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Baan Dam Museum

Baan Dam Museum: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples Small Group/Private Tour

1. From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples Small Group/Private Tour

What is a TripGuru Signature Experience? Unique itineraries crafted alongside famous travel bloggers and local guides Small groups only: no buses, no crowds, 9 travelers maximum Solo travelers don’t pay more – flat rates per person Quirky, charming, and creative are the words used to describe Chiang Rai by travelers and locals alike. The sights to be found here are by no means anything like the ones you’ll see in Chiang Mai, the city’s more popular sister. Before we begin temple sightseeing, we’ll break up the long three-hour drive at the Mae Khachan Hot Spring to relax, dip our feet in the steaming mineral water, maybe eat a snack, or walk around the surrounding gardens. We’ll then move on to the main attraction: the White Temple. If you’re looking for ancient ruins, you might be surprised to find a modern architectural masterpiece designed and built by local artist Chaloemchai Khositphiphat. He was rumored to have spent over THB 40 million of his own money to create this unconventional art exhibit to gain immortal life! After exploring this local wonder, we’ll have a quick lunch before heading to our next stop... The Blue Temple or Wat Rong Seua Ten literally translates to ‘temple of the dancing tiger.’ It was built on a site where tigers were said to have jumped over the river. If the White Temple was meant to be a stairway to heaven, the Black House has been called a “dark, mysterious, and almost sadistic” representation of hell, complete with preserved animals and a collection of bones. Built by Thailand national artist Thawan Duchanee (who incidentally was the mentor of Chaloemchai, the White Temple guy), the Baan Dam Museum (Black House) is a cluster of nearly 40 small shadowy structures exhibiting art dating back to the Ayutthaya period. This is truly something the likes of which we’ll never see anywhere else! Looking to make your road trip to Chiang Rai even more comfortable? You can choose to upgrade your transportation to a premium and more spacious vehicle. This ensures bigger and more comfortable seats, less people in one van (maximum of 6 people), and free snacks, cool towels, and soft drinks. You can opt for a private tour option to visit the White Temple and Golden Triangle (instead of the Blue Temple and Black House). The Golden Triangle is a triangular piece of land in which the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar all meet. The nickname was coined by the CIA in reference to this region, whose trading posts’ top product was opium. Dive deep into the wild history of this area and learn how it became one of the most notorious narcotrafficking spots in the world. This itinerary option also includes a cruise down the Mekong River. (The distance from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is approximately 172 km one-way. Kindly be prepared for a long drive (roughly 3 hours one-way).)

From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples and Golden Triangle Tour

2. From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples and Golden Triangle Tour

Depart Chiang Mai for a day tour blending cultural insight, history, and natural beauty. Explore the vibrant temples of Chiang Rai including the White Temple and Blue Temple. Visit the unique Long Neck Karen tribe, and finally enjoy a scenic cruise at the historic Golden Triangle. Your journey begins with pick-up from your hotel. A comfortable air-conditioned vehicle drives you to your first stop, the Mae Khachan hot spring, a perfect place to stretch your legs after a long drive. Next, marvel at Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple. This unique temple will captivate you with its radiant structure reflecting off the surrounding pond. A set menu lunch follows, ready to recharge you for the upcoming exploration. Your tour continues to Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, with its striking hues and intricate design. From here, proceed to Baan Dam, the Black House, a museum gallery showcasing an intriguing blend of traditional and contemporary art. Continue your day trip with a visit to the Long Neck Karen Village. Learn about the tribe's traditions and lifestyle, including their distinctive practice of elongating their necks with brass coils. The grand finale of your tour is the historic Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Experience a scenic boat trip that allows you a closer look at this geographical marvel. As evening falls, head back to Chiang Mai, arriving at your hotel around 10:00 PM.

Chiang Mai: Long Neck Village & Chiang Rai’s Iconic Temples

3. Chiang Mai: Long Neck Village & Chiang Rai’s Iconic Temples

Dive into the heart of Chiang Rai's culture on this guided day tour. Immerse yourself in the tranquil warmth of the Mae Kajan Hot Springs before visiting the White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, crafted by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Savor a Thai-style buffet lunch to refuel for the afternoon. Continue to the Black House, or Baan Dam, the house and museum of artist Dr. Thawan Duchanee. See intriguing bone displays intertwine with artistic interiors. From there, enter the serene Blue Temple and experience its vibrant blue hues. Discover this undiscovered gem far from the crowds. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Karen Long-neck tribe with an emblematic visit before relaxing with an easy return to your Chiang Mai hotel.

From Chiang Mai: White Temple Black House and Blue Temple

4. From Chiang Mai: White Temple Black House and Blue Temple

Embark on a cultural odyssey to Chiang Rai's iconic landmarks, a journey rich in history and artistic splendor. This full-day tour showcases the region’s most magnificent sights, from the ethereal White Temple to the enigmatic Black House, rounded off with the serene beauty of the Blue Temple. Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup, leading to the warm waters of Mae Kajan Hot Springs. Refreshed, proceed to the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a masterpiece of modern architecture with its intricate white carvings shimmering against the sky. A Thai-style buffet awaits to tantalize your taste buds, followed by an immersive experience at the Black House (Baan Dam). Here, the vision of renowned artist Thawan Duchanee unfolds in a complex of unique structures and thought-provoking art. As afternoon hues emerge, the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Sua Ten) awaits, dazzling with its vibrant façade and peaceful ambiance. For those intrigued by local cultures, an optional visit to the Karen Long-neck tribe offers a glimpse into the traditions of this unique community. The day concludes with a relaxed journey back, leaving you at your hotel doorstep, hearts full of memories and cameras full of breathtaking photos. This is more than a tour; it's a passage through the artistic soul of Northern Thailand, perfect for cultural aficionados, history buffs, and the creatively curious. With comfortable round-trip transfers from Chiang Mai, indulge in a day of discovery without the hassle of planning.

From Chiang Rai: Famous Temples and Golden Triangle Day Tour

5. From Chiang Rai: Famous Temples and Golden Triangle Day Tour

Experience some of Chiang Rai's beautiful sights on a temple and Golden Triangle adventure. Be picked up from your hotel and see Wat Huay Pla Kang, the Blue Temple, and Chiang Saen Old City. Begin your adventure with the utmost convenience, pick-up right from your Chiang Rai hotel. Be whisked away into the heart of Northern Thailand, where a rich tapestry of history and natural wonders awaits you. Explore the iconic White Temple, and witness breathtaking panoramic vistas from the vantage point of Wat Huay Pla Kang. Delve into the enigmatic realm of the Black House, and admire its architecture, a combination of traditional and modern. Step foot into the border town of Mae Sai, and find serenity among lush tea plantations. Visit the enchanting Blue Temple, and admire the beauty of its construction. Learn more about the significance of the Golden Triangle, a popular attraction as it connects Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Dive into the past as you stroll through the ancient Chiang Saen Old City, see its buildings and reconstructed walls, and learn more about the city's history.

Chiang Rai: 2-Day Private White Temple & Golden Triangle

6. Chiang Rai: 2-Day Private White Temple & Golden Triangle

Departing from Chiang Mai, your first visit will be at a hot springs. Enjoy lunch at the local restaurant. Continue your journey to White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a dazzling temple built in 1990. Its ornate all-white exterior with embedded pieces of mirror gives it a resplendent appearance which marks it as one of the most beautiful temples. Visit the Black House (Baan Dam), an original contemporary art museum before heading to your hotel in Chiang Rai. Start your second day at Choui Fong Tea Plantation, well-known for its grand view and the highest quality traditional teas cultivated. As the site is located on the hill, you will be able to get great scenery of the land. Continue to Wat Rong Sua Ten (the Blue Temple), which is famous for its magnificent blue interior with a large white Buddha that marks the spirits. The paintings are reminiscent of the style that you can see inside the White Temple. Next, you will visit Doi Tung, the former king mother's botanical garden in the mountain.  Continue to Chiang Sean for a panoramic view of the Golden Triangle, where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet the mighty Mekong River. it will be a good combination tour of the nature, culture and traditions as well as the beautiful landscapes (optional boat ride on the mighty Mae Khong River). Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and continue to explore Chiang Rai history at Opium Museum and head back to Chiang Mai by 6:00 PM. 

From Chiang Mai: The best of Chiang Rai with Spanish guide

7. From Chiang Mai: The best of Chiang Rai with Spanish guide

Meet at the  Wat Phra Singh Temple in Chang Mai at 07:00am. Drive countryside on a long but comfortable drive. Stop at the hot springs halfway between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The water is warm enough that you will witness locals boiling their breakfast eggs in the geothermal water.  Then, visit the iconic White Temple, an impressive temple known worldwide for its unique sculptures and carvings. Capture the beauty of this photogenic point designed by Thailand's famous artist, Chaloemchai. Next, head off to the Big Buddha, an impressive statue and temple at the top of a small hill. If there is no special celebration that day, you can go up inside the Buddha's head and take in the views. Have a lunch break and enjoy a delicious Thai meal. Move on to the next highlight, a visit to the Black House Museum. Learn about the history behind this Lanna-style house designed by artist Thawan Duchanee. See his masterpieces in a contemporary artwork museum. Discover sculptures, wooden carvings, and furniture created by him. Optional who would like to visit long neck village can pay entrance fee 500thb per pax > and who don't want to visit long can wait at the coffee shop. Super important, the one who is interested to visit Long neck village must tell to the guide as soon meet him in the meeting point at 07.00am in wat phrasingh temple. In the afternoon, see another of Chiang Rai’s gems, The Blue Temple, with its impressive murals. Listen to the history of the city and temple from your informative Spanish guide. After a full day of sightseeing and exploring, make the journey back to Chiang Mai. You will be dropped off at Night Market around 7:30 PM.

White Temple , Blue Temple , Black Museum & Golden Triangle

8. White Temple , Blue Temple , Black Museum & Golden Triangle

Escape the busy city of Chiang Mai and enjoy a day tour to discover the highlights of Chiang Rai Blue Temple province. Admire the stunning amazing Thai architecture of the White Temple, and explore the beauty of the Blue Temple, continue to the Golden Triangle, the frontier between Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand that separated by the Mekong Rivers Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Chiang Mai. Jump in the van, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive towards the White Temple and Blue Temple. The White Temple is also known as Wat Rong Khun, is a privately owned art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple, Chiang Rai Province. Designed and constructed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a famous Thai visual artist. The Blue Temple is also known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is a Buddhist temple that stands out from the others because of its sapphire blue color. Next, you will visit the Black House well known as Baan Dam is one of the strangest and most interesting landmarks in Chiang Rai. Listen as your guide tells you all about the rich history and culture as you wander around. End the tour on a high as you enjoy some tasty lunch that your taste buds will love. Enjoy a ride back to your accommodation in Chiang Mai.

From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai 2 Temples and Golden Triangle

9. From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai 2 Temples and Golden Triangle

Embark on a fascinating tour designed for you, starting by meeting with your knowledgeable tour guide at One Nimmarn or your hotel. Get ready to explore the enchanting destinations as we begin our journey. First, we'll visit the Maekhachan Hot Spring, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the soothing mineral waters, take a leisurely walk around the surrounding gardens, or enjoy a delicious snack. Next, we'll continue our exploration with a visit to the captivating Blue Temple. Be mesmerized by its serene ambiance and intricate details as you immerse yourself in the beauty of this remarkable place. Prepare to be amazed as we arrive at the White Temple, a modern architectural masterpiece created by a local artist. Marvel at its unique design and elaborate artwork, which tells a story of tradition and innovation. For lunch, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious meal at a local restaurant (own expense), savoring the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine and taking a moment to relax and recharge. Our journey then takes us to the renowned Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Experience the beauty of this historic area as we cruise along the river on a traditional longtail boat, witnessing the stunning landscapes and absorbing the rich cultural heritage. As the day comes to a close, we'll ensure a comfortable drop-off at One Nimmarn or your hotel, leaving you with cherished memories of this unforgettable tour. Reflect on the wonders you've discovered and the experiences you've had, knowing that you've immersed yourself in the beauty and culture of northern Thailand. Join us on this incredible journey and let us guide you through the highlights of Chiang Rai, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai’s Iconic Temples and Black House

10. From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai’s Iconic Temples and Black House

Embark on a fascinating journey from Chiang Mai to the renowned temples of Chiang Rai, along with a brief stopover at an intriguing natural hot spring. This excursion offers a rich blend of Thai culture and spirituality, nestled within an engaging day of exploration. Your adventure starts with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation, whisking you away for a day of discovery in Chiang Rai's notable landmarks. Our trip starts with a visit to Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple. This striking white building, decorated with twinkling mirrors, creates a beautiful scene next to a calm pond. The design of the temple tells a story about Buddha's teachings and important symbols in the religion. Next, we head to Wat Rong Suea Ten, or the Blue Temple. Adorned with vibrant blue colors and intricate designs, the temple is a tribute to its historical predecessor that once graced the same grounds, an area known to have been roamed by tigers. The adventure continues as we delve into the peculiar world of the Black House, or 'Baan Dam.' Far more than a house, this eccentric art complex showcases a wide array of intriguing art pieces. Crafted by renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee, it offers a captivating peek into the artist's unique perspective. Finally, our journey includes a brief stopover at a natural hot spring. Though it's not a place for swimming, the hot spring is a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural surroundings during our journey back. After a day steeped in exploration and discovery, we'll return you to your residence, leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of Thai cultural and spiritual traditions.

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What people are saying about Baan Dam Museum

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 769 reviews

Paulina our tour guide was amazing!! She knew everything the history of the temples, was extremely friendly, approachable and just felt like a friend on the tour. We had plenty of time at each temple, white, blue and black. As a solo traveller I felt comfortable and had fun! Group was only the 4 of us but worked out so nice. It was nice being left to wonder around ourselves, but if we had any information we could easily just ask questions. The ride was extremely comfortable, with AC and free water. Lunch was not included but only 170 Baht including a drink and so tasty! Try the yellow noddles and the watermelon.

Cookkie was an amazing host, my favorite in all of the time I spent in Thailand so far. She went above and beyond to explain all the history, and made the experience extra special. She even took extra time to take photos of us (my first photos of myself on this trip)!! The tour was gradual, didn’t feel rushed at all, it was perfect. I would suggest to make sure and bring sunscreen, a mask (Smoke in air this time if year),sunglasses and bug spray. The hot springs pit stop was pretty cool too, well worth the money, loved the entire tour!!!!!

Very early start, collected from the hotel. Changed to Another vehicle, then set off to Chiangmai rai, was able to stop for toilets. The guide (poss chicken can’t remember now), was very friendly and answered any questions.

Great experience. Doing it via a tour made it so easy. Teerawut, the guide was really attentive and provided a lot of information. My favourite part was the black temple/Baandam Museum.

Guide was very friendly and helpful. Overall experience was really good. I can just recommend