Is a day trip worth it?
Yes, if Chiang Mai is your base and you don't want to move hotels. Tours leave early, stop at the White Temple first or second, and fit in two or three more sights. Most include a break at the Mae Kachan hot springs on the way. You see three or four sights in one day without organising a thing.
Tour or bus?
- Tour: the simplest option for a day trip. Transport, timing and usually entry fees are handled, and you see several sights, which is hard to do by public transport in one day.
- Green Bus: regular coaches link Chiang Mai (Arcade Bus Terminal 3) and Chiang Rai in about 3 to 3½ hours. They don't stop at the temple, so ride into Chiang Rai and take the local bus or a Grab back out. It works well if you're staying at least one night, but it's too slow for a same-day return.
- Drive yourself: the road is good. The White Temple is right beside Highway 1 before Chiang Rai, so it makes an easy first stop.
Which kind of tour?
Most tours from Chiang Mai follow one of three patterns. Choose by how much you want to fit in, and how long you're happy to spend in the van.
Temples only
Chiang Mai: White Temple & More, Karen Tribe & Lalitta Cafe
The most-reviewed temples day from Chiang Mai. Besides the White Temple, the itinerary includes a Karen village and Lalitta Café.
Check price & dates on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)Chiang Mai: White, Red/Black & Blue Temples Tour with Lunch
A similar three-stop day with lunch included. Check the listing to see whether your date visits the Black House or the Red Temple.
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These focus on the Chiang Rai art temples: the White Temple plus two of the Blue Temple, the Black House and Wat Huay Pla Kang. If the White Temple is why you're going, look for trips that promise more time there.
Temples + Golden Triangle
From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Temples and Golden Triangle Tour
Temples and the Golden Triangle in one go, with an evening return to Chiang Mai. The itinerary includes a "Long Neck" Karen village stop.
Check price & dates on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)From Chiang Mai: White Temple & Golden Triangle Day Trip
Adds the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, plus a Mekong boat ride.
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These add the viewpoint where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet on the Mekong, usually with a boat ride.
Private, or over two days
From Chiang Mai : 2 Days Chiang Rai - All Highlights
Splits the trip over two days with a night in Chiang Rai, so you get more time at each temple.
Check price & dates on GetYourGuide (opens in a new tab)Chiang Mai: Private to White, Blue Temple & Black House
Your own car and guide from Chiang Mai, so you decide how long to stay at each temple.
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Common questions
What time do tours get to the White Temple?
Usually late morning, after the drive and a hot-springs stop. With the sun high, the white plaster and mirrored glass are at their brightest.
Are entrance fees included?
Often, but not always. Check the "What's included" section on each listing. The White Temple charges foreign visitors 200 baht, so bring cash in case it isn't included.
What should I wear on the tour?
Clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. The White Temple checks dress at the gate. See dress code.