Joanna James
Situated in northern Thailand Chiang Rai is a city of unhurried pace, outstanding cuisine, many features of historical significance and amazing scenery that keep beckoning travellers to discover and enjoy the bounty of treasures and carry fond memories of their holiday.
Also known as Wat Phra Kaeo, this was the original site of the statue of Emerald Buddha which was discovered by accident when lightning struck this temple damaging the chedi which had the statue ensconced. After moving the original Emerald Buddha statue to the capital Bangkok, a beautiful replica of the same is kept at this temple for reverence in Chiang Rai. The temple also embodies a museum showcasing religious artefacts from Chiang Rai. A visit here is often enjoyed by guests from Chiang Saen hotels.
A vast expanse of the countryside surrounding this unique city has been artistically landscaped with a lot of walkways, meadows, lakes bubbling away and even a farm in operation. A few animals such as zebras and giraffes can be fed encouraging families to spend a leisurely day at the park. Cycling paths, nature trails, zipline and wall climbing are available for those who prefer more exertion and adventure. A giant statue of a Lion or Singha at the entrance gives the park its name and offers a great opportunity to capture images of the visit there.
Chalermchai Kositpipat, a talented artist born in Chiang Rai is the force behind the restoration and enhancement of Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple as we know it today. Being in a bad state of preservation and having challenges in raising funds for restoration in the late 20th century compelled him to completely rebuild this place of worship with his funds. Wanting to signify the purity of Lord Buddha white was chosen as the colour, glass is to symbolise the wisdom as preached by the Buddha. Tiny shreds of mirror glass in the plasterwork add a flash of brilliance to the entire temple drawing many visitors such as those from Anantara Golden Triangle to explore it.
A 40-minute ride from the city brings you to the beginning of the short trail to view the waterfall. About 1.5 kilometres on jungle valley on fairly flat ground the trail is an easy one. Skyscraping bamboo forests and banana palms provide shade to the trail. Once you reach the falls do the climb down to the valley bed and admire this beautiful waterfall and the shallow pool at which you can cool your feet or even swim. There are boulders for you to sit on and admire the view at leisure. A day surrounded by nature.
Standing majestically at the heart of the city commanding attention of all those using the roundabout it occupies, this outstanding tower is a creation by the same artist who gifted another unique creation of art to Thailand, the famous White Temple. Plan to view it at dusk when the lights come on and the light and sound show demonstrates the magnificence of this tower.
Happening daily, the Night Bazaar is a lively place which must be experienced by visitors. Clothing, handicraft items, famed Thai massages, a large food court offering street food and Northern Thai Cuisine, folk concerts, live music and Thai Dances make it a vibrant marketplace alive with people and sounds and full of local vibes. The prices being cheap and plenty to eat, see and do attract many visitors.
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 pas...
