Visiting Thailand can be a never-ending trip as the country has gems to surprise you at every corner of it. Chiang Rai is a province in Northern Thailand where you will find the cultural and traditional side of Thailand at its best. With so many temples and spectacular natural beauty, this province is ready to surprise you. Take a tuk-tuk ride and explore the following places!
Here is a List of the Best Places to Visit in Chiang Rai:
1. Wat Rong Khun
To begin the list of the best places to visit in Chiang Rai, this marvelous work of architecture will always be on the top. The spectacular white temple looks ravishing, especially on a bright sunny day. It is the diamond on the crown of Chiang Rai. When the sun shines, the finely chiseled architecture glistened like full moon.
That’s why it is called The White Temple. If you visit it on a sunny day, the sunlight falls upon the embedded mirrors on the temple and flashes like a thousand diamonds. It gives you the experience of walking in heaven. Viewers need to cross a small white bridge on a lake to enter the main chapel.
- Entry Fee: Approximately 50 THB for foreigners.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.
- Dress Code: Respectful attire covering shoulders and knees.
- Things to Do: Explore the intricate designs of the temple, admire the artworks, and visit the museum within the complex.
2. Wat Rong Suea Ten
If the White Temple has just blown your mind, wait for the Blue Temple to get mesmerized. Wat Rong Suea Ten is known as the Blue Temple as it is completely blue from the inside too. When you enter, the large idol of sitting Buddha in white amidst the blue background looks ethereal.
You will also find several blue idols on the outside and those are examples of Thai architectural marvels. Located on the banks of Mae Kok river, the place is perfect for those who are looking for a lesser crowd and serenity.
- Entry Fee: Free for all visitors.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light for photography.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing, similar to other temples.
- Things to Do: Marvel at the stunning blue and gold interiors, and explore the surrounding small market.
3. Phu Chi Fah
Chiang Rai is also a place in Thailand that has an abundance of natural beauty. Head towards Phu Chi Fah and you will witness that. The outstanding cliffs and the pleasing view of the beaches and mountains make the island paradisiacal. The way toward the cliff is significant as it is full of exotic flora and fauna and the mangroves will give a pleasant view to watch while making the journey.
The lush meadows, rough cliffs, peaky mountains, and bright flowers make the place all the way romantic. Walk along the path with your partner, hand in hand and you can feel the romance of nature in you! November to January is the best time to visit Phu Chi Fah.
- Travel Tip: The journey involves a steep climb, so be prepared for some physical activity.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning before sunrise for breathtaking views and the famous sea of mist.
- Things to Do: Hike to the viewpoint, enjoy panoramic views, and photograph the sunrise.
4. Doi Mae Salong
To get yourself to the most picturesque place in Chiang rai, you need to plan a trip to Doi Mae Salong. It is the tranquil nature and the serenity away from the hustle-bustle of city life that makes the place so close to tourists who always look for solitude while tripping.
The elevation of the place is 1800 meters above sea level where the mist hugs you and the chilly air plays with your hair and cheek. When you are here, you can visit the tea and coffee plantations, taste the delectable Chinese food, take some amazing photographs, etc.
- Travel Tip: The area is mountainous, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended for travel.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon.
- Things to Do: Visit tea plantations, explore local hill tribe villages, and enjoy Chinese Yunnan cuisine in the village.
5. Golden Triangle
This is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Chiang Rai. The name is apt as the place shares its borders with three countries, Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos and three of them meet on the Mekong River. This place is the center of poppy cultivation in Thailand.
The meeting point of Mekong and Ruak Rivers is a pleasant view to watch. Also, this place is historically significant as there are lots of ruins and ancient structures that will remind you of the people who used to live here in earlier times.
- Best Time to Visit: Daytime to explore the historical significance and surrounding attractions.
- Things to Do: Visit the Hall of Opium, take a boat ride on the Mekong River, and stand at the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
6. Clock Tower
The bright golden architectural splendor is a great crowd puller in Chiang Rai. Located in the center of the town, this stylish clock tower is a view to watch. The architecture of this tower is similar to the White Temple. This tower was opened for public view in 2008 in the honor of the King of Thailand.
- Best Time to Visit: In the evening to see the clock tower’s light and music show.
- Things to Do: Watch the evening light show, and explore nearby cafes and shops.
7. Doi Tung
This is another amazing place to visit in Chiang Rai. First of all, it is the splendid scenery around that attracts local as well as foreign tourists. Besides, you can visit many things over here, like Doi Tung Palace, the Akha and Muser tribal villages, the Mae Fa Luang Garden, etc.
If you can climb the top of the mountain, you can visit Phra That Doi Tung Holy Relic that makes this place historically and religiously significant.
- Travel Tip: The area is a bit remote, so consider hiring a guide or renting a vehicle.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Things to Do: Visit the Mae Fah Luang Garden, explore the Royal Villa, and enjoy scenic views from the mountaintop.
8. Wat Huai Pla Kung
Thailand is a country of beautiful temples and Chiang Rai is no exception to that. Wat Huai Pla Kung is a perfect example of that. It is the nine-tiered temple in Chiang Rai where the largest Guan Yin Boddhisattva is worshipped. The main attraction is the temple as the architecture of this temple is different than the other temples in Thailand.
You can witness a beautiful amalgamation of Chinese and Thai architectural styles in this temple. Once you are here, you can enjoy the breathtaking view around the serenity of the temple will calm your stressed mind and help you to rejuvenate.
- Entry Fee: Free for most areas, but a small fee may apply for the elevator ride up the big statue.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to see the statue illuminated at night.
- Things to Do: Explore the temple complex, take an elevator to the top of the giant Guan Yin statue for panoramic views, and visit the pagoda.
9. Boon Rawd’s Singha Park
While making your bucket list of visiting places in Chiang Rai, include this Singha Park on your list. You can have a fun-filled day here, especially if you have children in your group.
There is a small zoo in the park you can visit. Besides, the vegetable and fruit farms will make you refreshed. You can also go zip-lining if you want a bit of adventure in your life.
- Entry Fee: Free entry, but some activities may have a fee.
- Things to Do: Enjoy a guided tram tour, explore the tea plantations, try the zipline or cycling, and relax in the park’s beautiful landscapes.
10. Baan Dam Museum
If historical elements attract you and you get interested in digging into the glorious past of a city, a museum is the best place to visit. When you are in Chiang Rai, visiting Baan Dam Museum should be on your list.
Known as ‘Black House Museum’ or ‘Black Temple’, this museum is one of the main tourist attractions in Chiang Rai. Those little black cottage-style buildings are quite interesting and you will be surprised that they are made of crocodile skin, bones, and teeth.
- Entry Fee: Approximately 80 THB for adults.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Things to Do: Explore the unique and somewhat eerie collection of art and architecture created by the late Thawan Duchanee, a renowned Thai artist.
Hopefully, now you can plan a trip to Chiang Rai with a full-fledged list of visiting places. Gear up and set on a happy journey!
See More Thailand Information:
- 10 Best Places Thailand to Visit in December
- Top 20 Islands to Visit in Thailand
- Where To Go In Thailand For Your First Trip
- Romantic Destinations in Thailand for Honeymoon
- 20 Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit in Thailand
- 10 Famous Luxury Hotels Stay in Asia
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the must-visit attractions in Chiang Rai?
Must-visit attractions in Chiang Rai include the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and the Golden Triangle.
2. Which are the best places to visit in Chiang Rai?
The best places to visit in Chiang Rai are Doi Tung, Mae Fah Luang Garden, and the Clock Tower.
3. What are the top things to do in Chiang Rai?
Top things to do in Chiang Rai include exploring the temples, visiting the Black House Museum, and taking a boat trip along the Mekong River.
4. Where is Chiang Rai located?
Chiang Rai is located in Northern Thailand, near the borders with Laos and Myanmar.
5. What are the famous places in Chiang Rai?
Famous places in Chiang Rai include the White Temple, Golden Triangle, and the Blue Temple.
6. Is Doi Tung worth visiting?
Yes, Doi Tung is worth visiting for its stunning gardens, mountain views, and cultural significance.
7. What is the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
The best time to visit Chiang Rai is during the cool season, from November to February.
8. What are the top tourist attractions in Chiang Rai?
Top tourist attractions in Chiang Rai include Wat Rong Khun, the Golden Triangle, and the Hill Tribe Villages.
9. What activities can families do in Chiang Rai?
Families can visit the Singha Park, explore the local night markets, and take a boat ride on the Mekong River.
10. How can I get around Chiang Rai for sightseeing?
You can get around Chiang Rai by renting a scooter, hiring a tuk-tuk, or joining guided tours for sightseeing.
