Introduction of Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai, also known as Chiengrai, is a city in northern Thailand. Chiang Rai sits at an elevation of 1,150 feet (350 m) on the Kok River near the Khun Tan Range. It has an airport with regular flights and road links leading south to Lampang and north to Myanmar (Burma) and the Laotian border.
It is a commercial center for teak, coffee and rice. The city was once a fortified capital of the autocracy. The famous Emerald Buddha, which is now in Bangkok, was in a temple in the city until 1436, when it was moved to Chiang Mai. The surrounding mountain area has a northerly orientation, which changed little with the completion of the southern road in the 1920s;
Its population still shows strong cultural ties to Laos, fueled by Laotian immigration. Rice and tobacco are cultivated and there are many rice mills. popularity. (2000) 61188.
Best time to visit Chiang Rai
Located in the highlands, Chiang Rai experiences a cooler climate than southern Thailand. However, it still shows three times; cool, hot and rainy. November to February is a good season and sees average daytime temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and nights dropping to as low as 15°C (59°F).
This is the most popular time to visit Chiang Rai, so the city will be busier. The summer season starts in March and lasts until the beginning of June. Temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F), with April posting the highest daily average, around 35°C (95°F). As Chiang Mai has a very hot season, the fires that farmers in northern Thailand burn every year can also affect the air quality in Chiang Rai.
Avoid visiting from late February to late March. At the beginning of June, the beginning of the rainy season is seen. The temperature hovers around 20°C (80°F) and you should be prepared for rain when exploring Chiang Rai in 2 days. On the plus side, the landscape is a favorite in the green.
How to get around Chiang Rai
Once you arrive in Chiang Rai, you can rent a motorbike to explore the sights. Rentals cost an average of 250-300 THB (8-10 USD) per day. Another fun option is to rent a bike, but for sights like the White Temple, it’s too far to bike for most people.
Songthaews (vans) are another cheap way to explore. These blue people will stop when you report them. A short trip to the nearby attractions in the city costs about 30 baht (1 USD). Grab is available in Chiang Rai and is cheaper than regular taxis, so download the app to your phone and set it up.
A short trip around the attractions will cost you 150-200 baht (5-6 USD). Your last option is to book a private driver or join a tour to explore Chiang Rai. If this sounds like the best option, your hotel can set you up with a trusted driver.
GETTING TO CHIANG RAI FROM CHIANG MAI
Although it is possible to reach Chiang Rai by car (or even boat) from the mountains of Laos and Myanmar, as well as other places in Thailand, the best way to Chiang Rai will be from Chiang Mai.
It’s also worth noting that Chiang Rai has an international airport, with flights to Bangkok, Phuket, China, Macau, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Singapore, so if you want to fly, that’s an option.
Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus
As we stayed in Chiang Mai before going to Chiang Rai, we chose to take the Greenbus from there. The bus departs from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3 and drops you in the middle of Chiang Rai Old Town, taking 3-4.5 hours depending on the class of ticket purchased and the traffic.
Tickets start at 140 baht (USD 4.50) and depart several times a day (click here for ticket prices and times). If you are traveling in peak season, you may want to book your ticket in advance. Tickets can be booked up to 60 days in advance, either online or at the station.
Best things to do in Chiang Rai
There is an amazing selection of amazing things to do in Chiang Rai. Especially the old town with a unique relaxing atmosphere, exciting nightlife, night market and many interesting temples. Here we have collected the best shows and attractions in Chiang Rai that you will not miss.
Phu Chi Fah
One of the best places to visit in Chiang Rai, Thailand is Phu Chi Fah, located within the Pa Mae Ing and Pa Mae Ngao National Forest Reserve. It is located at an altitude of about 1,400 meters above sea level and is popular with tourists, especially during the winter months of November to January. The winter season makes the trees glow and the lush greenery on this mountain offers a breathtaking view of Laos.
Location: Thoeng District, Chiang Rai
Opening hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
Be sure to visit this popular Thai place when traveling to Chiang Rai for its beauty and unique temples. It was created by the famous artist Ajann Chalermchai Kositpipat, who drew inspiration from his country, religion and king to create a masterpiece. There is also a museum nearby that displays his paintings and can be visited near the temple. Location: Mueang District, Chiang Rai
Opening hours: 6:30 am – 6 pm.
Chiang Kong
The border with Laos is a popular place especially for those who pass through Chiang Khong on their way to Laos and decide to stop here. Some stay here for a short time while others are attracted by the magnetism of this place to stay for a long time. Although it doesn’t have any major tourist attractions, Chiang Khong is the best place to enjoy a relaxing time with a laid-back attitude in Thailand.
Location: Chiang Khong, Chiang Rai
Hours: Open all days
Mae Kok River
One of the most beautiful sights in Chiang Rai, the Kok River runs from Thathon in the mountains of Chiang Mai to the city of Chiang Rai and stretches for several kilometers. One can take a long tail boat and cruise around the city while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Location: Mueang District, Chiang Rai
Entrance fee: 900 – 1,000 baht per hour
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
