The long-neck village

Day trip to Chiang Rai – the White and Blue temples

A magical journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai that includes a visit to hot springs, the famous White Temple, the Blue Temple, the Black Museum and the long-neck tribe

To book a trip to Chiang Rai

A day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Discover the cultural and architectural wonders unique to northern Thailand on a fascinating trip

Prices and information

The Black House Museum

Infant (0–2)

Sits with the parents
฿ Free
  • No separate seat • no meal

Important information

Hotel pick-up between 07:00-07:30 in the morning. Estimated return to the hotel at 19:30-20:00.

The trip includes a long drive (3-4 hours) each way. Come prepared with comfortable clothes and everything you will need for a long day away from the hotel.

About the tour

Hot springs

Start your lovely day in Chiang Rai with the scenic drive from Chiang Mai, with the first stop at the Mae Kachan hot springs. Here you can relax in the warm water and soak in the calm surroundings, which set the perfect tone for your adventure.

The White Temple

Go on to marvel at the iconic Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. This architectural masterpiece dazzles with its intricate mirror decorations and symbolic designs, offering a glimpse of the unique craftsmanship of northern Thailand. The visual experience of this spectacular white building is a sight not to be missed.

The Blue Temple and the Black Museum

Continue to Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple, where you will be moved by its intense shades of blue and wonderful paintings. After a fine local lunch, visit the mysterious Black House museum, an architectural marvel full of traditional Thai buildings and the thought-provoking, dark art of Thawan Duchanee.

The long-neck village

End your day trip in Chiang Rai with a visit to a long-neck Karen village. Here you will gain insight into the fascinating customs and traditions of the Karen people, known for their distinctive neck rings. This is a chance to meet one of the most interesting cultures of northern Thailand.

The tour includes

  • A professional English-speaking guide
  • A comfortable air-conditioned minibus
  • Lunch
  • Entry fees to all sites
  • All the activities listed
  • Pickup and drop-off at your hotel

The tour does not include

  • Additional drinks (other than water)
  • Tips for the guide and driver (not required but customary)
  • Personal expenses and shopping

The tour route

Hotel pickup

Between 07:00-07:30 in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel or guesthouse in the Chiang Mai area. Get ready for a long day full of experiences, including a drive of about 3-4 hours each way.

A visit to the hot springs

Our first stop will be the Mae Kachan hot springs, where you can relax and refresh in the hot mineral water and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the place.

The White Temple

A visit to the famous Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple), one of the most impressive attractions in northern Thailand. A stunning modern temple with a distinctive design by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, combining Buddhist elements with contemporary art.

The Blue Temple

On to Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, impressive in its intense blue colours and detailed art. A visually soothing experience that complements the visit to the White Temple.

Lunch

Time to freshen up and have a tasty lunch at a local restaurant. You can enjoy a range of authentic Thai dishes from Chiang Rai province.

The Black House Museum

A visit to Baan Dam (the Black House), a unique art museum created by the artist Thawan Duchanee. A collection of black buildings displaying traditional and contemporary art in a dark, fascinating style.

The long-neck village

A visit to a Karen tribe village, famous for its women who wear metal rings around their necks. A chance to learn about their unique culture and traditional way of life.

Back to Chiang Mai

The drive back to Chiang Mai with fascinating memories and experiences. Estimated arrival at the hotel between 19:30-20:00.

Route highlights

The White Temple

The White Temple

An extraordinary modern temple that combines Buddhist and contemporary art. A spectacular building in glowing white with intricate details and sparkling mirrors, symbolising the purity and wisdom of the Buddha.

The Blue Temple

The Blue Temple

Wat Rong Suea Ten impresses with its intense blue colours and detailed paintings. The relatively new temple has become a popular attraction thanks to its soothing and distinctive aesthetic.

The Black House Museum

The Black House Museum

A unique art complex made up of black wooden buildings displaying an extensive collection of traditional objects, skulls, animal skins and works of art that reflect the artist's philosophy.

The long-neck village

The long-neck village

A meeting with the Karen tribe, whose women are famous for the metal rings they wear around their necks. A chance to learn about a fascinating culture and a traditional way of life.

Photo gallery

More attractions in Chiang Mai

Day trip to Doi Inthanon

A visit to the highest peak in Thailand, spectacular waterfalls, the King's and Queen's pagodas and traditional villages.

An ethical elephant sanctuary. A visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary, including feeding and bathing elephants in their natural surroundings without riding. A Thai cooking course: learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes with a local chef, including a visit to the local market. Jeep tour to Pai — a fascinating 3-day trip from Chiang Mai to the picturesque town of Pai, including varied attractions and unforgettable experiences.
Frequently asked questions

What to know before you book

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts a full day, from 07:00 in the morning until about 20:00 in the evening. Bear in mind that this is a long day that includes a drive of about 3-4 hours each way.
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
The trip suits families, but it is important to remember that it includes long drives that may be challenging for small children. The visit to the Karen village and the White Temple is usually fascinating for children.
Do I need to bring a passport on the trip?
Yes, bring a valid passport on the day of the trip, especially if visiting areas close to the border.
What should I wear for the trip?
It is recommended to wear comfortable, modest clothes, especially when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered). Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water.
How much does the tour cost?
All the routes and prices are gathered in the "Prices and information" section on the page. The final price is set by the date and number of participants — send us a message and we will come back with availability and an updated price.
What does the price include?
A professional English-speaking guide, A comfortable air-conditioned minibus, Lunch, Entry fees to all sites, All the activities listed, Pickup and drop-off at your hotel.