Listly by Joanna James
The beautiful Chiang Rai is full of things to see and do, from a large number of cultural and historical sites, to many outdoor activities where you can get close to nature.
This was the original home of the famous emerald Buddha statue, until it was relocated in the mid 1400's. The ancient temple now displays a beautiful jade replica, and is an important historical site to visit. Enjoy the rich and extravagant architecture and style during your visit.
Originally dating back to 1432, and then undergoing a facelift in the beginning of the 20th Century, this spectacular temple is one of the city's most magnificent sites. The red outer red and gold façade of the temple is beautifully unique, and at the temple complex you will be able to admire traditional Lanna architectural styles.
Head over here for an outdoor experience the whole family will love; the park is home to a collection of wildlife you can get close to, as well as beautiful plants and flowers. At this site, you will also find a host of adventure activities to enjoy.
This is where you go for a summarized version of the local history, if you are hoping to spend more time in Chiang Sean Hotels or visiting other attractions. It lush garden with a park, you will find beautiful teak structures reflecting styles and stories from the past, and various artefacts here. The proceeds go to the local tribes, so do visit this site.
It is impossible describe how beautiful this temple is in words, so you will just have to check it out yourself. Completed recently, in 2008, the ornate construction is fully white, and features intricate details in its façade. Its beauty and reflections of traditional styles has made it one of the country's most popular attractions.
Before you travel to visit these tribes, or if you don't have the time to visit them, head over here to learn about the arts, culture and traditions of these local people, and their lifestyles. Multimedia displays, along with many exhibits from these tribes make it an informative experience.
Visit this museum into insights into the ancient Lanna Kingdom; throughout the five exhibition halls and artificial cave you will find various items including the costumes, artwork, and imagery from that era, as well as items that once belonged to the Royalty.
Get close to these magnificent giants at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. Home to elephants rescued from various difficult situations, at this site you will get to watch or interact with elephants as they go about their day to day life in their natural environment.
Thanalai Street comes to life on Saturday evenings as a vibrant market is set up. You will find rows and rows of mementos to take home from your trip at the three zones into which the market is divided. It is open till midnight, making it a great night time activity.
This isn't an ancient monument as it was built in 2008, but it is an attractive site in the city centre that was constructed in honour of the King. The architecture is the main attraction, as it bears similarities in style to the White Temple, and at 7pm, 8pm and 9pm daily the tower comes alive with a light and sound display.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.