Chiang Rai & the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar come together. It’s a beautiful part of the world, at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers.

Wat Rong Khun – the White Temple – is a must-see during your trip to the Golden Triangle. Designed by Thai painter and architect Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple opened its doors in 1997 – but is not expected to be finished until 2070. But, even now, this blinding-white structure is a wonder to behold, with its spiked roof, modern icons and Buddhist scenes.

It’s also worth visiting Wat Rong Suea Ten – the Blue Temple – and Wat Phra Kaew, a 15th-century Buddhist temple still used for worship today. Taking the kids? Spend a family afternoon at Singha Park, where lakes and tea plantations provide a beautiful background for a zoo, educational farm, and thrilling zip-lines.

Culture-seekers will love Thailand’s northernmost city. On a holiday to Chiang Rai, you can witness a traditional dance as you taste local dishes from an authentic street food stall. Wander the attractions of the Old Town, and marvel at the majestic statue of King Mengrai, founder of the city. Watch the nightly music and light show at Chalermchai Kositpipat’s golden clock tower. And discover the spirit of the city in its famous temples, Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Sing, Wat Klang Wiang, and Wat Jet Yot. And browse the night bazaar for clothes, jewellery and handicrafts directly from the members of nearby hill tribes.

You can uncover the cultures and histories of the local people at Oub Kham Museum and The Hill Tribe Museum. Or venture outside the city and take a cycle tour of the peaceful Mae Fah Luang Cultural Park, which is filled with wooden houses, 19th-century murals, and lakeside pavilions.

Journey through the mountain villages surrounding Chiang Rai to encounter the varied cultures and lifestyles of Northern Thailand’s famous hill tribes.

You can meet the Akha, Yao and Lisu tribes in the charming village of Doe Mae Salong, near the Myanmar border. Visit Thailand’s oldest town, Chiang Saen, and pass through a Karen hill tribe village close to the region’s natural hot springs.

Sail through jungle landscape in a long-tailed boat to the bamboo huts of the Lahu and Ban Pha Tai villages. If you wish, you can even stay overnight among the tribes.

After learning more about the lives of these inspiring tribespeople, take the opportunity to get up close with Thailand’s most majestic animals. At the Thai Elephant Care Centre – an ethical sanctuary – you can see these lovely creatures be fed, washed and rehabilitated.

October to March is the cooler, dryer season in Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle. Daytime temperatures average 25°C, and there’s much less rain than the rest of the year. Days become hotter from March to May, and increasing rainfall can create a humid atmosphere – but you’ll still be able to enjoy most activities in comfort.

Northern Thailand is wettest between June and September, which can deter some visitors. But don’t be put off. Most of the time, the rain falls in short, heavy bursts and everything dries very quickly. This can be a great time to visit, as the towns and villages are quieter and you’ll find that accommodation is much cheaper.