As one of the most visited provinces in Northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is full of nature trails and cultural experiences. Here we give you a list of Chiang Rai’s attractions in the north, center, east and south of Chiang Rai. Read on to get an idea of where to visit in Chiang Rai!
1. North of Chiang Rai
1. Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden
Doi Tung Royal Villa was the former residence of Srinagarindra, the royal mother of the late Thai monarch; King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The villa stands high up on a hill.
Originally built as a summer residence for Srinagarindra, it now houses a museum and displays her works to improve the quality of life of local tribespeople. You are able to walk into the palace to see the royal bedroom and more. But be aware, cameras are not allowed in this museum.
The ‘Mae Fah Luang Garden’ is a botanical park on the slopes below the royal villa. Beautiful flowers and plants grow among rock formations scattered around the garden.
2. Golden Triangle/ Mekong River
The Golden Triangle is where Thai, Myanmar and Lao borders converge. You can see the river flowing through and trisecting the borders of the 3 counties. Historically the Golden Triangle has been an area well-known for the cultivation of opium.
3. House of Opium Museum
Not far from the Golden Triangle, you will see The House of Opium. You’ll get to know everything you ever wanted to know about opium that you never dared ask. The exhibit displays tools used to plant, harvest and trade opium, including pipes, scales, weights, knives, and scrapers. There are also lovely poppy flowers on display, the source of opium production. Perhaps to your disappointment, no opium is actually being grown here nowadays.
Book your White Temple + Golden Triangle Tour
From Chiang Mai!
2. Center of Chiang Rai
1. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Wat Rong Khun or ‘White Temple‘ is a Buddhist temple where you can see unique architecture and unconventional arts, designed by contemporary artist Chalermcai Kosipipat.
The highlight of this temple is the bridge of “the cycle of rebirth”, regarded as the icon of this temple. In the sunlight, the temple’s decorative glass pieces shimmer through, creating a dazzling sight for all its visitors.
The White Temple has thankfully just been reconstructed after an earthquake and is constantly undergoing more additions, for you to fully enjoy arguably the most gorgeous temple in Thailand.
Book a tour around White Temple, Black House,
and Blue Temple from Chiang Mai!
2. Baan Dam (Black House)
Baan Dam or ‘Black House‘ is a collection of more than 40 houses in black color and various shapes, and also a collection of dead animal skins, bones, teeth, and taxidermy. This place is a museum, art studio and traditional house all in one, which is designed and styled like a temple with multiple buildings and structures. As the name ‘Baan Dam’ suggests, the general theme of this “house” is dark and mysterious.
Book a 1-day tour around Chiang Rai White Temple +
Black House + Blue Temple
3. Wat Rong Sear Tean (Blue Temple)
The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Sear Tean) is a temple painted in blue, both inside and out, with a painting style reminiscent of the artwork seen in The White Temple. The name of the temple, “Sear Tean”, translates literally into “dancing tiger” because legends say there were tigers that used to jump over the river.
The hall inside is spectacular with beautiful paintings and a huge white Buddha is in the center which you can truly marvel at, making this temple one of the most beautiful ones in Chiang Rai.
Book a 1 day tour around Chiang Rai White Temple +
Black House + Blue Temple
4. Long Neck Hill Tribe Village
There are many tribes who live in the hill’s far to the north of Thailand. The most famous tribe out of all of them are known as the ‘Long Neck Hill Tribe’. Visit their place to learn their culture of farming, camping, trekking or do other activities such as sightseeing and riding a cart pulled by a water buffalo.
Book your Chiang Rai 1 Day Private Tour from Chiang Mai to visit the Long Neck Hill Tribe!
5. Singha Park
A family-friendly attraction with a park, a huge tea plantation, strawberry farm, and cycling course. You can also rest in a cafe, a bakery, restaurants and more. This place holds numerous festivals every year, such as a Balloons festival or Bike Racing festivals.
Don’t you think there are so many places to visit in the center? Why not have a closer look at them in the links below?
Get Tickets to White Temple + Black House + Blue Temple – From Chiang Mai
Join the Chiang Rai 1 Day Private Tour – From Chiang Mai
3. East of Chiang Rai
1. Phu Chi Fa
Phu Chi Fa is a national forest park in a mountainous region of Thailand. The name of this place translates to ‘The mountain that points to the sky.’ It is one of the best locations in the Thai mountainous regions to view the sunrise, and a glimpse of the ‘Sea of Mist’, a view of the fog-surrounded mountains.
4. South of Chiang Rai
1. Chiang Rai Hot Spring Village
Also known as ‘Mae Khachan Hot Spring’, this place is considered the most beautiful hot spring in Thailand. Located in Wiang Pa Pao district, in the south-westernmost point of Chiang Rai. This district is less well known to foreign tourists. Amongst the locals and drivers who drive long distances, the hot spring is a popular rest stop. You can relax and recharge by dipping your feet into one of the hot springs and eating some boiled eggs.
You can even go on a private tour that takes you to the mentioned attractions, Check the link below!
Book a private taxi ride: Chiang Mai <-> Chiang Rai
And as always, don’t forget to check out Trazy.com for more updates on fantastic tours you could go to in Thailand!
Photo Credits
Pgmark1 (Flickr)
Official Facebook of Singha Park Chiang Rai
