About Chiang Rai Province
Chiang Rai is Thailand's northernmost province, sharing borders with Myanmar and Laos and meeting them at the famous Golden Triangle on the Mekong. The provincial capital is a relaxed riverside town that serves as a base for visiting Wat Rong Khun, the gleaming white temple designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, and the Baan Dam Museum.
Top Highlights
Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat
Baan Dam Museum (Black House) compound by the late Thawan Duchanee
Doi Tung royal-project plantations and former opium-belt rehabilitation
Golden Triangle viewpoint and Mae Sai, Thailand's northernmost border town
Getting There
Chiang Rai International Airport has multiple daily flights from Bangkok and connections to Chiang Mai. By road, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is around three hours, and there are direct overnight buses from Bangkok's Mo Chit terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Senior Travel Writer · Bangkok · 12+ years in Thailand
James has lived in Bangkok since 2014 and has visited all 77 Thai provinces. He specialises in destination guides, itinerary planning, and transport logistics. Before moving to Thailand, he worked as a travel journalist in Hong Kong and Singapore. He speaks conversational Thai and is a certified PADI divemaster.
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