🛕 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 Temples, Hot Springs & the Magical Lalitta Café

 🛕 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 Temples, Hot Springs & the Magical Lalitta Café

Rating: ★ 4.4 (503 reviews)
Activity Provider: LocalCNXTours
Duration: Full Day Trip (Approx. 12 hours)
Language: English
Small Group: Limited to 10 participants
Pickup: Hotel pickup included (within 5 km of Chiang Mai Old City)
Price: From $41 per person
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance

✨ Why Take This Day Trip from Chiang Mai?

If you're visiting northern Thailand and want a perfect blend of nature, culture, and creativity, this tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is an ideal day adventure. You’ll explore three of the most jaw-dropping temples in Thailand, dip your feet in a hot spring, and enjoy a fantasy-like café stop at Lalitta Café — a hidden gem that looks like something out of a fairytale.

🚐 What’s the Itinerary?

Your day starts with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Chiang Mai. Travel north through scenic countryside with a short hot spring stop to stretch your legs and enjoy a natural foot soak.

🏛️ Temple Highlights

  • White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): A surreal, snow-white masterpiece designed by visionary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Every inch tells a story — part spiritual, part modern art.

  • Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Known for its vibrant sapphire hues, glowing Buddhas, and a calm atmosphere. A true feast for the eyes.

  • Red Temple (Wat Huay Pla Kang) (optional): A giant statue of Guan Yin and a panoramic view of Chiang Rai await you after a climb — or elevator ride (40 THB).

💡 Dress modestly for temple visits — cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.

🧖‍♀️ Hot Springs Stop

Take a break at Mae Khachan Hot Springs to dip your feet or just soak up the relaxing vibes in the middle of lush greenery.

🍰 Lalitta Café – A Fairytale Escape

Step into a magical garden café, complete with cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and fantasy architecture. Located in Mueang Chiang Rai, Lalitta Café is the most Instagrammable café in Northern Thailand. You’ll get:

  • Free time for photos & drinks

  • Drink discount with tour ticket

  • 30 to 60 mins depending on option selected

📸 Don’t forget your camera — this place is stunning!

🧕 Optional Stop: Longneck Karen Village

If your selected tour includes it, you'll also visit the Karen Tribe Village, home to the famous Longneck women. A culturally sensitive and informative experience that gives insight into their traditions.

✅ What’s Included

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off in Chiang Mai

  • Private English-speaking tour guide

  • Air-conditioned van transport

  • Buffet Thai lunch (vegetarian option available)

  • Entrance fees to temples

  • Discount at Lalitta Café

  • Bottled water

  • Travel insurance

Not Included:

  • White Temple Fee (100 THB from Jan 1, 2026)

  • Elevator at Red Temple (40 THB)

  • Entry fee to Karen Village (if not selected)

  • Tips & personal expenses

🧳 What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered)

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat

  • Cash for extras & small fees

  • Phone or camera for amazing photos

⭐ Real Traveler Reviews

Óscar – Spain
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The tour was great! The guide and the driver were amazing! We spent a wonderful time, thank you!”

Maisie – UK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Great day out! Our guide Go Hang Lee was such a lovely guy — he made the whole experience even more enjoyable!”

🌄 Final Thoughts

From the mystical White Temple to the fantasy-world vibes of Lalitta Café, this day tour gives you a deeper look into the heart of Thai art, spirituality, and creativity. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s an unforgettable northern Thailand experience.

🎟️ Book early Now!

This small-group tour tends to fill up quickly.