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Chiang Rai on a Budget: A Three-Day Adventure

Discover Chiang Rai's magic without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience for any budget-conscious traveler. Explore its majestic temples, roam the streets for some tasty street food, and visit the night markets for a shopping spree, all without breaking the bank. Staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels and taking local transportation can save you money while still allowing you to experience the beauty and culture of the city.

Travel plan

• Check into Nak Nakara Hotel, a charming boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a cozy atmosphere
• Visit the famous Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, a stunning contemporary temple with intricate artwork and crystal embellishments
• Explore the Hill Tribe Museum and Education Center to learn about the culture and history of the local ethnic groups
• Grab a bite to eat at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, a cozy café serving delicious Thai and Western cuisine with a quirky, vintage vibe
• Wander the Night Bazaar, a bustling market with local vendors selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food

• Enjoy breakfast at Chiang Rai Beach Resort & Restaurant, a waterfront restaurant with delicious Thai and Western cuisine overlooking the river
• Take a Baan Dam Museum tour, a unique museum showcasing contemporary artwork inspired by traditional Lanna architecture and culture
• Visit the Singha Park, a scenic park with beautiful gardens, a petting zoo, and activities like ziplining and biking for adventure seekers
• Lunch at Chiang Rai Khao Soi, a local restaurant offering the traditional Chiang Rai noodle dish with a variety of toppings and spicy curry broth
• Take a relaxing dip in the hot springs of Mae Ka Chan and soak in the natural beauty surrounded by lush greenery

• Visit the breathtaking Wat Phra Kaew, the site of the original emerald Buddha now located in Bangkok, with a stunning replica housed in a golden shrine
• Head to the Oub Kham Museum, a small museum showcasing traditional art and artifacts from Chiang Rai and Southeast Asia
• Lunch at the funky Lisu Lodge Café, a social enterprise café supporting the local Lisu tribe with delicious Thai and international dishes
• Explore the Baan Dam Siam, a cultural village showcasing traditional crafts and customs of various ethnic groups in Northern Thailand
• End the day with the charming nightly show at Chiang Rai Cultural Hall, showcasing traditional Thai dance and music performances.
• With this itinerary, you'll experience the best of Chiang Rai, from stunning temples and unique museums to gorgeous parks and delicious cuisine, all while staying at a charming hotel and staying within a limited budget. Enjoy your adventure in this beautiful city!