Chiang Rai Travel Guide

Travel to Chiang Rai - Northern Thailand

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Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai and was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom – known as the Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields. Conquered by Burma it was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.

Attractions in Chiang Rai

Today, Chiang Rai is a travellers’ paradise endowed with magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages - the province is home to several hill tribes who continue to maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in trekking there are numerous routes to explore. Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' than Chiang Mai and now competes as a destination in its own right.

The town’s Wat Phra Kaew once held the Emerald Buddha that now resides in Bangkok’s temple of the same name whilst the Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre is a worthwhile visit. The city has a small night market – visit after a climb up Doi Tung hill?

The border with Laos is close by – have you time for a visit?

Activities in Chiang Rai

Allow a day to explore the city before heading out on trek or to the Golden Triangle area around Mae Sai and the Mekong River. Trekking trips average around 3 or 4 days and will include visits to and stays in several different hill tribe villages. As with any such venture where your stay can impact heavily on your host please choose a trek provider carefully. Elephant riding is also possible here in Chiang Rai.

Relaxing

Chiang Rai is quieter and less in your face than Chiang Mai, yet has a fair share of bars and restaurants – our pick though is the night market.

Getting Around

The town is small enough to explore on foot and by bicycle.

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