Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? 6 Essential Things You Need To Know!

1. Where Is Chiang Rai?

Northern Thailand’s Chiang Rai is about 785 km away from Bangkok (equivalent to a quick one-hour twenty-five-minute flight). It is the entrance to the Golden Triangle linking Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. The city is intersected by Kok River being in the middle of mountains and deep green hills.

This city was once at the center of power and culture of the old Lanna empire; currently, it attracts visitors through its natural beauty, exceptionally beautiful temples, and diverse hill tribe cultures.

2. How To Get There?

• By plane : 

ChiangRai has an air terminal that caters to domestic flights from major airports in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai daily. The airport is located 8 km away from the city center.

Budget airlines such as Nokscoot, AirAsia Thailand, and Thai Smile are popular with passengers who want to travel directly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. These flights last only 1 hour and 25 minutes.

• By bus: 

Buses from Bangkok usually depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, costing around $18–22. The journey takes around 11–12 hours. 

Companies like Bangkok Bus Line, Sombat Tour, and Nakhonchai Air are recommended.

• By train:

Another option is to take the overnight train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok to Chiang Mai, then take a local bus to Chiang Rai. The combined train and bus transfer takes about 14 hours.

It is important to note that prices and information may vary depending on the period. It is advisable to check for specific details at the time of booking.

3. When Are The Best Times To Visit?

The charming northern city of Chiang Rai has four distinct seasons. A visit is best between October and March when the temperatures cool down a bit and there is minimal rainfall. March and June are the summer months and can get hot, especially in April and May. We will not be able to wear it from 9 a.m. on, so you all should stay in light clothes and drink a lot of water during this whole time.

The wet season is from June to September in Chiang Rai. It is a time when some visitors stay away in case of rain, yet the showers lead to gentle subtropical weather and renewed greenery around, which could make your trip quite scenic.

>>> Discover Best Time to Visit Thailand

4. What To Do And See In Chiang Rai?

• The “White temple” (Wat Rong Khun)

You should go to Wat Rong Khun if you stay in North Thailand, and we hope that you will now know why. About 13 km south of Chiang Rai city, it is the go-to destination of Wat Rong Khun. 

The building of this temple was funded by a Thai architect, Chalermchai Kositpipat himself, to dedicate it to King Rama IX. Compared to current temples in the country, this is just an all-white temple as a representation of Buddhist purity.

With special materials, with glass shards mixed into the lime plaster, make Wat Rong Khun particularly extravagant under the sun; even inside the temple, one can marvel at statues sculpted with shiny mirrors. At the end of the visit, you will be convinced that you have discovered the most unmissable site in the province of Chiang Rai.

• The “Blue temple” (Wat Rong Suea)

The Blue Temple, designed by architect Chalermchai Kositpipat, is a lesser-known gem in Chiang Rai, often bypassed by tourists. Located in the heart of a village, its blue exterior enhances the beauty of Buddhist art. It's a favorite among statue and religious art enthusiasts, with well-maintained gardens that are a pleasure to explore.

In front of Wat Rong Suea Ten, ornamental blue and purple dragon figures captivate visitors. Stepping inside, you'll be greeted by a giant white Buddha statue. There are also sculptures of bodhisattvas performing both lotus meditation and you-do-not-pass-indifference gestures.

• Ethnic villages

If you are heading to the Golden Triangle, be sure to travel 30km further to Maie Sai, an ethnic village on the border with Burma. This town is home to the Akha, a tribe known for wearing traditional black clothing embroidered and decorated with silver bells. You can purchase some of these clothes at the village market, where you'll also find a variety of handicrafts. These make beautiful souvenirs and gifts, ranging from jewelry and sculptures to silk fabrics and handmade bags.

Don't forget to visit the village of Karen, famous for the brass rings worn by women that give the illusion of lengthened necks. They are also known as "giraffe women." Most travelers are very curious to discover this unique tradition.  To better understand it, we invite you to consult this article: Meeting the Giraffe Women in Thailand

• The famous Golden Triangle

Chiang Saen, a small town in northern Thailand, is situated at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers, where three countries meet (Thailand, Laos, and Burma). This unique location has earned it the name "Golden Triangle." Historically, it was a significant hub for the opium trade, but this era has passed due to the detrimental effects it caused in the region. Today, Chiang Saen has shifted its focus to agricultural pursuits such as rice and tea production.

• The Wat Phra Kaew Temple

Some of the temples in Thailand, known as Wat Phra Kaew contain Thailand’s most revered image or statue, known as the Emerald Buddha. There is a well-known story that in 1434, lightning struck the stupa within the temple and unveiled the statue. Following treks to Lampang, Chiang Mai, Luang Prabang, and Than Vientiane, it is enshrined permanently in Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew and worshipped in popular culture.

This is a typical Lanna-style structure from Northern Thailand with a wooden structure mainly made of teak wood, a tropical hardwood. Visit to see the beautiful architecture and learn more about the history of this place.

• The cultural and religious center “Black House”

Located a few kilometers from the center of Chiang Rai city and next to the airport, the 'Black House' is probably the most frequented place by travelers after Wat Rong Khun. It is not a temple in the strict sense, even though a space is reserved for meditation. Instead, it includes about forty houses, a museum, and an art studio. The entire complex, designed by the artist Dr. Thawan Duchanee, is black in color.

Inside the buildings, a large number of animal skins, horns, teeth, and skeletons, real or reproduced, have been gathered. This exhibition is intended to reflect the old age and illness that Buddha experienced during his travels. These unique pieces make this site a truly original museum compared to others in Chiang Rai or the rest of Thailand.

• Singha Park

Singha Park, the largest farm in Chiang Rai, known as the land of golden temples, sits just a 20-minute drive from the city center at 99 Moo 1, Thambon Maekorn.

With a magnificent natural landscape enveloped by the greenery of tea fields, classic European architecture, clean air and a gentle and peaceful atmosphere, Singha Park is the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the splendor of nature.

Many visitors are pleasantly surprised to discover such a peaceful retreat amidst the vibrant bustle of Asia. Cycling through the picturesque Chiang Rai hills is a fantastic way to fully experience the park's beauty.

• Doi Mae Salong

This large village atop a mountain is populated by ethnic groups of Chinese origin. It lacks a particular charm itself, but its surroundings are very picturesque and photogenic. You will encounter a beautiful chedi dedicated to a king's mother, overlooking the town, as well as tea plantations amidst lush, green hills. Additionally, you may come across women in traditional costumes of various colors at the markets.

• Chiang Rai Night Markets

The city organizes places to exchange goods on weekends in pedestrian streets, at nightfall. The atmosphere is friendly and lively, and you can find many interesting objects. In the stalls, souvenirs, clothes, or even musical instruments. These night markets also offer the opportunity to taste tasty traditional dishes, often typical of the region, at affordable prices.

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5. Chiang Rai's Hotel 

Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai

• Address: 610, rue Phahonyothin, T.Wiang, A.Muang, Centre-ville, Chiang Rai, Thaïlande

• Website: Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai

Le Patta Hotel in Chiang Rai offers a strategic location near tourist attractions, spacious rooms with modern design, and notable facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, a gym, and a garden. With complimentary breakfast and a central location just a 2-3 minute walk from Chiang Rai Night Market, it is the ultimate choice for a luxurious experience in the city.

Hotel Nak Nakara Chiang Rai

• Address: 661 Uttarakit Road T.Weing A. Muang, City Center, Chiang Rai, Thailand, 57000
• Website: Nak Nakara hotel

This ideally located hotel in Chiang Rai offers an exceptional experience with top-notch facilities equipped with modern comforts, a central location, and reasonable rates. The rooms are decorated in a modern Lanna style with bright colors. Appreciated by travelers for its convenient location and quality amenities, this property is an attractive choice in Chiang Rai.
 

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand

• Address: 1129 Kraisorasit Rd, Tambon Wiang, Maung Tambon Vieng, Chiang Rai 57000 Thailand
• Website:  Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, located just a stone’s throw from the heart of Chiang Rai, provides a luxurious retreat with all modern amenities. The resort is set amidst lush gardens, featuring an artificial lake and two historic century-old trees, offering a picturesque escape. 

Boat trips along the Kong River depart from Chiang Khong, stopping at interesting villages. Treks to hill tribe villages can be arranged with experienced local guides. Additionally, the resort offers treks to hill tribe villages, led by knowledgeable local guides, for a deeper dive into the region's culture.

The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa

• Address: 124/15 Moo 21, Kohloy Road, Mae Kok River, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
• Website: https://thelegend-chiangrai.com/

Situated along the Mae Kok River, Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa offers an escape a distance, from the city center. With accommodations, like studios and villas that blend seamlessly with the surroundings guests can enjoy vistas of the nearby hills and experience a serene bond with nature. Each accommodation is crafted for supreme comfort, making it an ideal choice for a peaceful getaway.

6. Practical Tips For A Successful Visit

• Weather preparation: Check the weather forecast before you leave and adjust your outfits accordingly.
• Clothing choices: Opt for light clothing, but plan for more covering outfits when visiting temples.
• Using local currency: Favor Thai baht and make sure you have cash, as some areas do not accept cards.
• Health precautions: Purchase travel insurance, drink bottled water, and consult your doctor before departure.
• Respect for local customs: Adapt to local customs, especially when visiting temples.
• Transportation: Opt for taxis, tuk-tuks and songthaews, and negotiate fares with tuk-tuk drivers.
• Safety: Stay vigilant, especially in tourist areas.

Our last words

Chiang Rai stands out as an exceptional destination in Thailand, captivating visitors with its unique charm. This city invites you to explore vibrant festivals, savor delicious local cuisine, and soak in the serene beauty of its iconic temples. Offering an immersive and unforgettable experience, Chiang Rai truly enchants everyone who visits.

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