Chiang Rai isn’t just about eye-catching temples and scenic vistas; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch. Whether you want a sit-down Thai buffet after exploring stunning temples like Wat Rong Khun or prefer a jungle trek with bamboo-cooked meals, this province offers a variety of delicious options. I particularly like the guided tours that include a traditional Thai lunch, as they combine culture with great food, like the Chiang Rai: Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour — a well-organized day of sightseeing topped with a free, tasty buffet. These experiences are perfect for travelers who want a balanced taste of culture, sights, and flavors.
For a more immersive experience, some tours take you into the countryside or jungle, like the Trekking with Lunch cooked by Bamboo in the Chiang Rai jungle. Others focus on small-group visits to the most iconic attractions, offering flexible itineraries and insider insights. Whatever your style, Chiang Rai’s lunch tours are worth planning into your trip.
Quick Overview of Chiang Rai Lunch Tours
Our list covers a range of day tours that combine sightseeing with local meals, including guided full-day trips, small-group adventures, temple visits with buffet lunches, and jungle treks. These experiences are designed for different interests and energy levels, from cultural sightseeing to active outdoor explorations. Each offers something unique, whether it’s riding in a comfortable van, exploring hill tribe villages, or learning bamboo cooking in the forest. Check them out below for detailed insights.
1. Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour-FREE LUNCH BUFFET
At number 1, this full-day guided tour hits all the major highlights of Chiang Rai, including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House Museum, with a delicious free buffet lunch included. The tour runs from Mueang Chiang Rai and offers a well-paced itinerary. Visitors who love to see a variety of sights without hassle will appreciate the seamless organization and the chance to explore places like the Long Neck Karen Village and Golden Triangle. Tour guide Sky, in particular, receives rave reviews for her informative and friendly approach, making this a top-rated experience with a 4.8/5 rating from over 800 reviews.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of cultural visits, scenic stops, and a hearty Thai lunch that keeps you energized. It’s an excellent choice for first-timers or those wanting a rundown. The only potential downside could be the busy schedule for some travelers, but overall, it offers fantastic value at $36.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting an all-in-one, hassle-free day with a generous buffet lunch and a lively guide.
2. Chiang Rai: Wonderful Temples & 7 Major Sites | Buffet Lunch
At number 2, this tour earns its high rating of 4.9/5 thanks to its focus on Chiang Rai’s most iconic temples and sites. Covering seven main attractions, including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House Museum, it provides a comprehensive look at the region’s art and architecture. The tour includes a buffet lunch of local Thai dishes, making it ideal for visitors wanting both cultural sights and satisfying food.
Guides are highly experienced and fluent in English, and reviews mention the friendly service and the ability to explore each site at a relaxed pace — with enough time to enjoy the stunning Choui Fong Tea Farm and Golden Triangle. The tour’s slightly longer duration of about 8 hours suits travelers who want a thorough day without feeling rushed. Costing $37 per person, it offers good value given the number of locations visited and quality of service.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see Chiang Rai’s key landmarks comfortably, with a tasty Thai buffet to fuel your explorations.
3. Chiang Rai Must-See Tour – 7 Icons, Lunch & Small Group(9pp)
Number 3 on our list offers a small-group experience for a more personalized touch. For around $42, the tour covers 7 major sights, including the Black House and Hill Tribes, with a flexible entrance fee policy. The small group size (max 9) means you get more attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour includes a delicious Thai lunch and plenty of time to explore each site at your own pace.
Guests praise the guide for being attentive and friendly, making the long day enjoyable. The focus on culture, art, and hill tribe villages makes this an excellent pick for travelers who want an intimate experience without sacrificing variety. The value is high considering the inclusion of multiple attractions, a guide, and lunch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a smaller group, in-depth insights, and a flexible itinerary.
4. Chiang Rai: Guided Full-Day Highlights tour with Lunch
This tour combines all the must-see sights with a full day of guided exploration. Starting with Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), the itinerary includes the Blue Temple, Black House, and a visit to the Golden Triangle, with a traditional Thai lunch included. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an immersive experience with a knowledgeable guide who shares local stories and history.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s storytelling skills and the organization of the day. The tour’s length, around 10-11 hours, makes it suitable for those with a full day to spare, and the $47.22 price includes lunch and transportation. The mix of cultural sites, scenic views, and local insights creates a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a deep dive into Chiang Rai’s highlights with expert guidance.
5. Chiang Rai:Discover 7 Must-See Spots & Tickets, Lunch Included
Number 5 is a full-day tour that covers 7 famous sites including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Golden Triangle. Starting with hotel pickup, it includes a buffet lunch and visits to hill tribe villages and the Choui Fong Tea Farm. Visitors appreciate the mix of sightseeing and cultural experiences, with plenty of opportunities for photos and shopping.
The guide’s local knowledge and the well-paced schedule make this a popular choice, especially at $57.97. The tour is suitable for those wanting a rundown with the comfort of included meals and transport. Reviewers highlight the excellent organization and engaging guide as key strengths.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a full, engaging day with local cuisine and culture.
6. Trekking with Lunch cooked by Bamboo in the Chiang Rai jungle
Number 6 offers an active, outdoor experience for adventurous travelers. This 8-hour jungle trek includes visits to hot springs, Lisu and Chinese villages, and a waterfall, ending with a bamboo-cooked lunch. The highlight is learning how to cook in the wild using bamboo — a fun and authentic skill.
The trek is praised for its scenic beauty, knowledgeable local guides, and opportunity to relax in mineral-rich hot springs. The approximately $56.88 price makes it a good deal considering the physical activity and cultural insights involved. It’s best suited for fit travelers who enjoy nature and hands-on experiences.
Bottom Line: If you’re up for a physically active day with a culinary twist, this jungle trek is a compelling choice.
7. JOIN TOUR 1 day trip around Chiang Rai included lunch buffet
This tour offers a classic Chiang Rai experience with over 20 years of expertise, including visits to the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House, plus a buffet lunch. It’s designed for travelers wanting a structured, easy day with friendly guides and comfortable transport. The reviews mention the quality of the guide and the good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Starting early and covering key sights, it’s a dependable choice for travelers who prefer a straightforward, well-organized day at $40. It’s especially suited for those new to Chiang Rai or with limited time.
Bottom Line: Great for first-time visitors who want a reliable, guided overview.
8. Chiang Rai: City Highlights One-Day Tour with Thai Lunch
Number 8 is a compact, one-day city tour, focusing on Chiang Rai’s highlights like the White Temple, Blue Temple, and House of Opium. It includes hotel pickup and a Thai buffet lunch. The guides are praised for their friendly and professional service, making it ideal for travelers who want a quick yet rundown.
The tour lasts about a day and is suitable for those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed schedule. At $40 per person, it offers good value, especially with the included lunch and transport.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a quick, city-focused experience with a local meal.
9. From Chiang Mai: 3 Temples & Golden Triangle with Lunch
This tour, departing from Chiang Mai, takes you into Chiang Rai’s temples and the Golden Triangle. It’s a longer day trip (often from Chiang Mai), visiting Wat Rong Khun, Blue Temple, and Black House, plus a boat ride option and a visit to a Karen tribe. The focus here is on combining Chiang Rai highlights with a broader regional experience.
The $42 price includes transportation, and reviews note the knowledgeable guide and well-organized day. It’s perfect if you’re basing yourself in Chiang Mai but want to see Chiang Rai’s best sights.
Bottom Line: For those staying in Chiang Mai, this trip offers a convenient way to explore Chiang Rai’s highlights.
10. Chiang Rai: 1 day only walk and lunch with bamboo cook
Number 10 combines a full-day trek with authentic bamboo-cooked lunch in the jungle. Starting from Chiang Rai, it visits hot springs, mountain villages, and waterfalls, ending with a relaxing meal you cook yourself. It’s tailored for those who want an active, hands-on day immersed in nature and local culture.
Reviewers praise the guide for their expertise, the scenic landscapes, and the unique bamboo-cooked meal. The $56 price reflects the adventure and cultural authenticity. Ideal for active travelers comfortable with physical activity.
Bottom Line: For outdoorsy types wanting to combine nature, culture, and cooking, this tour delivers.
11. Chiang Rai: 7 Major Sightseeing Tour with Thai Buffet Lunch
This full-day tour covers the White Temple, Black House, Golden Triangle, and a Karen Village, with lunch included. It’s a popular option for travelers who want a broad overview, with stops for shopping and scenic views. The guided visits allow a good understanding of Chiang Rai’s diversity, from modern temples to traditional villages.
Priced at just $40, the tour offers excellent value, especially with a full itinerary packed into 8 hours. Reviewers highlight the smooth organization and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a hearty, sightseeing-packed day without missing key attractions.
12. Chiang Rai: Wonderful Temples & 7 Major Sites – Free Lunch
Rated 5/5, this tour focuses on the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House, with free lunch included. The group is small, and guides are praised for their expertise and fluent English. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed pace and quality commentary.
The itinerary includes visits to hill tribes and scenic spots, making it a well-rounded day. The $43 price makes it a highly recommended option for travelers on a budget who want quality.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a full, relaxed day with excellent guides and free lunch.
13. Chiang Rai: Discover 7 Must-See Spots & Lunch Included
This group tour offers a concise overview of Chiang Rai’s top sights, such as the White and Blue Temples, Black House, and Karen Village. The schedule is designed to avoid rushing, with a lunch break and enough time at each stop. It’s recommended for travelers who prefer a moderate pace with cultural highlights.
The $36 price makes it appealing for budget-conscious visitors, with positive reviews for the guide’s friendly attitude and the overall organization.
Bottom Line: Great for a balanced, cultural day out with a reasonable price.
14. From Chiang Rai: 7 wonder Full-Day Tour and Thai Buffet lunch
At number 14, this tour combines seven wonders of Chiang Rai with a Thai buffet lunch. The flexible itinerary includes visits to temples, the Golden Triangle, and local markets. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, full-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
The reviews indicate high satisfaction, especially regarding the guide’s professionalism. The $36.73 price makes it a good deal for travelers looking for variety.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a full exploration with local cuisine and flexible options.
$36.73 per person
15. From CM: Chiang Rai White, Blue, Red/Black Temple with Lunch
Finally, this full-day tour from Chiang Mai offers visits to White, Blue, and Red Temples, plus Black Museum and natural hot springs. It’s a great choice for travelers based in Chiang Mai who want a comprehensive day trip.
The roughly 7-hour schedule and $61 price include transport, guide, and meals, making it a good value for a long day of sightseeing. Reviews commend the guide and the smooth organization.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Chiang Mai travelers eager to see Chiang Rai’s top sights in a single day.
$61 per person
How to Choose Your Best Lunch Experience in Chiang Rai
When selecting the ideal tour, consider your priorities: Do you want a comprehensive sightseeing tour with all major sites and lunch included? The Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour or the Wonderful Temples & 7 Major Sites are great options. Looking for a small-group, personalized experience? The Must-See Tour delivers intimate insights.
Active travelers might love the Trekking with Bamboo Lunch, while history and culture enthusiasts can’t go wrong with the Black House Museum. For those on a budget, tours like the Discover 7 Spots & Lunch offer good value.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on popular guides and small-group options.
Final thoughts
From guided temple tours with buffet lunches to active jungle treks and small-group explorations, Chiang Rai offers a broad spectrum of lunch experiences tailored to different interests. If you’re after a cultural highlight with great food, the Full-Day Guided Tour is hard to beat. Adventure seekers might prefer the Bamboo Cooking Trek. Meanwhile, those wanting a personalized, in-depth experience will find the small-group Must-See Tour perfect.
Whatever your choice, Chiang Rai’s diverse options ensure you’ll enjoy delicious local flavors alongside unforgettable sights. Be sure to book early, especially in busy seasons, so you don’t miss out on your ideal experience.