Where's the best day trips in Chiang Rai?

The top picks above are widely considered the strongest options in 2026. Book ahead for the premium venues in high season.

How much should I budget for day trips in Chiang Rai?

Prices range across the list — from budget-friendly to premium. Check each pick's price field for the realistic range.

Booking hints are in each pick. Walk-ins are usually fine off-peak; reserve premium venues 24-48h ahead in high season.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai's day-trip lineup is one of the strongest in Thailand - the famous White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House sit within 20 minutes.

1
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
13 km south
Thailand's most famous contemporary temple - Chalermchai Kositpipat's all-white masterpiece.
100 THB entryArrive 09:00 before tour buses
2
Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
Northern outskirts
Vivid blue-and-gold temple by a student of the White Temple's artist.
FreePair with White Temple
3
Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
13 km north
Dark, sculptural art museum by Thawan Duchanee.
80 THB entryCloses 17:00
4
Doi Tung Royal Project & Mae Fah Luang Garden
60 km north
Mountain royal project with reforestation story, coffee tour, and beautifully manicured gardens.
200 THB combinedAllow a full day

Walk-ins generally fine outside peak season. Book ahead in November-February high season.
Pair this with neighbouring spots in the same area to make a half-day of it.
Carry small notes (20s and 100s) — many places don't break large bills.
Cool season (November-February) is the most comfortable time to be out and about.

More Chiang Rai guides → All Best Of Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai's day-trip lineup is one of the strongest in Thailand - the famous White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House sit within 20 minutes.

1
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
13 km south
Thailand's most famous contemporary temple - Chalermchai Kositpipat's all-white masterpiece.
100 THB entryArrive 09:00 before tour buses
2
Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
Northern outskirts
Vivid blue-and-gold temple by a student of the White Temple's artist.
FreePair with White Temple
3
Black House (Baan Dam Museum)
13 km north
Dark, sculptural art museum by Thawan Duchanee.
80 THB entryCloses 17:00
4
Doi Tung Royal Project & Mae Fah Luang Garden
60 km north
Mountain royal project with reforestation story, coffee tour, and beautifully manicured gardens.
200 THB combinedAllow a full day

Walk-ins generally fine outside peak season. Book ahead in November-February high season.
Pair this with neighbouring spots in the same area to make a half-day of it.
Carry small notes (20s and 100s) — many places don't break large bills.
Cool season (November-February) is the most comfortable time to be out and about.

More Chiang Rai guides → All Best Of Chiang Rai