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Chiang MaiCulture & history

Our most recommended Chiang Mai Culture & history

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, 8 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 Alphard. 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.

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.

Ticket to Chiang Mai Heaven Lantern Festival

3. Ticket to Chiang Mai Heaven Lantern Festival

14.00 - 15.00 hrs. Guests arrive at the designated pick-up points: 1. Central Chiang Mai Airport or 2. Central Chiang Mai *The shuttle service is shared transportation *The last shuttle time is 15.00 p.m. *The transfer from pick up point to the venue is approximately 1.5 hours 15.30 - 16.30 hrs. Arrival at the venue 16.00 - 18.00 hrs. Register for event entry at the Registration area. After registration, participants can enjoy various activities, including: Visiting the Yi Peng Lantern Pavilion Engaging in cultural activities and Thai Lanna art performances Delighting in local food and beverages at Kad Mua Style, a retro Lanna-style market Participating in Loy Krathong activities Trying workshop activities such as crafting Lanna Lanterns and engaging in Prayer activities 18.00 - 19.00 hrs. Attend the Khan Toke Dinner (Buffet) accompanied by a show on a small stage 19.00 - 20.30 hrs. Gather in the courtyard area to witness a stage show set in the middle of the lake, featuring: - A mesmerizing Light and Sound Show - The captivating Spirit of Faith Show - The heartwarming Sky Lantern Release 20.30 hrs. Guests return to the city for drop at the same pick-up point

From Chiang Mai: Exploration of Chiang Rai's Famous Temples

4. From Chiang Mai: Exploration of Chiang Rai's Famous Temples

Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, visiting its famous, colorfully distinct temples and taking a restful pause at a natural hot spring. This day-long adventure is a harmonious blend of spirituality, culture, and relaxation. The adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel, setting the stage for an exploration of Chiang Rai's most iconic landmarks. Our trip begins with a visit to Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple. Covered in white with shimmering mirrors, this temple looks like something out of a dream, its image reflecting in the calm pond nearby. The peace you feel at this place and the Buddhist lessons it embodies will touch you deeply, all shown through its stunning design. Next, we'll visit the Blue Temple, also known as Wat Rong Suea Ten. It's painted in deep blues and covered in detailed designs. This temple was built where an old temple used to stand, a place once thought to be home to roaming tigers. Next, we head to the exciting Red Temple. It's full of bright colors and intricate artwork, and it brings to life Thai spiritual stories and folk tales. Every part of the Red Temple has a story to tell, which makes it a highlight of our tour. Lastly, before we conclude our tour, we make a brief stop at a natural hot spring. Here, you'll have a chance to observe the steam rising from the mineral-rich water, adding a soothing and calming interlude to your journey. As our expedition concludes, we drop you back to your hotel in Chiang Mai, leaving you with treasured memories and a deeper understanding of Thailand's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Chiang Mai: White Temple, Blue Temple & Baan Dam Musuem Tour

5. Chiang Mai: White Temple, Blue Temple & Baan Dam Musuem Tour

Exploring the most 3 icons in Chiang Rai, white&-blue temples, black house museum and hot natural spring. Pick up from Chiang Mai about 07:00-07:30 a.m. driving roughly 01:30 hour visiting the natural hot springs at Mae Kajan Hot Springs along the way. Forwarding more 01:30 hour to The White Temple well 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. Forwarding to Wat Rong Khun is a unique temple that stands out through the white color. The Blue Temple also well known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is a Buddhist temple that stands out from the others because of its sapphire blue color. The Black House or well known as Baan Dam is one of the strangest and most interesting landmarks in Chiang Rai. Exceptional entrance fee 300 THB/ adult,150 THB/ child to visiting long neck Karen village. Returning back to Chiang Mai about 18:00-18:30 p.m.

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour

6. Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep, Wat Umong, and Pha Lat Sunrise Tour

Begin your morning tour by climbing the 309 steps up to Doi Suthep Temple with your local guide. Bask in the golden rays of sunrise after conquering the staircase and take photos of the unrivaled view of the city of Chiang Mai.  Then, stand in the shadow of the golden Kruba Srivichai Monument, and head to Wat Pha Lat, a hidden temple in the lush jungle. Admire the serene statues, shrines, and surrounding nature.  Wrap up your half-day tour with a stop at Wat Umong, a 700-year-old temple built back in 1297. Explore the forest and underground tunnels. Marvel at the architecture of the chedi.

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Enchanting Evening Tour

7. Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep and Wat Umong Enchanting Evening Tour

Be picked up from your hotel in Chiang Mai city center and go on a short drive to Wat Umong temple in the late afternoon. At this time of day, the crowds are few and views are prime. Upon arrival, explore the underground tunnels, bask in the beauty of the temple, and enjoy the forest surroundings. It is said that the trees in this forest have words of wisdom for those who pass by. After Wat Umong, the next stop is Doi Suthep temple. At this ornate structure, which is reached by a 309-step staircase, enjoy the spectacular views of Chiang Mai at night from the summit of the mountain. Join a traditional ceremony performed by the temple's monks at the Golden Pagoda. After an afternoon spent exploring Chiang Mai’s temples and enjoying the sunset over the city, be returned to your hotel.

From Chiang Mai: White Temple & Golden Triangle Day Trip

8. From Chiang Mai: White Temple & Golden Triangle Day Trip

Uncover the secrets of Thailand's famed Golden Triangle on this day trip from Chiang Mai. Travel aboard an air conditioned van from a centrally-located meeting point. Visit the Mae Kachan hot springs and the White Temple.  Explore the Mekong river on a longtail boat and enjoy a tasty lunch. Enjoy a pickup in central Chiang Mai, depart for Chiang Rai, stopping for a short break at Mae Kachan hot springs. Visit Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, before continuing to the Golden Triangle area. Go to Wat Phra That Chedi Luang (limited access). See the Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar borders from the Golden Triangle viewpoint. Stop for lunch before spending time at House of Opium. Enjoy a long-tail boat trip on the mighty Mekong River. On the way back to Chiang Mai, take a break to stretch your legs in Mae Suay or Wiang Pa Pao district and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. The estimated arrival time in Chiang Mai city is 8:30 PM. 

Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour

9. Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Sticky Waterfall Tour

Get picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai and drive up the curvy mountain roads to Doi Suthep - Pui National Park. You will visit the most important temple here. Walk up 306 steps (or, if you prefer an easier method, take a funicular ride) to the temple, which sits at 1,100 meters above sea level. The famous golden pagoda is stunning and the temple contains the relic of the Lord Buddha. Here, you'll also have the chance to get a holy blessing from a Buddhist monk and participate in a wrist tiding ceremony. From the balcony, enjoy a panoramic view of Chiang Mai. Next, you'll continue to Bua Tong waterfalls. Swim around the clear water or climb the "sticky" limestone and enjoy the gorgeous natural scenery.

Chiang Mai: Full-Day Guided Bike & Regional Culture Tour

10. Chiang Mai: Full-Day Guided Bike & Regional Culture Tour

Full day tour 09:00-16:30 Met and Transferred by an English Speaking Guide from the hotel to Trekker camp, a centre of cycling tour & gears where briefly information about a cycling route as well as the instructions of using the mountain bike will be explained. Start cycling from here via Padad-Singhakam route passing Padad Tai village along the Ping’s Riverside then continues through the 2nd ring road crossing Koh Klang Bridge (Kourmung). Stop at Wat Koh Klang, an important temple of this community. Proceed cycling to the vegetables plantation belonged to the villagers which is the trend of sustainable agriculture. Over there, the land has been reclaimed without using any chemical fertilizer. Instead, the farmers prevent and eliminate pests by using natural process. Explore around to see plantations of cabbage, chili, corn, eggplant, pea, shallot, and garlic for examples. Next, continue cycling a bit more to see various types of fruits such as banana, mango, and etc. Also if you love to join the gardener’ activities likes cultivating, watering, and fishing, these are something quite interesting to do as well! Start cooking local Thai food joining with the host (the same person who owns vegetable plantation) then enjoy lunch amidst the countryside atmosphere at Pa Kaew’s house. Also taste different kinds of luscious seasonal fruits for examples coconut, rose apple, mango, longan, banana and papaya. Learn how people live in cozy and simply style (spend about 2 hours in this place). Leave for the Informational Centre of Wiang Kum Kam to get some background information of the ruin city. Wiang Kum Kam is the ancient underground empire of Lanna kingdom built by King Mang Rai where many ruin archeological excavations and sites for instances temples, Buddha images and old potteries have been discovered. Further biking through the village viewing Wiang Kum Kam in general. Make a first stop at Wat Chang Kum (also known as Wat Khan Tom), the first archeological site which was found in 1984. Take chance to participate a blessing ceremony performed by a Buddhist monk in this temple. Keep on traveling to Wat E-Kang, Wat Nhan Chang, Wat Pu Beai, Wat Pra Thart Khaow, and the last temple, Wat Chedi Liem (also known as Wat Ku Kam Luang). Appreciate the enormous facet pagoda restored many times both by the Thai and Burmese consequently which shows a lot of mixture on the architecture’s style on the Chedi itself. Relax and freshen up before cycling back to the city. Return to Trekker camp and transferred to the hotel.

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Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 690 reviews

This tour was amazing. To have a boat ride on the mighty Mekon in the Golden Triangle was an absolute privilege. It’s a long day but well worth it. The white temple has to be seen to be believed, it’s so impressive. It’s stunning! The food at the restaurant we stopped at was really tasty and they made put up several alternative dishes for me and my partner as we are vegans. The day is thoroughly thought out, there was also a stop at the hot springs, an opium museum, ruins from a 12th century temple and a cute coffee shop on the way back. The mini bus was extremely comfortable and ice cold water was given out after a couple of stops as was cold wet wipes.

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!!!!!

Our guide Young and our driver Shachou were amazing! We had so much fun! Could not imagine a better day. Thank you Young for your excellent work as a guide, but most of all for being such a beautiful person!

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.

Had a really lovely time and Saman, our guide shared a lot of interesting information.