Let’s take a little look over the 14 best things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand…
With beautiful rolling hills and a unique natural charm, Thailand’s northernmost province borders Laos and Myanmar and is full of stunning scenery and a diverse array of attractions.
Considered the younger sibling of the ever-popular destination of Chiang Mai, this region is more of a hidden gem.
Perfect for lovers of the outdoors, you’re not going to want to miss Chiang Rai off your Thailand itinerary.
Here’s a list of the best things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
1. The White Temple/Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun is one of Chiang Rai’s more popular attractions.
Its beautiful architecture contrasts against the surrounding area, as temples in Thailand are usually Golden in color.
During your visit, you’ll notice that the temple isn’t a traditional place of worship as construction only started in 1997 – so has many contemporary elements such as sculpted mirrors and mirror shards to make it sparkle in the sun.
The temple is funded and created by local artist and architect Chalermchai Kositpipat who expects it to be completed within 50 years!
Pictures aren’t allowed inside the temple, but you can expect to see an eclectic mix of traditional Buddhist imagery as well as scenes and objects from famous Hollywood movies such as Star Wars – it’s a truly unique visit!
2. The Blue Temple/Wat Rong Seua Ten
If the White Temple isn’t to your liking, you could always visit the equally beautiful Blue Temple.
The Temple is another modern addition to the region, inside you’ll find that the interior is completely blue!
The color is symbolic of purity and wisdom, and the design features more traditional Buddhist styles than the White Temple.
The blue color scheme combined with a detailed golden trim makes for a calming and tranquil place to unwind.
Plus, the entry is completely free!
3. Watch the Sunrise and Sunset at Phu Chi Fah
Phu Chi Fah is popular with Thai tourists, but the stunning scenery is often overlooked by international tourists.
The area is famed for its picturesque sunrises, so much so that people neglect the incredible sunsets.
If possible, you should aim for an overnight trip so that you can witness the phenomenal sights from the summit.
If you’re very lucky, you’ll see the clearest skies at night and a sea of fog covering the below ground in the morning.
The sunrise over the fog and rolling hills is a truly spectacular sight.
4. Visit the Night Bazaar
If you’re looking for a more upbeat evening, Chiang Rai’s night bazaar has it all.
From a bustling and vibrant market selling a vast array of goods, to a popular food area with some of the most delectable street food.
You’re sure to be spoiled for choice!
There’s also a staging area where you can witness some traditional dancers perform a mesmerising choreography.
Located near Chiang Rai bus terminal 1, the Night Bazaar is well worth a visit to soak up some traditionally modern Thai atmosphere.
5. The Hill Tribe Museum
The Hill Tribe Museum is small but packed with information about the hill tribe villages.
It’s recommended that you visit here before going on a trek to the villages.
It helps tourists to understand the way of life of the different Hill Tribes and broaden your perspective.
With a range of archaeological and anthropological objects from pottery to textiles, the curator is passionate about the project and will be happy to answer any questions.
6. The Oub Kham Museum
If you’re not planning on trekking in the hills, the Oub Kham Museum may be a better visit.
Close to the Den Ha Market, the museum holds a diverse range of rare artifacts and collectibles from the Lanna Kingdom, spanning over one thousand years.
It’s well worth a visit to learn more about the history of the region.
7. Singha Park
Singha Park is one of the best things to do in Chiang Rai because it offers something for everyone.
Though the location isn’t served by public transport, you can get there using a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Aside from the natural scenery, you’ll find a lake, tea plantations, and a mini zoo with an educational farm so you can get up close and personal with the animals.
There are also fields where visitors are allowed to pick their own fruit and vegetables.
If you’re looking for something more fast-paced and with more adrenaline, you can choose to zipline over the tea plantations.
It’s recommended that you rent a bike to cycle your way through Singha Park, as it’s large.
Alternatively, you can take the tourist train.
If you visit at the right time of year, you might also see the annual hot air balloon festival which is quite the spectacle!
8. Khun Korn Waterfall
Khun Korn waterfall is a 70-meter-tall natural beauty, accessed by a short jungle trek in Khun Korn Forest Park in Chiang Rai.
The road to the forest park passes small villages, roadside eateries, and lush green rice fields (at the right time of year!).
The hike up to the waterfall is tranquil and scenic.
It’s perfect for beginner hikers as the trail is quite flat and you can cross the stream easily by using the bamboo bridge.
Depending on the time of your visit you can swim in the shallow freshwater pool at the bottom of the fall.
Enjoy the sight and sound of cascading water rippling through the dense jungle, and if you look closely enough, you’ll see a vast range of small wildlife from reptiles, birds, and insects.
Entry to the waterfall is free and is open daily from 8am-5pm, closing only in the wet season for safety.
9. Wat Huay Pla Kung
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a temple complex known for its large white statue of Guanyin – the Chinese Goddess of Mercy.
Much like the other two temples in the list, Wat Huay Pla Kang is a modern addition and features unusual architectural features that differ from traditional temples.
The complex is nestled upon a hilltop that overlooks the heart of Chiang Rai.
To get the best view, you can climb to the top of the nine-story pagoda to look out over the lush green hills.
Alternatively, for 40 Baht, you can climb inside the statue with its carved interior and viewpoint openings.
10. Visit Doi Tung
Doi Tung is a mountain located 60km from the center of Chiang Rai town.
There’s plenty to see and do around the Doi Tung area.
You can walk along the Tree Top Walk and see it all from a bird’s eye perspective.
From the 300m long suspension bridge, you’ll get a spectacular view of the surrounding forests and mountains.
If you’re not a fan of heights, you can enjoy the wonderful floral gardens of Mae Fah Luang Garden.
The garden is an ornate and well-kept space featuring different kinds of colorful flora arranged in visually appealing patterns.
Of course, Chiang Rai’s climate and mountainous nature make it ideal for growing plants due to the rich soil.
Choui Fong Tea Plantation offers something a little different though, instead of colorful flowers, you’ll find some of the finest teas in the country.
Why not stop off at the tea shop after your mountain hike?
The Thai sun is beautiful and warm but can sometimes be unforgiving.
If you need to step into the shade for a while, you can visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa, which was the home of the late Princess Srinakarindra and was built in the Lanna Kingdom style.
Its simple design embodies luxury and elegance.
The Doi Tung area is also home to various Akha Tribes that have a rich history and vibrant culture.
The Akha are well known for their elaborate and colorful headdresses, and their phenomenal embroidery skills.
Visiting the tribal villages will be a one-of-a-kind experience that you don’t want to miss out on in Chiang Rai.
11. Visit an Elephant Sanctuary
For an unforgettable trip to Chiang Rai, you must visit one of the sanctuaries.
Traditional elephant rides are harsh and cruel to these majestic creatures.
The sanctuaries allow visitors to safely get up close and personal with the elephants who are well cared for.
Elephant Valley is a great option when in the Chiang Rai area as the welfare of the animals is the top priority.
Their motto is ‘let elephants be elephants’, and visitors can get close to the elephants, but may not touch them.
instead, you’ll be guided through the rehabilitation process by a knowledgeable guide whilst being able to observe the animals in their natural habitat.
This is to allow the elephants to return to their wild ways after being rescued from bad conditions, with the intent to release them back into the wild.
However, you can opt to take part in some guided programs with the workers.
Some of these programs offer lunch with organically sourced food from local suppliers, so you’ll be getting an authentic taste of Thailand.
12. Pong Phra Bat Hot Springs (Ban Du)
After an adventurous and fun-filled time in Chiang Rai, don’t pass up on the opportunity to relax in some of the natural hot springs.
There are several hot springs to choose from, but one of the most popular spots is the Pong Phra Bat Hot Spring.
Open from 8am to 8pm, the Pong Phra Bat Hot Spring has a full range of facilities including bathrooms, private rooms, and showers.
You’ll also be close to the Pong Phra Bat waterfall if the heat gets too much.
Tucked away amidst the tranquil nature, the springs promise to be a soothing break from sightseeing and bustling tourist areas.
With several other hot springs to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
If you get a little hungry, don’t worry!
It’s very common for Thai locals to boil eggs in dedicated hot spring pools, and many of the springs will offer an egg stall where you can try it for yourself.
13. Visit the Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is where the Mekong and Ruak rivers meet and where you can view Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar all from one balcony on a high hill!
By standing at the vantage point, you’ll be able to get some spectacular views.
Just below this point, you’ll find an ancient temple ruin with a huge golden Buddha statue that watches over the calm waters of the Mekong River.
The attraction is located 50km from Chiang Rai but is one of the most popular things to do for national and international tourists alike, as there are many other points of interest in the region.
For example, just next to the Golden Triangle you’ll find a small museum that focuses on the turbulent history of the Opium trade.
14. Visit the Clock Tower
Every town has famous landmarks.
In Chiang Rai, the clock tower is a popular spot with tourists and locals.
Designed by the same architect who built the White Temple, it’s worth a visit on a quieter or more relaxed evening.
It can be visited day or night, but it’s best to visit at 7, 8 or 9pm – when you can see a small light show accompanied by music.
The tower gets lit up at nightfall, making it one of the most iconic sites in the heart of Chiang Rai.
Summary: The Best Things to Do in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Now you’ve explored some of the best things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand, make sure to add this stunning place to your travel itinerary.
If you’re looking for the most fun places to visit in Thailand, take a look at our other recommendations so that you can plan out your entire Thailand trip.
Map of Chiang Rai, Thailand
Chiang Rai by Video
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