Chiang Rai, steeped in culture, customs and arts will sure to delight

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa

Chiang Rai (Golden Triangle) map   

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Chiang Rai is ideally positioned as the gateway to the fabled Golden Triangle—or the place where the borders of Thailand, Burma, and Laos meet. Once a centre of opium production, this region used to be Asia's own "wild west" scene. But now, the mountainous, mist-shrouded landscape is perfect for quiet getaways, rustic treks, and opportunities to view Thailand's startling natural beauty. Chiang Rai is a relaxed, unhurried city peppered with luxury resorts, where visitors can watch jungle birds dip and sway over hills and valleys enhanced by the music of the Mekong and Ruak rivers.

No trip to Chiang Rai would be complete without a visit to the stunning Wat Rong Khun temple. This all-white temple sparkles and gleams in the sunlight due to mirrored mosaics embedded in the snow-white plaster. Created by a local artist who wished to pay tribute to the purity of the Buddha, the ornate temple features extensive architecture, all in the traditional Thai style. But here, tradition is juxtaposed with modern interpretations of the Bhudda's message, including frightening giants, a pond filled with white fish, and a breath-taking sculpture of a saint seated on a lotus, surrounded by the whirling winds of karma.

Other attractions in the area include Wat Phra Kaew, a beautiful Buddhist shrine adorned with gold. Chiang Rai's Hill tribe Museum is another excellent place to spend an hour or two learning about the history, lifestyle, and culture of these isolated peoples. One of the best ways to see the Chiang Rai region is to enjoy a morning boat ride on the Mae Kok River between Thaton and Chiang Rai. Better yet, charter a boat and spend an evening at a refreshing riverside hot springs. A visit to the nearby Akha hill tribe village provides a glimpse into the Thai traditional way of life, where you will see girls in their traditional head dresses and families living in typical bamboo houses. As you cruise the river, be sure to also visit the Karen village, where locals offer tourists the opportunity to ride an elephant, or even to help bathe one of these magnificent beasts by riding it into the river.

Upon arrival in Thaton, enjoy Thailand's signature views of lush, verdant mountains frosted with drifting clouds. The giant Buddha shrines here are not to be missed, nor is the chance to amble along the scenic avenues and quaint streets of this pleasant town amid the jungle. Your river adventure complete, you'll soon want to return to Chiang Rai, where the vivid tapestry of life unfolds each day, and where carefree moments spent shopping at intriguing road-side stalls may be the finest part of your holiday.