Chiang Rai Tour: White & Blue & Big Buddha (Red)Temples

The Chiang Rai Tour promises a captivating exploration of three remarkable temples, each offering a distinct artistic and spiritual experience. From the intricate modern art of the iconic White Temple to the serene beauty of the Blue Temple and the commanding presence of the Big Buddha, this full-day excursion immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of northern Thailand’s cultural heritage. With convenient transportation, expert guidance, and delectable Thai cuisine, the tour provides a well-organized and immersive journey that leaves one eager to uncover…

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the iconic White Temple, Blue Temple, and Big Buddha (Red) Temple in Chiang Rai.
• Pricing ranges from $37.74 to $41.47 per person, including pickup, transportation, guide, entrance fees, lunch, and insurance.
• The itinerary includes a visit to Mae Kachan Hot Spring, 1-hour explorations of the temples, and a 30-minute lunch break.
• Key services provided are free pickup/drop-off, private English-speaking guide, and accommodations for dietary restrictions during the included Thai buffet lunch.
• While the tour has an overall rating of 3.3/5, it offers a comprehensive experience focused on modern art and Buddhist history, with mixed feedback on transportation and organization.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Chiang Rai Tour offers a full-day exploration of three renowned temples in the region – the White Temple, the Blue Temple, and the Big Buddha Temple.

Priced from $37.74 to $41.47 per person, the tour includes pickup, transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, lunch, and insurance.

Priced competitively, the tour provides a comprehensive experience with pickup, transportation, guide, fees, lunch, and insurance.

Lasting one day, the tour allows visitors to experience the unique blending of modern art and Buddhist history at these iconic sites.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the tour provides flexibility and convenience for travelers.

Itinerary and Highlights

After pickup from Chiang Mai, the tour begins with a 20-minute break at the Mae Kachan Hot Spring.

Next, visitors spend an hour exploring the unique Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, which blends modern art with Buddhist history.

Following a 30-minute lunch, the group visits Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple, for another hour.

The final stop is Huay Pla Kang Temple, the Red Temple, where guests spend an hour before returning to Chiang Mai in the evening.

Throughout the day, the tour immerses visitors in the region’s artistic temple culture.

Included Services

To begin, the tour includes a free pick-up and drop-off service within 6 kilometers of the city center.

It also provides a private English-speaking tour guide to lead the way. Entrance fees for all standard activities are covered, so visitors can simply focus on exploring.

A buffet Thai lunch is included, with dietary restrictions accommodated. Drinking water and travel accident insurance are also provided, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free experience.

Important Information

Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Travelers should contact the tour provider for pickup if they’re staying outside the old city.

Travelers should contact the tour provider for pickup if they’re staying outside the old city.

Visitors must dress respectfully when entering Thai temples – cover knees and shoulders, and remove shoes before entering the main chapel.

Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

Highlights include:

• Free pick-up and drop-off service within 6 kilometers of the city center

• Guided by an English-speaking tour guide

• Entrance fees for all standard activities included

• Buffet Thai lunch with dietary restrictions accommodated

• Drinking water and travel accident insurance provided

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the Chiang Rai Tour received an overall rating of 3.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.

Positive feedback highlighted the friendly guide, popular temples, and a suggested ice cream spot.

However, negative reviews cited long travel times, uncomfortable transportation, a guide difficult to understand, and disorganization regarding meeting points and activity schedules.

Exploring the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

The first stop on the Chiang Rai Tour is Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. This modern Buddhist temple dazzles with its gleaming all-white exterior and intricate mirrored mosaics.

A gleaming all-white exterior and intricate mirrored mosaics dazzle at the modern Buddhist temple of Wat Rong Khun.

Visitors can explore the main chapel, bridge of the cycle of rebirth, and the ominous-looking entrance depicting monstrous figures.

Key highlights include:

• Admiring the ornate patterns and designs covering the temple’s surface

• Crossing the "bridge of the cycle of rebirth" symbolizing the journey from suffering to enlightenment

• Photographing the surreal, otherworldly atmosphere of the temple

• Observing the detailed murals depicting contemporary pop culture icons

• Learning about the temple’s unique architectural style and symbolic meaning

Taking in the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

Next, visitors enjoy the captivating Blue Temple, or Wat Rong Suea Ten. Completed in 2016, this modern Buddhist shrine blends striking blue tones with intricate wood carvings.

Inside, the walls are adorned with murals depicting Buddhist teachings and Thai folklore. Visitors marvel at the temple’s unique design and artistry, a departure from the classic Thai temple architecture.

After exploring the main sanctuary, they meander through the surrounding gardens, admiring the vibrant colors and serene atmosphere.

The Blue Temple offers a visually stunning and spiritually enriching experience on the Chiang Rai tour.

Discovering the Big Buddha (Red) Temple (Huay Pla Kang Temple)

After visiting the captivating Blue Temple, the tour moves on to the impressive Huay Pla Kang Temple, also known as the Big Buddha Temple.

This massive temple features:

• A colossal gold-plated Buddha statue, standing at an impressive 34 meters tall

• Intricate and vibrant mural paintings adorning the temple walls

• An ornate rooftop design blending traditional Thai and modern architectural elements

• Opportunities to observe monks in prayer and learn about Buddhist practices

• Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside

Exploring the Big Buddha Temple promises an immersive cultural experience and a chance to marvel at its sheer grandeur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to suit your interests. The tour operator offers flexibility, and you can discuss your preferences with the guide to create a personalized experience that aligns with your interests.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples, but visitors should avoid using flash as it can damage delicate artwork. Guests are advised to respect the sanctity of the temples and avoid disruptive behavior.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting Thai temples, covering their knees and shoulders. Shoes must be removed before entering the main chapel areas. This dress code helps maintain the sacred atmosphere of these religious sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. It’s suitable for all ages, though not wheelchair-accessible. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and all visitors should dress respectfully by covering knees and shoulders when entering the temples.

Can I Book the Tour for a Smaller or Larger Group?

The tour can accommodate both smaller and larger groups. Group size is flexible, and the price per person may vary depending on the total number of participants. Travelers can inquire about group rates when booking the tour.

Recap

The Chiang Rai Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s stunning temples, providing an insightful glimpse into Buddhist art and history. Priced reasonably between $37.74 and $41.47 per person, the tour includes all necessary services, ensuring a comfortable and well-organized experience. Highlights like the iconic Wat Rong Khun and the opportunity to admire intricate designs make this an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy northern Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: