Chiang Rai White Temple and Golden Triangle Tour

Rise and shine to a full day tour of Chiang Rai’s rural landscape and discover a place where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge: The Golden Triangle. Separated only by the mighty Mekong River, which passes through the south of China and snakes all the way down to the lower delta of Vietnam, the territory has earned a reputation from its past of growing opium. Today, it’s a sight to see by boat and foot, and tourists from all over the world flock to experience its history and culture.
On this excursion, you will also get a glimpse inside the brain of Thailand’s most famous artist, as well as a history lesson on what was once one of the world’s busiest drug trafficking regions.
In the morning, we’ll board our transport and head north towards Chiang Rai. Our first stop will be at Mae Khajan Hot Spring, Thailand’s largest geyser. After dipping our toes into the warm, natural mineral water, we’ll continue our journey towards the White Temple.
Wat Rong Khun, or The White Temple, is not just mesmerizing on the outside. Once you enter the doors of this elaborate temple, you will see the painstaking attention to detail of Chalermchai Kositpipat, a globally recognized local artist and owner of this private art exhibit. His representation of Buddhist principles combined with modern pop culture shown on the inside is something you can only see for yourself – and must as photos are prohibited inside the temple!
Did you know… that The White Temple’s artist Chalermchai Kositpipat is said to have offered his ultimate architectural feat to Buddha in exchange for immortal life?
Next we’ll board our transport and stop for lunch before exploring the world famous Golden Triangle. The nickname was coined by the CIA in reference to this region, whose trading posts’ top product was opium. Join us as we dive deep into the wild history of this area and how it became one of the most notorious narcotrafficking spots in the world.