Chiang Rai: White & Blue Temples, Black House & Lunch, Guide

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand, is home to a trifecta of architectural marvels. This full-day tour whisks visitors through the stunning White Temple, the vibrant Blue Temple, and the enigmatic Black House. Guided by an expert, travelers can enjoy the unique cultural significance of each site while indulging in a delicious Thai buffet lunch. With convenient transportation from Chiang Mai, this small group adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Chiang Rai’s captivating landscape.

Key Points

• A full-day tour that visits Chiang Rai’s iconic temples – White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House – with a small group size of up to 10 participants.
• Complimentary pickup and drop-off service within 6 kilometers of Chiang Mai’s old city center, along with air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking guide.
• Includes a 1-hour Thai buffet lunch with accommodations for dietary restrictions, as well as entrance fees for all standard activities.
• Optional visits to the Blue Temple and Black House, each for 1 hour, in addition to the main stop at the White Temple.
• Provides an opportunity to explore the unique architectural styles and cultural significance of these renowned Chiang Rai temples.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour showcases Chiang Rai’s most iconic temples, including the renowned White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House.

You’ll join a small group of up to 10 participants and depart Chiang Mai in the morning, returning by evening.

Highlights include an optional visit to the Blue Temple and Black House, along with a lunch break.

Pickup and drop-off service is provided within 6 kilometers of Chiang Mai’s old city center, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour’s customer ratings are generally positive, though some reviews note issues with the lunch and optional activities.

Itinerary

The tour starts with pickup from two convenient locations in Chiang Mai, before heading north to the first stop at Mae Kachan Hot Spring for a 15-minute break. Next, the group visits the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) for an hour. After, they enjoy a 1-hour Thai buffet lunch. The afternoon offers optional visits to the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) and the Black House (Baan Dam Museum), each for an hour. The tour then returns to Chiang Mai, with drop-offs at the two original pickup locations.

| Stop | Duration |

| — | — |

| Pickup in Chiang Mai | – |

| Mae Kachan Hot Spring | 15 minutes |

| Wat Rong Khun | 1 hour |

| Lunch | 1 hour |

| Wat Rong Suea Ten (optional) | 1 hour |

| Baan Dam Museum (optional) | 1 hour |

| Return to Chiang Mai | – |

Inclusions

The tour includes free pickup and drop-off service within 6 kilometers of Chiang Mai’s city center.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned minibus, and a private English-speaking guide accompanies the group.

Entrance fees for all standard activities are covered, and a buffet Thai lunch with accommodations for dietary restrictions is included.

Travelers also receive drinking water and travel accident insurance.

Optional add-ons, like a visit to the Long Neck Karen Village, are available for an additional 300 THB per person, but not covered in the base tour.

Additional Information

Although an optional visit to the Long Neck Karen Village is available for an additional 300 THB per person, this isn’t included in the base tour.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as wheelchair users, those with pre-existing medical conditions, babies under 1 year, or people over 70.

Participants should inform the tour guide of any dietary restrictions or allergies, as vegetarian options are available.

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Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the tour has received an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 17 reviews. Ratings for the guide and transportation were both 3.8/5, while value for money received a 3.5/5.

The tour received an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 17 reviews, with the guide, transportation, and value for money scoring 3.8/5, 3.8/5, and 3.5/5 respectively.

The reviews offer a mixed perspective:

• Some participants felt misled about the included sites and experiences.

• The quality of the lunch and optional activities received mixed feedback.

• Wheelchair users, individuals with medical conditions, babies, and seniors may not be suitable for this tour.

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is one of Chiang Rai’s most iconic and visually striking attractions.

Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple’s gleaming white exterior and intricate mirrored details create a mesmerizing effect.

Visitors can explore the temple’s ornate interiors, filled with Buddhist imagery and mythological creatures.

The surrounding grounds feature more white-themed structures, including a bridge over a sea of outreached hands symbolizing desire.

Though a modern creation, the White Temple blends traditional Thai architecture with contemporary artistry, making it a must-see stop on any Chiang Rai temple tour.

Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)

The Blue Temple, known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is another architectural masterpiece in Chiang Rai. This vibrant blue temple boasts intricate carvings, mirrored mosaics, and a distinctive modern design.

Visitors are enchanted by its striking appearance and the serene atmosphere.

The Blue Temple features:

• Striking blue color scheme that creates a calming ambiance

• Ornate mirrored mosaics on the exterior walls and ceilings

• Detailed woodcarvings depicting mythical creatures and deities

• Towering, pointed roof structure that stands out against the landscape

• A serene meditative area for visitors to reflect and connect with the space

Black House (Baan Dam Museum)

After exploring the serene Blue Temple, visitors can head to the unusual Black House, also known as Baan Dam Museum.

This contemporary art museum was the former home of renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. The stark black buildings with antler-like roofs create a striking contrast against the lush natural surroundings.

Inside, the museum displays Thawan’s dark, moody paintings and sculptures, reflecting his deep fascination with death and the macabre.

Visitors can wander through the complex, admiring the avant-garde architecture and thought-provoking artworks that celebrate Thailand’s cultural traditions in a hauntingly beautiful way.

Since You Asked

Can I Stop at Other Temples During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, participants can visit the optional Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) and Baan Dam Museum (Black House) during the tour. However, there’s no mention of stopping at any other temples along the way.

Are Personal Cameras Allowed at the Temples?

Yes, personal cameras are generally allowed at the temples visited on this tour. However, flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas to avoid disrupting the sacred atmosphere. Visitors should follow the tour guide’s instructions and local customs.

Is There a Dress Code for the Temple Visits?

There is a dress code for the temple visits. Visitors must wear long pants or ankle-length skirts, and shirts that cover the shoulders. Revealing or overly casual clothing is not permitted. The tour guide will provide guidance on appropriate attire.

Can I Buy Souvenirs at the Temples?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the temples on this tour. The White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House all have gift shops where you can find a variety of local handicrafts, artwork, and other items to commemorate your visit.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Temple?

The tour allocates about 1 hour at each temple, allowing visitors to explore the distinctive architectural styles and take photos. The schedule is designed to provide a comprehensive experience while maintaining a comfortable pace throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour in Chiang Rai offers an immersive experience, showcasing the stunning architectural wonders of the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House. Guests can enjoy a delicious Thai buffet lunch while learning about the cultural significance of these remarkable sites from an expert English-speaking guide. With convenient transportation and a small group setting, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure exploring the unique beauty of Chiang Rai.

You can check availability for your dates here: