Joanna James
Chiang Rai well known for its stunning scenery offers the discerning traveller a host of attractive locations to explore as well as a chance to experience unique and exotic new customs.
This name literally translates to mountain pointing to the sky. One of the best places to visit around Chiang Rai especially around winter; Pu Chi Fa is situated in Amphoe Thoeng which is part of the Pa Mae Ing and Ngao National Forest Reserve. It is about 2.5 hours from the city centre of Chiang Rai but well worth the effort for enjoying invigorating trails across verdant environs and stumbling upon stunning lookout points. Make it in time for sunrise and you will be well rewarded with one of the most magical and spectacular visions across the horizon.
This utterly stunning temple was built quite recently unlike the historical wats of Thailand; however Wat Rong Khun well makes up for its lack of history with stunning facades and architectural marvels. Aptly dubbed the 'White Temple' the building is constructed entirely of white stone into which fragments of mirror are embedded; to sparkle and glow in the sunlight. A dream concept of Thailand's renowned artist Chalermchai Kositpipat the temple which was begun in 1998 is yet to be completed; it is believed to take another 90 years. This unique temple is just 15 minutes from the Chiang Rai city centre and easily accessed from Lanna hotels. It is an iconic attraction that resembles the stark beauty of Chiang Rai, just like the verdant hillside known as the Golden Triangle home to the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort; which border Myanmar, Thailand and Laos do.
Boon Rawd is Thailand's largest producer of beer; the Singha Park belongs to the brewery. Started as a vast field for growing barley for the production of beer the place is now a stunning agro-tourism zone. The park is also a huge plantation home to orchards, jujube fruit trees, barley fields, strawberries, mushrooms, star fruits and numerous types of salad worthy vegetables. Colourful yellow flowers add a golden glow to the entire region which promises to stun and awe all nature lovers; remember to take along the cameras. Well planned out riding trails offer adventure hungry tourists a chance to savour some mountain biking as well.
Mae Sai is a small town which borders Myanmar. It is half an hour from Chiang Rai by car and is the perfect example of a border town. At the border gate of Myanmar and Thailand you will see the busy convergence of citizens travelling back and forth; many are not affluent and do so while trundling along in carts carrying goods for sale. Do visit for a taste of culture and lifestyles of the down and trodden.
Indulge the shopaholic in you by visiting the famous night market of Chiang Rai. The place is ideal for snagging some worthy souvenirs as many of the stalls are manned by the Hill Tribes selling unique and beautiful handicrafts.
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