Now that travel is possible again, provided quarantine regulations and safety precautions are followed, you can finally plan your long-awaited vacation in Thailand. After a year of ups and downs, we all long for a break. Take a moment in 2021 to pause, reflect, and imagine what it would be like to travel the world again.

When planning your dream vacation, you should definitely put Chiang Rai on your travel list. This historically significant city in northern Thailand was the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom in 1262. Compared to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is primarily known for its northern Lanna culture and art, and is home to historical museums and magnificent temple complexes.

As soon as travel is possible again and you can visit Chiang Rai, the Thailand Insider team will have all the hidden treasures of this wonderfully historic city ready for you!

Main attractions of Chiang Rai

There are many hidden gems we're about to discover, but two of Chiang Rai's most popular and important sights are Wat Rong Khun and Wat Rong Suea Ten. These beautiful white and blue temples embody exquisite design and wonderful architecture. Be sure to add these top attractions to your travel list!

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun, better known as the "White Temple," is located in the Muang district. It was designed by the renowned visual artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Opened in 1997, the temple holds great significance in Thai culture and belief; the bridge symbolizes the transition from hell to heaven.

Wat Rong Suea Ten

Wat Rong Suea Ten, the counterpart to the "White Temple," is also known as the "Blue Temple" due to its exquisite blue color with luminous gold accents. This monastery complex was designed by Mr. Puttha Kabkaew. Inside, breathtaking beauty awaits: the main Buddha statue shines in pearly white, and intricate murals in dark blue tones perfectly complement the temple's theme.

Discover the hidden treasures of Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is known for its relaxed atmosphere and offers numerous historical and cultural attractions that preserve the identity of the Lanna Dynasty with an impressive collection of temples, art, and cuisine. Chiang Rai's tranquil and laid-back atmosphere is just what you're looking for. Discover some of the city's most extraordinary hidden gems.

1. Doi Bo viewpoint

Immerse yourself in nature and visit the breathtaking Doi Bo viewpoint. The landscape of Doi Bo is unparalleled: lush forests, bamboo, dipteropod trees, ferns, orchids and much more await you.

The view is unparalleled: Under a blue sky, you gaze across rolling hills, surrounded by the sounds of nature. The path to the viewpoint leads off the beaten track, is straightforward yet adventurous, and rewards you with a breathtaking panorama. Don't miss this hidden gem of adventure during your visit to Chiang Rai!

2. Huay Mae Sai Village

Off the beaten track, nestled in the hills of Chiang Rai, lies a picturesque little village called Huay Mae Sai – the perfect place for those seeking peace and relaxation. This rural haven offers a place for contemplation, tranquility, and rejuvenation, ensuring a truly restorative stay.

At one end of the village, an ice cream parlor offers a refreshing treat. Nearby, a pristine waterfall invites you to take a dip. The locals warmly welcome visitors to their little paradise, greeting everyone with a smile. If you're looking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle, the village of Huay Mai Sai is the perfect place for you.

3. Doi Chaang Coffee

Coffee lovers shouldn't miss this hidden gem in Chiang Rai. Surrounded by nature, Doi Chaang Coffee offers top-quality Arabica coffee directly from the plantation next to the café. Upstairs, a cozy outdoor area invites you to linger, where you can enjoy the fresh mountain air with a cup of coffee.

After enjoying a delicious cup, you can stroll through the coffee plantation and admire the coffee trees and their beans nestled in a beautiful landscape. The coffee is mostly grown on small plots belonging to individual families. It is organic, single-origin, and produced to the highest quality standards for the perfect coffee experience.

4. Wat Huay Pla Kang

A visit to Wat Huay Pla Kang is an absolute must during your holiday in Chiang Rai for an authentic cultural experience. Known as the "Great Buddha of Chiang Rai," this cultural monument houses a giant statue of the Bodhisattva Guanyin, the embodiment of compassion, a nine-story pagoda, and a traditional Thai temple.

The Guanyin statue soars 90 meters into the sky. Inside, you can take a lift to the 25th floor, where white stucco depictions of Guanyin await. A visit to this hidden gem in Chiang Rai is highly recommended at sunset to enjoy the breathtaking view from the 25th floor. The tranquility is soothing, and the panorama of forests, valleys, and mountains is unparalleled.

For a breathtaking view of the Guanyin statue, climb to the top floor of the pagoda. Admire the carved wooden statues of Buddha, Guanyin, and monks on each floor.

5. Doi In Cee

Fifteen kilometers outside of Chiang Rai lies Doi In Cee, a Buddhist temple off the beaten track, unknown to most visitors. What makes this temple complex special is that, unlike most Thai temples, it doesn't consist of a single building. Instead, it comprises several buildings, stupas, shrines, and, of course, Buddha statues.

Doi In Cee is home to numerous Buddha statues, including some left to reclaim their natural surroundings amidst the forests. The sight of these statues nestled in nature is truly breathtaking. From the stunning scenery to the rich history of the temple, a visit to Doi In Cee will be an unforgettable experience.

6. Khun Korn Waterfall

Anyone who admires waterfalls should definitely visit Khun Korn Waterfall. Deep in the Khun Korn Forest Park, this breathtaking waterfall rises 70 meters high, making it the largest waterfall in Northern Thailand. The hike there is pleasant and peaceful: you walk through nature, surrounded by tall bamboo, and follow the small stream that leads up to the waterfall.

As soon as the sound of rushing water grows louder, you'll know you're almost there. If you like, you can take a dip in the water below the falls and admire the cascading water of this phenomenal waterfall.

Arrival

Visitors can travel to Chiang Rai by bus, car, or plane. The bus journey from Chiang Mai is a popular option and takes just over 3 hours.

Nakhonchai Air offers 12-hour bus services between Bangkok and Chiang Rai. The fare is 725 Baht, approximately US$24. You can reach us Monday through Saturday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. local time at +662 939 4999 or by email at [email protected]. Sombat Tour also offers this service with various bus types. Green Bus runs daily from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai. You can contact us at +6653 266 480 or view the timetable here.

THAI Smile, Nok Air and AirAsia offer daily flights between Bangkok and Chiang Rai.

Start planning your holiday in Chiang Rai today!

Now that you know about Chiang Rai's hidden gems, you can start planning your dream vacation. Chiang Rai has a special quality: there's something for everyone. Whether you're an adventurer exploring a waterfall or fascinated by history and culture, there are countless hidden treasures to discover. Stay up-to-date with the latest travel tips for Thailand here!