The Golden Triangle is the historic border region where northern Thailand meets Laos and Myanmar. For visitors, its most accessible focal point is Sop Ruak, a riverside village in Chiang Saen District where the Ruak...
Chiang Mai Area – Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is one of northern Thailand’s most distinctive destinations, known for contemporary temple architecture, historic Lanna sites, mountain scenery, tea plantations and the landscapes surrounding the Golden Triangle. The current Chiang Mai Travel Hub inventory includes Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Suea Ten, Wat Huay Pla Kang, Baan Dam Museum, Singha Park, Doi Tung, Doi Mae Salong, Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and many more attractions across the province.
The city itself is compact and easy to explore, while many of Chiang Rai’s strongest attractions are spread through the surrounding countryside. Visitors can combine temples and museums with tea plantations, waterfalls, mountain viewpoints and day trips toward Chiang Saen, Mae Salong and the borders with Laos and Myanmar.
Explore Chiang Rai
- Famous temples – Visit Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Suea Ten, Wat Huay Pla Kang, Wat Phra Kaew and other distinctive religious landmarks.
- Art and culture – Explore Baan Dam Museum, Rai Mae Fah Luang, Oub Kham Museum and galleries showcasing northern Thai and contemporary art.
- Golden Triangle and history – Travel toward Chiang Saen and the Golden Triangle for Mekong River views, historic sites and border-region culture.
- Mountains and tea country – Discover Doi Mae Salong, Doi Tung, Choui Fong Tea Plantation and other scenic highland areas.
- Markets and city attractions – Visit Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Walking Street, the Clock Tower and central landmarks for food, shopping and evening atmosphere.
Browse the listings below to discover Chiang Rai temples, mountain attractions, cultural sites and things to do across northern Thailand.
Golden Triangle
Wiang, <a href="https://www.chiangmaitravelhub.com/provinces/chiang-saen/" class="wpil_internal_link" >Chiang Saen</a>
Wat Rong Khun
Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Rong Khun is not the typical Buddhist temple. Popularly known as the White Temple, this unique sanctuary is the highlight of temple tours in Chiang Rai.
Wat Phra Kaew
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Phra Kaew is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai and was built sometime in the 14th Century. The date of construction of the temple is unknown, but the original name was “Wat Pa Yeah” (Bamboo Forest...
Singha Park
Mae Kon, Mueang Chiang RaiSingha Park is a great place to spend a day in the outdoors for visitors coming up north to the beautiful Chiang Rai. Singha Park is a large expanse of land that has been converted into a tourist attraction that houses...
Wat Phra Singh
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Phra Singh Chiang Rai one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, having been built by the Lanna people in 1385. The temple is located right in the centre of town, just 1km north of the popular Night Bazaar and is easy...
Doi Tung
Huai Khrai, Mae SaiDoi Tung refers to a mountain in the highland region of Chiang Rai. The name of this location translates to ‘Flag Peak’ in the local dialect. History has it that the use of the flag’s name is...
Chiang Rai Hot Springs
Mae Chedi Mai, Wiang Pa PaoChiang Rai Hot Springs is located about half-way between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai on route 118, right near Khun Chee National Park. A common road stop on the way to Chiang Rai, you will find many tour buses stop at...
Doi Mae Salong
Mae Salong Nok, Mae Fa LuangDoi Mae Salong is one of the most prominent mountains in Thailand and constitutes the extensive Daen Lao Range in the northern part of Thailand. It is located right near the Thai/Burmese border and is within close...
Doi Pha Tang
Po, Wiang KaenDoi Pha Tang is an incredible hidden paradise in Chiang Rai. Known for being the best area for watching the picturesque Mekong river, but there’s so much more to discover in this mountainous tropical area. Located...
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is a vibrant market that brings Chiang Rai to life at dusk. It is similar to Chiang Mai’s night market, albeit on a smaller scale. The Night Bazaar is held nightly between 6pm-midnight...
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Rimkok, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Huay Pla Kang is a famous temple just outside the city centre of Chiang Rai; one of the most popular, and frequently visited temples by both tourists and locals. It gets its name from the 9-storied pagoda which...
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
Pa Sang, Mae ChanThe Choui Fong Tea Plantation is a large tea plantation located around 40 kilometres from Chiang Rai. The expansive, verdant plantations and tranquil atmosphere make it a truly scenic destination; one where visitors can...
Baan Dam Museum
Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Baan Dam Museum (also known as the Chiang Rai Black Temple or Black House Museum) is a museum and gallery that was home to the renowned Thai artist, Thawan Duchanee. The attraction isn’t actually a temple per...
Wat Rong Suea Ten
Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Rong Suea Ten Temple (also known as the Blue Temple) is a little known temple located just north of the Kok River in Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten, Blue Temple Dress Code, Chiang Rai Built in 2005, the temple takes...
Art Bridge Chiang Rai
Ban Du, Mueang Chiang RaiArt Bridge Chiang Rai is a private gallery where visitors can walk through and enjoy the various works which have been created by Thai and international artists. There is also a modern restaurant located on site where...
Chiang Rai Clock Tower
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Chiang Rai Clock Tower is one of the provinces most unique attractions. This elaborate clock stands out thanks to its golden structure and unique artistry. The clock is the brainchild of renowned Thai artist...
King Mengrai Monument
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe King Mengrai Monument is located at the junction of Maesai and Maechan District in Chiang Rai, close to the Super Highway. Historical records show that King Mengrai was the 25th King of Thailand. Mengrai is credited...
Rai Mae Fah Luang
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiRai Mae Fah Luang is one of the must-visit art galleries and gardens in Chiang Rai. This blended park is also home to Buddhist temples and collected antiques. The most notable attraction at the arts and cultural park is...
Cat ‘n’ A Cup
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiCat ‘n’ A Cup is a cat cafe located right in the centre of town and is a great place where you can enjoy a hot drink or a tasty snack as you pat some gorgeous little cats! CAT ‘n’ A CUP Cat Cafe...
Cherntawan International Meditation Center
Huai Sak, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Cherntawan International Meditation Center is one of Chiang Rai’s top spiritual destinations. Tucked within a relaxing, lush environment, the centre is named after a famous Buddhist monk in Thailand. It is...
The Navel City Pillar of Chiang Rai
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Navel City Pillar of Chiang Rai is a well-known landmark. Just like any other Thai cities which have a city pillar, it is typically made using stone and placed in an area that signifies the heart of the city. Also...
Pha Soet Hot Spring
Doi Hang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Pha Soet Hot Spring is a relaxing natural pool bath within Baan Pha Soet in Chiang Rai. There are communal pools, as well as private pools, with rooms also available. These thermal, hot pools provide comforting...
Lahu Village
Mae Chedi Mai, Wiang Pa PaoLahu Village is a small hill tribe community that allows visitors entry so that they can learn about the traditional Thai way of life. While visiting Lahu Village, you will head out into the lush green mountains and see...
Oub Kham Museum
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiOub Kham Museum is an attraction in Thailand’s Chiang Rai province and is home to a diverse range of memorabilia from across the former Lanna Kingdom. In addition to these collectables from the kingdom, the unique...
Chiang Saen National Museum
Wiang, Chiang SaenThe Chiang Saen National Museum is a must-visit in Chiang Rai for anyone who’s keen to learn about the archaeological wonders of the town of Chiang Saen. It has been around since 1957 and today remains to be the...
Phu Chi Fa Forest Park
Tap Tao, ThoengPhu Chi Fa Forest Park is an amazing destination nestled in the jungle located some 1628 meters above sea level. This natural setting is one not to be missed as it boasts one of the best sunrises you will ever...
Doi Luang National Park
Mae Yen, PhanThe Doi Luang National park is one of the biggest national parks in northern Thailand; encompassing several districts that include Mae Suai, Phan, and Wiang Pa Pao in Chiang Rai, Ngao and Wang Nuea of Lampang, and...
Khun Chae National Park
Mae Chedi Mai, Wiang Pa PaoThe Khun Chae National Park in Chiang Rai is a breathtaking vast, forested land that is around 270 square kilometres large and has been a Thai national park since 1995. The rich, diverse eco-system here is responsible...
Doi Hua Mae Kham
Mae Salong Nai, Mae Fa LuangDoi Hua Mae Kham is a picturesque mountainous area that is known for the several tribes who reside by the border between Burma and Thailand. Located in Mae Sai, around a three-hour drive away from Chiang Mai, this is a...
Doi Sa Ngo
Si Don Mun, Chiang SaenDoi Sa Ngo is a beautiful ecotourism destination in Chiang Rai. What makes this place unique is that from here, you can see Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos all from one spectacular viewpoint; which is called the Golden...
Tad Kwan Village
Tat Khwan, Phaya MengraiThe Tad Kwan Village is a well-loved cultural destination in Chiang Rai. Located 70 kilometres from the city, there are many natural attractions to discover. The village is best known for being the home of the Mien Hill...
Khun Korn Waterfall
Huai Chomphu, Mueang Chiang RaiKhun Korn Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in northern-Thailand and is not to be missed if travelling around Chiang Rai. The waterfalls are approximately 30kms west from Chiang Rai City and is best...
CentralPlaza Chiang Rai
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiCentralPlaza Chiang Rai is a beautiful modern shopping centre and the very first high-end opened mall here. it was designed with features that allow guests to enjoy the scenic natural environment while providing modern...
Chiang Rai Walking Street
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiThe Chiang Rai walking street is a must-visit for some excellent shopping and quick bites to eat. Even though you’ve likely already been to many of Thailand’s street markets, this one is special and offers...
Wat Klang Wiang
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Klang Wiang is one of Thailand’s most ostentatious temple, thanks to the elaborate pattern work on each and every structure on location.
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiWat Phra That Doi Chom Thong has been one of the most sacred sites in Thailand. It is the abode of spirits prior to the spread of Buddhism in the region.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung
Huai Khrai, Mae SaiWat Phrathat Doi Tong, also Wat Phra Maha Chinathat Chao, is situated at the peak of Doi Din Daeng, and is believed to be the site of the first chedi.
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao
Wiang, Chiang SaenWat Phra That Pha Ngao is a small Buddhist temple located in Chiang San of Chiang Rai. It gets its name from the fact that it has a chedi that was erected on a large rock within the temple compound, with its name in the...
Chiang Rai River Beach
Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiChiang Rai Beach is a surprising attraction in the northernmost province of Thailand. Tourists generally wouldn’t expect a beach in the landlocked region, so this beach is a must-see while you’re in the area...
Kok River
Wiang, Mueang Chiang RaiKok River is the major river in Chiang Rai and its waters originate from the mountains at Burma flowing through the province and draining in Mae Kong River. The river has always played a fundamental role in the economic...
What are the best attractions in Chiang Rai?
Popular attractions include Wat Rong Khun, Wat Rong Suea Ten, Wat Huay Pla Kang, Baan Dam Museum, Singha Park, Doi Tung, Doi Mae Salong and the Golden Triangle.
What is Chiang Rai best known for?
Chiang Rai is best known for its striking modern temples, particularly the White Temple and Blue Temple, along with mountain landscapes, Lanna culture, tea-growing areas and access to the Golden Triangle.
Is Chiang Rai worth visiting from Chiang Mai?
Yes. Chiang Rai offers a distinctly different experience from Chiang Mai, with major contemporary temples, quieter city streets, highland scenery and attractions spread across the northern border region. It works best as an overnight or multi-day trip rather than trying to see the whole province in a rushed day visit.
What can you do in Chiang Rai at night?
Popular evening options include Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Walking Street and the illuminated Chiang Rai Clock Tower, which has scheduled evening light and sound displays.
