How Far is Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai is 180 Kilometers away from Chiang Mai City. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to drive from Chiang Mai to reach Chiang Rai, depending on the specific Pick up location in Chiang Mai and drop off destination in Chiang Rai.
Along the way, there are several attractions that can be explored, the most popular one is Mae Khachan Hot Spring. Locals around this area use the hot waters of the Hotspring to boil the eggs.
Best things to do in Chiang Rai
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai is a unique area where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge at the Mekong and Ruak Rivers. This region, used to be one of the largest hubs for opium production and trade in Asia and around the world, now offers a rich cultural experience and outdoor adventures.
It’s located Just an hour drive from Chiang Rai city and is often included in the day tours operating from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. A great way to explore the region is by taking a private longtail boat on the Mekong River, offering views of the contrasting lifestyles in Laos and Thailand.
Another attractions that can be visited in this region is the Golden Triangle Park’s viewpoint providing a panoramic view of the three countries. In addition to the House of Opium museum which provides an overview about the area’s opium cultivation history.
When visiting The Golden Triangle on a Chiang Rai tour from Chiang Mai, you will also have the opportunity to explore Chiang Saen, an ancient district and former capital of the Lanna Kingdom. This district showcases traditional Lanna culture with its ancient temples and ruins.
Chiang Rai temples
The White Temple
The White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun is one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand. It’s a visually striking landmark that stands out for its design and symbolic artistry.
The White Temple was designed by a well known Thai Artist named Chalermchai Kositpipat. He started building the temple in the year of 1997 as a personal project. His main aim was to create a magnificent piece of art dedicated to Buddha and his teachings.
Most of the traditional Thai Temples are often in Golden Color. Unlike most of them, the White Temple’s use of white color with fragments of mirrored glass embedded in the structure symbolizes Buddha’s purity and wisdom shining throughout the universe. That was the Philosophy of Chalermchai Kositpipat when he chose the White Color.
The temple is a fusion of traditional Buddhist temple architecture with contemporary elements. It consists of several buildings including an Art Gallery, a Meditation hall, and the Main temple. In order to access the main temple, you will need to cross a bridge over a small lake, lined with hundreds of outreaching hands that symbolize unrestrained desire.
The White Temple has become one of the most visited and photographed sites in Chiang Rai, and it attracts several thousands of tourists annually.
The last renovation of the White temple was after the earthquake that took place in May 2014 which led to some damages to the main temple and other parts of the complex. it was promptly restored, and the ongoing construction resumed, ensuring the preservation and continuation of this iconic structure.
The Blue Temple
The Blue Temple, known as Wat Rong Suea Ten in Thai, is another remarkable stunning temple in Chiang Rai. It’s unique due to its vivid blue color and beautiful details. It was constructed between 2005 and 2016. The blue color of the temple symbolizes the Dharma of Buddhism, representing calm, wisdom, and purity. The walls, ceilings, and pillars feature carvings and painting.
There is a white Buddha statue with blue adornments inside the main hall which is a central element for worship and meditation. This temple is also one of the main attractions that is often included during Chiang Rai tours.
Baan Dam Museum (The Black House)
The Black House (Baan Dam) in Chiang Rai, is a unique artistic creation by the Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. This building is Characterized by its dark and ominous architecture. This complex represents a contrast to the region’s White Temple.
It features a collection of buildings painted in black, showcasing a mix of artworks, animal remains, and other unique artifacts that reflect themes of life, death, and nature. This amazing attraction is a must visit during your Chiang Rai tour.
Karen Village in Chiang Rai
The Karen Village is one of the Several hill tribes living in the northern part of Thailand. Visiting this place is considered as a support to the local communities and encouraging sustainable tourism. By visiting this attraction, you will have the opportunity to explore the culture of different tribes including Akha village, Lu Mien Village, Longneck Village and Lahu Village.
You can enjoy walking within the village alleys and see how locals live, explore their environment and maybe buy some of the local handmade products they produce to support the.
