Joanna James
With a history stretching back centuries, Chiang Rai is a city deeply engrossed in Lanna culture and heritage. The long history also means the city has plenty of things to see and do.
One of the most bizarre sights in the city, this all white temple is nothing like you have seen before. The colour white is meant to signify the purity of the temple while sacred Buddhist symbols cover the entire structure up to the roofs. On the inside of the temple are two large images of the Buddha. This is where things get really curious. While temples usually have religious or historical figurines, this artist has opted for more modern day inspirations. These include Superman, movie characters and flying saucers, all of which help create an everlasting – well soft of – impression on a visitor. Told you this was all bizarre. Being a popular attraction, any Lanna hotel around should be able to point out the directions.
A stone's throw away from Thailand's border, the Golden Triangle is not close by any means, unless of course, you are lodged at a hotel such as Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. The location offers a rare peek into the rural and some might say, 'real Thailand'. The name is derived from the fact that the three countries, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet at this point, only separated by the Mekong River.
Many visitors to Chiang Rai plan on visiting the hill tribes. If you are in the same lot, make it a point to visit the museum beforehand so you can familiarize yourself with the culture. The main aim of the centre is to educate tourists on the ways of the hill tribes and other etiquettes they should follow to ensure they do not disturb or offend the tribes. Consisting of two areas, out of which one focuses on the historical aspect and their traditions. Visitors are played videos and other presentations so they can get a clearer idea. The second room focuses on tribal costumes and their way of building items.
Widely accepted as the spiritual heart of the city, the life-sized sculpture was built in honour of King Mengrai who was the father of the Lanna Kingdom. Flanked by 3 large Lanna flags, the imposing monument is hard to miss if you are in the area. A highly revered sight, a visit here is recommended if you can spare the time.
Intrigued by the fascinating history of the Lanna Kingdom? Make a beeline for the Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park where you can discover everything you want about the realm's four-hundred-year-old history. Located in a serene garden, the museum is set in a teak building that closely follows the Lanna and hill tribe architecture. Furthermore, the Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park houses many rare religious and historical artefacts that make for great viewing.
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