From Chiang Mai > Chiang Rai White & Blue Temple+Black House

From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: White & Blue Temples + Black House Tour

This full-day journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers a fascinating mix of Thailand’s contemporary religious architecture, traditional art, and local culture. For just $47 per person, you’ll visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and the Black House (Baan Dam), with a relaxing stop at the Mae Khachan Hot Spring. The tour typically lasts about 12 hours, including travel time, which makes it a busy but rewarding way to see some of the most iconic sights in northern Thailand.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances stunning visuals with cultural insights. The White Temple, with its intricate white carvings and modern symbolism, is both a spiritual site and a piece of contemporary art. Meanwhile, the Blue Temple dazzles with its vibrant blue hues and calming atmosphere, a perfect contrast. The Black House offers a more eclectic, slightly darker perspective—an art installation that challenges perceptions and showcases local craftsmanship. Another highlight is the Mae Khachan Hot Spring, where you can enjoy a quick break to soak your feet or boil eggs—an unexpected and fun experience.

A possible consideration is the long drive back—around 3 hours—so this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy full days of sightseeing and don’t mind the bus ride. It’s ideal for those eager to see a variety of artistic styles and architectural marvels in one trip, especially if you value expert guides and small group sizes that allow for more personalized attention.

For those who appreciate visually stunning sites, authentic cultural experiences, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in northern Thailand while keeping things hassle-free.

Key Points

• Stunning architecture: The White Temple and Blue Temple showcase modern and vibrant designs that captivate.
• Cultural depth: The Black House offers a unique perspective on local art and tradition.
• Well-organized day: Includes transportation, meals, and all entry fees, making it hassle-free.
• Small group setting: Limited to 12 participants, providing a more personal experience.
• Knowledgeable guides: Tour guides like Ms Toi are praised for keeping the day engaging and informative.
• Relaxing break: Mae Khachan Hot Spring offers a fun, restful pause in the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Traveling from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by this guided tour is a practical way to explore some of Thailand’s most striking temples and artistic landmarks without the stress of driving yourself. For $47, you get round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, all entry fees, lunch, and a fun hot spring stop—all important factors in judging the value of the experience.

The Journey and Starting Point

Most tours include hotel pickup in Chiang Mai, which is a real plus for hassle-free logistics. You’ll board a comfortable vehicle with a small group—generally limited to 12 people—ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. The morning starts early, but the anticipation of visiting these unique sites keeps the energy up.

Mae Khachan Hot Spring: A Hot Start

The first stop is at the Mae Khachan Hot Spring, located about halfway between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. This is a highlight for many travelers because it’s a chance to relax and have fun. The mineral-rich waters are steaming, and you’re free to dip your feet or even boil eggs in the hot springs—a quirky, memorable experience. As one reviewer noted, “we had fun at a hot spring where you can boil an egg,” which adds a lighthearted touch to the journey.

The White Temple: Modern Marvel

Next, you arrive at the White Temple, designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned Thai artist. It’s not your typical temple—this one is a stunning white structure, covered in intricate carvings and contemporary symbolism. The design is modern but deeply rooted in Buddhist teachings, making it both a religious site and an art piece.

You can spend ample time exploring the grounds, taking photos of the temple’s shimmering exterior, and admiring the detailed murals. The White Temple is famous for its visionary architecture—it’s a place where faith meets modern art. One visitor remarked, “the white temple was very impressive,” and many find themselves drawn into its complex symbolism and craftsmanship.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After the White Temple visit, the tour provides a Thai lunch at a nearby restaurant. This is a good chance to try local flavors, relax, and reflect on the morning’s sights before heading to the next highlights.

The Blue Temple: A Vivid Contrast

Post-lunch, it’s time for the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten). This newer temple is renowned for its vivid blue and gold color scheme, inside and out. The interior is decorated with elaborate murals and features a large white Buddha in the main hall. The serene atmosphere combined with the striking blue hues makes it a favorite among visitors, who often comment on its calming yet vibrant energy. As one reviewer noted, “the blue temple was very impressive,” and you’ll enjoy the opportunity to photograph the colorful exterior and explore its tranquil interior.

The Black House: Art with an Edge

Finally, you visit the Black House (Baan Dam), created by Thawan Duchanee. It’s a collection of dark wooden buildings, filled with an eclectic mix of art pieces, including animal bones, skulls, and sculptures. This site is more provocative and challenging than the previous temples, offering a glimpse into local artistic expression that is raw and unconventional.

Walking around the grounds, you’ll notice how the architecture and art reflect Northern Thai culture blended with contemporary and sometimes dark themes. One visitor described it as “an eclectic mix of traditional architecture and unconventional art pieces,” which sums up its unique appeal.

The Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour heads back to Chiang Mai, arriving around 7:00 PM. The long drive is a good time to relax and reflect on the day’s impressions, and your guide will likely share interesting tidbits about each site along the way.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its balance—visually stunning sites, cultural depth, and convenience all rolled into one package. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention from guides like Ms Toi, who is praised for her knowledge and ability to keep things moving smoothly.

The entry fees, lunch, and transportation are included, which means you’re getting a lot of value for the modest price. It’s a great option for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about schedules.

Considerations

The main drawback is the long travel time, especially on the way back—around three hours. If you’re not a fan of lengthy bus rides, you might find this tiring. Also, it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those eager to pack in as much as possible rather than a leisurely exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for art lovers, temple enthusiasts, and those interested in modern Thai culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours that combine education with visual spectacle, and who prefer small groups for a more personal touch. If you enjoy photography, the colorful temples and artistic installations will provide many opportunities.

It’s also a good fit if you’re comfortable with long bus rides and want to see multiple key sites in one day, making it great for travelers with limited time but high curiosity.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai delivers a rich mix of art, architecture, and culture. You’ll see Thailand’s most famous temples, each with its own character and story, and explore the Black House’s provocative art. The hot spring stop adds a fun, relaxing element to the day, making the trip feel both insightful and enjoyable.

With knowledgeable guides, a small group atmosphere, and all-inclusive pricing, it represents solid value for those eager to explore northern Thailand’s creative landscape without the hassle of independent travel. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour packs enough visual wonder and cultural flavor to make your day memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the entire trip last?
The full-day tour typically lasts about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 7:00 PM.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, a live English-speaking guide, entry fees to the White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House, lunch, insurance, and drinking water.

Are there any additional expenses I should expect?
Personal expenses, souvenirs, and extra drinks outside of provided water are not included.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and long bus rides. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.

What should I wear when visiting temples?
Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees—and wear comfortable shoes, as there’s walking involved.

Can I take photos inside the temples?
Yes, photography is allowed, but refrain from using flash inside the temples to preserve the artwork and respect the sacred space.

What is the highlight of the tour?
Many say the White Temple’s modern artistry and the vibrant Blue Temple are the most striking, with the Black House offering an intriguing, alternative perspective.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The colorful temples and artistic installations provide fantastic photo opportunities.

How is the guide’s knowledge?
Reviews indicate guides like Ms Toi are very knowledgeable, engaging, and good at managing the day’s flow.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

Ready to explore some of northern Thailand’s most captivating sights? This tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see the highlights while enjoying a comfortable, small-group setting. It’s especially suitable for art lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a visually stunning day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: