27 popular attractions must go to in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is a popular travel destination known for its cool, mountainous landscape and abundant natural beauty. It has a cool climate throughout the year, but is particularly beautiful in the winter, when the region is blanketed in snow and adorned with beautiful winter flowers. In addition to its natural beauty, Chiang Rai is also known for its rich cultural and artistic heritage, with many rare Buddhist art masterpieces created by national artists. There are many tourist attractions to choose from in Chiang Rai, including natural wonders, cultural sites, and more. Some popular destinations include the White Temple, the Black House, and the Golden Triangle. There are also many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and elephant trekking.
Thoeng District
Phu Chi Fa Forest Park
Phu Chi Fa Forest Park is a well-known tourist attraction in Chiang Rai, known for its breathtaking views of the “sea of fog.” The park is located at the top of a mountain that points towards the sky, with a long cliff extending towards Laos. The area is surrounded by a vast sea of fog that stretches as far as the eye can see, making it a truly unique and stunning natural wonder. Many visitors come to Phu Chi Fa Forest Park specifically to see the sea of fog and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. In addition to the fog, the park is also known for its beautiful forests and wildlife, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The best time to travel is Nov. – Feb.
Doi Pha Tang Mountain
Doi Pha Tang Mountain is known for its unique and stunning landscape, with a crooked mountain ridge and complex mountain ranges that create breathtaking views. One of the main attractions of the mountain is its beautiful and magnificent sea of fog, which can be seen from various viewpoints in the morning and evening. One of the most popular viewpoints is the Pha Bong viewpoint, which is a large tower cliff with a gorge hill in the middle that looks like a gate. The 102 Viewpoint is another hill on Doi Pha Tang where visitors can see the sea of fog and enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Many tourists come to Doi Pha Tang Mountain specifically to see the sea of fog and take in the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Wiang Kaen District
Phu Chi Dao
Phu Chi Dao is located between Phu Chi Fah and Doi Pha Tang and is known for its unique mountain peak that points up towards the sky. At a height of approximately 1,800 meters, it is higher than both Phu Chi Fah and Doi Pha Tang. The Phu Chi Dao viewpoint is a popular destination for tourists who want to see the sunrise and the accompanying sea of fog as it snuggles along the complex mountain ranges in the morning. The views from Phu Chi Dao are 360 degrees, and visitors can see Phu Chi Fa and Doi Pha in the distance, as well as the meandering Mekong River and the wild nature below. The scenery of Phu Chi Dao is truly breathtaking and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the region.
Mae Sai District
Tham Luang Nang Non Cave
Tham Luang Nang Non is a cave system located in Tham Luang–Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park, near the village of Pong Pha. In 2018, the cave made international headlines when a youth soccer team and their coach became trapped inside the cave for over two weeks, sparking a large-scale rescue operation. The cave is known for its challenging terrain and high levels of water during the rainy season, making it a popular spot for experienced cave explorers and spelunkers. Since the 2018 incident, the cave has been closed to the public and is now a protected area.
In June and July 2018, a junior association football team and their assistant coach were rescued from the Tham Luang Nang Non cave in Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand. Twelve members of the team, aged 11 to 16, and their 25-year-old assistant coach entered the cave on 23 June after a football practice session. They were trap for total 18 days as it was raining heavily after they enter the cave.
Doi Pha Hee
Doi Pha Hee is a famous coffee growing area in Chiang Rai known for its high-quality coffee beans, which are sold at various coffee shops throughout the country. However, the region is also known for its beautiful mountain scenery, with Ban Pha Hee located on a high mountain surrounded by stunning mountains and forests. There is a Phu Pha Hee coffee shop with a view of the mountains and forests, as well as a sitting area where visitors can hang their legs and enjoy the view. There are also homestays available in the area, allowing visitors to fully relax and experience the atmosphere. Overall, Doi Pha Hee is a charming and picturesque region that is worth a visit for its coffee and natural beauty.
Doi Pha Mee
Doi Pha Mee is a mountain located in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning mountain views, as well as its historical significance as the location of a famous photograph of King Rama IX riding a horse along the mountainside to visit and help the people in the wilderness. The photograph shows the king being welcomed by a procession of villagers, and has become an iconic image of the king’s dedication to helping others. Doi Pha Mee is an interesting tourist attraction in Chiang Rai that is known for its natural beauty and welcoming local community. It is a great place to visit for those who enjoy peaceful mountain scenery and experiencing the culture and history of the region.
Doi Chang Mup View Point
Doi Chang Mup View Point is a beautiful viewpoint located near Ban Pha Hi, close to the Doi Tung route. It has been prepared as a tourist attraction, with an operating base area and a coffee shop that serves tourists. From the viewpoint, visitors can see the beautiful panoramic view of the green mountains stretching out to the horizon, and there are raised chairs with tables for sitting and enjoying the mountain views while sipping coffee. It is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful scenery of the region.
Mae Suai District
Doi Chang
Doi Chang is a mountain in Chiang Rai that is known for producing high-quality coffee and for its beautiful mountain views. It is a popular destination for those who love mountain scenery and want to experience the cool weather and sea of mist that can often be found at higher elevations. The coffee shops on Doi Chang offer a chance to relax and enjoy a good drink while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There are also comfortable accommodations available on the mountain, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Overall, Doi Chang is a wonderful destination for those who appreciate the beauty of the mountains and want to relax and rejuvenate in a stunning natural setting.
Wat Saeng Kaew Phothiyan
Wat Phra That Saeng Kaew Phothiyan, also known as Wat Saeng Kaew Phothiyan, is a temple located in Mae Suai District, Chiang Rai. It is known for its beautiful architecture and various buildings, including a large arch, statues of the four Thao Chatumaharaj, statues of angels, and a golden Buddha image in Lanna uniform named “Phra Saeng Kaew Phothiyan” which is the same name as the temple. The temple also has a beautiful tropical green garden with steam rising from the ground, creating a dreamy atmosphere. It is a popular tourist attraction in Chiang Rai due to its unique and exquisite beauty.
Doi Wawee, Doi Kat Phi
If you’re planning a trip to Mae Suai District in Chiang Rai, make sure to visit the three mountains of Doi Chang, Doi Wawee, and Doi Kad Phi. Start by sipping on some famous Arabica coffee at Doi Chang and visiting the flower and winter fruit plantations. Don’t forget to stop at the holy well. For accommodation, consider staying at Lao Lee Resort on Doi Wawee, which boasts the most beautiful view of the area. While there, be sure to try the famous pork leg mantou dish. Finally, head to Doi Kad Phi to watch the sunrise and see the beautiful morning mist.
Mae Lao District
Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun, located in Chiang Rai, is a temple that is home to some of the most valuable works of Buddhist art in Thailand. It was built by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned Thai artist, with the intention of honoring the nation, religion, and monarchy. The temple’s white ubosot, or ordination hall, is adorned with intricate silver mirror patterns and a serpent on its gable. The ubosot also features mural paintings created by the artist himself.
The Black House (Baan Dam)
Baan Dam Museum is located in the Nang Lae Subdistrict of the Mueang District in Chiang Rai Province. It was built by Thawan Duchanee, a nationally recognized artist known for his skills in painting and sculpture. Thawan Duchanee created many art pieces in both painting and sculpture, and even after his passing, the Baan Dam Museum remains open for tourists to enjoy and experience the unique and beautiful art. The museum consists of a group of houses featuring Lanna art, all painted in black, which is the origin of the museum’s name “Baan Dam.”
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a temple located in Rim Kok Sub-district, Mueang District of Chiang Rai Province. It is situated on a hill and boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills. The temple’s main attraction is the “Met Chok Dhamma Chedi”, a nine-story pagoda with a unique, pointed shape. The chedi is adorned with Lanna Chinese art and features statues of dragons on either side of its stairs. There are also 12 smaller pagodas located around it. Wat Huay Pla Kang is a highly respected and believed to bring good luck to those who visit it.
Wat Rong Suea Ten
Wat Rong Suea Ten is a temple located in Rong Suea Ten Community, Rim Kok Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province. One of the notable features of the temple is the recently constructed Ubosot, which showcases unique Thai art created by local artist Puttha Kabkaew, also known as Sala Nok. The art features shades of blue and gold and was influenced by Kabkaew’s time as a disciple of Chalermchai Kositpipat at Wat Rong Khun. The temple is known for its beautiful and unusual applied art.
Doi Mae Mon
Doi Mae Mon is a mountain located in Chiang Rai that has recently been developed as a tourist attraction. It is located in Ban Mae Mon and is known for its Arabica coffee plantations and beautiful mountain views. Visitors can watch the sunrise and mist in the morning and stay in accommodations and visit coffee shops with good views to fully experience the atmosphere of Doi Mae Mon. It is located not far from the main road.
Boon Rawd Farm/Singha Park
Singha Park, also known as Boon Rawd Farm, is an agricultural tourism destination located in Muang District, Chiang Rai Province, the same route as Wat Rong Khun. It is owned by Boon Rawd Brewery, the maker of Singha beer. The farm covers over 600 acres of agricultural land and includes a tea plantation and colorful winter flower gardens. Visitors can take a tour of the farm and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery, including watching the sunset in the evening. There is also the option to have a late lunch at the farm.
Phan District
Wat Sai Khao
Wat Sai Khao is a Buddhist temple located in Phan District, Chiang Rai. The temple is known for its unique and elaborate architecture, which combines elements of Thai, Burmese, and Indian art. The temple buildings and pagodas are decorated with bright colors and intricate designs, making it a visually stunning place to visit. Inside the temple, there is plenty of space for visitors to explore and take in the beauty of the temple. There are also many photo opportunities, as the temple offers a range of beautiful angles and vistas.
Mae Fah Luang District
Doi Mae Salong
Doi Mae Salong, located on a high mountain in Thailand, is home to the Santi Khiri village, a community of Chinese residents and one of the largest tea plantations in the country. The area boasts beautiful scenery and a cool climate throughout the year. Tourist attractions in Doi Mae Salong include the Phra Borommathat Chedi Srinakarindra Sathit Maha Santikhiri, a vantage point for viewing the stunning sunrise and mist in the morning, as well as the cemetery of General Tuan, 101 tea plantations, and picturesque terraced tea plantations set against the backdrop of the mountains.
Doi Tung
Doi Tung is home to the Doi Tung Royal Villa, Mae Fah Luang Garden, and Phra That Doi Tung. The Doi Tung Development Project, initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Mother to build a house at Doi Tung and restore the area through reforestation, was carried out with the cooperation of various government agencies. Visitors to Doi Tung can explore the Royal History Hall, Mae Fah Luang Garden, and Doi Tung Palace Building. At the top of the mountain, they can also visit the important landmark of Phra That Doi Tung, a Buddha relic in Chiang Rai.
Thung Bua Tong sunflower forest park – Doi Hua Mae Kham
Thung Bua Tong, located in the Mae Salong Nai Subdistrict of Mae Fah Luang District, is a village inhabited by the Akha and Lahu hill tribes. It is situated on the Thai-Myanmar border and offers stunning views. Part of the area falls within the Doi Hua Mae Kham Forest Park. When the cold winds arrive, the golden flower fields of Thung Bua Tong come into bloom, covering the mountains in a blanket of color. These flowers typically bloom at the same time as those at Doi Mae U Kho in Mae Hong Son, usually in November although the timing may vary slightly.
Mae Chan District
Choui Fong Tea Plantation
Choui Fong tea plantation is a large and well-known tea plantation located in the high mountain landscape of Chiang Rai. The plantation spans over 1,000 rai and is situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level. The tea plants are planted in a circular pattern along the ridge, creating a stunning visual effect as they descend in a staircase fashion. The beauty of Choui Fong tea plantation sets it apart from other tea plantations, making it a popular tourist attraction in Chiang Rai. Visitors can enjoy touring the plantation and experiencing the tranquil atmosphere at any time of year.
Chiang Saen District
Doi Sa Ngo viewpoint
Doi Sa Ngo viewpoint is a destination in Chiang Rai’s Chiang Saen District that offers panoramic views of the Mekong River and the neighboring countries of Thailand, Laos, and Burma. In the winter, visitors can catch glimpses of the surrounding communities in Chiang Saen, Mae Chan, and Mae Sai. The morning offers the chance to observe the sea of mist and wait for the sunrise, while at night, the sky is filled with stars. During the months of November and December, the field of chrysanthemums at Doi Sa Ngo adds to the beauty of the viewpoint.
Star Doi Coffee & Homestay
Star Doi Coffee & Homestay is a place to stay and enjoy coffee located on the mountain of Doi Sa Ngo in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai. The coffee shop has a scenic view, and the accommodation offers a private and comfortable atmosphere for relaxation. From the front of the accommodation, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the green city of Chiang Saen surrounded by green mountains. In the morning, the sunrise and the beautiful sea of fog can be admired from the front of the accommodation.
Wat Pa Sak
Wat Pa Sak is an important ancient site located in the city of Chiang Saen. The pagodas here are well-preserved and showcase traditional art styles. The city of Chiang Saen was not affected by war, so many of its ancient sites have been preserved, including Wat Pa Sak. The pagodas here are known for their beautiful stucco patterns and are considered some of the most beautiful in the region.
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is an important temple located in the Chiang Saen district of Chiang Rai. It houses three relics: Phra That Pha Ngao, which is located on top of a cliff; Phra That Chom Chan, which is a pagoda with only the remains of a 5-meter-high base; and Phra That Chet Yot, which is also only a 5-meter-high base. The relics are covered by a large pagoda and there is a viewing deck with seating available that offers a beautiful view of the Mekong River.
Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is a tourist attraction located in the Chiang Saen District of Chiang Rai, about 9 kilometers from the city of Chiang Saen. It gets its name from being the point where the Ruak River meets with the Mekong River, and it is considered the “territory of three countries” because it is located where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. At the Golden Triangle, there is a converging triangle called “Sop Ruak” that can be seen from the sandbars in the area. There is also a wide terrace with a beautiful view of the Mekong River and a shrine called Phra Chiang Saen Four Lands or Phra Phuttha Nawa Lan Tue where visitors can go to pray for good luck. The Golden Triangle is also known for its symbol, a golden triangle door, and there are souvenir shops where visitors can purchase local products such as clothes, hats, and bags.
Baan Rai ( 9 ) Kao Mai & Farm Cafe
Baan Rai Kao Mai & Farm Cafe is a restaurant and cafe located in the countryside. It is known for its unique decor, which features a mix of vintage and cute styles. The ground floor is decorated with tables, chairs, sofas, and swings, while the second floor has bamboo table seating with cushions and colorful hammocks. The ceiling is adorned with brightly colored fabrics and there is a view of the green fields and surrounding mountains. There is also a long bamboo bridge in the middle of the field that can be used for walking and taking pictures.
Flow Chiang Saen
Flow Chiang Saen is a popular cafe located next to the Mekong River in the city of Chiang Saen. It is known for its beautiful design and modern style, which features warm earth tones. The cafe is spacious and has multiple areas, including upper levels with views of the Mekong River and a beach area on the sandy waterfront. The menu at Flow Chiang Saen includes food, drinks, and desserts, and it is known for its croissants and crispy, soft-inside desserts.
