Last Updated on May 18, 2024 by admin
Chiang Rai is a gorgeous city in Northern Thailand.
It’s a key stop along the Banana Pancake Trail, and for good reason: it’s a special place.
There are so many things to do in Chiang Rai, and this post will outline 15 of the best options.
Without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
THINGS TO DO IN CHIANG RAI
Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
The White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun, is a unique and visually stunning temple in Chiang Rai. You’ll see by this list that Chiang Rai is a very temple-dense area of Thailand, which is home to some of the most amazing temples in the country. The White Temple features intricate details and a, you guessed it, white, glittering facade that stands out against the green landscape in the backdrop.
Visit the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
The Blue Temple, formally known in Thai as Wat Rong Suea Ten, is another stunning temple located in Chiang Rai, Thailand. The temple is renowned for its blue (who would’ve guessed?!) and gold colour scheme, as well as its unique and intricate design that showcases traditional Thai and Lanna styles. You can marvel at the intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures while taking in the serene atmosphere that surrounds the temple.
See the Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is an iconic landmark in Chiang Rai. Located in the centre of the city, this tall tower features a large clock on its facade that lights up at night. It’s a thing of beauty! You can also admire and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
Take a boat ride on Mae Kok River
Another great thing to do in Chiang Rai is to take a boat tour. Similar to taking a river tour in Bangkok, it’s a unique way of seeing the city. A boat ride on Mae Kok River offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the bustling city mayhem of the centre of Chiang Rai. Sit back, relax and admire the lush green landscape and the rolling hills that line the river as you float along, taking in the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great way to relax and unwind, and a popular activity for nature enthusiasts.
Visit the Night Bazaar
The Night Bazaar is a bustling and vibrant market located in the centre of Chiang Rai. It’s open every evening, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can browse the stalls selling everything from handmade goods and local crafts to street food and fashion. Street food is a great way to save money when backpacking Thailand. Visiting the Bazaar is a great way to experience Chiang Rai as a local too, as this is a popular market amongst the Thais.
Love Night Markets? Also Read: Luang Prabang Night Market
See the Long Neck Karen Tribe Village
The Long Neck Karen Tribe Village is a unique and fascinating thing to do in Chiang Rai. You are able to learn about the culture and traditions of the Karen tribe, who are known for the ornate brass neck rings they wear as a symbol of their culture and heritage. Visitors to the village are allowed to observe the tribe’s daily life, learn about their customs and beliefs, and purchase traditional goods and crafts. It’s an immersive experience, to say the least!
Take a hot air balloon ride
Hot air balloon rides are an incredible experience anywhere in the world, and Chiang Rai is no different. The stunning scenery of Chiang Rai will make for a breathtakingly beautiful balloon ride. Soaring high above the lush green landscape and rolling hills, you can take in the panoramic views of the city, countryside, and nearby mountains. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a great way to create lasting memories.
Take a day trip to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is another amazing place in the northern region of Thailand. Many tourists opt for visiting Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai together. Therefore, a day trip to Chiang Mai may interest you. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, with incredible opportunities for hiking, jungle trekking and not to mention the variety of wildlife on offer in the surrounding mountains. It’s a wonderful place!
Take a bike tour of Chiang Rai
You can never go wrong with a bike tour, and Chiang Rai is no different. Bike tours, as always, allow you to see most of the main sights in a short period of time as you can get around Chiang Rai quickly on bikes. It’s also a great way to get some exercise while travelling, which is easier said than done. Nonetheless, Chiang Rai bike tours are a great thing to do there.
Visit the Chiang Rai Aquarium
A lesser-known thing to do in Chiang Rai, but still a worthy option is the Chiang Rai Aquarium. There are over 200 species of fish and other marine creatures in their natural habitats for you to look at. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, educational displays, and exciting shows too. It makes for a great day out!
Go trekking in the mountains
Trekking in the mountains surrounding Chiang Rai is a popular activity for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The area around Chiang Rai is extraordinarily beautiful. You can hike through the gorgeous green landscape, passing waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic vistas along the way. Some of the best hikes in all of Thailand are in Chiang Rai! There are a variety of trails to choose from, with trails for all levels of fitness.
Go on a food tour
If trekking is not your thing, you may wish to take a food tour of Chiang Rai. A food tour is a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture. You are able to try a variety of traditional dishes, sample street food, and visit local markets and restaurants. With knowledgeable guides to lead the way, a food tour is a delicious and educational experience. One of the best benefits of taking a food tour is that you know where to find good food for the rest of your stay!
Take a Thai cooking class
And if you enjoy eating Thai food, you may wish to learn how to cook it. Taking a Thai cooking class is a very authentic experience to take in Chiang Rai. Learning how to cook delicious Thai dishes will be a skill you can take anywhere in the world, spreading mouth-watering Thai cuisine worldwide.
Explore a Cat Cafe
Pet cafes are extremely popular in the entire South-East Asia. While there are many options for cat cafes in Thailand, the Cat ‘n’ A Cup Café in Chiang Rai is one of the most popular cafe where you can pet cats while enjoyed an Iced Thai Tea.
Take a Thai language class
Or if cooking isn’t your thing, you may wish to take a class to learn the Thai language. These classes are a great way to learn the basics of the Thai language and immerse yourself in the local culture. Classes are available at various levels and in various places throughout Chaing Mai They are a great way to enhance your travels, but be prepared to learn, the Thai language takes a lot of practising.
Take a waterfall tour
And last but by no means least, another thing to do in Chiang Rai is to take a waterfall tour. Chiang Rai is home to a number of stunning waterfalls, including Doi Suthep, Mae Sa, and Mon Dao. You can enjoy scenic hikes, refreshing dips, and stunning views simultaneously. With knowledgeable guides and a variety of waterfalls to choose from, a waterfall tour is a great way to escape the city and experience the natural beauty of northern Thailand.
Things to do in Chiang Rai: Conclusion
And that brings an end to the 15 best things to do in Chiang Rai. It’s an unbelievably good part of Thailand, and you are guaranteed to have a great time. Regardless of what you choose to do there, Chiang Rai will create memories to last a lifetime. Whether you hike the mountains or simply explore the temples, you will leave with a positive image of Chiang Rai. Enjoy your trip!
This post was written by Josh Band from A Backpacker’s World. Josh loves to write about backpacking all around the world. From Southeast Asia to Europe, and everything in between, Josh loves to explore and spend as little as possible while doing so. Who doesn’t love budget travelling, right?
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