5 Must Visit Places When in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is one of Thailand’s hidden gems, and the country’s northernmost province features lush hills and the hospitality of over a million residents. The city is a few miles south of the Golden Triangle, which is a fertile region that converges Thailand with Laos and Myanmar.
Its relative isolation allowed Chiang Rai to develop a distinct architecture and cuisine that is worthy of a visit. If you are planning for a trip to Chiang Rai, here are five must-visit destinations that will make your visit worthwhile.

Known as the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun is a Buddhist place of worship that was built by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. This ultimate tribute to Buddhism started to welcome visitors in 1997, and it features fragments of mirrored glass on white stones, making the building sparkle under the sunlight. While there are hundreds of figurines and statues within the temple complex, the area is under constant construction because Kositpipat continues to add to his collection. This essential tourist destination on a trip to Thailand’s northern provinces is about 24 kilometers south of Chiang Mai.

Enjoy panoramic views of neighboring hills when you drive for two hours from Chiang Mai to Phu Chi Fa. While the name refers to the mountainous region in the area, its most famous attraction is a 1.6-kilometer high cliff that rises above the surrounding mountains and hills. The breathtaking view from the cliff inspires tourists to visit this popular destination within the Thai highlands. At this place, you will be able to experience the captivating sunrise that bursts through a sea of adjacent peaks and low-lying clouds at the Laos side of the border.

If Chiang Mai has a famous night market, Chiang Rai’s night bazaar is worth the visit. Unlike its counterpart, Chiang Rai’s market maintains an authentic atmosphere through stores that sell local handicrafts and products from hill tribes that call the region home. There are also dozens of food stalls that offer traditional Thai food with less spice to allow tourists to enjoy the dishes. Meanwhile, the surrounding areas feature night bars, ice cream shops, and movie theaters.

What was once the world capital in opium production is now a popular tourist attraction because of its natural beauty. The Golden Triangle extends to Myanmar and Laos, and its phenomenal scenery makes it a paradise among ecotourists. Gaze at the Buddha statues, sculptures, and shrines that were made for the royal family along the banks of the Ruak and Mekong River. Meanwhile, a visit to the Hall of Opium allows you to learn more about the production of this plant.

Standing a few miles from the Thailand-Myanmar border is the Doi Tung Mountain, which peaks at 1400 meters above sea level. Its peak reveals a spectacular view of both countries and the Wat Phra That Doi Tung temple, which an important place of worship since the year 911. You can also visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa, which was the former residence of Princess Mother Somdej Phra Srinagarindra. The mountain also houses the Mae Fah Luang Botanical Park, which attracts thousands of flora enthusiasts annually.

The Riverie by Katathani combines classic and contemporary design elements to exude elegance and warmth. The five-star quality of this iconic landmark is evident in their comforting rooms and charming hospitality. Meanwhile, Blossom Restaurant provides a superb breakfast while China Garden offers mouth-watering Cantonese Dim Sum. We’re a luxury hotel in Chiang Rai, get in touch with us today to book your stay.