Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai: Golden Triangle

This is a 13 to 14 hour day trip by air-conditioned minivan from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Province, for a group of up to nine. It takes in the White Temple, the Chiang Saen temple and the Golden Triangle on the Mekong, and it suits anyone who wants to cover several northern sights in one long day.

What the day looks like

The first stop is Mae Khachan Hot Spring, a 15-minute break on the way. Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, follows with about an hour, and entry is included.

Next is Wat Phra That Chedi Luang, about 20 minutes at a temple in the Chiang Saen style. Entry here is not included.

The Golden Triangle stop takes about 45 minutes. It starts with a viewpoint over the Mekong (15 to 20 minutes), then a boat trip on the river of around 30 minutes. The last stop is the House of Opium, about 30 minutes on the history of the opium trade in the area, with entry included. A Thai set lunch is part of the day.

The timed stops add up to under three hours, so expect a long day on the road as well.

Good to know

• Included: entry to Wat Rong Khun and the House of Opium, bottled water, a Thai set lunch, the Mekong boat trip, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport, travel accident insurance, and hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels.
• Not included: extra food and drinks, a tip for the guide and driver, and a surcharge for hotels outside the city centre.
• Meeting point: Touring Center’s Office. If you would rather meet there than be picked up, tell the operator one day before departure.
• Group size: up to nine people.