Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai features outstanding natural beauty, remote hill tribes, exotic wildlife and unique Buddhist temples

TOP THINGS TO DO

North of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai features outstanding natural beauty, remote hill tribes, exotic wildlife and unique Buddhist temples. As the area is largely mountainous, the region is perfect for jungle trekking and mountain biking.

The so-called Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet in the middle of the Mekong River, was once a hub of opium production and trade. Thanks to the ongoing works of the Royal Development Projects, these days the hill tribe villagers live sustainably by growing highland crops such as tea, coffee, macadamia nuts, peaches and flowers as well as producing various types of handicrafts, and the region has become a must-visit attraction for international visitors.

null

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun, also known as The White Temple, this contemporary, unconventional and privately owned temple

null

Wat Rong Suea Ten

The murals inside the main hall resemble the ones at the White Temple, except everything is rendered in blue-based colours

null

Black House Museum

The Black House is a park containing a diverse and sprawling series of buildings, displays, sculptures and installations

null

Singha Park

Singha Park is a family-friendly attraction suitable for all ages. Visitors can cycle or take an electric tram to pick fruit and vegetables at the farm

null

Mae Fa Luang Art and Cultural Park

Located about 5km west of town, Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park is home to the region's largest collection of art items from the Lanna culture

null

Scenic mountain drive

Doi Mae Salong. Travel through the scenic mountain route to Doi Mae Salong and visit the idyllic Santikhiri Village to experience the local way of life

null

Attractions near the border

A trip to Chiang Rai would not be complete without a visit to the infamous Golden Triangle on the Mekong Riverside in the Chiang Sean district

null

Hill-Tribes Museum and Education Centre

If you plan to visit the hill-tribe villages, it’s a good idea to first drop by the Hill-Tribes Museum and Education Centre and get familiarised with their culture

null

Temples in Chiang Rai Downtown

Wat Phra Kaew is the original site of the Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok). It was known by the name of Wat Pa Ya (Bamboo Forest Temple)

>>ITINERARY<<

TRANSPORTATIONS

Downtown Chiang Rai is fairly small and easy to get around. Unless you plan to visit the more remote areas or the mountains, getting around on a bicycle, motorbike or on foot should suffice. Use the Clock Tower as a reference point.

There are songthaeo or minibus services running throughout the town. Fares depend on the distance. 

Three-wheeled taxis (or Tuk-Tuk) and motorcycle taxis are also easy to hail and fares should be negotiated beforehand. 

To visit the mountains or attractions along the border, it is best to rent a car or take a private tour so you can stop wherever and whenever you like.

HOTELS

TOURS