Joanna James
Located in Northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is a playground for adventurers, offering everything from mountain hikes to river cruises and close encounters with elephants. If you are ready to trade the city buzz for natural wonders and cultural exploration, don’t miss the activities below.
If hiking with a view is your thing, Doi Mae Salong is the place to head to on excursions from Chiang Rai. Sitting a majestic 1,200 metres above sea level, this peak offers trails with panoramic vistas of valleys and tea plantations. As you explore the area, you will also come across Chinese heritage villages; in fact, sometimes, you will feel as if you are in southern Yunnan! Don’t leave without visiting the tea plantations here, which add to the scenic beauty. Take a tour of one of these plantations and enjoy sipping pure Oolong tea as you soak up the serenity of this highland escape.
Meeting and getting up close to Thailand’s national animal is one of the most memorable adventures to enjoy at an ethical elephant camp. Such an experience is on offer at properties like Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. You will get to observe rescued elephants roam freely in their natural habitat, but that’s not all; you can also walk through the jungle alongside these gentle giants as they forage, splash in rivers, and socialise with one another. There’s an educational aspect at such camps where you can find out more about mahouts, while a resident veterinarian will share fascinating insights into elephant behaviour, anatomy, and care.
Get ready to cruise through lush landscapes in one of the most unique activities in Chiang Rai. Stay at a resort that lets you hop into a Royal Enfield Classic 500 sidecar as a driver whisks you away on a thrilling journey. Feel the wind in your hair as you pass elephant pastures and weave through the Golden Triangle’s scenic routes. Along the way, you will stop at iconic landmarks like the Giant Golden Buddha as well as ancient temples and Lanna sites. Pro tip: Hold on tight and don’t forget your sunglasses because they make the photos even cooler!
Set sail on a longtail boat from the Ruak River and drift onto the mighty Mekong, where three countries meet amidst breathtaking natural beauty. The Golden Triangle provides an enchanting backdrop as you glide along tranquil waters and past lush jungles. For a grander adventure, consider an overnight Mekong cruise aboard a converted rice barge. Set sail from Chiang Rai on a magical journey of discovery with the chance to take in enthralling mountain views and visit remote hill tribe villages. Your final destination will be Luang Prabang, a key UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos where more adventures await.
What’s an adventure in Chiang Rai without a waterfall trek? Khun Korn Forest Park is around a 40-minute drive from the city, and the hike to its iconic waterfall is an easy 1.5-kilometre trip through towering bamboo forests. At the end of the trail, you will find the stunning Khun Korn Waterfall cascading down 70 metres into a shallow pool. Take a refreshing dip (weather permitting) or just sit back and let the sight and sound of rushing water wash away your worries. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature and cool off after an active day.
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.
