Chiang Rai walking tour & city guide
The White Temple, the Blue Temple and the hills of the Golden Triangle.
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Chiang Rai, Thailand's northernmost major city, is a laid-back town surrounded by mountains, tea plantations and hill-tribe villages. It is best known for its striking modern temples, created by Thai artists, and as the gateway to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.
The famous temples
Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple, is the city's most famous sight, a dazzling all-white temple covered in mirrored glass, designed by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, who began building it in 1997. Its symbolism mixes Buddhist themes with surprising pop culture references inside.
Wat Rong Suea Ten, the Blue Temple, is painted in deep sapphire blue with gold details and a white Buddha inside. Baan Dam, the Black House, created by the artist Thawan Duchanee, is a dark and intriguing complex of buildings filled with animal bones, horns and carvings.
The town
In the town center, the golden Clock Tower, also designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, comes alive with a short light and music show in the evenings. The Night Bazaar and the Saturday Walking Street fill the streets with crafts and food, as the night walk shows.
Golden Triangle and tips
About an hour north, the Golden Triangle marks the meeting point of three countries on the Mekong River, with the Hall of Opium museum telling the region's history. Doi Mae Salong is known for its tea plantations and Chinese heritage. Chiang Rai is about three hours from Chiang Mai by bus. The cool season is the best time to visit.
Top sights in Chiang Rai
- 1
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
A dazzling white temple covered in mirrors.
- 2
Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
A sapphire-blue temple with gold details.
- 3
Baan Dam (Black House)
A dark, artistic complex of buildings.
- 4
Chiang Rai Clock Tower
A golden tower with an evening light show.
- 5
Golden Triangle
Where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet.
- 6
Doi Mae Salong
A hilltop village of tea plantations.
Food markets & where to eat in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Food courts and stalls every evening.
Saturday Walking Street
A weekly market with northern Thai food.
Local coffee shops
Coffee grown in the surrounding hills.
Khao soi restaurants
Northern curry noodle soup across town.
Food to try in Chiang Rai
Khao soi
Coconut curry noodle soup with crispy noodles.
Nam ngiao
A spicy northern noodle soup with pork and tomato.
Sai ua
Herb-packed northern sausage.
Local tea and coffee
From the mountain farms of Chiang Rai.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Chiang Rai
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in Chiang RaiCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Chiang Rai.
- eSIM for ThailandStay online from the moment you land.
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