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General Information
Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers
north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area
of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580
meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned
Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also
known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.
Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai,
was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice
fields), which was later conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that
Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the
reign of King Rama VI in 1910.
Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural
tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past
civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of
ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as
the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating
lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle
trekking is recommended along various trails.
Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' now competes with
Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for
tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind.
How to get there
Bangkok - Chiang Rai
By Air
Thai Airways has daily flights connecting Bangkok with Chiang Rai. For more
information, contact their Bangkok office at tel. 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, the Chiang Rai Office tel. 0 5371 1179, 0 5371 5207, or view their website
at www.thaiairways.com.
One-Two-Go offers daily flights from Bangkok to Chiang Rai. Call 1126 or
book online at http://www.fly12go.com
SGA offers flights to Chiang Rai. Call 0 2664 6099 or visit:
www.sga.co.th
By Bus
The coach ride from Bangkok to Chiang Rai is probably best made overnight
since passengers can avail themselves of sleep prior to an early morning arrival. There are both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned bus services
from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaengphet 2 Road. The journey may take approximately 9-11 hours.
By Car
Take Highway No. 1 (Phahonyothin Road), turn to route No. 32 passing Ayutthaya, Angthong and Singburi Provinces and change to route No. 11
passing Phitsanulok, Uttaradit and Phrae Provinces then turn left to Highway
No. 103, drive through to Ngao District and turn right onto Highway No. 1
which takes you to Phayao and Chiang Rai Provinces. The total distance is
785 km.
By Rail
There is no direct train to Chiang Rai. You have to take a train to Lampang
(9 hrs. from Bangkok) or Chiang Mai (11 hrs.) and then take a bus to Chiang
Rai. (2 hrs. from Lampang and 1.30 hrs. from Chiang Mai) For more details,
call the State Railway of Thailand, 1690 (hotline), or 0 2223 7010 or 0 2223
7020.
By Boat
The capital may also be reached from Tha Thon in Chiang Mai province by a
scenic 4-6 hour (depending on climatic conditions, such as rain, and other
factors such as high waters and fast currents) long-tail boat ride along the
Mae Kok River.
Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai
By Bus
Chiang Rai is 182 kilometers north of Chiang Mai. Air conditioned buses
leave 12 times daily from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal to Chiang Rai. Some
buses continue to Mae Sai and Chiang Saen.
By Air
Airlines have numerous daily flights servicing the Bangkok-Chiang Mai route
and the Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai route.
Attractions
Amphoe Chiang Khong
Chiang Khong
Chiang Khong is a small, peaceful district on the bank of the Mekong River
opposite Huaixai, Lao PDR. It is about 115 kilometers from the provincial
seat, or approximately 55 kilometers to the east of Chiang Saen on Highway
No. 1129. Chiang Khong is noted as the place where Pla Buk, giant catfish,
is cultivated. The Chiang Khong Fishery Station is able to inseminate and
breed Pla Buk, the largest fresh water fish in the world and fingerlings
bred here have been released in several rivers. It should be noted that the
fishing season is from mid-January to May.
Sightseeing trips by boat are available to view the scenery and life styles
along the Mekong River. An additional attraction is a visit to Ban Hat Bai,
a Thai Lu community noted for making beautiful local fabrics. To cross over
to Huaixai town in Lao PDR, contact the immigration office or tour agencies
at Chiang Khong.
Amphoe Chiang Saen
Chiang Saen
An ancient town located on the bank of the Mekong River, Chiang Saen was
originally called Wiang Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang. It served as the capital of
the Lanna Thai Kingdom until King Mengrai established Chiang Rai as the
capital in 1262. Ruins of the old double city walls and many other
antiquities remain both inside and outside the district town. Most notable
is the distinctive style of Buddhist sculpture which evolved in Chiang Saen
during the late thirteenth century providing proof of the city's historical
importance.
Rich cultural heritage, coupled with natural tourist attractions, has made
Chiang Saen a unique tourist destination.
Travelling to Chiang Saen
By car: This riverside town facing the Mekong River is 30 kilometers from
Mae Chan District via Highway No. 1016. Alternatively, it can be reached by
taking Highway No. 110 from Chiang Rai (the city), then take a right turn
into Highway No. 1016 and proceed for another thirty kilometers.
Rental car: It may probably be easier rent a car in Chiang Rai and
then drive to Chiang Saen, but renting a motorbike may be a better bet as
the roads one will probably explore in the area are easier to negotiate by
two wheeled transport.
Buses: There are numerous buses traveling from Chiang Rai to Chiang
Saen for around 20 baht one way. The trip can take from 45 minutes to 2
hours, depending on the traffic and the number of stops it makes en-route.
If you travel from Chiang Mai, it is advisable to ask for the 'new route' (sai
mai) as this only takes 4 to 5 hours and makes only a few stops en-route.
The old route can take over 9 hours to complete with many stops along the
way.
Chiang Saen Lake
Drive five kilometers south of Chiang Saen, along Highway No. 1016 (Chiang
Saen-Mae Chan route), take a left turn and you will find Chiang Saen Lake: a
large natural reservoir with scenic surroundings. The lake is home to large
flocks of migratory waterfowls which are most plentiful and can be seen at
their best from November through February. In addition to the scenery,
accommodations and water sports facilities are available.
Chiang Saen National Museum
Located in old town Chiang Saen, this museum exhibits artifacts excavated
locally including a well-known Chiang Saen-style bronze Buddha image and
Lanna Thai artifacts. Inscription stones from Phayao and Chiang Saen itself
can be found in the museum. In addition, there are exhibitions of indigenous
art objects of the Thai Yai, Thai Lu and other hill tribes. These items
include musical instruments, ornaments and opium-smoking accessories. The
museum is open on Wednesdays through Sundays from 9.00a.m. to 4.00p.m.,
except on national holidays.
Hall of Opium, Golden Triangle Park
The Hall of Opium at the Golden Triangle Park houses several sections to be
explored and various exhibitions to be contemplated. For example, the 5,600
square-meter Hall of Opium presents An Invitation to the Mysterious World of
Opium from Darkness to Light, the history of opium as of 5,000 years ago
from its natural properties to its uses. It traces opium's global journey
through trade routes in the age of imperialism, culminating in the Opium
Wars-an event that disgraced both winners and losers that led to the fall of
the Manchu Dynasty. It also features Siamese wisdom in confronting the West
and the eventual control of opium problems.
Other exhibits are presented in a manner that encourages visitors learn how
drugs become a part of everyday life and understand the impact of opium on
society in terms of crime, conflict and illegal drugs. Additionally, the
Hall of Opium presents efforts to curb drugs through actual case studies
that offer alternatives and opportunities in fighting against the temptation
of drugs.
The Hall of Opium also displays paraphernalia associated with opium smoking
and trading, along with many photographs, films, and videos about opium and
other illegal drugs from countries around the world.
The Hall of Opium is situated in Chiang Saen District, opposite the Anatara
Golden Triangle Resort and Spa: Tel: 0 5378 4444 Fax: 0 5365 2133,
E-mail: hallofopium@doitung.org, Website:
www.goldentrianglepark.com
Phra That Doi Pu Khao
Just two kilometers away from Chiang Saen Lake is Phra That Doi Pu Khao
which is believed to have been built by a king of Wiang Hirannakhon Ngoen
Yang in the middle of the 8th century. This riverside temple near Sop Ruak
Market is located on a hill just before the Golden Triangle and offers a
spectacular view of the Golden Triangles riverine and mountain areas. The
vihan and crumbled chedis are the only visible remains of antiquities today.
Phra That Pha Ngao
Located about 4 kilometres along the Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong Road is Phra
That Pha Ngao which has a bell-shaped chedi situated on large boulders.
Nearby is a vihan where several old Chiang Saen-style Buddha statues are
enshrined. This hilltop temple offers a unique and spectacular view of the
Mekong River, Laos and of Chiang Saen itself.
The Golden Triangle
A trip to Chiang Rai province would not be complete without seeing the
notorious Golden Triangle first hand! This famed border location where
Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet on the Mekong River was once supposed to be
the center of all the poppy cultivation in Thailand.
Travel approximately 9 kilometers north of old town Chiang Saen, along the
road parallel to the Mekong River to the area where the borders of Thailand,
Myammar and Laos converge. This area where the Mekong River meets the Ruak
River is locally referred to as "Sop Ruak". Within this area are remains of
many ancient places and structures attesting to the fact that the area had
been settled by people in the past. It is also the area where various
legends concerning the Lanna ancestors originate.
Boats can be hired in order to view the upstream scenery of the Golden
Triangle and to travel downstream to Chiang Khong. The trip to the Golden
Triangle and Chiang Khong would take approximately 40 minutes and 1 hour
respectively, depending on river currents and water levels.
Wat Pa Sak
Located outside the city walls, approximately one kilometer to the west of
Chiang Saen in Tambon Wiang is Wat Pa Sak, which used to be the resedence of
the patriarch. When King Saen Phu built the temple in 1295, three hundred
teak trees were planted hence the name Pa Sak (Teak Forest). With ornamental
stucco motifs, the temples chedi, which is 12.5 meters tall with a base of 8
meters wide, is regarded as being one of the most beautiful examples of
Lanna architecture in northern Thailand.
Wat Phra That Chedi Luang
Next to Chiang Saen National museum is an ancient 88-meter high,
bell-shaped, Lanna style principal chedi which has a 24 meter circumference
base. Constructed in 1290 by King Saen Phu, the 3rd ruler of the Lanna
kingdom, it is the tallest religious Lanna monument in Chiang Rai. In
addition, there are also remains of ancient vihans and chedis.
Wat Phra That Chom Kitti
Located approximately 1.7 kilometres from town, this hilltop temple has a
pagoda containing a Buddha relic.
Wat Sangkha Kaeo Don Han
Situated not far away from Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is Wat Sangkha Kaeo Don
Han where sketches on brick slabs tell stories about the various
reincarnations of the Lord Buddha.
Amphoe Mae Chan
Mae Chan
Mae Chan, which is about 29 kilometers to the north of Chiang Rai, serves as
a trading post where the Akha and Yao hill people sell their goods and buy
manufactured items. Silver and other tribal handicrafts are available at
local shops.
Amphoe Mae Fa Luang
Doi Mae Salong
Doi Mae Salong is the site of Santi Khiri village, a community settled by
the former Chinese 93rd Division who moved from Myanmar to reside on Thai
territory in 1961. The village became well known for its enchanting scenery
and tranquil atmosphere. Today it is a major tourist attraction with its
small-town ambience, delicious native Chinese dishes, small hotels and
guesthouses catering to visitors and tea, coffee and fruit tree plantations.
The scenery is especially picturesque in December and January when sakuras
are in full bloom. Scattered with many hill tribe villages, Doi Mae Salong
is ideal for trekking.
To reach Doi Mae Salong, take the Chiang Rai-Mae Chan route for 29
kilometers, then turn left and proceed for another 41 kilometers (passing a
hot spring). The return trip can be taken on routes nos. 1234 and 1130 which
wind through Yao and Akha hill tribe villages. From Doi Mae Salong a road
leads to Tha Thon, the starting point for the Kok River cruise, a distance
of 45 kilometers. There are hotels and guesthouses to accommodate tourists
and a paved road leading to the village.
Doi Pha Tang
Doi Pha Tang is located 32 kilometers from Wiang Kaen District and 160
kilometers from the provincial town. The scenic mountain is the home to the
Chinese Haw, the Hmong and Yao minorities. The Haws are the former 93rd
Chinese Division who moved to settle on Doi Pha Tang. From the hilltop,
visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Thai and Lao rural areas. The mountain
is more popular during winter when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and
a sea of mist covers the whole area.
Doi Tung
Doi Tung is located in Mae Fa Luang District and can be reached by taking
Highway No.110 for about 48 kilometers and turning left onto Highway No.
1149, an asphalt road leading directly to Doi Tung. The route winds through
beautiful scenery with many interesting sites including the Doi Tung Palace
(Pra Tamnak Doi tung), the Mae Fa Luang Garden and Akha and Muser tribal
villages. IN addition to scenic lookouts, the most notable attraction is the
Phra That Doi Tung Holy Relic, an old religious site atop the mountain.
Also located on Doi Tung Mountain is a beautiful royal residence known as
Phra Tamnak Doi Tung. The royal villa, situated on the slopes of the
adjacent Pa Kluay Reservoir, was to serve as a royal winter retreat for the
Princess Mother, who passed away in 1995 and was originally built on the
theory that the local hill tribes would be honored by the royal presence and
thereby cease their opium cultivation.
The main attraction for visitors to Phra Tamnak Doi Tung is 'Suan Mae Fa
Luang', the beautiful landscaped gardens filled with hundreds of different
kinds of plants and flowers, named in honor of the Princess Mother and the
Doi Tung Development Project established by the late Princess Mother in
1987.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung
Wat Phra That Doi Tung is situated on top of Doi Tung Mountain, the highest
mountain in Chiang Rai Province with an elevation of approximately 2,000
meters, about 50 kilometers south of Mae Sai town which is near the Myanmar
border. The temple can be reached via a 40-kilometer mountain road which
meanders along the mountainside. The journey is worthwhile as the panoramic
views into Laos and Myanmar at the peak are spectacular.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung was constructed in the 10th century and was renovated
by Chiang Rai's most famous ruler King Mengrai during the 13th century and
by the famous Chiang Mai monk, Khru Ba Siwichai, at the turn of the 20th
century.
The temple complex is comprised of twin Lanna style chedis, one of which is
said to contain the left collarbone of the Lord Buddha. Throughout the year,
the holy relic draws devout Buddhists from all over Thailand, Laos and
Myanmar.
Amphoe Mae Sai
Doi Hua Mae Kham
Doi Hua Mae Kham is the domicile of the hill tribes near the Thai-Burmese
border, about three hours by road along the Mae Chan-Ban Thoet Thai-Ban Huai
In route which winds along the steep mountain edges. The inhabitants are
predominantly of the Lisu tribe, with a smattering of the Akha, Hmong and
Muser tribes. Doi Hua Mae Kham is most spectacular in November when the
yellow wild sunflowers are in full bloom.
Mae Sai
Mae Sai which is about 62 kilometers from the provincial seat on Highway No.
110 is Thailand's northern-most district. Mae Sai borders on Myanmar's Tha
Khi Lek marked by the Mae Sai River with a bridge spanning both sides.
Foreign visitors are allowed to cross over to Tha Khi Lek market by
presenting their passports and paying a fee at the Mae Sai immigration
checkpoint. In addition, there are tour services to Chiang Tung in Myanmar,
which is approximately 160 kilometers north by road.
Amphoe Mueang
Hilltribe Museum
The Population and Community Development Association (PDA) is a
non-government organization responsible for some of the most effective
tribal development projects in the region. The popular "Cabbages & Condoms"
restaurants, with branches here and in Bangkok (and now a resort in
Pattaya), carry their important message of safe sex and family planning. On
the top floor of this office is a small Hilltribe Museum that's heavy on
"shop" and light on "museum," but the admission goes to a good cause. Open
daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; admission fee is 50B ($1.20)/person. Address: 620/25
Thanalai Rd., east of Wisetwang Road (tel. 0 5371-9167)
Ho Watthanatham Nithat
Ho Watthanatham Nithat is a museum exhibiting ancient artifacts and written
records on history, literature and indigenous knowledge as well as exhibits
on royal activities by the late Princess Mother at Doi Tung. Located at the
former town hall, it is open to the public on Wednesdays through Sundays
from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
King Mengrai Stupa
The King Mengrai Stupa in front of Wat Ngam Muang atop Doi Ngam Muang in
Muang District was built by King Chaisongkram to contain the remains of his
father (King Mengrai).
King Mengrai the Great Memorial
The King Mengrai the Great Memorial is located in Muang District at the
intersection leading to Mae Chan. King Mengrai was the ruler of Nakhon Hiran
Ngoen Yang (now commonly known as Chiang Saen) before Chiang Rai was
established as the administrative centre in 1262. He consolidated his power
by merging the different city-states in the North and founded the Lanna Thai
Kingdom in 1296 with Chiang Mai as the capital.
Kok River
The Kok River is one of the most scenic attractions in Chiang Rai. It runs
from Thathon in northern Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai City and then flows on to
meet the Maekhong River at Chiang Khong. From Baan Thathon boats, rafts and
treks leave daily venturing into the surrounding mountains where the jungle
dips into the river's cool waters. A long-tailed boat can be hired to ferry
visitors up and down the river. Stops can be made at Akha or Iko, Lisu and
Karen hill tribe villages. Alternatively stops can be made at the Buddha
cave, a temple within a cavern; an elephant camp, for trekking; a hot
spring; and a riverside Lahu village. Trips range from 300 bahts to 700
bahts ($7-$16), depending on the number of stops made. The ferry pier is
beyond the bridge across from the Dusit Island Resort.
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai This stupa is situated in Wat Ngam Muang on Doi Ngam
Muang in the Chiang Rai township area. It is the place where the ashes and
relics of King Mengrai are housed.
Nam Tok Khun Kon Forest Park
Nam Tok Khun Kon Forest Park can be reached by taking Highway No.1211 from
Chiangrais town. After traveling 18 kilometers turn right and proceed for
another 12 kilometers. Alternatively, you can drive along Highway No. 1
(Chiang Rai-Phayao) for about 15 kilometers, turn right and proceed for
another 17 kilometers, then take a 30-minute walk to the waterfall. The
70-metre high Khun Kon or Tat Mok Waterfall is the highest and most
beautiful in the province. Surrounded with dense woods, the area is also
good for hiking.
Oub Kham Museum
Oub Kham Museum is located near Den Ha market, one kilometer from the town
center. The collection includes objects from the areas once belonging to or
affiliated with the Lanna kingdoms encompassing northern Thailand and some
parts of northeast Myanmar, southwest China and Vietnam. Apart from objects
used in rituals the collection mainly consists of objects used at the royal
courts including lacquer ware, silver jewelry and clothing. Most notable is
a golden bowl, a masterpiece, used by royals. It is open daily from 9 am. to
6 pm. Admission fee is 100 bahts per person. For more information call
0-5371-3349.
Rai Mae Fah Luang
Rai Mae Fah Luang is a cultural centre and centre of Lanna Studies dedicated
to the conservation and promotion of Lanna heritage.There are 5 exhibit
areas namely
a. The Botanical Gardens and Nature Park
b. The Haw Khumm(Golden Pavilion)
c. The Haw Khum Noi (Small Golden Pavilion)
d. Sala Kaew-A ceremonial space for riturals
e. Haw Kaew-Gallery of Lanna Cultureal Arts.
Rai Mae Fah Luang opens daily from 10.00-18.00 hrs. except Monday.
Entrance fee: Baht 200
Wat Doi Thong
Wat Doi Thong (Phra That Chomthong) sits atop a hill above the northwest
side of town, up a steep staircase off Kaisornrasit Road. This location
where King Mengrai is believed to have chosen the site for his new Lanna
Capital offers an overview of the town and a panorama of the Mae Kok Valley.
The chedi of Wat Doi Tong containing what is believed to be the oldest Holy
Relic was probably renovated at the same time that the town as being built.
The circle of columns at the top of the hill surrounds the city's new lak
muang (city pillar), built to commemorate the 725th anniversary of the city
and King Bhumibhol's 60th birthday.
Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong
Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong is located within the city walls. This temple was
built by Prince Thong Ngua, a son of King Tilokkarat, the 12th Lanna ruler
in 1489. A 1,200-kilogram Buddha statue with a lap width of 2 meters and
height of over three meters was cast and named Phra Chao Lan Thong. Another
statue called Phra Chao Thong Thip which is made of brass in the Sukhothai
style was also cast.
Wat Phra Kaeo
Wat Phra Kaeo, which is located on Trairat Road on the northwest side of
town, is the best known of the northern temples. It once housed the Emerald
Buddha, Thailands most important Buddha statue which was discovered in 1444.
The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their
capitals including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane before finally being
enshrined in Bangkok's royal Wat Phra Kaeo. There is now a green jade
replica of the image on display. The temple also houses a 700-year bronze
statue of Phra Chao Lan Thong, which is housed in the Chiang Saen style
ubosot.
Wat Phra Sing
Wat Phra Sing is 2 blocks east of Wat Phra Kaeo, situated on Singha Klai
Road. The restored temple is thought to date from the 15th century. Inside
is a replica of the Phra Singh Buddha, a highly revered Theravada Buddhist
image, as the original was removed to Chiang Mai's Wat Phra Singh. The
original buildings are fine examples of classic religious Lanna
architecture, with their low sweeping roofs.
Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun is also known as the White Temple. Whereas most temples
visited by tourists have a history going back many centuries, this
magnificent place of worship was built only recently. It is the realization
of a dream for Thailands noted artist, Mr Chalermchai Kositpipat, who
designed and is supervising the construction of this beautiful white temple
and its many statues of figures based on religious beliefs. The construction
started in 1998 and is expected to be completed in 2008. In addition, there
is a gallery nearby exhibiting his paintings. To get there from the city of
Chiang Rai, drive north along Asia Highway.
Amphoe Phan
Doi Luang National Park
Doi Luang National Park is 65 kilometers south of Chiang Rai town and covers
an area of 1,170 square kilometers in Phan District. Apart from hiking
trails, the forested park features a few waterfalls of which the largest is
Pu Kaeng Waterfall. This impressive fall has nine leaps and flows all year
round. To reach Pu Kaeng Waterfall drive along the Chiang Rai-Phayao route
for 58 kilometers to arrive at Ban Pu Kaeng. At kilometer 77, take a right
turn and proceed on for another 9 kilometers. It is a large waterfall amid
virgin jungle with water cascading down limestone brooks. Camping areas and
jungle trekking services are available.
Amphoe Thoeng
Doi Pha Mon Agricultural Center
Doi Pha Mon is located at Amphoe Thoeng. During the winter months visitors
are treated to splendid flower bed s of tulips, lilies, red salvia,
poinsettias, etc. To get to Doi Pha Mon from the city, go along Highway No.
1020, then take Highway No. 1155. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Phu Chi Fa
Phu Chi Fa is approximately 25 kilometers to the south of Doi Pha Tang in
Thoeng District. The cool climate produces colorful flowering shrubs and the
large meadow on the top provides breathtaking views of Laos. In addition,
spectacular scenery can be seen from the sheer cliff of Phu Chi Fa,
especially the sea of mist at sunrise. Visitors can stay overnight at Ban
Rom Fa Thong and Ban Rom Fa Thai.
Amphoe Wiang Pa Pao
Khun Chae National Park
Khun Chae National Park is located at Tambon Mae Chedi Mai of Wiang Pa Pao
District. It can be reached by taking the Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai Route
(Highway No. 118). The park headquarters is right next to the highway at
kilometers 55-56. Visitors wishing to take a jungle trek and camp within the
park need to procure the services of a guide and prepare their own camping
equipment. The trek through the Khun Chae jungle is for adventure travel
enthusiasts as the route passes through steep terrain and several hilltops
and cliffs over 1,400 meters high. There are good scenic lookout points and
trekkers can enjoy waterfalls, flowing streams and virgin jungle areas
covered with various plants.
Wiang Kalong
Wiang Kalong, a newly-developed tourist attraction, is a community about 16
kilometers from the district office of Wiang Pa Pao. Ancient furnaces which
were used to make terra cotta utensils called Kalong have been found in this
area. The furnaces are shaped like turtle shells of various sizes with a
width of 2 to 5 meters. To get there from the city, drive south along the
Divided Highway No. 1 for 8 kilometers then take a right turn onto Highway
No. 118 to Wiang Pa Pao (approximately 75-80 kilometers). For those wishing
to travel from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai via the Doi Saket Highway No. 1014,
it is highly recommended to stop over at Wiang Kalong as it is on the way to
Chiang Mai.
Festivals
King Mengrai Festival
King Mengrai Festival This festival is held from January 26 - February 1
every year. The festival features parades, cultural performances and
competitions celebrating the founder of Chiang Rai and the Lanna Thai
Kingkom.
Lychee Fair
Lychee Fair This is held annually in May. Celebrating the provinces tastiest
fruit, this fair features agricultural displays and exhibitions, local
handicrafts, folk entertainment and beauty contests.
Songkran Festival
Songkran Festival Traditional Thai New year celebrations are best seen at Chiang
Saen where 4 nations (Thailand, Laos, China and Myanmar) compete in boat races
on the Mekong River. Beauty contests and cultural shows are added attractions.
The festival is annually held from April 16-18.
Shopping
Amphoe Mueang
Hilltribe Handicrafts
620/25 Thanalai Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
- Hilltribe Handicrafts
Tel :: 0 5371 9167, 0 5371 1475
Lily Handicraft
869/84 Phisitsangwan Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
- Thai silk, Cotton, Local Handicrafts
Tel :: 0 5371 7065
Silver Birch
891 Phahonyothin Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
- Silverware, Wooden Handicrafts
Tel :: 0 5371 4877
Handicrafts
Chiang Rai is rich in handicrafted items such as hand-woven cotton
materials, dresses and hilltribe silver ornaments, as well as wood-carving
products. Certain food items are quite popular such as Naem and Mu Yo (
preserved and fermented pork sausages). Agricultural products include lichee
(April-May), pineapples and tea, as well as other cool-climate produce from
various royal projects.
Dining
Amphoe Mueang
C&C (Cabbages and Condoms) International Food
620/25 Thanalai Road , Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 9167
Chiang Rai Island (International Food)
Dusit Island Resort, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 5345
Ek Ocha (Thai Chinese Food)
455 Mu 4 Mae Yang-Chiang Rai Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 2543
Gara Garon (Thai Food)
869/18 Phahonyothin Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 4779
Haw Nariga 1 (Thai-Chinese Food)
402/12 Banphaprakan Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 1062
Haw Nariga 2000 (Chinese Food)
Phahonyothin Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5374 3084
Haw Narika
Saenphu Hotel Intersection, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 3738
La Antina (European Food)
528/20 Banphaprakan Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 6808
Lotus Bakery House (European Food)
In front of Wangcome Hotel, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 4519
Saban Nga Khantoke (Northern style food with dances)
226/50 Sankhong Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 2290
Slung Kham (Thai & Local Food)
834/3 Phahonyothin Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 7192
Yunan (Chinese Food)
211/9 Khwae Wai Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 3263
Yung Thong (Thai-Chinese Food)
Wang Come Hotel, Pemawiphak Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Rai
Tel :: 0 5371 1800
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