From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai White, Blue, and Red Temple Tour

Exploring the temples of Chiang Rai is a must-do experience for any visitor to northern Thailand. This tour offers a chance to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage, from the awe-inspiring White Temple to the vibrant Blue Temple. Along the way, discover the serene Guanyin statue and unwind at a tranquil hot spring. With a seamless itinerary and comfortable transportation, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this temple-hopping adventure?

Key Points

• This tour departs from Chiang Mai and visits three notable temples in Chiang Rai: the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Red Temple.
• The iconic White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, is known for its all-white color and modern architectural design blending traditional Thai elements.
• The vibrant Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, features intricate carvings and golden accents, creating a serene and visually striking atmosphere.
• The tour also includes a stop at the Guanyin statue at Wat Huay Pla Kang, a large Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai.
• The full-day tour provides round-trip transportation from Chiang Mai and includes a Thai buffet lunch, as well as a stop at the Mae Kachan Hot Spring.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour is called the "Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Temple Tour" and is priced from $51.06 per person. It lasts 11-12 hours and limits group size to 12 participants. An English-speaking guide leads the tour, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is available from hotels within and outside Chiang Mai’s old city walls, with designated meeting points for those outside pickup areas.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour departs from Chiang Mai and travels to Chiang Rai, which takes approximately 3 hours. Participants will visit iconic temples, including the White Temple and the Blue Temple, and enjoy local cuisine during the journey.

Itinerary Highlights

After departing Chiang Mai, the tour travels to Chiang Rai, which takes approximately 3 hours.

The first stop is Wat Rong Khun, the iconic White Temple, recognized for its all-white color and glass pieces symbolizing purity and wisdom.

Next, the group visits Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple, notable for its stunning sapphire blue color and intricate Lanna-style architecture.

The final temple is Wat Huay Pla Kang, featuring a large Guanyin statue and blending Thai Lanna and Chinese architectural styles.

The tour also includes a 20-minute break at the Mae Kachan Hot Spring and a Thai buffet lunch at a local restaurant.

Departure and Travel Time

Departing from Chiang Mai, the tour travels to Chiang Rai, which takes approximately 3 hours.

Along the way, the air-conditioned van provides a comfortable ride as the scenery shifts from urban cityscapes to rural landscapes. Guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque northern countryside.

The tour’s departure time is coordinated to allow ample time to visit the key temples in Chiang Rai without feeling rushed.

Arriving in Chiang Rai, the group will commence exploring the renowned White Temple, Blue Temple, and Big Buddha Temple during the day-long excursion.

Visiting the White Temple

Once the group arrives in Chiang Rai, they’ll first visit the renowned Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple.

This contemporary Buddhist temple is recognized for its all-white color and intricate mirror glass pieces that symbolize purity and wisdom.

Some key features include:

1. The temple’s unique and unconventional architecture, blending traditional Thai elements with modern design.

2. The intricately carved and detailed main building, which appears to be emerging from the ground.

3. The surrounding bridges and gates adorned with thousands of human hands, representing unending desire.

The White Temple’s striking appearance and symbolic significance make it a must-see highlight of the Chiang Rai temple tour.

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Exploring the Blue Temple

From the White Temple, the group then makes their way to the stunning Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple.

This sacred site stands out with its vibrant blue hues and intricate Lanna-style architecture. Visitors are captivated by the temple’s ornate carvings, golden accents, and serene atmosphere.

The guide provides insightful commentary on the temple’s history and significance in Chiang Rai’s cultural landscape. Guests have ample time to explore the grounds, take photographs, and appreciate the temple’s unique blend of Thai and Buddhist influences.

The Blue Temple offers a striking contrast to the all-white Wat Rong Khun nearby.

Discovering the Big Buddha

After exploring the serene Blue Temple, the group continues their journey to the impressive Wat Huay Pla Kang, also known as the Big Buddha.

The towering Guanyin statue, standing at an impressive 17 meters tall, blends Thai Lanna and Chinese architectural styles.

The tour offers visitors the opportunity to:

1. Admire the statue’s intricate details and symbolism.

2. Explore the temple grounds and appreciate the fusion of cultural influences.

3. Gain insights into the spiritual significance of the Big Buddha from the knowledgeable guide.

With its stunning visual appeal and cultural significance, the Big Buddha is a captivating highlight of the Chiang Rai temple tour.

Relaxing at the Hot Spring

After the inspiring visit to the Big Buddha, the tour group is ready for a break at the Mae Kachan Hot Spring.

Located just a short drive away, the hot spring offers 20 minutes of pure relaxation. Visitors can take a dip in the steaming natural pools and enjoy the serene surroundings.

The warm, mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic benefits, soothing both the body and mind.

This brief stop provides a welcome respite before continuing the temple tour to the renowned Blue and White Temples in Chiang Rai.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. The journey takes approximately 3 hours each way, allowing ample time to admire the scenic landscapes along the way.

The tour provides the following transportation details:

1. Pickup options from hotels within and outside the Chiang Mai old city walls, as well as designated meeting points for those outside the pickup area.

2. Drop-off locations at Wat Phra Singh, MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center, and Mueang Chiang Rai District.

3. No large luggage allowed in the van for a seamless travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cameras Allowed at the Temples?

Cameras are generally allowed at the temples visited on this tour, though visitors should be respectful and follow any specific guidelines or restrictions. It’s advisable to check with the guide for any temple-specific photography rules.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a Thai buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Outside food and beverages are not permitted during the temple visits.

Do I Need to Remove My Shoes at the Temples?

Yes, visitors are generally expected to remove their shoes when entering the temples. This is a sign of respect for the sacred spaces. Proper attire covering the shoulders and legs is also required.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is suitable for children, though they’ll need to remove their shoes when visiting the temples. Parents should ensure children are dressed appropriately and supervise them closely during the tour.

Can I Buy Souvenirs at the Temples?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the temples on the tour. The temples often have gift shops and vendors selling local handicrafts, artwork, and religious items that make great souvenirs.

Recap

The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Temple Tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s most iconic temples. Visitors will be awestruck by the mesmerizing architecture and serene ambiance of the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Guanyin statue. With round-trip transportation provided, travelers can enjoy the cultural richness of Northern Thailand without the hassle of logistics.

You can check if your dates are available here: