Attractions · Chiang Rai
Things to do in Chiang Rai.
The far north's art temples and the Golden Triangle: a smaller, stranger, quieter alternative to Chiang Mai.
The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Chalermchai Kositpipat's glittering white temple, part devotion and part pop art, still being built. The north's most photographed building.
How to book: Entry paid at the gate. Morning is quietest and the light is on the facade.
The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
A temple hall saturated in blue and gold by a pupil of the White Temple's artist, five minutes from the centre.
How to book: Free entry. Combine with the White Temple and the Black House in one loop.
Baan Dam, the Black House
Thawan Duchanee's dark counterpart to the White Temple: black timber halls of art, bone and hide. Strange and unmissable.
How to book: Entry paid at the gate.
The Golden Triangle and the Mekong
Where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet on the Mekong: the opium museums, the river viewpoint at Sop Ruak and the longtail boats.
How to book: Day trips from Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai run daily; independent trips use the Chiang Saen buses.
Search tickets and toursvia KlookPlanning the stay itself: the city guides cover what is on, and the hotels page covers where to sleep near it.