Chiang Rai is a culturally rich province in northern Thailand, home to cool-climate mountains, lush jungles and quiet, picturesque towns. It also serves as a gateway to neighboring provinces and countries in Southeast Asia. As a result, it is frequently visited by adventurous travellers seeking less explored regions. Although it is often overlooked by visitors to its livelier sister province, Chiang Mai, there are many surprises and hidden treasures worth discovering here if you add it to your travel itinerary.

Chiang Rai offers a wealth of natural attractions and cultural activities you can enjoy throughout its beautiful countryside. Among the best things to do are visiting temples and viewpoints, learning how the opium trade shaped the region’s history, and talking to local hill tribe villagers.

Read on to find out more top 10 things to do in Chiang Rai with Thai Unika Travel.

1. Discover what’s inside the White Temple

When you imagine a Thai temple, Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. In fact, unlike most of Thailand’s temples, the White Temple is a relatively modern structure that was only completed in 1997 by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.

The exterior is adorned with intricate white and silver detailing, as well as dragons, snakes and a (slightly scary) moat containing hundreds of outstretched hands.

The interior is decorated with fascinating floor-to-ceiling paintings of movie stars, cartoons and politicians. This pop-culture theme continues throughout the temple, so keep your eyes peeled for characters like Darth Vader and Iron Man.

Unfortunately, photography is only allowed around the outside of the temple, so you can’t take pictures inside.

2. Visit Black House

The Black House (Baan Dam Museum) is a large museum housing the works of a famous local Thai artist. The many buildings are all constructed of heavy, dark wood and metal and arranged around a garden. Each building is filled with strange, haunting collections of art and installations constructed almost entirely from animal skins and skeletons.

All the art is arranged artistically and symbolically, not simply to shock. Each piece is meant to illustrate Buddhist philosophy, and the collection is well worth seeing, especially in contrast to the White Temple.

3. Admire the Uniqueness of Wat Rong Sear Tean (Blue Temple)

Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) is a new addition to Chiang Rai’s temple collection, having only been completed in 2016.

A largely underrated temple, or perhaps the word hasn’t spread yet, is intricately decorated with gold details that contrast stunningly with the blue background.

The blue temple offers an interesting opportunity to observe the difference between ancient and modern temple designs, while breathing in the energy that seems to radiate from this vibrant color.

4. Watch the light show at the Clock Tower

During the daytime, the Clock Tower in the heart of Chiang Rai may not seem particularly impressive, especially when surrounded by bustling traffic.

As darkness falls, the Clock Tower illuminates with a vibrant display of lights, synchronized with enchanting music that fills the air at the intersection. The captivating dance of lights creates a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

This captivating display takes place every evening at three different times: 7 p.m., 8 p.m., and 9 p.m., with each show lasting for approximately 10 minutes. It’s a rhythmic and dazzling experience that leaves a lasting impression.

While immersing yourself in the spectacle, try to observe if there are any striking resemblances between the Clock Tower and the White Temple because both were designed by the same artist.

5. Shop and dine at Chiang Rai’s night bazaar

After the sun sets and you’ve explored the temples to your heart’s content, it’s time to venture towards the vibrant Night Bazaar for an exciting late-night shopping and culinary experience. Nestled in Chiang Rai, the Night Bazaar is an outdoor market that offers a diverse array of goods, including the customary hill tribe jewelry, elephant pants, and silk scarves.

At the Night Bazaar, your taste buds are in for a treat. The air is filled with enticing aromas as numerous food stalls tempt you with their mouthwatering delights. From savory street food to tantalizing snacks, there’s a wide variety of flavors to explore. Indulge in local delicacies, savor aromatic Thai curries, sample freshly grilled seafood, or satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable desserts.

6. Stroll in Singha Park

For a serene escape surrounded by nature, look no further than Singha Park. This vast agricultural tourist attraction, owned by the beloved beer conglomerate Singha, offers a variety of zones and activities for a delightful day trip.

Spanning seemingly endless acres, Singha Park invites visitors to explore its diverse offerings, from thrilling ziplining adventures to encounters with animals in the zoo. With its extensive space, the park also hosts remarkable events throughout the year, such as the Hot Air Balloon Festival in February and the enchanting Village of Illumination in December.

Even outside of special events, Singha Park provides an array of facilities to enhance your experience. Indulge in the farm-inspired restaurant, savor a meal in the expansive lighthouse dining area, or relax at the beer garden overlooking a picturesque lake. It’s a haven for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature in Chiang Rai.

7. Go trekking and hiking

Chiang Rai is a mountainous region, so what better place to go hiking?

This adventure promises a unique and unforgettable experience, where lush jungle-covered peaks meet quaint villages inhabited by ethnic minority groups.

The northern mountains of Thailand are home to over a million people from various tribal ethnic groups, such as the Karen, Akha, Lisu, Mien/Yao, Hmong, Padaung, and Lahu. Each group possesses its own distinct culture, religion, and language, adding to the richness and diversity of the region.

During these treks, you’ll have the opportunity to stay in local houses, experiencing life as the villagers do. While the accommodations may be modest, with a simple mattress on a bamboo floor, a cozy blanket, and a mosquito net, this rustic setting becomes an integral part of the adventure. The absence of modern comforts is overshadowed by the authenticity and incomparable experiences you’ll encounter along the way.

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8. Relax in a natural hot spring

After trekking, Chiang Rai’s hot springs are the ideal place to rejuvenate and refresh your muscles.

The Huay Mak Liam hot spring is located in a lush forest along the Kok River. These springs are actually too hot to bathe in, as they reach 65 degrees Celsius! It’s pretty crazy that a natural spring can reach such high temperatures.

Don’t worry, 1 km away is the Pong Phra Soet hot spring, which offers both public and private pools. Nam Roo, however, must take the crown. It’s 120 km from the city, but believe us, it’s worth the trip! This naturally heated lake is Mother Nature’s idea of an infinity pool. The lake is set in the mountains of Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park, offering spectacular views as you relax.

9. Take a dip in one of Chiang Rai’s waterfalls

The region’s mountainous topography has created some of the best waterfalls in all of Thailand, which means you shouldn’t visit Chiang Rai without seeing at least one!

Not too far from the city center lies Huay Mae Sai, largely unknown to most people, creating an intimate and private experience. The waterfall has a deep, refreshing pool at its base and idyllic places to sunbathe on the rocks.

A little further from Chiang Rai is Khun Korn, some 30 km from the center. This 70 m waterfall is sure to give you goose bumps as you gaze up at the surging wall of water.

10. Stand on the border of 3 countries in the Golden Triangle

Chiang Rai is one of the largest cities in northern Thailand, close to the borders of Myanmar and Laos.

This is how the Golden Triangle came into being. It’s where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet, along the intersection of the Mekong and Ruak rivers.

How many people can say they’ve seen three countries at once?

The Golden Triangle is little more than a photo opportunity. To make the most of your trip, you can visit some of the nearby markets and admire the great golden Buddha statue.

See other attractions of Chiang Rai here

These are just a few of the many exciting things to do in Chiang Rai. With its blend of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and culinary experiences, Chiang Rai offers a diverse range of attractions that will captivate any traveler.