A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Rai vs. Lake Tekapo for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a cultural, beautiful, and friendly city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, remote, and basic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Chiang Rai and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Rai. Although Chiang Rai and Lake Tekapo are both popular with visitors, Chiang Rai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Rai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Lake Tekapo is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Chiang Rai is popular for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. It is also home to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). Lake Tekapo is popular for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Chiang Rai different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Tekapo and Chiang Rai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Chiang Rai is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chiang Rai on the map. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Rai is terrific for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Chiang Rai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Rai is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Chiang Rai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake Tekapo does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Chiang Rai. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

Lake Tekapo does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Lake Tekapo is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lake Tekapo. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Chiang Rai. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Chiang Rai is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Chiang Rai. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Chiang Rai and Lake Tekapo are both great destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Rai is very family-friendly. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

Lake Tekapo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai is a great destination for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Chiang Rai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Rai is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Rai is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Chiang Rai is a very walkable destination. The old city is easy to explore on foot.

Lake Tekapo is somewhat walkable. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Rai than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Lake Tekapo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chiang Rai, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Lake Tekapo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chiang Rai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Lake Tekapo if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chiang Rai.

One day in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Chiang Rai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the remote town of Lake Tekapo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lake Tekapo, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Chiang Rai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Lake Tekapo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

The charming city of Chiang Rai offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lake Tekapo, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chiang Rai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lake Tekapo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Rai and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Lake Tekapo is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Rai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chiang Rai is in Asia and Lake Tekapo is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Chiang Rai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Rai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lake Tekapo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lake Tekapo than you might in Chiang Rai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Rai Expensive? and Is Lake Tekapo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Lake Tekapo?

Chiang Rai has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Lake Tekapo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.