Chiang Rai is a province in northern Thailand known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and art scene.
Here is a tourist guide to help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful province:
- Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): This stunning temple is a must-see attraction in Chiang Rai. Designed by a local artist, the temple features intricate details and a unique, contemporary design that sets it apart from traditional temples.
- Explore the Night Bazaar: Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar is excellent for picking up souvenirs and trying local food. You can find a variety of traditional handicrafts, clothing, and jewellery here, as well as delicious street food.
- Visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Another unique temple in Chiang Rai that the same artist also designs as the White Temple. The temple features intricate details and a unique, contemporary design with a blue-and-white colour scheme.
- Take a scenic drive: Chiang Rai is home to many beautiful scenic drives, such as the route that takes you to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.
- Visit the Black House (Baan Dam Museum): This museum is a collection of traditional and contemporary buildings and artworks created by the same artist as the White and Blue Temples.
- Visit the Clock Tower: The clock tower, located in the city centre, is another iconic attraction of Chiang Rai. The building features a large clock on the top and colourful LED lights that create a light show every hour.
- Visit the Chiang Rai Saturday Walking Street: This street market takes place every Saturday evening and features a variety of local products, food, and entertainment.
- Explore the Chiang Rai hills and mountains: Chiang Rai is home to many beautiful hills and mountains, such as Doi Tung and Doi Mae Salong, that are great for hiking and trekking.
- Visit the ethnic minority villages: Chiang Rai is home to many ethnic minority groups, including the Akha and Karen. Visiting a town is a great way to learn about their culture and way of life.
- Relax at a hot spring: Chiang Rai is home to several hot springs, such as Mae Kham hot Springs, that are great for relaxing after sightseeing.
Overall, Chiang Rai is a province with many beautiful natural and cultural attractions, delicious food, and friendly locals. It is a place that should be noticed when visiting Thailand.
Best time to visit Chiang Rai?
The best time to visit Chiang Rai is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. Unfortunately, this is also the peak tourist season so you can book your accommodations in advance.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the weather is still pleasant, and the groups are more minor.
How many days in Chiang Rai is enough?
It depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Chiang Rai has a lot to offer, including cultural and historical sites, outdoor activities, and scenic views.
Many recommend at least 2-3 days to explore the city and its surroundings. However, if you want to see more of the surrounding areas or participate in more activities, you should stay longer.
Ultimately, your time in Chiang Rai will depend on your personal preferences and travel itinerary.
The hottest month in Chiang Rai, is typically April. During this month, temperatures can reach an average of around 34-35 degrees Celsius, and the humidity can be pretty high.
Therefore, taking precautions and staying hydrated is essential, especially if you plan to be outside for extended periods.
Does it rain a lot in Chiang Rai?
Chiang Rai has a tropical monsoon climate, which experiences wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from May to October, with a higher likelihood of rain and thunderstorms.
The heaviest rainfall usually occurs in September and October. On the other hand, the dry season runs from November to April, with the least rain falling in January and February.
So, while it does rain a lot during the wet season, the dry season offers more favourable weather conditions.
What to wear in Chiang Rai?
The clothing you should wear in Chiang Rai depends on the time of year you visit and the planned activities. In general, it’s a good idea to dress in light, breathable clothing, as the temperatures can be pretty warm.
During the day, you can wear shorts, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. However, if you plan to visit temples or other cultural sites, it’s best to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
In the evening, it’s a good idea to bring a light sweater or jacket as the temperature can drop a bit, especially during the dry season.
If you’re planning to go hiking or trekking, it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and clothing that can protect you from the sun and bugs.
Overall, it’s best to pack clothing that can be layered so that you can adjust to the temperature and weather conditions.