Is Chiang Rai worth visiting during a trip to Chiang Mai in Thailand? This is an often-asked question for anyone visiting the city of Chiang Mai. Although we lived in Chiang Mai for several years, we put off taking the trip to Chiang Rai until recently, something we now regret.
So, is Chiang Rai worth visiting? After our trip we can most definitely say yes and recommend that you put Chiang Rai on the top of your list of places to visit from Chiang Mai Thailand.
- Why is it worth visiting Chiang Rai?
- Where Is Chiang Rai Thailand?
- How long to spend in Chiang Rai?
- The White Temple – Wat Rong Khun
- Chiang Rai Blue Temple – Wat Rong Suea Ten
- The Black House – Baandam
- Long Neck Karen Hill Tribe Village
- The Golden Triangle
- Choui Fong Tea Plantation
- Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
- Visiting Chiang Rai Independently
- Chiang Rai Hotels & Resorts
- The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Transport Options
- Last Words On Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting?
Why is it worth visiting Chiang Rai?
You will find plenty of places to visit and things to do in Chiang Rai but possibly the most famous is Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple as it is more commonly known. The White Temple and surrounding temple complex buildings are a magnificent sight to see and truly worth the six hour round trip drive from Chiang Mai.
Other Chiang Rai attractions include the equally stunning Blue Temple and the striking artworks of the Black House. Also sitting on Chiang Rai’s doorstep are the Longneck Karen hilltribe villages, the Choui Fong tea plantation and Golden Triangle, a region where the countries of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
Where Is Chiang Rai Thailand?
Most people visiting Chiang Rai will combine the trip with a visit to the city of Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand. Chiang Rai is around three-hours north of Chiang Mai. This 186 km (115 mile) journey can be taken with a day tour, a bus or private transfer.
Bangkok is 791 km (491 miles) south of Chiang Rai. Those wanting to bypass Chiang Mai can take direct flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. Flights leave from both Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Mueang International Airport with a flight time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
How long to spend in Chiang Rai?
How long you spend in Chiang Rai will depend on your time frame and your choice of things to do in the Chiang Rai region.
Possibly the most popular option is to take a Chiang Rai tour from Chiang Mai. You will find a variety of Chiang Rai itineraries and they can be taken as a day trip or a multi-day tour which will allow you to enjoy the countryside and attractions at a slower pace.
Click here to book a Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai tour
The White Temple – Wat Rong Khun
The White Temple or Wat Rong Khun as it is known in Thai, is simply breathtaking! At first glance you will see a brilliant white façade which is magnificently framed by the deep blue sky. It is not until you get closer that you begin to understand the true artistry and devotion that went into creating this incredible Buddhist temple complex.
The White Temple is the creation of Chalermchai Kositpipat, a local artist renowned for his paintings, sculptures, and architectural artworks. You will be astounded by the artists vision as you walk within an exceptionally beautiful and serene setting filled with Buddhist symbolism and philosophy.
Wat Rong Khun is a large temple complex filled with a collection of buildings and gardens. There is a lot to see and here we show some of the highlights of the White Temple complex.
Top Tip: When visiting Buddhist temples remember to dress modestly, make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered.
Click here for White Temple tours
The White Temple
The White Temple is divided into four main buildings, the Chapel, the Buddha Relics Tower, the Sukhawadee Bridge and Buddhist Tower.
Entry into the White Temple is over a bridge which looks down over a sea of outstretched hands that appear frozen amid chaos and agony. My first thought was that this was a representation of hell but later learned that the hands symbolise the love of earthly desires and that the bridge to happiness and enlightenment is to resist temptation.
Standing guard at the “Gate of Heaven” are two fierce creatures wielding swords, their bodies clothed in bones and sculls. One points its finger in judgement, ready to choose who is fit to enter heaven.
Entering the heart of the White Temple you will find a series of highly decorated temples, alcoves, and walkways. The walls and Buddhist imagery are embedded with thousands of delicate silver mirror tiles making the whiteness of the temple sparkle even brighter.
The Golden Bathroom
Across from the White Temple is the Golden Bathroom. You may wonder why I would include a bathroom as an attraction, but it needs to be included as it isn’t every day that you get the chance to visit a golden “loo”. The buildings ornately decorated golden exterior has an equally impressive golden interior.
Art Gallery
While at the White Temple make sure to visit the Art Gallery. Inside you will find an extensive collection of paintings by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. These striking paintings are exquisitely rendered in a contemporary Buddhist style that sends a message of peace to humanity.
Dharma Garden
Although the grounds of the White Temple complex are beautifully manicured and maintained, the Dharma Garden adds an atmosphere of fun, terror, and peace. Throughout the garden you will find statues and other features that are influenced by Buddhist teachings.
Click here for White Temple tours
Chiang Rai Blue Temple – Wat Rong Suea Ten
The Blue Temple or Wat Rong Suea Ten as it is known in Thai, is an impressive Buddhist temple complex and the second most visited attraction in Chiang Rai.
The Blue Temple offers an interesting contrast to the pure white brilliance of the White Temple. The dusky blue hues of Wat Rong Suea Ten imparts a dreamlike quality that begins from the moment you pass under the giant statues that guard the entrance.
Upon entering the temple grounds, you will find a variety of buildings decorated in shades of blue and gold. With each turn you will find a breathtaking collection of Buddhist symbols and imagery.
Fierce Naga Serpents stand at the entrance of the main temple. The inside is dominated by a majestic white Buddha which is framed by colourful Buddhist paintings depicting religious stories.
Once outside you can buy a drink at one of the many stalls or try a bright blue butterfly-pea flower ice cream, a refreshing and delicious treat unique to the Blue Temple.
Top Tip: When visiting Buddhist temples remember to dress modestly, make sure that your shoulders and knees are covered.
Click here for Blue Temple tours
The Black House – Baandam
The Black House or Baandam as it is known in Thai, is one of the most interesting museums I have ever visited. This provocative collection of artworks was created by world renowned local artist Thawan Duchanee.
Scattered across the museum grounds are a group of old teak buildings that house an extraordinary assortment of artworks that come straight from the dark, quirky, bizarre, and strikingly beautiful imagination of the artist.
A visit to the Black House is a unique and unforgettable experience, one that should not be missed on a trip to Chiang Rai Thailand.
Click here for Black House tours
Long Neck Karen Hill Tribe Village
Long before visiting Thailand, I remember seeing photos of women with impossibly long necks adorned with circlets of brass. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine that I would one day meet them in their village.
Visiting a Long Neck Karen hill tribe village gives a glimpse into the culture of these fascinating people. Each village house has a thatched roof and walls made of bamboo and although simple, are neat and well maintained.
The village sits in a peaceful rural setting with large fishponds and alleyways where colourful chickens run free and local dogs swagger with a carefree attitude. Before meeting the Long Neck hill tribe women take the time to browse the roadside stalls for a fabulous array of hilltribe arts and crafts.
Click here for Long Neck Karen hill tribe village tours
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle refers to the region where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet. You can see all three countries from the viewpoint and take a boat down the Mekong River to get a closer look.
The area was also once infamous for heroin production, and you can learn the history of the opium trade on a visit to the Opium House.
Click here for Golden Triangle tours
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
The Chiang Rai region has the perfect climate for growing tea. At the Choui Fong Tea Plantation you can learn everything you have ever wanted to know about tea production. The plantation grows a variety of teas including Oolong, Assam, green and black tea.
The Choui Fong Tea Café features a tea making demonstration and is the perfect place to enjoy your favourite brew in futuristic style with spectacular 360-degree views overlooking the plantation.
Click here for Choui Fong Tea Plantation tours
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
The Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is a small market which features Northern Thai arts & crafts, live music, and street food. If you have a longer stay in Chiang Rai, the market is definitely worth visiting a great place to come to soak up the local atmosphere.
If you are visiting Chiang Rai independently, the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is a short walk from Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1.
Click here for Chiang Rai Night Bazaar Tours from Chiang Rai
Visiting Chiang Rai Independently
If you don’t want to take a tour, another option is to take your time and explore the area on your own independently.
You will find a good variety of Chiang Rai hotels to choose from and they range from budget to luxury resorts. Transport options from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai include private transfer and bus.
Click here for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Transport Options
Of course, you can still travel to Chiang Rai independently and take a tour of Chiang Rai once you arrive. This is a popular choice for anyone wanting to spend more time in the Chiang Rai region.
Click here for Chiang Rai tours from Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai Hotels & Resorts
Popular places to stay in Chiang Rai are the luxury resorts along the banks of the Kok River or at hotels near the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1.
Here we showcase three different styles of accommodation in Chiang Rai Thailand, luxury resort to mid-range and budget hotels.
Click here for more Chiang Rai Hotel Options
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort Thailand
The Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort is our top choice for luxury Chiang Rai resort accommodation. This stunning 5-star resort has a décor which is inspired by the Thai Lanna style of the region. Wide interconnecting verandas overlook peaceful views of the Kok River.
Le Meridien rooms and suites are decorated in a fresh modern design and feature a choice of garden, pool, and river views. The resort has three onsite restaurants with Favola offering tranquil terrace views overlooking the Kok River. Other resort facilities include a spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.
Click here to book Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai
The Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai is our pick for a mid-range Chiang Rai hotel. The Le Patta Hotel Chiang Rai is in the centre of Chiang Rai, close to markets and attractions.
The hotel rooms are light, airy and modern, with a variety of room configurations including twin, double and suites with separate living room area. All rooms have a balcony and suites feature a private terrace.
The onsite restaurant serves both Thai and Western dishes. Other hotel facilities include a saltwater pool and gym.
Click here to book La Patta Hotel Chiang Rai
Sleepy House Chiang Rai
The Sleepy House Chiang Rai is our choice for budget Chiang Rai hotel. The Sleepy House Chiang Rai is a cosy and clean hotel which is styled in a cute and quirky cat theme.
The hotel is in the centre of Chiang Rai, close to the night market and the bus terminal. The hotel has a choice of twin, double and family rooms.
Click here to book Sleepy House Chiang Rai
The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Transport Options
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai transport options for the independent traveller include private transfer and bus.
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Private Transfers
A Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai private transfer is possibly the easiest and most convenient transport option after a tour.
Private transfers can also be arranged for groups and include hotel pick up and drop off. The travel time between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai is around three hours.
Click here for private transfers between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bus
GreenBus services the Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai bus route with a journey time of 3 hours & 45 minutes. The Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai bus leaves from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 and arrives at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 in central Chiang Rai.
Click here for Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Bus tickets
Top Tip: Note that Chiang Rai has more than one bus terminal, Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1 is the closest to the Chiang Rai city centre.
Click here for bus from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai tickets
Last Words On Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting?
Is Chiang Rai worth visiting? After reading this article I’m sure you are already booking your trip to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand.
When you visit the attractions of Chiang Rai get ready for a long day but after you visit, I’m sure you will agree that it was well worth the time and effort.
So, if you are visiting Chiang Mai in Thailand make sure to put a trip to Chiang Rai on the top of your list of things to do.
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