Chiang Rai Tourist Information

Introduction

Chiang rai province covers some 11,678 square kilometres and has a population of 1.2 mkllion. The average elevation is 580 metres above sea level. Myanmar borders on the north, and Laos on the A north and northeast. The provincial capital is 829 kilometres north of Bangkok.
Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai and was the first capital of Lanna Thai (Kingdom of a Million Ricefields). The province contains Thailand's northernmost point at Mae Sai which is well known for its crisp mountain scenery, and hilltribes. North Chiang Rai falls within the region known as the Golden Triangle,the area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge.


City Attractions
King Meng Rai the Great Monument
This is located on the city outskirts, beside the northrn road to Mae Chan, and honours the monarch who founded Chiang Rai in 1262
Ku phra Chao Meng Rai
Situated in Wat Ngam Muang, on Ngam Muang Hillock, this stupa contains King Mengrai's ashes andrelics.
Wat phra That Doi Thong
This ancient hilltop pagoda overlooks the Mae Kok River and predates the founding of Chiag Rai as the capital of Lanna Thai.
Wat Phra Singha
This temple, on Singhakhlai Road, is a fine example of Lanna Thai religious architecture. The Phra Buddha Singha image now housed in Chiang Mai's Wat Phra Singha was formerly enshrined here.
Wat phra Kaew
Located behind Wat Phra Singha, this temple is said to have been the original site of the Emerald Buddha.(now venerated in Bangkok's Wat phra Kaew Chapel of the Emerald Buddha)
Haad Chiang Rai
Located 4 kilometres from the city, this scenic riverside area and promenade is a recreation area for local inhabitants.
Mae kok River
Known in Thai as Maenam Kok,this scenic 130-kilometre long waterway runs through the heart of Chiang Rai. the river is a major transportation artery from neighbouring Chiang Mai province, especially the town of Tha Thon (180 kilometres north of Chiang Mai provinceal capital),

whence long-tailed boats make the 3-4 hour journey every day at 12.30 PM (chiang Rai-Tha Thon : 10.30 AM). The river passes several hilltribe settlements and elephant cams from where jungle treks originate.
Khun Korn Waterfall
Located 30 kilometres south of Chiang Rai provinceal capital, along Routes 1211 & 1208, the 70-metre high Khun Korn Waterfall is the highest in the province.


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