Welcome to Chiang Rai, Thailand's captivating city in the northernmost province. With stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unique attractions, Chiang Rai promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Baan Dam (or Black House) was created by Chiang Rai-born artist Thawan Duchanee, who resided on the complex until his death in 2014. Here, you will find nearly 40 buildings of various architectural styles, housing many of Duchanee's works of art, as well as found objects, including animal bones, skins, and skulls. While not all of the buildings are open to the public, many are accessible and spread out across well-manicured, peaceful grounds.
The Clock Tower: Designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat (the same artist responsible for the White Temple), Chiang Rai's golden clock tower is an ornate and unique work of art in the center of town that also serves as a traffic roundabout. While it's well worth a look during the day, try to time your visit for 7, 8, or 9 p.m. when the elaborate tower is lit up in a vibrant light show.
Wat Phra Kaeo, located on Trairat Road on the northwest side of town, is the most famous among the northern temples. It was once home to the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most revered Buddha statue discovered in 1444. The statue was moved by various rulers to different capitals, including Lampang, Chiang Rai, and Vientiane, before finding its permanent place in Bangkok's royal Wat Phra Kaeo. The current Chiang Saen style ubosot houses a replica of the Emerald Buddha made of green jade, along with a 700-year-old bronze statue of Phra Chao Lan Thong.
Wat Phra Sing is located near the town hall and was once home to a significant Buddha statue, the Phra Phuttha Sihing, which is now enshrined in Chiang Mai. The temple's notable feature is the Lanna-style Ubosot, and its wooden door panels are intricately carved by contemporary craftsmen from Chiang Rai.
Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, stands out from other temples visited by tourists due to its recent construction. Unlike many centuries-old temples, this magnificent place of worship is the realization of a dream for Thailand's renowned artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat. He designed and supervised the construction of this beautiful white temple, adorned with numerous statues depicting religious figures. Additionally, there is a gallery nearby showcasing his paintings. To reach the White Temple from the city of Chiang Rai, drive north along Asia Highway.
Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, is a captivating blend of traditional Buddhist values, classic Thai architecture, and contemporary design elements. Designed by Putha Kabkaew, a student of the artist behind the renowned White Temple, this temple showcases a unique modernist approach.
Doi Chang, situated at Ban Doi Chang, is a mountain renowned for its stunning Pha Hua Chang, also known as the Elephant's Head Cliff, towering at 1,800 meters above sea level. It is famous for its Arabica coffee plantations, where visitors can indulge in the taste of freshly brewed coffee, thanks to the on-site coffee roasting and grinding facilities. Alongside the coffee experience, Doi Chang offers a glimpse into the unique way of life of the hill-tribe people at the hill-tribe village. Additionally, visitors can explore the Buddhist Park, which showcases several Buddha statues and a sacred pool.
Doi Mae Salong is located approximately 40 kilometers beyond Mae Chan. This rugged mountain is crowned by a settlement called Santi Khiri, which is inhabited by descendants of the former Chinese 93rd Division. These individuals migrated from Myanmar and settled in the area during the 1940s. The mountainside features plantations of coffee and fruit orchards, offering scenic beauty, particularly enchanting in December and January when the Thai Sakura trees are in full bloom. Major attractions in the area include hotels, restaurants, horse-riding, and trekking.
Doi Tung can be reached by taking Highway No. 110 for about 48 kilometers and turning left onto Highway No. 1149, an asphalt road that leads directly to the mountain. The route winds through beautiful scenery, and along the way, you will come across the following interesting sites: Doi Tung Palace, Mae Fa Luang Botanical Garden, and Phrathat Doi Tung Holy Relic.
Doi Tung Palace was constructed as a royal retreat for the mother of King Rama 9, who passed away in 1995. It was designed in an architectural combination of Lanna and Swiss chalet styles. The royal villa is located on the slopes of the adjacent Pa Kluai Reservoir and was built based on the belief that the presence of royalty would honor the local hill-tribes and discourage their opium cultivation.
Mae Fa Luang Botanical Garden, known as "Suan Mae Fa Luang," is a beautifully landscaped garden filled with hundreds of different kinds of plants and flowers. It was named in honor of King Rama 9's mother and the Doi Tung Development project, which was established in 1987.
The temple can be reached via a 40-kilometer road that meanders along the mountainside. The journey is worthwhile as the panoramic view into Lao PDR and Myanmar from the peak is spectacular. The temple complex consists of twin Lanna-style chedis, one of which is said to enshrine the left collarbone relic of the Lord Buddha. Throughout the year, the holy relic attracts devout Buddhist devotees from all over Thailand, Lao PDR, and Myanmar.
The best thing to do when visiting Chiang Rai. Fill your holiday with a memorable experience filled with natural beauty, cultural treasure and the artistic heritage that is Chiang Rai, let us assist you in creating the perfect excursion to suit your needs.
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