Chiang Rai Temples & Tea: Local Guide, Lunch & Pickup

Summary

Visit Chiang Rai’s temples and tea fields with a local guide

You’ll wander Chiang Rai’s dazzling White Temple, soak in sapphire blues at Wat Rong Seur Ten, climb up to Big Buddha for sweeping views, and stroll through Singha Tea Plantation’s fragrant fields. With a local guide sharing stories (and maybe a few laughs), plus lunch and pickup from Chiang Mai included, it’s a day full of color and surprises.

What’s the experience like?

"You have to see the White Temple in person," our guide said as we pulled up, and honestly, I didn’t really get it until I was standing there. The whole place glowed — not just white but sort of sparkling in the morning haze. I could hear the crunch of gravel under my shoes (which I had to take off before going inside — tip: slip-ons are your friend). There was this faint smell of incense mixed with something sweet from a nearby food stall. Our guide, Nok, pointed out some details in the mirror mosaics that I’d never have noticed on my own. She told us about the artist who built it — apparently he’s still working on new parts even now.

After that we hit the Blue Temple, which is just… blue everywhere. It’s hard to explain how different it feels from the White Temple until you’re actually there. The air inside was cooler and quiet except for a couple of monks chatting softly near the altar. Nok explained some of the symbolism but honestly I got distracted by a little kid feeding fish outside. Then we drove over to Wat Huay Pla Kang — that’s where you see the giant Buddha looking out over everything. You can climb up inside if you want (I did; my legs still remember), and the view is wild — green hills rolling out forever.

The last stop was Singha Tea Plantation. The rows of tea bushes were so neat it almost looked fake from far away, but up close you could smell this fresh grassy scent everywhere. We tried some oolong at their café — kind of floral and earthy at once. Lunch was simple but good; rice, veggies, something spicy that Nok warned me about (she was right). If there’s time they’ll swing by Lalitta Café too — we just made it for iced coffee before heading back to Chiang Mai.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a day trip Machu Picchu Cusco style (okay not Machu Picchu but you know what I mean) — temples can feel serious but this felt easygoing, like being shown around by a friend who knows all the shortcuts and stories. Still think about that first glimpse of white glass in the sun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit temples and tea plantation in Chiang Rai

• Depart from Old Town Chiang Mai
• Stop for break and restroom
• Visit White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
• Visit Blue Temple (Wat Rong Seur Ten)
• Visit Wat Huay Pla Kang and Big Buddha
• Visit Singha Tea Plantation
• Optional stop at Lalitta Cafe if time allows

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?

The drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai typically takes around 3 hours each way by car or minivan.

Are entry fees included for all temples on this tour?

Yes, entry fees for all major temple visits are included in your tour price.

Is lunch provided during the Chiang Rai temple tour?

Yes, lunch is included as part of your day trip experience.

What should I wear when visiting temples in Thailand?

Avoid revealing clothing; wear clothes covering shoulders and knees and shoes that are easy to slip off.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Pickup is included only for guests staying in Old Town Chiang Mai hotels.

Can travelers with mobility issues join this tour?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to walking and stairs.

Will we visit Singha Tea Plantation on this day trip?

Yes, Singha Tea Plantation is one of the four main stops on this itinerary.

Is there an English-speaking guide on this tour?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide will accompany your group throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Old Town Chiang Mai, all entry fees for temples and attractions along the way, an English-speaking local guide who shares stories as you go, insurance coverage throughout your journey, air-conditioned transport between sites, and a traditional Thai lunch before returning in the evening.