Sacred Art Journey: White & Blue Temples Experience

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Sacred Art Journey: White & Blue Temples Experience

Active

11h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience Chiang Rai’s most iconic landmarks with an exclusive Hill Tribe Village visit included! This tour goes beyond sightseeing, offering a deep dive into art, culture, and tradition.
Marvel at the White Temple, a masterpiece blending Buddhist symbolism with modern design.
Explore the Blue Temple, adorned with celestial murals and striking indigo tones. Visit the Black House, an avant-garde museum showcasing unique sculptures and Thai heritage.
Enhance your journey with an included visit to a Hill Tribe Village, where you’ll meet the Karen Long Neck people and other ethnic communities, learning about their rich traditions, craftsmanship, and way of life.
With comfortable transport, expert commentary, and an authentic Thai lunch, this tour promises a truly immersive Northern Thailand experience

Available options

B - Exc. Long neck

Long Neck Ticket: Guests who choose this option may wait at the entrance area for about 30 minutes while others visit inside<br/>Pickup included

A- Incl. Long Neck

Includes the entrance fee: Includes Long Neck Village ticket. No extra payment required.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Drinking water

Insurance :prepare a photo of your passport for insurance purposes.

Admission fees to Black House

English-speaking guide

Round trip air-conditioned

Buffet

Admission fee to White temple

Hill Tribes Village Admission Fee : 300 THB (pay on the day or included in option)

Detailed itinerary

Departure from Chiang Mai

Begin your journey with a scenic 1.5-hour drive through Chiang Rai’s picturesque landscapes.

Stop 3

Mae Kha Jan Hot Springs
Take a short break at this natural hot spring, where you can soak your feet and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere

Visit a hill tribe village, home to the Karen Long Neck and other ethnic groups. Learn about their traditions, daily life, and craftsmanship. Part of the admission fee supports community needs such as healthcare, water, and electricity. The villagers welcome visitors and are happy to share their culture.

If you prefer to skip this activity, you may wait at the village entrance for about 30 minutes.

Continue the journey to Chiang Rai 1.5 Hours(1.5 hours)

Stop 6

White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) (1 hour)
Marvel at this gleaming white masterpiece, a stunning creation by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Unlike traditional temples, the White Temple blends contemporary Buddhist art with surreal symbolism, featuring intricate carvings, mirrored mosaics, and thought-provoking murals that incorporate modern elements like superheroes and pop culture icons. The bridge leading to the temple represents the cycle of rebirth, while the interior murals depict the struggle between good and evil. This temple is not just a religious site but a living work of art, evolving with continuous renovations and additions.

Enjoy a traditional Thai buffet at a local restaurant, offering a variety of authentic dishes. If the restaurant is closed, a set menu meal will be provided instead

Stop 8

Admire the mesmerizing blue tones and celestial ambiance of the Blue Temple, designed by Phuttha Kabkaew, a student of Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Built on a site once inhabited by roaming tigers, the temple is famous for its deep sapphire-blue color, golden accents, and hand-painted murals depicting Buddhist teachings. Inside, a magnificent white Buddha statue sits in contrast to the temple’s vivid interior, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere

Black House Museum

Step into the dark and avant-garde world of Thai artist Thawan Duchanee at the Black House Museum.

This controversial yet fascinating collection of over 40 black wooden buildings showcases intricate carvings, taxidermy, skulls, and animal bones, reflecting themes of life, death, and human nature. Unlike a temple, this space challenges traditional beliefs and offers insight into the artist’s philosophy of the impermanence of life.

The blend of Lanna architecture and eerie, symbolic art makes this museum a thought-provoking and unique experience

Return to Chiang Mai (3-hour drive)
Relax as you journey back, reflecting on a day filled with cultural wonders.
Arive at hotel 06.30–07.00 pm.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Traveling with Young Children: If you are traveling with a child aged 0–2 years, please be aware that the journey takes 3–4 hours and includes winding roads. Infants do not have a designated seat and will need to sit on your lap for the duration of the trip. Please consider your child's comfort before booking.

Extra Seat Request: If you require an extra seat, there is a 500 THB fee. Please inform us at least three days in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements

Ending the Tour in Chiang Rai: If you wish to end your tour in Chiang Rai, please let us know at least 3 days in advance. Drop-off will be at the main road or the last tour stop, where it will be easier to find a taxi—hotel drop-off is not available.

Luggage Policy: If you have a suitcase, there is an additional charge of 500 THB per bag. Please inform us at least three days in advance so we can reserve space for your luggage

Luggage & Extra Seat Policy: If you require an extra seat or additional space for your luggage, payment can be made directly to the guide on the day of departure. Please note: The guide reserves the right to deny boarding if the customer refuses to pay the required fee.

Dress Code: Please wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting temples.

Tour Starting Point: This tour starts from Chiang Mai.

walkers accessible

For separate bookings, please send all booking references at least 2 days before the travel date so we can try to seat your group in the same van.

Please provide a WhatsApp-enabled phone number when booking so our team can easily reach you on the day of the tour.

If you have a flight after the tour, please let us know. Airport drop-off is not included, and return times may vary depending on traffic.

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic and cultural hub in Northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain surroundings. It offers a blend of traditional Lanna culture and modern amenities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A stunning temple perched on a mountain with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-visit for its beauty and cultural significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 30 THB (1 USD) for foreigners

Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It's filled with temples, markets, and traditional Lanna-style buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, individual temples may charge a small fee

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day 300 THB (9 USD) for foreigners, additional fees for specific attractions

Elephant Nature Park

A renowned elephant sanctuary offering ethical elephant encounters and rescue operations. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.

Adventure Full day 2,500-5,000 THB (75-150 USD) depending on the program

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique gifts.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items and food

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A signature Northern Thai dish featuring egg noodles in a creamy curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken or beef), gluten (noodles)

Sai Oua

A Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and other aromatic spices.

Snack Contains pork, gluten (optional)

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or with fish sauce

Popular Activities

Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park Elephant trekking (at ethical sanctuaries) Zip-lining in the jungle Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring temples and cultural sites Enjoying coffee at local cafes Attending traditional Thai dance performances Visiting local markets and shopping for handicrafts

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool season)

This is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, Moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chiang Mai is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with benches in the back. They follow specific routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Santitham

Day trips

Pai

135 km (84 miles) • Full day to overnight

A charming mountain town known for its laid-back atmosphere, hot springs, and scenic landscapes. Pai offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets.

Mae Kampong Village

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque hill tribe village known for its traditional way of life, lush surroundings, and warm hospitality. Mae Kampong offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to experience the simplicity of rural life.

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Songkran Festival • April 13-15 (Thai New Year) Loy Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November) Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November, same as Loy Krathong)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain insights into the city's history and culture
Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the city's night markets and street food scene for an authentic and memorable experience
Try a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment for relaxation and rejuvenation