SunTrips: Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai Thailand

Chiang Rai is the capital of Chiang Rai Province, Northern Thailand and is the main commercial center serving the Golden Triangle border region of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. It is an excellent base for exploring the region. Chiang Rai is essentially a service city for the surrounding province. Despite its relatively small population, Chiang Rai has respected universities and other civic facilities. The character is distinctly Northern and is distinct to Chiang Mai to the south in various ways. The food is definitely spicier and the ethnic composition includes a good percentage of hill tribes and Myanmar exiles such as various varieties of Karen tribespeople. There are many temples and museums to explore. The White Temple is spectacular and well worth a visit and the Hill Tribe Museum and Education Centre is the perfect place to learn more about the hill tribes and their cultures. There is a very good night market that also features an open-air food court. Buffalo Horn Hill has a splendid overview of Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai is one of the best spots to do trekking in Thailand, what with its alluring mountains and numerous hill-tribes. Chiang Rai retains a small-town charm that makes it a perfect destination to enjoy the local culture and nature.

Wikipedia

Recommended airport

Chiang Rai Intl (CEI)

Nearby destinations