Unveiling Chiang Rai: Unique Experiences Beyond the Main Attractions

More commonly known among the locals as Wat Rong Khun, this magnificent art exhibit in the form of a temple gets its English name from its eye-catching bright white exterior that is intricately shaped and designed. Some of its main attractions include the ‘Gate of Heaven’ which symbolises good and evil, and the Ubosot main building filled with glimmering mirrors. Those staying at any of the resorts near Chiang Rai like the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort can organise a visit to this beautiful monument. 

This museum, also known as the Black House Museum features a collection of architectural wonders from the ancient Lanna era as well as the modern era. Visitors can explore around 40 individual buildings at the site, including the Main Sanctuary Hall that is said to bear resemblance to the White Temple, despite being made of wood and darker colours. 

This is the pinnacle of Chiang Rai’s nightlife, sprawling across an entire street block which comes to life once the sun sets. Visitors will witness the energy brimming from hawker stalls, and street sellers offering everything from traditional snacks, to handcrafted souvenirs, and traditional Thai clothing. There are also regular dance shows that you can enjoy as you walk along this vibrant street. 

This unique viewpoint is worth a visit as it is a converging point for two other nations in Southeast Asia. In addition to northwestern Thailand, the point connects northeastern Myanmar and northern Laos. Apart from being the meeting point of these three nations, the Golden Triangle also features an Opium Trade Museum along with the Golden Triangle Park which features a glistening Buddha Statue. 

If you’re looking to dive into the history of Chiang Rai, this museum is the perfect place to be. It chronicles the history of 6 hill tribes that have made their home in the surrounding region. The museum’s exhibits reveal information about the techniques used by the tribes to survive in the jungle hills across the centuries, including bamboo whittling, house building, vine weaving and more. 

Visiting the Doi Mae Salong mountain in the north of Chiang Rai is one of the more popular things to do in Chiang Rai as it is known for its native Chinese culture. Located along the border of Myanmar, the area continues to be the home of several hill tribes of Chinese communities that offer various cultural activities and engagements for tourists. 

If you’re on your way to the Golden Triangle from Chiang Rai, you can make a quick stop at this tea plantation filled with luscious green plains of tea bushes. You’ll be able to witness tea processing first-hand and visit the tea cafes that provide tea tasting and tea brewing demonstrations. In addition to various treats like crepe cakes, buns, ice creams and of course various exotic teas, the cafes also feature an open-air deck terrace with 360 views of the plantation.