Chiang Rai overview
Chiang Rai, the old capital city of the Lanna Kingdom in the 7th century, with the unique beauty of the Karen Tribe Village with long necks, the White Temple, the Black House, and the Golden Triangle, distinguishes this destination in Thailand.
Chiang Rai Old City is very accessible by foot, so take advantage of the opportunity to go temple hopping, admire the art, and soak up the authentic vibes.
And, While Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Phra Singh aren’t particularly large, the architecture and sculpture on the temple grounds are breathtaking.
In the old city area, you’ll also find the Clock Tower, which is one of the most beautiful clock towers in the world. The golden Clock Tower, designed by national artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, is stunning both day and night, with a light and sound show.
Best time to visit Chiang Rai
The best time to visit this unique place is between October and February when temperatures average 21°C during the day and 10°C – 15°C at night.
How to travel to Chiang Rai?
To get to this northern destination of Thailand, take a one-hour direct flight from Bangkok or drive three hours from Chiang Mai. Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport is about 8 kilometers from Chiang Rai’s city center, and it takes about 30 minutes to drive there.
From Chiang Mai to this site is only about 170 kilometers away, and this destination is also bordered by Laos and Myanmar, making travel to Laos and Myanmar from this site simple.
Top attractions in Chiang Rai
1. The White Temple
2. The Long Neck Karen Tribal Village (an eye-opening experience to not miss)
3. Black House
4. Golden Triangle
5. Mae Fah Luang Garden
6. Blue Temple
7. Wat Doi Suthep
Chiang Rai’s food specialties
• Nam Prik Ong (Tomato and Pork Chili Dip)
• Khao Soi Gai Nong (Coconut Curry Noodle Soup with Chicken Leg)
• Sai Ua (Northern Thai Sausage)
• Naem (Fermented Sour Sausage)
• Nam Prik Noom (Roasted Green Chili Dip)
• Larb Muang Moo (Northern-style Minced Pork Spicy Salad)
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Best itineraries with Chiang Rai
- 4 Days Best of Northern Thailand
- 15 Days Best of Thailand
- 15 Days Best of Cambodia – Laos – Thailand
Best of Thailand
Best of Thailand Regions
- 5 Days Best of Chiang Mai
- 9 Days Best of Bangkok & Northern Thailand
- 10 Days Best of Bangkok & Southern Thailand
Best of Thailand & Southeast Asia
- 12 Days Best of Bangkok – Vietnam – Angkor Wat
- 24 Days Best of Southeast Asia (Vietnam – Cambodia – Laos – Thailand – Myanmar)
Other itineraries for Thailand or Southeast Asia
Please contact us with any questions about Chiang Rai or your trip to Thailand & Southeast Asia
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