Thailand’s northernmost province, Chiang Rai Province is part of the diverse Golden Triangle region bordering Laos and Myanmar, while it also boasts alluring national parks with hill tribes and hiking trails. The province centres around Chiang Rai City, where you can explore a rich local culture of markets, Buddhist temples and tea fields.
Things to do in Chiang Rai
Nature lovers flock to Chiang Rai Province to explore the region’s national parks and mountains. You’ll find stunning native scenery and undulating mountains on a hike up the 1,367-metre-tall Doi Mae Salong. Alternatively, head to Doi Luang National Park, one of the biggest in Thailand, to see the impressive Phi Pan Nam Range and spot sun bears, bamboo rats and the Indochinese leopard.
The historical city of Chiang Saen is your gateway to the Golden Triangle but is also home to the fascinating Chiang Saen National Museum. Visit the museum to see treasured Buddha statues, traditional dress and ancient instruments. The nearby Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao is a gilded Buddhist temple with views across the Mekong River into Laos.
Are you visiting with your family? Treat the kids to a day at Singha Park Chiang Rai, where you can tour tea plantations, wander along rural trails and meet cuddly farm animals in the petting zoo. If you want to learn more about the hill tribes, visit the Hilltribe Museum to discover authentic clothing, tools and weapons.
Don’t miss seeing the incredible pure-white exterior of Wat Rong Khun or the opium exhibits at the Golden Triangle Park Hall of Opium. Shop for local delicacies, handcrafted goods or regional produce at either Walking Street Chiang Rai or the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar.
Getting around Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai Province is easily reached by flying into Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport or Chiang Rai International Airport. You can get around by using buses, hire cars or traditional tuk-tuks.