Chiang Rai: Visit the Cultural Hub of Northern Thailand

Located on the plains of Maekok, the city has its boundaries drawn distinctively by four bridges on the river circling it. In the surrounding area you'll find a number of beautiful farmlands and tea plantations in vast stretches of greenery. The city is also the essence of Buddhism and can be a great way to learn about the religion as well as Northern Thai culture. Here are some of the spots you need to check out when visiting Chiang Rai

1. Tad Kwan Village Park and Waterfall

Away from the city, this park is a custodian of the sole remaining unscathed Mien Tribe village, one of the oldest hill-tribes in the region. Apart from getting to know and see first-hard the local hill-tribe culture, visitors can try their hand at driving off-road buggies to get between the different sightseeing spots such as the bamboo forests, rubber tree plantations and mountain fields. You'll also find a beautiful waterfall and pond where swimming is allowed.

2. The White Temple

Unlike other temples that strictly display Buddhist and Thai artifacts, the white temple is home to many art products referencing pop culture. The temple itself is a splendid sight, white in color and plastered with glass pieces that make it sparkle. The outdoor environment is good for sightseeing as it features immaculate gardens. Monk houses are also present from where glimpses of Buddhism can be taught. There is a historical building housing most of Thai’s deities. Opposite the building is the contemporary arts building where most displays are pop-oriented such as portraits of Michael Jackson, Superman and the minions blending both city and ancient arts.

3. Wat Phra That Doi Mae

Unlike most of the city’s temples that try to add pints of westernization to their design, this temple stays loyal to its roots. One of the favourites for pilgrims, it has two temples. One of the temples is an ancient one, which is in ruins, whereas the other temple is a newly constructed one. Both temples are on a hill, offering excellent sightseeing platforms of the surrounding lush green environment. A monastery is also in the compound, and one can get to see monks engaging in meditation rituals. Most of the year the skies are blue all year round and sunsets are an addictive eye candy once the silhouette of the magnificent temple is in the fading daylight. Tent setting is permissible, and this can be a good spot for picnics, hanging out and sightseeing beyond the city.

4. Wat Rong Suea Ten（Blue Temple）

Also known as the blue temple, this is also one of the favourite temples to visit. It features a hypnotizing blue interior, decorated with Thai cultural designs. A large white Buddha statue is erected inside the temple, with its foot made surrounded by deities that have been skillfully sculpted. The entrance is one to invoke curiosity and anxiety as a large dragon sculpture is erected here. Ruins of an old temple are present inside the compound. The ruins have been embellished, without corrupting their original outlook thus bringing out an original design.

5. The Black Temple

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The Black temple is more of an art exhibition than a temple. It is designed in the classic Thai style temple archetype with a feasting hall as its extension. The feasting hall is enormous, one able to hold a Viking style feasts. The buildings in this environment are amongst shady trees, thus a cool environment. The temple hosts the works of Thai artist Thawan Duchanee and is never as crowded as the iconic White temple, promising a more tranquil visit outside the city. The overlapping roofing style of the temple is also a picture worthy sight aside from th westernized city landscape.

6. Singha Park

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For a sightseeing experience, coupled with a little bit of thrill and something in store for snoozy people, Singha Park is the place to visit. It offers a panoramic view of a tea farm. Zip lining across the plantation is the thrilling activity on offer. Free golf trolley buses are on offer for the lazy feeling folk who would still love to hike. Restaurants are also perfectly placed in locations that offer beautiful views. The park also plays host to the Balloon Fiesta on Valentine’s Day, promising a memorable romantic outing. Any time of the year is a perfect time to visit except February all through to May, when the atmosphere is smoky, obstructing the sightseeing thrill.

7. Guan Yin Statue

Found on the outskirts of the city and easily accessible by tuk-tuk. It has a statue of the enormous Goddess of divinity. Close by is the Huai Pla Kung temple whose design is a mix of Thai and Chinese cultures. The temple is well lit during the night, a picture worthy environment. Inside the large statue, are twenty five storeys all of which offer a bird’s eye view of the city and its immediate surroundings. The Huai Pla Kung temple is also one of the most visited temples by the city’s Buddhists.

8. Akha Hill House

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The Akha hills are home to the Akha tribe, who came from China in the later years of the 19th century. The Akha hills house is made of bungalow cottages in the midst of a lush jungle, away from the usual city sightseeing places. Around the house is the Akha tribesmen who live in mud houses and are courteous enough to accommodate fun seekers for a couple nights. The place is however filled with bugs, and it is, therefore, advisable to carry mosquito repellants and ensure you sleep under a net. Souvenirs are also on sale at the place, providing easy opportunities to mark the memories.

9. Doi Tung Tree Top Walk

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This is located within the Mae Fah Luang garden. The treetop park is a bridge suspended 100 feet above the ground. The miniature skyscraper height is only a match to the highest forest canopies in the garden. The bouncing walkway should not feel as a safety risk as the bridge is harnessed strongly. Along the walk, sightseers get to see a variety of insects and bird species. For further exploration of the environment beyond the city, the rest of the Mae Fah Luang garden is still a worthy place to walk around and enjoy the fresh air.

10. Doi Tung Royal Villa

The royal home of the late Princess Mother was turned into a historical site. By visiting this villa, on can get a feel of what Thai royalty feels like in Chiang Rai. An extended balcony overlooking a flower garden may easily take you to the wonderland. There also is a hanging bridge between trees to offer alternative angle of the flower garden that is immaculate, thanks to its amazing topiary design. In the surrounding neighbourhood, there are restaurants that also offer splendid viewing places of the garden and the palace.

◎ Closing

Chiang Rai is one of Thai’s most underrated tourist sites. The city is home to some of the most unique and original Buddha temples. Greenery due to tea plantations and the extensive jungle on the hilly outskirts also offer a great sightseeing experience.

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