Joanna James
Chiang Rai is northern Thailand's artistic city; a beautiful place noted for its verdant environs, Nomadic hill tribes and historic sites. From exploring vintage temples to treks across the lush hills, here are some awesome experiences to savour in Chiang Rai.
The Wat Rong Khun or White Temple is one of the areas iconic attractions noted for its pristine beauty. It's a modern structure, which is too good to miss; the glittery façade boasting thousands of mirror pieces embedded in the walls is one of the most photographed locations in the city. The temple designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat has a number of other attractions to explore apart for the temple. You can visit the gallery where a number of unusual paintings by the same artist are on display and explore the surrounding little buildings and shrines.
The Black House is actually a gallery, where a range of contemporary paintings by Thai artists are on display. Made up of painted wooden houses, designed by artist Thawan Duchanee, this place is also called Baan Dam. The Black House too, like the White Temple, exudes a surreal air and consists of the quirky temple-like buildings which are fascinating to explore. Easy to reach from Chiang Rai hotels this place is another iconic attraction to add to your list.
If you are a guest at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, you cannot miss out on a chance to explore the elephant camp. Lauded for its excellent treatment of the loving mammals the camp will help you get up close and personal with the gentle creatures. Mind you also plan a trek into the hills, coupled with an exploration of a Nomadic tribe village an activity not to be missed, for that authentic Chiang Rai experience.
The Chiang Rai Night Market is pretty large and quite impressive. The place is home to a number of food stalls serving traditional northern Thai cuisine. Do try the Khao Soi which is a delicious curried noodle type of dish that treats one's palate to a range of exotic flavours.
Locals call this the Fish Tail Cave or rather the Wat Tham Pla. The entrance consists of a very elaborate staircase which is protected by two 7 headed nagas (a mythical cobra with 7 heads) on either side. The snake guards, however, are no match for the hundreds of monkeys who call the temple and its surroundings home. Located a short distance from the city centre, you can hire a car from your Chiang Rai resort to get to the temple or rent a scooter. And do watch out for those cheeky monkeys!
Explore the Old City of Chiang Rai where a number of vintage temples still stand. Most hold a very holistic place in Thai history and are quite fascinating relics to explore. You will love the old town atmosphere and step back in time ambience, which lingers around the antique buildings and layout of the place.
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