Golden Triangle

📍 Location of Golden Triangle 🚘 Directions to Golden Triangle

About Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle, once known as the opium-growing region of northern Thailand, eastern Burma, and western Laos, is a unique and intriguing destination. It's a place where three countries meet, offering a unique perspective on the convergence of cultures and landscapes. This area is particularly popular among tourists visiting Chiang Rai, a city in northern Thailand.

The Golden Triangle is not just a geographical marvel, but also a place of great beauty and charm. Many visitors hire scooters and travel up from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle, enjoying the scenic ride. Despite its popularity, the area is not overly crowded, providing ample opportunities for photography. The sight of the three countries meeting at a single point is a spectacle to behold.

While the area doesn't offer a plethora of activities, it's worth visiting for the unique experience and the stunning views. Visitors can spend time exploring the market stalls, sampling local food, and even taking river trips. The average visit lasts about 30 minutes, but the memories made here can last a lifetime.

The Golden Triangle also boasts good hotels and restaurants. One standout is Mekong Pizza, a well-managed pizza house that serves not only outstanding pizzas but also great salads and Philly Steak Sandwiches. The view of the Mekong river from this restaurant is simply breathtaking.

However, not all experiences in the Golden Triangle are positive. For instance, Don Sao, a Lao island in the center of the Mekong river, has changed significantly over the years. Once a charming local market with families at each stall, it has now been taken over by vendors selling fake goods in a concrete and tin shed. The quality of goods is poor and the atmosphere is lacking. It's recommended to avoid this island and instead focus on the many other wonderful things to see and do in Thailand.

Another word of caution pertains to the food. One visitor reported a case of severe food poisoning after consuming raw liver at a riverside restaurant. Additionally, some of the offerings, such as tiger penis and snake blood wine, may not appeal to all tastes. It's always wise to be cautious about what you eat and drink when traveling.

Despite these drawbacks, the Golden Triangle remains a fascinating place to visit. It's a place where you can truly share the joy of seeing three countries meet, whether from the Thai side or by taking a boat ride. It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique travel experience.