Chiang Rai: White Temple + Blue Temple + Red Temple + Lalita Cafe

This version of the Chiang Rai day trip pairs the three colour temples with an afternoon break at Lalita Cafe, the garden cafe that has become one of Chiang Rai's most photographed spots. You travel by air-conditioned car or minivan with an English-speaking guide, and lunch is included.

The morning is the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, the mirrored white complex built by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, where you have about an hour to walk the grounds. After a Thai lunch you continue to the Blue Temple, Wat Rong Suea Ten, with its deep blue halls, gold detail and large white Buddha. The last temple is Wat Huay Pla Kang, often called the Red Temple, on a hill just outside town. Its landmark is a huge white statue of Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy, visible from far across the valley; a lift inside the statue takes you up to a viewing level with a wide view over Chiang Rai. There is also a nine-tier pagoda and a red-and-gold ordination hall on the same grounds. The last stop is Lalita Cafe, a garden cafe a short drive from the temples, laid out like a small forest with waterfalls, ponds and flower beds threaded with walkways. It is a relaxed place to end the day with a drink and a lot of photos.

Pickup is early, usually between 7:00 and 7:30 am from hotels in Chiang Mai city, and the drive to Chiang Rai takes around three hours each way with a short break at the Mae Kachan hot spring on the way up. You are back in Chiang Mai in the evening. Cover your shoulders and knees at the temples and wear shoes that are easy to slip off. Drinks and cake at Lalita Cafe are paid on the spot.