Chiang Rai is a small city packed with surprises, especially if you love relaxing hot springs and wellness experiences combined with cultural sights. While it’s best known for its spectacular temples, recent visitors have also come to appreciate the region’s hot springs, which offer a perfect way to unwind after temple touring or exploring the Golden Triangle. We personally like the Nirvana Hot Spring & Chiang Rai Temple Experience, which combines a soothing soak with visits to some of the region’s most iconic temples. Whether you’re after a relaxing bath, a cultural tour, or a bit of both, Chiang Rai has options that will match your travel style.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through three of the best spa & hot springs experiences, each with its own flavor. From classic temple visits with a hot springs twist to adventurous bamboo cooking and scenic treks, you’re sure to find something to fit your interests and energy levels.
Quick Overview
Our top picks cover different aspects of Chiang Rai’s spa and hot springs scene. The first, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 Temples & Hot Springs & Pickup, combines cultural temple visits with a scenic hot springs stop, perfect for travelers who want a bit of everything in a single day. The second, Chiang Rai: Trekking, Bamboo Cooking, and Hot Springs Tour, offers a more active experience with trekking and bamboo craft, topped off with hot springs. The third, ChiangMai: Nirvana Hot Spring & Chiang Rai Temple Experience, is ideal if you prefer a private, relaxed day focused on temples and a hot spring soak.
Now, let’s break down each of these memorable options.
1. Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 Temples & Hot Springs & Pickup
Starting at the top of our list, this full-day trip from Chiang Mai is a solid choice for those who want to combine cultural highlights with some relaxing downtime. The tour includes stops at Chiang Rai’s most famous temples, notably the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a striking modern artwork famous for its intricate detail and shimmering white facade. You’ll also visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Sue Ten), known for its bright blue hues and stunning glass mosaics, and the Black House Museum, showcasing a haunting collection of dark art and sculptures.
What makes this tour stand out is its seamless mix of temple exploration and a scenic hot springs visit — perfect for warming up after temple touring. The day finishes with a return to Chiang Mai in the evening, making it an efficient way to see the region in one go. The tour has a solid 4/5 rating from 22 reviews, with many travelers noting how the temples are “truly unforgettable,” and the hot springs provide a relaxing break from the sightseeing.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a smooth, guided overview of Chiang Rai’s highlights, with a relaxing soak included. It’s especially good for those short on time but eager to see temples and enjoy some warm mineral waters.
2. Chiang Rai: Trekking, Bamboo Cooking, and Hot Springs Tour
For the more adventurous types, the Chiang Rai Trekking, Bamboo Cooking, and Hot Springs Tour offers a full immersion into the region’s natural beauty and local life. Priced at $62 per person, this experience takes you beyond the temples and deep into the countryside. You’ll learn how to make bamboo cups and chopsticks, gaining insight into traditional crafts and daily life.
The guided trek through scenic landscapes is a highlight, with plenty of opportunities to see local farming techniques and lush scenery that “fills your soul,” as one traveler noted. The tour also features a bamboo cooking session, where you’ll participate in preparing local dishes using bamboo as a cooking vessel—an authentic experience that’s both fun and delicious. To top it off, the hot springs provide a soothing end to a day of activity.
This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy physical activity, hands-on experiences, and want to explore the countryside’s natural beauty. While reviews are limited, the emphasis on bamboo crafts and scenic treks makes it a unique way to experience Chiang Rai at a slower, more personal pace.
Bottom line: If you’re after an active day combining nature, local culture, and relaxing hot springs, this tour offers genuine, memorable experiences away from crowds.
$62 per person
3. ChiangMai: Nirvana Hot Spring & Chiang Rai Temple Experience
At around $56 per person, the Chiang Mai: Nirvana Hot Spring & Chiang Rai Temple Experience offers a private, flexible day focusing on the region’s top temples and a relaxing soak. The day begins with your own driver, allowing for a personalized pace to explore the White Temple, Blue Temple, and the Temple of Light, each with their own distinctive architecture and artistic flair.
The highlight, however, is the visit to Mae Kachan Hot Springs, where you can soak in thermal waters known for their mineral benefits. The hot springs are a peaceful spot to unwind, with the added bonus of scenic views and a chance to enjoy local coffee at the nearby Doi Chaang Café. The private nature of this tour means fewer crowds and more flexibility for photo stops and extra sightseeing.
While reviews are not available, the combination of cultural sightseeing and hot springs makes this a good choice for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a splash of wellness. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a quiet, personalized day.
Bottom line: This tour balances temple visits with a relaxing hot springs experience, ideal for travelers looking for comfort and a more private, leisurely day.
$56 per person
How to Choose Your Chiang Rai Hot Springs Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and travel style. If you want a comprehensive day with temples and hot springs, the Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 Temples & Hot Springs is your best bet. For an active, culture, go for the Trekking and Bamboo Cooking tour. If a private, relaxed day focused on wellness and temples appeals more, then the Chiang Mai Nirvana Hot Spring & Temple tour fits the bill.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer guided group tours or private experiences. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
From cultural temple visits to immersive rural activities and soothing hot springs, Chiang Rai offers diverse ways to unwind and explore. The first tour provides a quick, rundown, perfect for those on a tight schedule. The second appeals to active travelers who want to dig into local crafts and nature, while the third caters to those seeking tranquility and privacy.
If you’re visiting Chiang Rai and want a memorable spa or hot springs experience, these three options give you a solid starting point. Whichever you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable moments.