With hotel pickup and drop-off, a delicious lunch, and an experienced guide, this comprehensive excursion promises to be a highlight of any trip to northern Thailand. What secrets might these ancient temples hold?

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Chiang Rai.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Chiang Mai takes visitors to explore three famous temples in Chiang Rai: the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House.
• The tour includes a visit to the Golden Triangle and a boat ride, as well as an opportunity to visit a hill tribe village.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km of the Three Kings Monument, a buffet lunch or set menu, and all entrance fees.
• The transportation for the tour is a comfortable van, with a break at a natural hot spring along the way.
• The tour duration is 15 hours, with pickup between 7:00-7:30 am and return to Chiang Mai around 10:00 pm.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

This full-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai allows travelers to explore three of Chiang Rai’s famous temples: the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House. Along the way, the tour includes a visit to the Golden Triangle and a boat ride. Guests will also have the chance to visit a hill tribe village.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km of the Three Kings Monument, a buffet lunch or set menu if the restaurant is closed, and all entrance fees. An English-speaking guide (Chinese available on request) accompanies the group, which travels by van with a break at a natural hot spring along the way.

The tour lasts around 15 hours, with pickup between 7:00-7:30 am and return to Chiang Mai around 10:00 pm.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km of the Three Kings Monument. A buffet lunch or set menu is provided if the restaurant is closed.

All entrance fees are covered, and an English-speaking tour guide is available. Chinese-speaking guides can be requested. Travelers will enjoy a break at a natural hot spring along the way.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience, with all key elements included to ensure a seamless and memorable journey. Whether you’re seeking culture or natural wonders, this tour has it all.

Transportation

For this full-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, travelers will journey by van. The comfortable van ride offers a chance to take in the scenic countryside along the way.

The tour includes a break at a natural hot spring, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.

The transportation for this tour provides:

• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off within 5 km of the Three Kings Monument
• A relaxing break at a natural hot spring
• A smooth and comfortable ride to explore Chiang Rai’s top attractions

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts 15 hours, with pickup times between 7:00 and 7:30 am. Travelers can expect to return to Chiang Mai around 10:00 pm.

The day starts early, allowing ample time to explore the highlights of Chiang Rai. Infants 0-2 years old can join without a ticket, though they must sit on a parent’s lap. Additional charges may apply for extra seats or large luggage.

Guests also have the option to end the tour in Chiang Rai, with drop-off at the main road. The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Besides infants 0-2 years old who can join the tour without a ticket, travelers should be aware of additional charges that may apply for extra seats or large luggage.

The tour also offers the option to end the tour in Chiang Rai, with a drop-off at the main road only.

The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Some key details to keep in mind:

• Additional charges for extra seats or large luggage
• Option to end the tour in Chiang Rai (drop-off at main road only)
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Visiting the White Temple

What makes the White Temple in Chiang Rai such a unique and captivating sight? Unlike traditional Thai temples, this modern masterpiece is a contemporary work of art created by renowned artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. The temple’s glistening white exterior and intricate mirrored details create a mesmerizing display that seems to reflect the divine. The interior is equally impressive, with detailed paintings depicting contemporary themes like popular culture and global issues.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Unique modern design with white color scheme and mirrored details
Artwork	Detailed murals and paintings with modern themes and imagery
Symbolism	Combines traditional Buddhist elements with contemporary interpretations
Atmosphere	Serene, thought-provoking, and visually stunning

The White Temple is a must-see destination that showcases Thailand’s artistic talent and cultural evolution.

Exploring the Blue Temple

Nestled in the heart of Chiang Rai, the Blue Temple captivates visitors with its striking azure hues and intricate Buddhist iconography. Officially known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, this temple’s distinct blue interior and exterior offer a mesmerizing contrast to the traditional ornate designs.

Visitors can explore the main hall, admiring the detailed murals and Buddha statues that adorn the walls. The temple’s unique architectural style, blending modern and traditional elements, creates an enchanting atmosphere.

Three highlights of the Blue Temple include:

• The striking blue color scheme that permeates the entire structure
• The intricate mural paintings depicting Buddhist teachings and mythology
• The serene ambiance that invites visitors to pause and reflect

Discovering the Black House

After exploring the mesmerizing Blue Temple, the tour continues to the striking Black House, also known as Baan Dam Museum.

This unique art complex designed by the late national artist Thawan Duchanee features a collection of over 40 dark-toned structures inspired by northern Thai architecture. Visitors can wander through the mysterious buildings filled with intriguing antiques, animal skins, and sculptures.

The Black House’s unconventional design and use of materials create a distinctly moody and somber atmosphere. Exploring this one-of-a-kind museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of the visionary artist behind its creation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples, but visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. Check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions or protocols regarding photography within the sacred religious sites.

How Long Do We Spend at Each Temple?

The tour typically allows around 1 hour at each temple – the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House. This provides ample time to explore the unique architecture and take photos before moving on to the next destination.

Is the Boat Ride Included or Optional?

The boat ride along the Golden Triangle is included as part of the full-day tour. Guests will have the opportunity to take a boat ride during their visit to the Golden Triangle region.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Hill Tribe Village?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the hill tribe village. The tour includes a visit to the village, where you’ll have the opportunity to browse and buy handicrafts, textiles, and other traditional products.

Is There an Extra Fee for a Private Tour?

There is typically an extra fee for a private tour. The cost varies depending on the size of the group and other factors, so you’d need to check with the tour operator for the specific pricing.

Recap

This full-day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers an immersive experience exploring three renowned Thai temples, the Golden Triangle region, and a boat ride. With hotel transfers, a buffet lunch, and an English-speaking guide, the tour provides a comprehensive and scenic journey through the countryside, including a relaxing break at a natural hot spring along the way.

You can check if your dates are available here: