Long Neck Village, White & Blue Temple, Black House Day Tour From Chiang Mai

Experience the Best of Chiang Mai and Beyond in a Day

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Northern Thailand’s most iconic sights, this tour from Chiang Mai offers a well-rounded glimpse into the area’s diverse culture and stunning scenery. For around $60 per person, you’ll spend about 13 to 14 hours visiting Mae Khachan Hot Spring, the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Black House Museum, the Blue Temple, and the Long Neck Karen Village.

What we love most about this tour is its ability to pack so many highlights into a single day—especially the effortless transportation that lets you focus on enjoying each stop. Plus, with a small group of only 10 people, you get personalized attention from your guide, which makes for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

However, be prepared for a long day—some reviews mention the drive can be quite tiring, and the itinerary includes a lot of ground to cover. If you’re someone who appreciates comfort and in-depth exploration over rapid sightseeing, this might not be ideal. Still, if you’re eager to cover a broad range of sights with a knowledgeable guide, this tour suits curious travelers who want a taste of everything.

This experience is particularly perfect if you’re interested in seeing Thailand’s famous temples, exploring hill tribe villages, and experiencing the diverse artistic styles of Chiang Rai’s temples—all in one organized trip. It works well for those who prefer guided outings over self-driving, especially given the long distances involved.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Covers multiple major sights with entry fees included.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Long Day: Expect about 13-14 hours, including travel time.
• Diverse Stops: Temples, hot springs, and hill tribe villages offer a well-rounded cultural day.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel by vehicle, avoiding public transport hassles.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help make sense of each site.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Mae Khachan Hot Spring

Your adventure begins with a visit to Mae Khachan Hot Spring, one of the few natural hot springs in northern Thailand. Here, the boiling temperatures (up to 194°F/90°C) are hot enough to cook an egg on the spot—a fun demonstration the locals enjoy. You’ll have about two hours to soak your toes or even try cooking breakfast if you’re feeling brave.

This stop is a fantastic way to kick off the day, especially for those who love outdoor natural wonders. Several reviews mention the hot spring as a highlight, with one traveler noting, “You can dip your toes in several pools, and locals are happy to show how hot the water is.” It’s a chance to stretch your legs after the drive and enjoy a natural spectacle.

Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple)

Next, you’ll head to Wat Rong Khun, often called the White Temple. Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this temple has become a must-see for its surreal, pristine white façade and intricate carvings. It’s more than just a temple; it’s a modern art exhibit that’s both beautiful and thought-provoking.

The tour allocates approximately two hours here, which is usually enough time to walk around, soak in the details, and snap some photos. Reviewers often mention being wowed by the temple’s striking appearance, with one saying, “The White Temple was super busy but beautiful.” The temple’s unique style makes it stand out from traditional Thai temples and provides a different perspective on Buddhist artistry.

Baan Dam Museum (The Black House)

From the White Temple, you’ll visit Baan Dam Museum, known as the Black House. Created by Thawan Duchanee, this site features a mix of traditional northern Thai architecture with modern, unconventional structures. The buildings are dark, mysterious, and filled with eclectic art pieces and animal skins.

Travelers often describe this stop as “unusual but fascinating,” providing a contrast to the white temple. It’s a chance to see contemporary interpretations of Thai culture and architecture. One reviewer shared, “The Black House was a mixture of traditional and modern styles—definitely a different experience.”

Wat Rong Seur Ten (Blue Temple)

Continuing your temple tour, you’ll visit the Blue Temple, distinguished by its vivid blue color and elaborate carvings. This temple’s modern design and vibrant hue make it visually striking, and it’s a welcome splash of color after the monochrome Black House. Expect around two hours at this site, giving you time to marvel at the detailed craftsmanship and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Long Neck Karen Village

The final major stop takes you to the Long Neck Karen Village. Here, women wear stacked brass rings around their necks—an eye-catching tradition that’s both cultural and controversial. This visit offers insight into hill tribe cultures, and many travelers find the experience touching and authentic. You’ll have about two hours to explore, meet the villagers, and buy handmade crafts.

Reviewers highlight that the women are friendly and proud of their traditions, with one saying, “Meeting the villagers was right out of a story. They’re no different than us, and our guide really painted a clear picture of their life.” It’s a meaningful way to support local communities and learn about their way of life.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is by private vehicle or minivan, making the long drive more comfortable than taking public buses or trains. The group size is capped at 10 people, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and allows your guide to give more personalized commentary. The driver’s skill is mentioned in reviews—while most travelers felt safe, some pointed out that the driving can be quite fast, so those who prefer a more relaxed ride might want to consider this.

Timing and Duration

The tour starts early at 7:00 am from your hotel, with the return expected between 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm. This makes it a full day, but it’s packed with sights, so be prepared for a lot of walking and standing. The long drive allows you to cover the distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai and back, which is quite a bit of ground—be aware that it’s a day for the road as much as for sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At just over $60, the price includes all entry tickets, making it a good deal considering the number of attractions visited. Several reviews praise the trip’s value, especially for the variety of sites and the small-group setting. One traveler said, “Everything was well organized, and the guide made the experience memorable.”

Dress Code and Respect

Particularly at temples, dress modestly—no flip-flops, tank tops, or short pants. Even if you’re just visiting for photos, a respectful attire enhances your experience and shows respect for local customs.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Many who’ve taken this tour mention the guides’ knowledge and kindness. As one review notes, “The guide had a heart of gold and made the long day enjoyable.” Some found the long journey tiring, but the stops more than made up for it.

The hill tribe village offers a genuine glimpse into traditional lifestyles, and visitors consistently mention how touching it is to see the women’s traditional attire and craftsmanship.

On the other hand, a few reviewers expressed concern over the driving style, describing it as “speeding too much,” which underscores the importance of traveler safety awareness.

The temples, especially the White and Blue ones, are often crowded, but their visual impact is undeniable. The Black House, being more unconventional, might not appeal to everyone but provides a broader cultural perspective.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for curious travelers who want to see a wide array of sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. It suits those interested in modern and traditional art, temple architecture, and hill-tribe culture. It’s also a good fit for travelers comfortable with long hours and who appreciate expert guides sharing insights along the way.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are sensitive to long drives, you might find the day a bit exhausting. It’s best for those who don’t mind a packed schedule and want a comprehensive, guided overview of northern Thailand’s highlights.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am from your hotel, so expect an early pickup to make the most of the day.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the ticket prices for each attraction—the hot spring, temples, and museums—are included in the tour price.

How long is the drive between sites?
While the exact duration varies, the overall day involves a long drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai and back, totaling around 13-14 hours.

Can I stay longer at any site?
The schedule is fixed, with about two hours allocated per major stop, so there’s limited flexibility for extra time.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3-6 can join, with child tickets available, but be prepared for a full day and some long car rides.

What should I wear?
Dress modestly—no flip-flops, tank tops, or short pants—especially when visiting temples to show respect and avoid being turned away.

This tour offers a solid introduction to northern Thailand’s diverse sights, blending natural wonders, art, and culture into one memorable day. It’s best suited for travelers eager to maximize their time, enjoy guided insights, and see a variety of iconic spots, all without the hassle of self-driving. Be prepared for a long but rewarding journey—your photos and stories will thank you.