5 Days of Adventure in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Discover hidden gems in the cultural capital of northern Thailand.

22 April 2023

Chiang Rai offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich heritage and cultural experiences for the discerning traveler. Visitors can explore the stunning White Temple, indulge in delicious local cuisine and visit hill tribe villages. A trip to Chiang Rai is an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Thailand.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Discovery

  • Check into the Art Mai Gallery Hotel, a stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop pool
  • Visit Wat Rong Khun, a stunning all-white temple with intricate carvings and murals
  • Explore the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, a bustling market filled with local crafts and delicious street food
  • Sample some famous Northern Thai delicacies like khao soi (curried noodle soup) and sai oua (spicy sausage) at Pong Phra Bat hot pot restaurant
  • Relax with a massage at one of Chiang Rai's many spas
Day 2

Nature and Adventure

  • Visit the Mae Fah Luang Garden, a stunning botanical garden with an impressive collection of plants and flowers
  • Take a boat ride along the Kok River, enjoying views of the lush greenery and rural life
  • Explore the Tham Pla cave, home to hundreds of fish and beautiful Buddha statues
  • Hike up to the Huai Mae Sai waterfall, a picturesque cascade surrounded by nature
  • Enjoy a traditional Thai dinner at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, a quaint cafe with delicious food and a beautiful view
Day 3

Hill Tribes and Culture

  • Visit the Hill Tribe Museum and Education Center, learning about the cultural traditions of the local tribes
  • Take a trek to a nearby hill tribe village, experiencing the daily life and customs of the people
  • Explore the Baan Dam Museum, a fascinating exhibition of provocative sculptures and dark art
  • Visit the Chiang Rai Clock Tower, a vibrant landmark with a nightly light show
  • Try some authentic Northern Thai cuisine at Saen Samran restaurant, specializing in khantoke-style dining
Day 4

Temples and History

  • Visit the Wat Phra Kaew, home to Thailand's most revered Buddha image and the original site of the Emerald Buddha
  • Head to the nearby Wat Jed Yod, a unique temple with an Indian influence and intricate details
  • Journey to the hilltop Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside
  • Explore the historic Chiang Rai City Walking Street, a charming market filled with handmade crafts and local food
  • Enjoy some delicious Thai fusion cuisine at the trendy Daiichi Art Space restaurant
Day 5

Leisure and Relaxation

  • Visit the Singha Park, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens, animal shows, and outdoor activities
  • Relax with a cup of tea and stunning views at the Choui Fong Tea Plantation
  • Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Khun Korn Waterfall
  • Soak in the natural hot springs at the Pong Phra Bat Hot Spring Resort
  • Indulge in a final Thai meal at the delightful Annabel's Restaurant, featuring fresh ingredients and homemade dishes

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

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

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.

Escape to Chiang Rai: A Romantic 4-Day Getaway

Escape to the picturesque landscapes of Chiang Rai, Thailand for a whimsical romantic trip. Surrender yourselves to the enchanting scenery, and rediscover your love amid the beauty of lush rainforests, mighty mountains, and glittering waterfalls. Relish in the rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and hospitable locals for a truly unforgettable experience.

5 Days of Adventure in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Rai offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich heritage and cultural experiences for the discerning traveler. Visitors can explore the stunning White Temple, indulge in delicious local cuisine and visit hill tribe villages. A trip to Chiang Rai is an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Thailand.

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.