Chiang Rai is an excellent base for those looking to explore the various attractions that the country of Thailand has to offer. The town, which is the capital of the Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand, is populated by a mere 62,000 people; however, this number experiences a substantial hike during tourism season. The town serves as the main commercial centre for the areas of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.
It is easy to get about Chiang Rai on foot and walking around is one of the best ways of experiencing the ambience and some of the iconic sights of the city such as the ornate clock tower. Public transport is mainly tuk tuks and songthaews (not the most comfortable of vehicles), with some taxis available. Cycles and motorcycles are popular and there is a number of hire places.
There is a lot to see in Chiang Rai. You can go see things on your own or opt for a group tour. In sightseeing tour Hall Of Opium, which is spread over 40 acres, and a trip to Golden Triangle & Tribe Villages is something you should never miss. But if you’re on your own and want to pay a visit to some monumental places, make sure you check a few of the following.
Wat Phra Sing is renowned for its Lana-style Ubosot and the door panels made of wood with fascinating carvings done by the artisans in Chiang Rai. The temple, which is situated in the vicinity of the town hall, used to host one of the largest and most famous of Buddha statues namely the Phra Buddha Sihing. However, the temple now holds a replica of the statue, with the original being stowed away in Chiang Mai.
Wat Klong Wiang is known for its colourful garden statues, the animated Lanna style of architecture and the “No Killing Area” warning which is present at the entrance. The history of the temple dates back all the way 1432, and it provides an excellent showcase of ancient Thai culture.
Wat Ming Meuang is a small temple which is famous for housing the spirit of the city (ming meuang) in an intricately decorated and carve Lanna-style.
If you want to learn more about the history of a city, you need to pay a visit to its museums. The same thing holds true when you’re in Chiang Rai. With a number of museums, you will never fail to hit a place loaded with historical stuff but, if you’re confused where to go, start by paying a visit to the following museums. Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre features a number of low-key and ill maintained displays which host utensils, fishing and agricultural equipment, housing styles and traditional hunting tools used by Thai tribesmen. The museum was created with the aim of promoting a better understanding of the cultures of the various hill tribes. Situated in the centre of town, the museum is worth a visit to understand how the hill tribes are exploited by the tourism industry and some of the Thai people Oub Kham Museum features a collection of some of the most elaborate and extravagant items present in the royal courts of yore. Visitors can view ancient fabrics (more than a century old), the golden throne, silver ornaments, and the king’s golden costume.
Morning Market - The morning market is the perfect place to get your hands on fresh local foods and to get a firsthand experience of local life and their cuisines. Everything from bamboo sticks to fish are amongst a myriad of other local foods sold in the market.
Night Bazaar & Food Court – The night bazaar is the perfect place to fulfil all your shopping whims and desires. The market is chock full of items and goods and provides some of the best bargains in the entire area. The market consists of both real and fake designer merchandise as well as local goods like readymade garments, utensils, handbags, jewellery amongst others. The market and food court are situated between the Phaholyothing Road and the bus station in the centre of the town. Perhaps the biggest selling point of the night bazaar is the fabulous wares sold by the tribesman of the hilly areas which include utensils, coins and intricate and high quality quilted spreads.
Saturday Walking Street – For those willing to take a step back from the hectic holiday schedule and go for a relaxing walk, the Saturday walking street has you covered. Situated in the centre of the town on Thanon Thanalal, the market is spread over an area of four blocks and is flanked with musical areas and food courts.
The Kok River is famous for its long-tailed boat rides and the picnic spots located on the banks of the river. The river, which is a 130 kilometers long, cuts through the town of Chiang Rai. The beach of Chiang Rai, which is situated at the banks of the river, is a popular summer spot for tourists and locals alike.
There are a number of breathtaking and beautiful views on offer in the city for tourists. Vacationers can take in grand and sweeping views of the area from the top of Doi Kong Kao which is located 4 kilometers to the west of the town. The Buffalo Horn Hill provides another marvellous panoramic overview of the entire area of Chiang Rai. The hill can be accessed by taking the Thanon Ratchayotha road emanating from the Chiang Mai area. The road leads directly to the Nogpoung soi area from which the Buffalo Horn Hill can then be accessed. Boomerang Park also provide an excellent view of the city and the valley through the summit at the top of the 90 meter vertical limestone cliff.