pickyourtrail_logo
  1. Asia
  2. Thailand
  3. Chiang Rai Travel Guide - A Guide To Temples, Tribes & Tranquil Escapes

Chiang Rai Travel Guide - A Guide to Temples, Tribes & Tranquil Escapes

Get in touchWe’ll start with some questions and get you to the right place.
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting

Chiang Rai is a small city nestled in the northernmost part of Thailand. This amazing tourist spot in Thailand is often overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbor, Chiang Mai. However, once you set foot in this enchanting city, you'll quickly realize why it should be at the top of your travel bucket list. When you are planning your Thailand tour package and looking for a peaceful and relaxing destination, Chiang Rai is the best place in Thailand.

The Geography of Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a city in Thailand situated close to the Khun Tan Range at an elevation of 1,150 feet (350 meters). It has a scheduled airport, and there are roads that connect it to Lampang in the south and to Myanmar (Burma) and the Laotian border in the north. It serves as a hub for the trade of rice, coffee, and teak. The town used to serve as the independent principality's walled capital. Up until 1436, when it was transported to Chiang Mai, the famous Emerald Buddha, currently located in Bangkok, was housed in a temple in the city. 

History of Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Rai is renowned for its outstanding and extensive history. According to legend, ancestors arrived in this city on the Mekong River from China, Laos, and Burma 5,000 years ago. As a result, Chiang Rai's culture today is a fusion of all three of these locations. Chiang Rai is thought to have been discovered in 1263 by King Mengrai. It became the Mengrai dynasty's capital. King Mengrai constructed Chiang Mai during that year and stayed there until his passing. Today, this city serves as one of the best places to visit in Thailand, and you will find so many amazing things to do in Chiang Rai.

Weather in Chiang Rai

Because of the significantly cooler and less humid weather, October to February is the best season to visit Chiang Rai, Thailand. The yearly average temperature is about 24 °C; however, depending on the warmer or cooler seasons, it can vary from 36 °C to 10–15 °C. You can enjoy trekking and boat riding during the winter.

Although it's important to have warm clothing, stay cautious of the tourist population. The rainy season (June to September) has low temperatures with 80% humidity, whereas the summer months (March to May) experience a surge in temperature that can reach 36 degrees Celsius.

Best Places To Visit in Chiang Rai

When you are vacationing in Chiang Rai with your loved ones, there is no shortage of intriguing activities to look forward to, from waterfalls to flower gardens, stunning temples to unique museums. No matter, if you are a backpacker, traveling with pals, or hosting family get-togethers, Chiang Rai's tourist attractions, are fantastic to explore.

Khun Korn Waterfall, Baan Dam Museum, Doi Mae Salong, etc. are a few well-known attractions in Chiang Rai. You can take some of the most remarkable memories of your life with you to these locations, which provide the ideal vacation from your mundane life. Here is the list of the best places to visit on your Chiang Rai vacation: 

  • Wat Rong Khun, The White Temple
  • Doi Mae Salong 
  • Blue Temple Chiang Rai
  • The Golden Clock Tower
  • Wat Huai Pla Kung
  • Mae Kok River
  • The Golden Triangle 
  • Mae Fah Luang Art and Culture Park
  • Chiang Rai Night Market
  • Oub Kham Museum
  • Tree Top Adventure Park
  • Wat Tham Pla
  • Pu Kaeng Waterfall
  • Long Neck Karen Village
  • Mae Khachan Hot Springs
  • Baan Dam Museum
  • Chiang Rai Walking Street
  • Wat Klang Wiang
  • Khun Korn Waterfall
  • Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong

Things to do in Chiang Rai

Are you looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path best travel destination in Thailand? Look no further than Chiang Rai, a hidden gem tucked away in the country's northern region. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Chiang Rai offers a plethora of activities and attractions that will leave you mesmerized. Listed below are the top things to do in Chiang Rai this will come in handy when planning your Chiang Rai tour package.

  • Admire the detailed architecture of the White Temple
  • Explore the beauty of the Black House.
  • Take amazing photos in the Blue Temple
  • Stop at Betty Coffee and explore more of Chiang Rai
  • Eat delicious Thai food in the night market.
  • Visit many temples in Chiang Rai's town center.
  • Relish the sunset at Wat Phra Kaew
  • Experience the mesmerizing light display at the Clock Tower.
  • Go on a trip to Tree Top Adventure Park.
  • Visit the long neck hill tribe village
  • Trek in the stunning Chiang Rai viewpoints
  • Unwind and take a dip in Chiang Rai’s hot springs.
Similar Cities
image
Bangkok Travel Guide - A City Known For Its Street Life & Bustling Nightlife
image
Pattaya Travel Guide - Where Culture & Nightlife Perfectly Amalgamate
image
Phuket Travel Guide - Your Essential Travel to the Haven of Relaxation
image
Krabi Travel Guide - Island Paradise With Pristine Beaches & Clear Waters
image
Chiang Mai Travel Guide - A Town With Cultural Treasures & Mountain Scenery
image
Koh Samui Travel Guide - Thailand's Tropical Oasis With Lush Greenery
image
Koh Lipe Travel Guide - A Guide To Island Paradise With Stunning Beaches
image
Koh Lanta Travel Guide - Explore the Floating Village with Our In-Depth Guide
image
Koh Chang Travel Guide - An Island Paradise Known For Beauty & Adventure
image
Sukhothai Travel Guide - The City That Was First Capital of Ancient Thailand
image
Koh Samet Travel Guide - Discover the Hidden Gems of this Island Paradise!
image
Lopburi Travel Guide - Discover City's Rich Heritage & Monkey Kingdom
image
Ko Phangan Travel Guide - Explore the Charm of This Coastal Gem
image
Kanchanaburi Travel Guide - A Guide To Exploring Thailand's Historical Heart
image
Hua Hin Travel Guide - Explore the Pristine Beaches and Vibrant Nightlife
image
Ao Nang Travel Guide - Dive into Stunning Beaches and Adventurous Escapes!
image
Ko Panyi Travel Guide - Experience Life in the Floating Fishing Village!
image
Samut Prakan Travel Guide - A City With Rich Cultural & Historical Significance
image
Ayutthaya Travel Guide - Ancient Capital of Thailand's Kingdoms & Heritage
image
Koh Tao Travel Guide - Perfect Island Escape For Underwater Adventures
Get in touchWe’ll start with some questions and get you to the right place.
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting
Dwaraka
Sumeet
Sunil
10000+ itineraries curated and counting
We think you are in .
Update your location?