Sightseeing around Chiang Rai Town – Northern Thailand
Chiang Rai is another popular destination in Northern Thailand. It is the northernmost province in the country, located about 112 miles from Chiang Mai and takes only a little over 3 hours to get there. That is, if you take the first class air-conditioned or VIP bus from Chiang Mai. It is worth exploring the capital before you get on that tourist coach which departs along the well beaten track to the Golden Triangle.
Chiang Rai is the capital of the eponymous province. You don’t have to spend much on expensive taxis and tours around town because there are plenty of tuktuks (motorized rickshaw slightly bigger than a golf cart) and sawngthaews (small passenger bus) to take you sightseeing. Just make sure to haggle hard for the fare, especially when dealing with tuktuks, because they will ask for exorbitant prices just to see if they can get away with it. If you are a careful driver and feel confident on a motorbike, then go ahead and rent one for the day because it is the cheapest and most convenient way of going around the area.
To get a good perspective of what awaits you in Chiang Rai, climb Buffalo Horn Hill and enjoy the sweeping panorama of the town. The hilltop attraction of Doi Kong Kao with its golden Buddha, is another lookout point favorite for you to explore.
The rich heritage and culture of the hill tribes is one of the Chiang Rai’s biggest attractions. To learn more about their history and way of life, the humble Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre is worth taking a look at. But if you do not want to be surrounded by touristy merchandise, it is a better idea to go on treks to various hill tribes in the region. These tours are recommended for those who want to get up close and personal with the villagers. However, if you are more interested in the lifestyle of the royals, the Oub Kham Museum is a better fit for you. Check out the display of lavish silk fabrics, gold ornaments and other remarkable treasures of the old kingdom while you are there.
The town is also home to several notable temples. If you have been to the royal Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, you must have admired the magnificent Emerald Buddha prominently displayed there. Well, that Buddha came from Wat Phra Kaew along Trairat Road in Chiang Rai.
Visit the temple and learn about the interesting legend that involves the discovery of the emerald Buddha. Also of interest is Wat Doi Tong built in Burmese style. It is strategically located on a hilltop making it the ideal destination for those who are on the lookout for fantastic panoramic views.
Finally, you do not want to miss a visit to Chiang Rai Beach where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Kok River. Hire a long-tail boat for a romantic cruise down the tributary. You can even make side trips to the popular hill tribe villages of Lahu, Lisu and Akha along the way. For those who are more adventurous, you might want to take a ride on a bamboo raft instead!
Enjoy your adventure around Chiang Rai and Northern Thailand!


