CHIANG RAI

Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northernmost large city with a history as colourful as the traditional clothes worn by locals. It offers excellent ecotourism programs with plenty of trekking and interaction with local communities who depend on passing tourism trade – including Shan and Tai hilltribe groups.

Chiang Rai Province is located in the northernmost of Thailand. It is a mountainous region with rivers and jungles, so there is a lot of beautiful nature surrounding the area. The north of Chiang Rai borders Myanmar, the south borders Phayao Province, the east borders Laos, and the west borders Chiang Mai Province.

Chiang Rai population consists of people of various ethnic backgrounds, including those from hill tribes and Chinese lineage. This factors into Chiang Tai’s unique traditions and makes the city an excellent and different location for tourists to experience.

Today, Chiang Rai is a traveler’s paradise, endowed with abundant natural attractions and antiquities. Attractions range from ruins of ancient settlements and Buddhist shrines to magnificent mountain scenery and hill tribe villages. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is a magical experience; explore the mountains of the north along various hiking trails, many of which access the villages of diverse hill tribal groups, many of whom maintain their traditional lifestyles.

Tips

The cool season is the perfect time to visit Chiang Rai because the weather will be incredible, and you will get a chance to enjoy beautiful views from the mountain tops.

For the New Year Festival, the hill tribes will perform their cultural shows around the end of December. However, since it is a busy period, you should always book accommodations well in advance.

Don’t forget to go shopping at Mae Sai Market. And if you want to visit ThaKheeLek Market in Myanmar, you should organize your visa ahead to save time.

If you want to go cruising along the Kok River, you should wear a long-sleeve shirt, a pair of shorts, sandals, and always bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and water. And for your own safety, don’t forget to wear a life jacket while aboard the boat.