Juliana Roberts
In Chiang Rai, everything is possible. Tourism grows and so does the province with its attractions. Actually speaking, even one day would not be sufficient to explore the region.
If your interests are split between culture and nature, then this is the best place to go. If you have serious plans to enjoy the village park and the waterfall, you should have at least one day reserved for it. Here you will get to see Mien hill culture, which is about 2500 years old. They are said to be descending from Tibet. The lake close by offers you the rare opportunity to swim in a natural surrounding. Swimming in the lake is, of course, an experience to remember especially breathing in the virgin air coming from the hills. After a good swim, you can talk to some of the farmers, who represent the long tradition, about their culture and heritage. An ideal cultural visit you should make with your family and friends. The village is located in close proximity to Chiang Saen. Hotels are available, but better book them in advance if you visit the country during the season.
The outward appearance is the first hint of its strangeness. This museum has such a diversity of structures mostly filled with animal bones and pelts. For any student of dead animals, this museum is just the right place to step in. You will see this somewhat strange museum thanks to Thawan Duchanee who came up with this idea. Baan Dum is a chain of buildings with a strange outward appearance. If you are curious to know more about the museum, just ask a local. They would enlighten you about this 'Black House' – for that is how Baan Dum is known as. As you get to the middle of the museum, you will see a long wooden dining table along with its chairs made of deer antlers.
Elephant trekking is an experience unique to Chiang Rai. If you have plans to try out elephant trekking, check into a resort such as Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. Elephant trekking introduces you to many aspects of rural Thai life. The best thing about elephant trekking, of course, is getting the mahout training. Ride a majestic elephant, and you will easily cover a large area while enjoying a magnificent view. And slowly you will come to terms with the elephant's behaviour. What you pay could be pricey, but your experience will be priceless.
Chiang Rai has a largely rural area that deserves your exploration. The cycles are available for rent. To get the most out of the experience, you can join a cycling club. Beware for some paths are hilly and tough. Choose a cycle only if you can be certain of your physical strength. Or you can simply choose a path that is laid across the villages. Such routes are usually easy to cover and you will get the chance to mix with the locals.
