Red, Blue, White Temples & Hot Spring Trip from Chiang Mai

Exploring the Temples and Hot Springs from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai
This tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, taking you from Chiang Mai to the far north of Thailand to explore some of its most famous temples—White, Blue, and Red—plus a relaxing stop at a natural hot spring. For $36 per person, you’ll enjoy round-trip transfers, a delicious local lunch, and a chance to learn about Thailand’s spiritual and artistic heritage through some of its most striking structures.

We particularly appreciate how the tour balances art, culture, and relaxation. The White Temple, with its dazzling mirrors and intricate details, really feels like stepping into a fantasy world. The Blue Temple’s calming atmosphere and vibrant colors provide a peaceful contrast, while the Red Temple’s impressive Guan Yin statue and pagoda add a touch of grandeur. The hot spring stop is a nice break, offering a moment to unwind in mineral waters, and the included lunch helps keep your energy up for the day.

A possible consideration is the long travel time, which can be tiring, especially if you’re sensitive to lengthy drives. The tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Northern Thailand’s temple artistry and don’t mind spending some hours on the road. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy cultural highlights but prefer a structured, guided experience over independent exploration.

This tour appeals most to those seeking a mix of sightseeing, cultural storytelling, and comfort. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Chiang Rai or those wanting a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see the key landmarks without the hassle of planning transportation or entry logistics.

Key Points

• Iconic Temples: Visit the White, Blue, and Red Temples, each with unique architecture and symbolism.
• Cultural Insights: The guide offers meaningful context about the temples’ history and spiritual significance.
• Relaxation Break: Enjoy the soothing mineral waters at a natural hot spring.
• Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Thai dishes during lunch, adding flavor and local flavor to your day.
• Comfortable Transfers: Round-trip transportation from Chiang Mai makes logistics simple.
• Optional Visits: You can choose to visit the Long Neck Village for a cultural experience, with an extra fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

This tour kicks off with hotel pickups from Chiang Mai’s Old Town, which means you don’t have to worry about finding your way to a meeting point. The group size is generally manageable, and the ride to Chiang Rai is a good chance to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The transfer vehicle is air-conditioned, making the lengthy drive more comfortable. Keep in mind, the total duration includes travel time, so it’s a longer day—be prepared for a bit of a road trip.

Hot Spring Stop: A Breath of Fresh Air

One of the highlights we loved was the stop at the hot spring. While it’s a quick dip—just dipping your feet is allowed—the mineral waters provide a soothing break in the middle of your busy day. It’s a nice way to stretch your legs and enjoy some natural scenery, though don’t expect a full-body soak. Some reviews note that the hot spring is brief, so if you’re craving a longer soak, plan accordingly.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): A Modern Masterpiece

The White Temple is the star of the show. Its reflective surfaces and elaborate carvings immediately grab your attention. Every detail seems to carry a symbolic message, which the guide explains to deepen your understanding. The temple’s contemporary design contrasts with traditional Thai temples, making it visually stunning and thought-provoking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Serenity in Blue

Next, the Blue Temple offers a peaceful atmosphere with its vibrant blue and gold interiors. The interior design is both calming and striking, inviting quiet reflection. Travelers often comment that while the temple is beautiful, it’s somewhat more subdued than the White Temple. It’s a perfect spot for photos and moments of tranquility.

Red Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang): A Grandeur of Scale

The Red Temple’s most striking feature is its Guan Yin statue, which towers 25 meters high. The temple’s nine-level pagoda offers panoramic views over the surrounding area. This site leaves visitors impressed with its size and modern design, providing a different perspective from the ornate white and blue structures.

Optional Long Neck Village Visit

For those interested in local cultures, the optional visit to the Long Neck Village is available for an extra THB 300. Some reviews mention that this can feel like a “human zoo,” and if that’s a concern, you might prefer to skip it or wait outside. The village offers insight into the Karen people’s traditions, but it’s important to approach this stop with cultural sensitivity.

Lunch and Rest of the Day

A Thai lunch with authentic flavors is included, giving you a chance to sample local dishes and recharge. The lunch options are generally well-received, with some reviewers noting that the buffet tastes nice and offers drinks for purchase. After lunch, the trip back to Chiang Mai can be long, but the scenic drive offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day.

What the Reviews Say

Some travelers, like Jorge González, appreciated the ample time at each temple and the ease of the included transportation. He praised the close proximity of the lunch spot and the overall organization, though he noted the pickup point didn’t include his hotel, requiring extra travel.

On the other hand, a less satisfied review pointed out that the long drives and short stops at some locations made the day feel rushed. This traveler also felt that the guide provided minimal context, which could diminish the experience for those craving deeper understanding.

The majority of reviews are positive, highlighting the stunning visuals of the temples and the convenience of the package. However, those seeking an in-depth cultural encounter or a more relaxed pace might find the day somewhat hurried.

Practical Details and Tips

• Dress code: Temples require respectful attire—long pants or skirts, no flip-flops, and shirts without tank tops. This is important to keep in mind to avoid missing out on entry.
• Footwear: Sneakers or sports shoes are permitted, and they’re easier to remove at temples.
• Hot spring: You’ll only dip your feet—full-body baths are not allowed.
• Physical considerations: The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems, heart issues, pregnancy, or mobility challenges. The drive and walking may be strenuous for some.
• Timing and flexibility: The itinerary is approximate, and delays might occur due to traffic or other factors. Be prepared for a full day.
• Cost considerations: The THB 300 fee for the Long Neck Village is extra; consider whether you want that cultural experience.
• Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a visual feast of Thailand’s most iconic temples with a comfortable, guided approach, this trip fits the bill. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who appreciates stunning architecture and cultural storytelling. Those looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration or a very relaxed pace might prefer a different option.

It’s also well-suited for travelers on a budget, given the reasonable price and included lunch, making this a worthwhile way to spend a day without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind the long travel hours if you’re sensitive to time on the road.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a wonderful way to see some of northern Thailand’s most famous temples without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets. The combination of the dazzling White Temple, colorful Blue Temple, and impressive Red Temple makes for a visually rich experience, while the hot spring stop adds a mellow, relaxing break.

While some may find the length of travel and busy schedule a bit tiring, most will appreciate how the tour combines art, spirituality, and local flavors in one day. It’s especially suited for those eager to tick off major sights and enjoy guided commentary in a comfortable setting.

In the end, this trip is a great value for anyone wanting a thorough introduction to Chiang Rai’s highlights—perfect for first-timers or those with limited time who want a snapshot of the region’s artistic and cultural treasures.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can handle long drives and walking will enjoy the colorful temples and the hot spring stop. Just remember to dress appropriately and consider their comfort during the day.

What should I wear to the temples?
Dress modestly—long pants or skirts and a T-shirt without tank tops. Flip-flops are not allowed; sneakers or sports shoes are best.

Can I join if I have back problems or mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for guests with back problems, mobility challenges, or certain health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or pregnancy.

How long is the drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Travel time is included in the total tour duration; expect a long day with a significant drive each way.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transfers, a local lunch, water, entrance fees, a professional guide, and travel insurance are included.

Is the Long Neck Village visit worth it?
It depends on your interest in local Karen culture. It’s an optional stop with an extra fee, and some travelers prefer to skip it due to concerns about ethical considerations.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional stops are available for an extra fee. Any specific modifications should be discussed with the tour operator in advance.

Will I have enough time at each temple?
Most reviews say yes, with sufficient time to explore and take photos. However, the overall schedule can be tight, so plan accordingly.

How is the guide’s commentary?
The guide provides some context but may offer minimal information, which might be a downside for those wanting detailed historical insights.

What if I want a more relaxed experience?
Consider a private tour or fewer stops to enjoy each site at your own pace, though this will likely cost more.

This guided trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers an engaging, affordable way to experience some of Thailand’s most remarkable temples, with just enough comfort and structure to keep things enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler wanting a snapshot of northern Thailand’s spiritual artistry, you’ll leave with plenty of memorable sights—and probably a lot of photos too.

You can check availability for your dates here: