About Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is Thailand's northernmost major city and has about 70,000 inhabitants. The city lies on the Kok, a river of about 130 km, and is calmer and smaller than Chiang Mai. Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, is an artwork by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat and draws visitors from far and wide. The blue Wat Rong Suea Ten and the black Baan Dam museum are other striking sights. In the centre stands the golden clock tower, where a light show is held in the evening, and the night market is pleasant. Further out you can visit tea and coffee plantations, hill villages and the Golden Triangle near Chiang Saen. The city is a good base for the far north and the starting point of the boat trip along the Kok to Tha Ton.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
Chiang Rai has its own airport with flights from Bangkok; from Chiang Mai by bus (about 3 to 4 hours). Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Chiang Rai
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) A striking white temple complex with mirrored details; arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wat Rong Suea Ten A vivid blue temple with gold details, nicely lit in the evening.
- Baan Dam A black museum with wooden buildings and art by Thawan Duchanee.
- Clock tower and night market The golden clock tower in the centre has an evening show, with the market right nearby.
