30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Chiang Rai | Apr 2025

Chiang Rai:Discover 7 Must-See Spots & Tickets, Lunch Included Image
# 1 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai:Discover 7 Must-See Spots & Tickets, Lunch Included

This tour offers an unforgettable travel experience in Chiang Rai by visiting the province's most popular attractions in a single day.

5.00 (14 reviews)

Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle and Long Neck Karen Image
# 2 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle and Long Neck Karen

This Chiang Rai tour private tour of hill tribes and the Golden Triangle is the perfect way to experience the beauty and culture of Thailand.

4.92 (25 reviews)

From Chiang Rai: 3 Temples, Golden Triangle Tour, Tea Plantation Image
# 3 provided by Viator.com

From Chiang Rai: 3 Temples, Golden Triangle Tour, Tea Plantation

Notes: This Tour starting from Chiang Rai and Back to Chiang Rai!! Experience some of Chiang Rai's beautiful sights on a temple and Golden Triangle adventure.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Private Program Discovery Chiang Mai - Half/Full day / Night tour  Image
# 4 provided by Viator.com

Private Program Discovery Chiang Mai - Half/Full day / Night tour

Definitely a great new experience, we will provide private guide ( English, German, French, Italian, Spanish ) and private van or by public transfer all is depend from  your program.

4.00 (3 reviews)

Chiang Rai: 2 Days 1 Night Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang Image
# 5 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai: 2 Days 1 Night Slow Boat Transfer to Luang Prabang

This scenic slow boat journey offers a relaxed and culturally rich way to travel from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang. Unlike a rushed flight or bumpy bus ride, you'll drift down the Mekong River, passing through untouched landscapes, quiet villages, and lush jungle.

4.67 (3 reviews)

Chiang Rai White and Black and Blue Temple Image
# 6 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai White and Black and Blue Temple

Chiang Mai sometimes written as "Chiengmai" or "Chiangmai", is the largest city in northern Thailand. It is the capital of Chiang Mai Province.

4.83 (12 reviews)

Half Day Chiang Rai City Tour with White Temple & Wat Phra Kaew Image
# 7 provided by Viator.com

Half Day Chiang Rai City Tour with White Temple & Wat Phra Kaew

Visit the magnificent City of Chiang Rai on a half-day tour from Chiang Rai City. Enjoy the flexibility of a profesionall guide throughout the day as you visit the White Temple of Wat Rong Khun and Wat Pra Kaew, the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, where the famed jade Buddha emerged after an earthquake.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host Image
# 8 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host

Explore Chiang Rai’s colorful night markets & sightseeing visit with a local on an evening food tour of the city on foot and by car.

5.00 (1 reviews)

 Sightseeing Join Tour Chiang Rai / PICK UP ONLY IN CHIANG RAI Image
# 9 provided by Viator.com

Sightseeing Join Tour Chiang Rai / PICK UP ONLY IN CHIANG RAI

Chiang Rai Sightseeing Join Tour Our comfortable, well air conditioned van or car pick you up at your hotel between 7. 45 am - 08.

4.67 (375 reviews)

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai with Golden Triangle and Royal Villa Image
# 10 provided by Viator.com

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai with Golden Triangle and Royal Villa

Visit the Ancient City of Chiang Saen on a full-day tour from Chiang Rai City. Enjoy the flexibility of a profesionall guide throughout the day as you visit the Botanical Gardens and Royal Villa of the Queen mother, Golden Triangle, Mae Sai and more, with a break for lunch in a local restaurant.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Chiang Rai to Golden Triangle One Day Join Tour Image
# 11 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai to Golden Triangle One Day Join Tour

One day trip with many activities , start from some beautiful temples in town and travel up north to a border, Myanmar and Laos.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Half-Day Thai Cooking Class with organic ingredients Image
# 12 provided by Viator.com

Half-Day Thai Cooking Class with organic ingredients

We are the first and the most unique Thai cooking class in town you will learn to cook Thai like a local with organic ingredients.

5.00 (95 reviews)

Scenic View ATV Tour and Pineapple Farm Visit in Chiang Rai Image
# 13 provided by Viator.com

Scenic View ATV Tour and Pineapple Farm Visit in Chiang Rai

Rev up your ATV and explore Chiang Rai’s stunning landscapes on an action-packed ride! Choose Trip A for off-road trails, a Lahu hill tribe village, the “Sea of Mist” at Doi Bo, and Huai Mae Sai Waterfall.

Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour-FREE LUNCH BUFFET Image
# 14 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai:Guided Highlights Full-Day Tour-FREE LUNCH BUFFET

Experience the ultimate Chiang Rai escape. This curated tour offers exclusive access to breathtaking temples, private encounters with local artisans, and luxurious accommodations.

4.83 (6 reviews)

From $35.89
$44.86 Save $8.97

Check availability
Chiang Rai: Guided Full-Day Highlights tour with Lunch Image
# 15 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai: Guided Full-Day Highlights tour with Lunch

We will take you into the heart of the local culture; to the must see tourist sights and then off the beaten track to where no other tourists ever go.

4.92 (24 reviews)

Chiang Rai City & Temples Image
# 16 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai City & Temples

Embark on a half-day tour designed to showcase the highlights of Chiang Rai. Begin your journey at the vibrant main market area, where local culture comes alive.

5.00 (8 reviews)

Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host Image
# 17 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai Food & Night Market Walking Tour with Local Host

Explore Chiang Rai’s colorful night markets & sightseeing visit with a local on an evening food tour of the city on foot and by car.

5.00 (5 reviews)

Half Day Cycling Tour to the White temple Image
# 18 provided by Viator.com

Half Day Cycling Tour to the White temple

Explore Chiang Rai’s countryside on a bike tour. The guide will lead you through villages, rice field, small farms on paved roads and dirt.

5.00 (54 reviews)

Thailand 7-Stop Tour with English Guide & Thai Buffet Image
# 19 provided by Viator.com

Thailand 7-Stop Tour with English Guide & Thai Buffet

Experience a tour like no other with us! Our meticulously crafted itineraries offer unique insights and immersive experiences that set us apart.

1 Day Trekking Group Tour With Bamboo Cooking / Chiang Rai Image
# 20 provided by Viator.com

1 Day Trekking Group Tour With Bamboo Cooking / Chiang Rai

We show you some highlights of the the jungle of Chiang Rai. Suitable for couple, families and groups. From Phra Soep Hot Spring hikking to a bamboo forest, farm land, rice fields.

4.95 (38 reviews)

Chiang Rai Night Tour by TUK TUK Image
# 21 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai Night Tour by TUK TUK

This is 4-hour cultural night tour by TUK – TUK.  We will also explore Fresh Market, Chiang Rai Town and Night Bazaar, under the night lights.

4.67 (3 reviews)

Wat Phra Kaew , Maesai Border, fun on boat , Sunset at Red Temple Image
# 22 provided by Viator.com

Wat Phra Kaew , Maesai Border, fun on boat , Sunset at Red Temple

Start from a visiting an oldest Temple and beautiful temples in town, after that go to Mae Sai District to see a Myanmar Border on top of a hill at Scorpion Temple , exciting with a Sky Walk at the temple and shopping at Sai Lom Joy Market.

5.00 (1 reviews)

Myanmar Border-Crossing & Mae Khong River Cruise Tour Image
# 23 provided by Viator.com

Myanmar Border-Crossing & Mae Khong River Cruise Tour

After being picked up from your hotel, you'll embark on a drive to Mae Sai, located on the Thai-Burma trading border. Upon arrival, cross the Sai River into Tha Chilek, the town on the Burmese side, where you can observe the daily life of the locals in a nearby village.

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai including Golden Triangle and Royal Villa Image
# 24 provided by Viator.com

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai including Golden Triangle and Royal Villa

Visit the Ancient City of Chiang Saen on a full-day tour from Chiang Rai City. Enjoy the flexibility of a profesionall guide throughout the day as you visit the Botanical Gardens and Royal Villa of the Queen mother, Golden Triangle, Mae Sai and more, with a break for lunch in a local restaurant.

4.00 (6 reviews)

Full Day Group Tour in Chiang Rai Image
# 25 provided by Viator.com

Full Day Group Tour in Chiang Rai

Explore the Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle! The attractions in this region provide great experiences at any time of the year.

5.00 (45 reviews)

Private Full-Day Tour of Hue from Da Nang or Hoi An City Image
# 26 provided by Viator.com

Private Full-Day Tour of Hue from Da Nang or Hoi An City

Spend the day taking in the scenic countryside of Vietnam and exploring Hue on this One Day Tour from Danang. Travel the distance of 120km to the north of Danang city center where you will find the Hue Ancient Capital, a famous city in Vietnam.

4.63 (24 reviews)

Chiang Rai: Guided Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing Tour  Image
# 27 provided by Viator.com

Chiang Rai: Guided Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing Tour

The Chiang Rai: Guided Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing Tour offers a unique and breathtaking way to experience the beauty of northern Thailand.

5.00 (4 reviews)

Private Tour: Incredible Temples of Chiang Rai Image
# 28 provided by Viator.com

Private Tour: Incredible Temples of Chiang Rai

Explore Chiang Rai's famous contemporary temples on this full-day private tour. With your private professional guide and comfortable transport, we will visit the well-known White Temples, the Blue Temple, the Black House, and Wat Huay Pla Kung with lunch included.

5.00 (7 reviews)

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai with Golden Triangle and Royal Villa Image
# 29 provided by Viator.com

Ancient City Tour from Chiang Rai with Golden Triangle and Royal Villa

Visit the Ancient City of Chiang Saen on a full-day tour from Chiang Rai City. Enjoy the flexibility of a profesionall guide throughout the day as you visit the Botanical Gardens and Royal Villa of the Queen mother, Golden Triangle, Mae Sai and more, with a break for lunch in a local restaurant.

4.56 (9 reviews)

Doi Mae Salong and Mae Sai Explored Image
# 30 provided by Viator.com

Doi Mae Salong and Mae Sai Explored

Doi Mae Salong and Mae Sai are essentials when in need to explore the Chiang Rai region in depth; destinations that live and breathe the authentic aspect of commerce and hospitality, dating back to the Lanna era and bring you beyond the Golden Triangle.

3.67 (3 reviews)

What activities can I do in Chiang Rai?

1. Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): This unique and stunning temple is a must-visit in Chiang Rai. The intricate details and the white color make it truly mesmerizing. 2. Explore the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Another beautiful temple in Chiang Rai, known for its vibrant blue color and intricate artwork. It is less crowded than the White Temple and offers a peaceful atmosphere. 3. Discover the Golden Triangle: Take a boat ride along the Mekong River to explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Visit the Opium Museum and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. 4. Visit the Black House (Baan Dam Museum): This unique museum showcases the works of renowned Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. The museum consists of several black houses filled with intriguing and sometimes eerie art pieces. 5. Explore the Hill Tribe Villages: Chiang Rai is home to various hill tribe communities, including the Karen, Akha, and Lahu tribes. Take a guided tour to visit these villages, learn about their cultures, and support their local handicrafts. 6. Experience the Night Bazaar: Visit the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, try delicious street food, and enjoy live performances. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and find unique souvenirs. 7. Trek to the Doi Tung Mountain: Embark on a trekking adventure to Doi Tung Mountain, located in Doi Tung Development Project. Enjoy the scenic trails, visit the Royal Villa, and explore the beautiful Mae Fah Luang Garden. 8. Explore the Chiang Rai Clock Tower: This iconic landmark is worth a visit, especially in the evening when it comes alive with colorful lights and music. Take some time to appreciate the unique architecture and capture some memorable photos. 9. Relax at the Singha Park: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and relax in the peaceful surroundings of Singha Park. You can rent bicycles, take a scenic train ride, or simply have a picnic while enjoying the stunning views. 10. Take a boat ride to the Long Neck Village: Visit the Karen Long Neck Village, where you can learn about the fascinating culture and traditions of the Padaung tribe. Take a boat ride along the Kok River to reach the village and interact with the friendly locals.

When is the best time to travel to Chiang Rai?

The best time to travel to Chiang Rai, Thailand is during the cool and dry season, which typically runs from November to February. During this time, temperatures are more comfortable, ranging from around 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), and there is less rainfall. This makes it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and outdoor activities. However, Chiang Rai can be visited year-round as it has a tropical climate. The hot season, from March to May, can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The rainy season, from June to October, brings frequent showers and occasional heavy rainfall, but it also offers lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. If you don't mind the heat and humidity, the hot season can still be a good time to visit, especially if you plan to spend most of your time indoors or in air-conditioned spaces. The rainy season can be a good option for budget travelers, as accommodations and flights tend to be cheaper during this time. Ultimately, the best time to travel to Chiang Rai depends on your personal preferences and what activities you plan to do.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a city in northern Thailand known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are some aspects of Chiang Rai's travel culture that you should know: 1. Temples: Chiang Rai is home to several beautiful temples that showcase the region's strong Buddhist influence. The most famous one is the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), which is renowned for its intricate design and unique architecture. Other notable temples include Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong. 2. Hill Tribes: Chiang Rai is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is a gateway to various hill tribe villages. These tribes, such as the Akha, Karen, and Lisu, have their own distinct cultures, traditions, and handicrafts. Visitors can learn about their way of life, participate in local activities, and purchase traditional crafts. 3. Night Bazaars: Chiang Rai's night bazaars are vibrant and bustling, offering a wide range of local products, handicrafts, and street food. The most popular one is the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs, try local delicacies, and experience the lively atmosphere. 4. Traditional Festivals: Chiang Rai hosts various traditional festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to witness and participate in local celebrations. The most famous festival is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. 5. Natural Attractions: Chiang Rai is blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes. The Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, is a popular tourist spot. Visitors can take boat trips along the Mekong River, explore the lush countryside, and visit the Hall of Opium Museum to learn about the region's history. 6. Local Cuisine: Chiang Rai offers a diverse culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Thai dishes and unique northern specialties. Must-try dishes include khao soi (curry noodle soup), sai oua (northern Thai sausage), and kanom jeen nam ngiao (rice noodles with spicy tomato-based broth). Don't forget to sample the local delicacy of deep-fried insects if you're feeling adventurous! 7. Art and Culture: Chiang Rai is also known for its vibrant art and cultural scene. The city is home to various art galleries and museums, showcasing contemporary and traditional Thai artworks. The Chiang Rai Cultural Centre and Oub Kham Museum are popular places to learn about the local culture and history. Chiang Rai's travel culture offers a unique blend of ancient traditions, natural beauty, and artistic expressions, making it an enchanting destination for travelers seeking an authentic Thai experience.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Chiang Rai

When it comes to shopping in Chiang Rai, there are plenty of unique and interesting souvenirs to choose from. Here are some shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider: 1. Handicrafts and Artworks: Chiang Rai is known for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. Look for beautiful handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and traditional paintings. The Hill Tribe Museum and Education Center is a great place to find authentic tribal handicrafts. 2. Silverware and Jewelry: Chiang Rai is famous for its silverware and jewelry made by local artisans. You can find intricate silver necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. The Silver Temple, Wat Phra Kaew, is a great place to find unique silver items. 3. Local Tea: Chiang Rai is also known for its tea plantations. You can find a variety of high-quality teas such as Oolong, Green, and Black tea. Visit the Choui Fong Tea Plantation or the Singha Park to purchase some delicious tea leaves. 4. Handmade Soaps and Skincare Products: Chiang Rai is home to many natural skincare product makers. Look for handmade soaps, essential oils, and other beauty products made from local ingredients like herbs and flowers. 5. Thai Silk: Thailand is renowned for its silk production, and Chiang Rai is no exception. You can find beautiful silk scarves, clothing, and accessories in various colors and patterns. Visit the Ban Pha Soet Handwoven Silk Village for an authentic silk shopping experience. 6. Hill Tribe Crafts: Chiang Rai is surrounded by several hill tribes, each with its unique crafts. Look for handwoven baskets, embroidered textiles, and traditional clothing made by the Akha, Karen, or Lisu tribes. 7. Local Food and Spices: Don't forget to bring back some local flavors from Chiang Rai. Look for dried spices, chili pastes, or Northern Thai snacks like crispy pork rinds or dried fruits. Remember to shop responsibly and support local artisans and businesses.

Chiang Rai travel review

Chiang Rai: A Hidden Gem in Thailand Nestled in the northernmost part of Thailand, Chiang Rai is a hidden gem that often gets overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Chiang Mai. However, this charming city has plenty to offer for travelers seeking a unique and authentic Thai experience. From its stunning temples and vibrant markets to its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Chiang Rai is a destination that should not be missed. One of the main highlights of Chiang Rai is its impressive collection of temples. The most famous of these is the White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun. This architectural marvel is a contemporary masterpiece, adorned with intricate white carvings and sparkling mirrors that create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Another must-visit temple is the Blue Temple, or Wat Rong Suea Ten, which is known for its striking blue interior and golden accents. These temples offer a unique and modern twist on traditional Thai temple design, making them a photographer's paradise. Apart from its temples, Chiang Rai is also known for its vibrant markets. The Night Bazaar, located in the heart of the city, is a bustling hub of activity where locals and tourists come together to shop for handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food. Here, you can find everything from traditional Thai silk to handmade jewelry and souvenirs. The market comes alive in the evening, with colorful lights and live performances adding to the vibrant atmosphere. For those seeking a taste of nature, Chiang Rai has plenty to offer. The Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, is a popular destination for those interested in exploring the region's rich history and cultural diversity. Here, you can take a boat ride along the Mekong River, visit local hill tribes, or even cross the border to Laos or Myanmar for a day trip. If you're a nature enthusiast, don't miss a visit to the Singha Park. This sprawling park is a haven of greenery, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and beautiful flower gardens. You can rent a bicycle or take a leisurely stroll to explore the park's various attractions, including a petting zoo, zip-lining, and a panoramic viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Chiang Rai is also home to several museums and art galleries that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. The Oub Kham Museum, for example, houses an impressive collection of Lanna art and artifacts, providing insight into the history and traditions of the local people. The Baan Dam Museum, or the Black House, is another unique attraction that showcases the works of the renowned Thai artist, Thawan Duchanee. This unconventional museum is a collection of black buildings and sculptures, offering a thought-provoking and slightly eerie experience. In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Chiang Rai is also known for its warm and welcoming locals. The city has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, making it easy for travelers to connect with the locals and immerse themselves in the local way of life. Whether it's enjoying a cup of traditional Thai tea at a local teahouse or joining a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes, Chiang Rai offers numerous opportunities to engage with the local community. In conclusion, Chiang Rai is a hidden gem that offers a unique and authentic Thai experience. From its stunning temples and vibrant markets to its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this charming city has something for everyone. So, if you're looking to explore a lesser-known destination in Thailand, make sure to include Chiang Rai on your itinerary. You won't be disappointed.