Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a city in northern Thailand, located about 180 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. It is the capital of Chiang Rai Province and is known for its beautiful scenery, temples, and cultural attractions.

www.goatsontheroad.com

Chiang Rai tourist destination, Thailand

Places to see and do:

1. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple): This temple is one of the most unique and iconic temples in Thailand. It is covered in white stucco and features intricate designs and murals. en.wikipedia.org Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
2. Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple): This temple is located in the same area as the White Temple and is just as beautiful. It is covered in blue stucco and features a different style of design. www.thenotsoinnocentsabroad.com Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple).
3. Mae Fah Luang Garden: This garden is home to a variety of flowers, plants, and trees. It is a popular spot for a relaxing stroll. www.tripadvisor.com Mae Fah Luang Garden.
4. Tham Pla (Fish Cave): This cave is home to thousands of fish that live in the underground lake. olsentours.com Tham Pla (Fish Cave).
5. Opium Museum: This museum tells the story of the opium trade in Thailand. www.tripadvisor.com Opium Museum.
6. Hill Tribe villages: There are many hill tribe villages in the area around Chiang Rai. Visitors can learn about the culture and way of life of the hill tribes.
7. Long Neck Karen Village: This village is home to the Karen people, who are known for their distinctive neck rings. www.tripadvisor.com Long Neck Karen Village.
8. Golden Triangle: This is the area where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. It is a popular spot for tourists to visit. www.thailandee.com Golden Triangle.

Places to eat:

1. Aroon Rai Restaurant: This restaurant serves up delicious Thai food in a relaxed setting. www.anekdotique.com Aroon Rai Restaurant.
2. Baan Khanom Restaurant: This restaurant serves up traditional Thai food in a homely setting. www.takemetour.com Baan Khanom Restaurant.
3. Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar: This restaurant serves up delicious Thai and international food. www.tripadvisor.com Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar.
4. Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort: This restaurant serves up authentic Italian cuisine. marriottbonvoyasia.com Favola at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort.
5. Ribs&Co. Chiang Rai: This restaurant serves up delicious barbecued ribs. www.tripadvisor.com Ribs&Co. Chiang Rai.
6. The Deck Restaurant and Bar: This restaurant is located on the river and offers stunning views of the city. www.tripadvisor.com Deck Restaurant and Bar.
7. Latitude 19 at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort: This restaurant offers a variety of Thai and international food. www.tripadvisor.com Latitude 19 at Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort.
8. Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House: This restaurant serves up delicious steaks and burgers. www.tripadvisor.com Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House.
9. Mai’s Bar-Restaurant: This restaurant serves up delicious Thai food at affordable prices.
10. Street Food: There are many stalls selling delicious street food in Chiang Rai. This is a great way to try local dishes at a bargain price.

Here are the top 10 places to stay in Chiang Rai, Thailand in 2023:

1. Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand. Chic rooms & suites in a premium resort offering a luxe spa, plus an infinity pool with river views. www.tripadvisor.com Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort.
2. Phowadol Resort and Spa. Woodsy-chic rooms, suites & cottages in a plush spa resort with refined dining & an outdoor pool. www.booking.com Phowadol Resort and Spa.
3. The Riverie by Katathani Chiang Rai. Upmarket riverside hotel offering 3 restaurants, plus a spa, an outdoor pool & a swim-up bar. www.booking.com Riverie by Katathani.
4. The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa. Upscale hotel offering an outdoor pool, a spa & a wine bar, plus a restaurant, a gym & Wi-Fi. www.booking.com Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa.
5. Mora Boutique Hotel. Stylish rooms & suites in a boutique hotel with a rooftop pool & bar, plus a restaurant. www.trivago.com Mora Boutique Hotel.
6. Laluna Hotel and Resort. Chic rooms & suites in a riverside hotel with a pool & spa, plus a restaurant & bar. www.booking.com Laluna Hotel and Resort.
7. Hi Chiangrai Hotel. Modern rooms & suites in a hotel with a pool & spa, plus a restaurant & bar. www.booking.com Hi Chiangrai Hotel.
8. The Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel and Convention. Spacious rooms & suites in a hotel with a pool & spa, plus a restaurant & bar. www.booking.com Heritage Chiang Rai Hotel and Convention.
9. Bambuh Boutique Homestay. Cosy rooms in a homestay with a garden, plus a shared kitchen. www.tripadvisor.com Bambuh Boutique Homestay.
10. Wiang Inn Hotel. Clean rooms in a budget hotel with a pool & restaurant. www.booking.com Wiang Inn Hotel.

These are just a few of the many great places to stay in Chiang Rai. The best place for you will depend on your budget, your interests, and your travel style.

Tips for tourists

• The best time to visit Chiang Rai is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
• The currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB).
• The official language of Thailand is Thai. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Be sure to bargain when shopping. This is a common practice in Thailand.
• Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated.
• Drink bottled water. Tap water in Thailand is not safe to drink.
• Get travel insurance. This will protect you in case of any medical emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances.