Northern Thailand

Chiang Rai, Thailand's furthest northern province, is about 471 miles from Bangkok and 1,500 feet above sea level. Its area, mostly covered with mountains, is 7,000 square miles. The most important river is Mae Kok; which is about 80 miles long.

Jeff Morgan

Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 AD by King Mengrai, whose statue can be easily seen on the way to Mae Chan. It used to be the capital of Lanna Kingdom and later was conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory and proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rarna VI in 1910 A.D. Today Chiang Rai is famous for its tasty lychees and the Golden Triangle in Arnphoe Chiang Saen.

ATTRACTIONS

Monument of King Mengrai the Great ~ This monument is situated at the starting point of the road to Mae Chan, Chiang Sean and Mae Sai.

Ku Phrachao Mengrai ~ This stupa is situated in Wat Ngam Muang on Doi Ngam Muang in Chiang Rai Township area. It is the place where ashes and relics of King Mengrai are housed.

Wat Phrasing ~ Where legend holds that an important Thai ravada image was located, has been restored for many times to allow accurate dating. Documents suggest the 15th century or earlier.

Wat Plira Keo ~ Situated behind Wat Phrasing, is believed to have been the original residence of the Emerald Buddha which is now in Bangkok at the Royal Temple of the same name.

Phrathat Doi Tung ~ is the holy relic that draws devout Buddhists from as far as Laos and Myanmar for annual worshipping. The reliquary is atop the highest Chiang Rai mountain at DoiTung, elevation 6,000 feet above sea level. The shrine is reached by a torturous mountain road, winding its way up and down mountainsides for 10 miles. Off Highway No.110, 30 miles, from Chiang Rai township. The unmatched panoramic view reaches out to Myanmar and Laos on the horizon.

Phra Tamnak Doi Tung ~ A beautiful royal residence built for the Princess Mother on the way to Phrathat Doi Tung. The main attraction is Suan Mae Fa Luang ~ a very beautiful garden decorated with different kinds of plants and flowers. The garden is open to visitors daily from 06.00-15.00 hrs.

Mae Sai is Thailand's northern most border district to Myanmar. The Myanmar atmosphere is prevalent in this area and also Myanmar goods and handicrafts can be purchased.

Chiang Saen -A small town about 18 miles further from Mae Chan. Its lovely setting on the Mae Khong River strongly enchants the charm of its old temples

Chiang Saen National Museum is in Chiang Saen town and one of the most famous museums in Thailand for ancient Buddha images and antiques. The museum is open from 9.00 a.m. -16.00 p.m. everyday except Monday, Tuesday and official holidays.

Golden Triangle ~ The most famous attraction where the borders of the three countries meet; Laos, Thailand and Myanmar. It is about 6 miles north of Chiang Saen. The Laotian and Myanmar border can be seen through Mae Khong and Ruak River respectively. Accommodations are available for tourists who want to stay over night. Boats can be rented for trips along the Khong River.

Lychee Fair ~ This annual fair is held in May. Chiang Rai, Thailand's northernmost province, is known for the high quality lychees that grow in its orchards. This fair celebrates the harvest season. In addition to sales of the fruit, there are displays of other agricultural products, local handicrafts and a beauty contest to select Miss Lychee.