Chiang Rai shares a common border with Laos and Myanmar at Mae
Sai , known as The Golden Triangle, formerly a notorious drug route
and today a tourist trap for those who want to feel notorious. The city
was founded by King Mengrai as his first Lanna capital, prior to
Chiang Mai. It is a somewhat quieter version of Chiang Mai, but apart
from visits to Wat Phra Kaeo (yes, the Emerald Buddha used to be
here) and Wat Phra Singh (yes, Phra Buddha Sihing used to be here),
there's not a lot to see in town. Best to get out and explore the
wonderful countryside, such as Doi Luang National Park or Doi
Tung, where the Princess Mother established a special farm to wean
hilltribes off opium cultivation. The ancient towns of Chiang Saen
and Chiang Khong on the Mekhong River border with Laos are also
worth exploring
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Location & Access
785 kms north of Bangkok.Thai
Airways runs regular daily flights
from Bangkok and Chaing Mai.
Road access is via Chiang Mai.
Geography
Mostly covered with mountains,
densely populated by hundreds of
species of forest trees. The flat
plains in-between are widely use
for cultivation of rice fields,
plantations and orchards. The
most important river is the Kok.
Borders
North : Myanmar and Laos
South : Phayao and Lampang
East : Laos
West : Chiang Mai
Highlights
Attractions: The Golden
Triangle, Mae Fa Luang Gardens,
Wat Phrathat Doi Tung, Wat
Phrathat Chom Kitti, Wat Phra
Kaeo, Doi Luang National Park,
rafting on the Kok River, Doi
Mae Salong
Souvenirs: Lychee, lamyai,
strawberries, pottery and
earthenware
Festivals: Lychee Fair (May) |
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