Joanna James
Nestled high away in mountainous northern Thailand, the charming city of Chiang Rai makes for some incredible, mellow time away. Venture out to the culture-rich and nature-blessed hills of Chiang Rai and discover everything fascinating that is in store for you in the laid-back, gorgeous Thai city.
The first sight of Wat Rong Khun will make you realise what gave its aptly named moniker, "white temple". Bathed in striking white, Wat Rong Khun may be widely known as a temple, but unlike most other temples in Chiang Rai, it is a privately owned art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple rather than a place of worship. The architectural and artistic magnificence is mind-blowing, which, with absolutely no doubt, makes the temple the star attraction of Chiang Rai.
Once the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon the laid-back city, there's no place you'd rather be than Chiang Rai Night Bazaar — the go-to spot among tourists and locals alike for some decent after-dark entertainment in charming Chiang Rai. Set in the heart of the city, scores of stalls bursting with mouth-watering street food, apparel, jewellery, and souvenirs line the vibrant street. Grab a bite to eat, pick up some authentic souvenirs to take back home or stroll through the bustling street, taking in the atmospheric scene.
Tucked away in the serene mountains of Northern Thailand are several cascading waterfalls and Khun Korn is arguably the most breathtaking of the bunch. Nestled within the sanctuary of Nam Tok Khun Korn National Forest Park, the 70-metre-high waterfall is the highest in the region. It's not only the alluring serenity that makes Khun Korn Waterfall one of the best things to do in Chiang Rai, but also the adventurous trek that leads to the gorgeous cascading curtain of water.
Craving a bit of adventure in Chiang Rai? Head to northern Chian Rai to make your way to Tree Top Adventure Park, where a whole host of rope bridges, swings and giant zip lines await in a scenic nature-rich setting to give your fill of fun and thrills. The star attraction of the outdoor adventure park — a treetop canopy that affords you to walk 30 metres over Chiang Rai's beautiful Mae Fah Luang Garden, which is bound to conquer your ultimate fear of heights.
After a day of revelling in the glories of Chiang Rai, bid farewell to a day well spent by treating your eyes to the colourful spectacle put on by the ornate clock tower sitting right in the heart of Chiang Rai. Get your fill of the colourful light show dancing to the rhythm of music and retreat to one of the finest Chiang Saen hotels the likes of Anantara Golden Triangle.
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.
