Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: Day Trips with a Private Driver
April 2, 2025Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: Day Trips with a Private Driver
Why Take a Day Trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai?
Have you ever dreamed of standing in front of the dazzling White Temple, its mirror-like surfaces sparkling under the Thai sun? Or sipping iced Thai tea at a peaceful café overlooking rice fields just moments away from colorful, intricate temples? If you’re visiting northern Thailand, a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai offers a perfect taste of adventure, culture, and convenience—all rolled into one amazing experience.
While Chiang Mai is known for its temples, markets, and laid-back vibe, Chiang Rai offers a different flavor—more artistic, more spiritual, and definitely more off-the-beaten-path. Many travelers like the idea of being able to see both towns without having to pack up and move hotels. That’s where the idea of a day trip really works well.
Thanks to well-kept highways, driving from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is not only easy, but also a lot of fun, especially if you hire a private driver. Others like buses and group trips, but having your own driver is much more convenient and gives you more freedom. You can go at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and enjoy the scenery without taking any stress.
People who only stay in Chiang Mai often miss the chance to see Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai has unique works of art that you won’t find anywhere else. It is home to famous places like Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple), Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple), and Baan Dam Museum (the Black House). If you plan your trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai well, you can see these sights and still get back to your Chiang Mai hotel before it gets dark.
Along the way, the road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai goes through beautiful farmland. Along the way, you might see green hills, people living in the countryside, and even natural hot springs. If you’re interested in culture, photography, or just want a change of scenery, this day trip gives you that without the bother of planning an overnight trip.
Why Hiring a Private Driver is a Good Idea
Okay, let’s talk about the most important part of this: your ride. Hiring a private driver to take you from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai isn’t just about comfort; it’s about making your whole day better.
As early as dawn, your driver could pick you up at your Chiang Mai hotel, with drinks, snacks, and maybe even a playlist of Thai road trip music ready to go. Nobody has to rush to catch a bus first thing in the morning, follow a strict tour plan, or fight with other people. You choose when to leave, where to stop, when to eat, and even what music to play.
One of the best things about getting a private driver to take you from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is that you can do what you want. You can cool off in the warm water at the Mae Kachan hot springs. Sure, go ahead. Find a stand on the side of the road that sells fresh coconut juice or fried bananas? Not a problem. Need a quick cup of coffee before going to the White Temple? Your wish tells me what to do.
This way of traveling also lets you learn about the area. A lot of the drivers are from Chiang Mai or have lived there for a long time and have driven from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai hundreds of times. They can show you secret viewpoints, suggest quiet places to eat lunch, or tell you stories about the temples you’ll see.
There’s also the ease of it. It takes about three to three-and-a-half hours to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, so the trip takes a whole day. It makes all the difference to have your own private car with air conditioning, comfortable seats, and plenty of room for you. After a hot day at the temple, you’ll be glad to be outside where there are soft seats and a cool breeze.
Don’t forget about safety either. First-time guests may find it difficult to find their way around unfamiliar roads, especially ones in rural areas. Local drivers know the roads, the scenery, and even the best ways to avoid traffic. This makes the trip easier and faster, so you can make the most of your time in Chiang Rai.
It’s a surprise how cheap private drivers are, especially if you’re going with a friend or two. When three or four people split the cost, it can often be the same price or even less than a group trip, and you don’t have to give up comfort or control.
Getting a private driver is the best way to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai without any worry and with all the benefits.
Chiang Rai Day Trip Must-See Places
Let’s draw out what your ideal day would be like. Three important cultural sites and a few interesting and beautiful stops are usually part of a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. When you have a private car, your plans go more smoothly and you have more fun.
Early Morning Departure
Most cars say that you should leave Chiang Mai around 7 a.m. Even though it’s early, you have a lot of time to fully enjoy your time in Chiang Rai. The drive will also be cooler, and you might even see a mist rise over the hills in the morning.
First Stop: Mae Kachan Hot Springs
This is a great place to take a short break because it is about halfway between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. As you walk around, you can soak your feet in hot springs and see shops that sell boiled eggs that were cooked in the hot springs. This is a fun and interesting place to stop.
Second Stop: Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple)
You can’t go from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai without stopping by this strange work of art. The Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat made the White Temple, which is both a place of prayer and a work of art. Its shiny white outside is covered in mirrors, and inside, traditional Buddhist themes are mixed with characters from pop culture, such as Superman and Hello Kitty. It will take you at least an hour to walk around the grounds and look at everything.
Third Stop: Baan Dam Museum (Black House)
The stark difference to the White Temple is only a short drive away. The Black House is made up of more than 40 dark teak houses that are filled with bone sculptures, taxidermy, and tribal art. This moody and thought-provoking complex was made by artist Thawan Duchanee. It shows Thai art and faith in a very different way.
Fourth Stop: Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
The Blue Temple, also known as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is the next place you must see. This temple is much less crowded than the White Temple and has beautiful sapphire-colored walls with detailed gold designs. This is a great place to take a break in the middle of the afternoon before going back because it is quiet and peaceful.
Optional: Golden Triangle or Hill Tribe Villages
If you have time and are still feeling good, you might want to take a short detour north to the Golden Triangle, which is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Some drivers may also offer side trips to towns of hill tribespeople. However, you should make sure that these visits are handled in a respectful and moral way.
Sit back and enjoy the ride back after your last stop. Your driver will be behind the wheel. On the way back from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai, you can take a nap, sort through your photos, or talk to your driver about what you did during the day.
Some Hints Regarding Travel Time and Sample Itineraries
If you want to have a successful day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, proper time is the most important factor to consider. Keeping yourself organized is essential if you want to make the most of your experience, which consists of a round-trip drive that takes approximately six to seven hours in total. Don’t be concerned; it doesn’t have to be a hectic experience. A sample itinerary that strikes the ideal balance between sightseeing and relaxation is presented here for your perusal below.
The Sample Itinerary for a Day Trip
The activity of time
| Time | Activity |
| 07:00 AM | Pick-up from Chiang Mai hotel |
| 08:30 AM | Quick stop at Mae Kachan Hot Springs |
| 10:30 AM | Arrive at White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at a local Thai restaurant |
| 01:00 PM | Explore the Black House (Baan Dam Museum) |
| 02:30 PM | Visit Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) |
| 03:30 PM | Optional visit: Tea plantation or local market |
| 04:00 PM | Begin return journey to Chiang Mai |
| 07:00–07:30 PM | Drop-off at Chiang Mai hotel |
This schedule allows for a sufficient amount of time to take pleasure in each site without feeling rushed. You have the option of moving everything forward by one hour if you do not enjoy getting up early. However, it is important to keep in mind that returning late can be exhausting.
Additionally, make sure to pack as little as possible, including a day bag that has a water bottle that can be refilled, sunscreen, bug repellent, and possibly a lightweight jacket for the ride in the air-conditioned car. Given that you will be going to temples, it is imperative that you dress respectfully, with your knees and shoulders covered.
If you take the route that goes from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, you will have a front-row seat to the breathtaking natural scenery that can be seen in northern Thailand. You should be prepared to encounter picturesque mountain curves, quaint farming villages, and possibly even a herd of cows crossing the road (yes, this does occur). When you have a private driver, you won’t have to worry about getting around these backroads. You will have the opportunity to relax, snap pictures, and take pleasure in the voyage.
It is recommended that you bring ginger candies or motion tablets with you if you are prone to motion sickness. Certain sections of the roadway can get winding, particularly as you get closer to Chiang Rai.
How to Make a Reservation for a Dependable Private Driver
If you are convinced that hiring a private driver for your day journey from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai is the best option for you (and who wouldn’t be?), the next step is to locate someone who is reliable, professional, and nice.
Where to Make Reservations
Private drivers can be found in a variety of methods, including the following:
- Concierge/Hotel Staff Many hotels in Chiang Mai have agreements with licensed drivers and are able to recommend someone who is able to communicate in English at a fundamental level. You are less likely to be taken advantage of, which is a benefit that comes with convenience and safety.
- Tour Desks and Travel Agencies are available. A large number of small travel agencies that offer day tours may be found in tourist locations such as the Old City or Nimmanhaemin Road. It is common for these services to also arrange for private drivers, and you will have the opportunity to negotiate the price in person.
- Aspects of the Internet There are websites such as Klook, GetYourGuide, and even TripAdvisor that provide services of private drivers that may be pre-booked. Although you will typically pay a little bit extra for the convenience of using these platforms, you will be able to read reviews and compare costs thanks to them.
- Facebook groups that are local Investigate the existence of groups such as “Chiang Mai Expats” or “Thailand Travel Tips.” There are a lot of people who live there and people who are traveling there who offer recommendations, and you might discover a driver who speaks English and has a good reputation.
Questions to Ask Prior to Making a Reservation
In order to guarantee that you receive precisely what you anticipate, do not be afraid to inquire about the following:
- Does the price include everything the driver needs, including fuel, tolls, parking, and meals?
- Which model of automobile will be utilized? It would be nice to have a Toyota Innova or Fortuner.
- When it comes to the rate, how many hours are included?
- A familiarity with the route from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is a prerequisite for the driver.
- Is the driver able to communicate English?
- Is it possible to personalize the schedule?
Alternatives Regarding Costs
| Option | Price Range (per automobile) | Pros | Cons |
| Hotel-arranged driver | ฿4,000–฿6,000 | Reliable source, possibly English-speaking | Higher price |
| Local travel agency | ฿3,500–฿5,000 | Negotiable, easy to locate | In-person booking required, quality varies |
| Online booking platforms | ฿4,000–฿6,500 | Reviews available, details up front | Higher platform fees |
| Independent freelancers | ฿3,000–฿5,000 | Direct, flexible communication | Less formal support, requires research |
It is important to keep in mind that the rates may change significantly based on the season, the cost of fuel, and the type of vehicle. SUVs and vans meant for larger groups will, of course, have a higher price tag.
Lastly, Some Helpful Hints for a Day Trip That Goes Off Without a Hitch
In order to bring your wonderful day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai to a close, here are some travel suggestions that have been tried and proven and will ensure that your journey is as smooth as silk in Thailand:
1. Prepare your day’s bag
You will be gone for more than twelve hours, so make sure you are well prepared:
- Bringing along some water and snacks is very helpful on the way back.
- Walk a lot at museums and temples, so make sure you wear shoes that are comfortable.
- Sunglasses and a hat are recommended because many locations provide only a little amount of shade.
- Keep your phone or camera charged with the help of a power bank.
2. Show proper etiquette of the temple
In the course of visiting holy places:
- Please take off your shoes before entering any building that houses a temple.
- Don’t wear short shorts or tank tops; dress in a modest manner.
- Avoid chatting at a high volume and make sure your phone is set to silent mode.
3. Observe the passage of time
Even though it may be tempting to linger at each and every sight, it is important to keep an eye on the clock, particularly if you intend to do the Golden Triangle diversion even though it is optional. Keep in mind that the journey from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai will take approximately three and a half hours, depending on the amount of traffic and the weather.
4. Make sure you give your driver clear instructions
Utilizing Google Translate or having your itinerary printed in Thai might be helpful in preventing confusion, even if your driver does not have a strong command of the English language. When communicating in Thailand, a smile and a cheerful tone go a long way!
5. Be Prepared to Deal with the Unexpected
Unexpected occurrences, such as discovering a local fruit store or a hidden temple that wasn’t on your plan, can sometimes be the source of the most memorable experiences during a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. One of the advantages of driving with a private driver is that you are free to deviate from the planned route whenever you feel it is appropriate to do so.
Some Reasons Why You Will Remember This Trip
There is more to the travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai than simply visiting temples and taking photographs along the way. From sizzling hot springs and spectacular architecture to rich cultural layers and untamed landscape, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the richness that northern Thailand has to offer in a single full day.
Having a private driver can turn what could be a long and exhausting day of traveling into an experience that is both seamless and engrossing. Through your actions, you are not merely traveling from Point A to Point B; rather, you are incorporating the journey itself into the destination.
This day trip is one that genuinely delivers if you are short on time but huge on experiences, and it is a great option for you.
