3.6 Chiang Rai: Introduction

A three-hour drive from Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is the northernmost province in Thailand and its eponymous city is dedicated to the history and culture of the region and its people.

Chiang Rai is steeped in the romance of centuries-old traditions and myriad temples that date back as far as the late 1200s. Today it is an artisan’s hub specialising in silk, lacquerware and silver crafts that make ideal souvenirs.

• Smaller and more laid-back than Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai has a frontier feel. Its main attractions include its temples, markets and museums.
• Lying further north than any other city in Thailand, Chiang Rai has an interesting ethnic mix, partly influenced by its proximity to Burma and China.
• Chiang Rai is a great base from which to plan excursions and treks to the more remote corners of the province.

Chiang Rai is considered part of the Golden Triangle region. Separated by the Mekong River, the Golden Triangle is an area which overlaps the mountains of three countries of Southeast Asia: Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.

• The region can be reached from Chiang Rai and visitors can take day trips to the Golden Triangle (approximately one hour + away).
• It really is quite an experience to see three countries in one day – Thailand, Laos and Myanmar - and discover in a few hours how different they are.

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