Chiang Rai: Temples, Tuk Tuks, and Thailand's Hidden Gems

Discover the wonders of Chiang Rai for an unforgettable family adventure in Thailand.

19 July 2023

Chiang Rai, Thailand offers an incredible family-friendly trip filled with cultural experiences and natural wonders. Visit the iconic White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, known for its unique architecture and vibrant colors. Explore the Golden Triangle, where you can take a boat ride along the Mekong River and discover the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Lastly, don't miss a visit to the Blue Temple, known for its stunning blue hues and intricate decorations, providing a memorable experience for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Temples and Tuk Tuks

  • Start your day at Wat Rong Khun, the dazzling White Temple with its intricate carvings and crystal adornments.
  • Explore Baandam Museum, filled with bizarre black houses and eerie sculptures by the eccentric artist Thawan Duchanee.
  • Hop on a tuk-tuk and zip over to Wat Phra Kaew, famous for its Emerald Buddha and a stunning intricately carved wooden temple.
  • Meander through the bustling Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, sampling local street food and browsing for unique souvenirs.
  • Indulge in a traditional Thai massage at a local spa before retiring to your family-friendly hotel, like the charming Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa.
Day 2

Magical Mekong and Marvelous Monkeys

  • Embark on a boat tour along the mesmerizing Mekong River, passing scenic countryside and traditional villages.
  • Visit the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, and soak up the historical and cultural significance of the area.
  • Explore the Hall of Opium Museum to learn about the history of the opium trade in the region.
  • Head to the Doi Tung Royal Villa, once the residence of the late Princess Mother, and enjoy stunning gardens and panoramic views.
  • Drop by the Monkey Temple, officially known as Wat Tham Pa Acha Thong, where you can feed and interact with playful monkeys.
Day 3

Culinary Delights and Coffee Adventures

  • Kickstart your day with a visit to the Chiang Rai Coffee Plantation, where you can learn about local coffee production and indulge in a tasting session.
  • Explore the vibrant Chiang Rai Old Town, with its charming colonial architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • Have a traditional Thai lunch at The White House Restaurant, known for its delectable northern Thai cuisine.
  • Discover the quirky Baan Dam Coffee House, a coffee shop filled with odd taxidermy and unconventional decor.
  • Experience a cooking class at Namthip Home Cooking, learning to prepare authentic Thai dishes to satisfy your taste buds.
Day 4

Nature's Wonders and Relaxation

  • Venture to the stunning Singha Park, a vast green space featuring vibrant flower fields, serene lakes, and even a zipline adventure.
  • Discover the impressive Wat Huay Pla Kang, with its towering white Buddha statue and grand staircase.
  • Enjoy a picnic at Khun Korn Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of cascading water.
  • Visit the Black House (Baan Dam Museum) once again to appreciate its dark and eccentric collection of art and architecture.
  • End your day with a calming sunset river cruise along the Kok River, taking in the breathtaking scenery and reflecting on your unforgettable Chiang Rai adventure.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chiang Rai, Thailand by plane is to fly into Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). There are several airlines that operate direct flights to this airport from major cities in Thailand such as Bangkok and Phuket.

Car

To reach Chiang Rai by car, you can drive from Chiang Mai via Highway 118, which takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. It is a scenic drive through mountains and valleys.

Train

There is no direct train route to Chiang Rai. However, you can take a train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and then continue your journey to Chiang Rai by bus or car.

Boat

While Chiang Rai is not located near any major bodies of water, there are no direct boat routes available to reach the city.

Bus

One way to get to Chiang Rai by bus is to take a direct bus from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Chiang Rai Bus Terminal (Terminal 2). The journey takes around 9-10 hours and buses are available throughout the day.

Destination

Chiang Rai

Welcome to the city that's so far north, it's practically in a different country. Don't worry, though - the only things separating you from the Arctic Circle are a few mountains and a whole lot of heat.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days of Adventure in Chiang Rai

A trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand on a limited budget offers unique experiences to budget-conscious travelers. From exploring majestic temples, wandering through vibrant night markets, and savoring delicious street food, there are plenty of affordable things to do in Chiang Rai. Travelers can also find budget-friendly accommodations and transportation options that provide maximum value for their money.

Chiang Rai: A Thrilling 3-Day Adventure!

Chiang Rai, Thailand offers a wonderful destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the majestic White Temple, immerse in the vibrant Night Bazaar, and embark on thrilling adventures like bamboo rafting along the Kok River.

Chiang Rai: Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

Chiang Rai, Thailand offers an amazing travel experience for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's stunning temples, breathtaking natural scenery, and local markets while saving money on transportation and food costs. For accommodations, there are plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to choose from, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Romantic Weekend Getaway to Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Rai, Thailand is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With stunning temples, picturesque views of mountains and rice paddies, and delicious local cuisine, there's something for everyone. Take a stroll through the night market or explore the White Temple, and end your day with a relaxing spa treatment.