Chiang Rai has a wealth of historical interest that goes back to the late 13^th century. It was the first capital of the Lanna Tai kingdom that ruled the whole of the north of Thailand, parts of Burma, Laos and southern China. It also has many natural attractions for visitors to enjoy and explore. A selection of ‘must see’ places in the province is as follows:

Doi Luang National Park

This fascinating national park should not be missed! One of the main attractions is the beautiful cascading Nam Tok Pu Kaeng Waterfall – which is also the largest waterfall in the province. Other waterfalls within the park are the Nam Tok Wang Kaeo and Nam Tok Champa Thong. There are also various caves scattered throughout the park, such as Nang Phaya Pang Ding Cave. Much of the park is still covered in dense, mixed forest and is home to over eighty-nine confirmed species of bird as well as twelve different types of mammal, including wild pig, slow loris and barking deer.

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A trip to Chiang Rai province would not be complete without seeing the notorious Golden Triangle first hand! This famed border location where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet on the Mekong River was once supposed to be the center of all the opium poppy growing in Thailand.

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This interesting museum is situated in the historical town of Chiang Saen and features some fine displays of local artifacts, as well as various handicrafts from the surrounding area. It is best known for its exquisite collection of bronze Buddha images in typical Chiang Saen style (featuring oval faces and slender bodies), as well as other Lanna art objects. Many art historians believe that these particular collections are perhaps the first true ‘Thai’ works-of-art. There are some fine displays of folk art, handicrafts and musical instruments produced by the hill tribes indigenous to the area.

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