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Chiang Rai: A Hidden Gem in Northern Thailand
Nestled in the northern part of Thailand, Chiang Rai offers a mesmerizing mix of culture, nature, and adventure. From vibrant historical sites to breathtaking mountain views, this city has something to offer to each and every visitor. As a National Geographic Journalist, I had the chance to explore this hidden gem and here’s what I found.
Scenery of the City:
Chiang Rai is a small yet beautiful city that attracts tourists with its stunning green landscapes, peaceful temples, and bustling markets. One of the highlights of the city is the majestic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a unique temple that is entirely white and filled with intricate carvings and murals. The neighboring Black House Museum (Baan Dam) is a stark contrast, with its dark and twisted artwork framing a unique perspective on life and the universe. Other notable sites that are worth visiting include the Golden Triangle, Doi Mae Salong, and Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park.
What I Like and Dislike:
One of the things I love about Chiang Rai is the city’s laid-back vibe and friendliness of the locals. The residents are always open to helping visitors and willing to share their own customs and traditions. However, the downside is that the city’s infrastructure is not as developed as its neighbors, and transportation can be a bit challenging. But don’t worry, renting a scooter or bicycle is an easy and fun way to explore the city on your own.
Average Cost of Living in a Day:
The cost of living in Chiang Rai is relatively low compared to other tourist destinations in Thailand. On average, a day’s expenses can amount to $30-50, including accommodations, meals, and activities. Expect to spend around $5-10 per meal, while admission fees to temples and other attraction sites range from $1 to $5.
Top 20 Points of Interest in Chiang Rai:
1. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – 60 หมู่ที่ 1 ถนน อุทัยสาน-เชียงใหม่ตลิ่งชัน, Tha Sai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
2. Baan Dam (Black House Museum) – 436 หม่องเล็ก, Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
3. Golden Triangle – Sop Ruak, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
4. Doi Mae Salong – Mae Salong Nok, Mae Fah Luang District, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
5. Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park – 313 Moo 7, Baan Pa Ngiew, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai 57130, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
6. Akha Hilltribe Village – 296 หมู่ 11 บ้านอาข่า, Mae Chan, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
7. Navel City Pillar – Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
8. Wat Phra Kaeo (Emerald Buddha Temple) – Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
9. Hill Tribe Museum – 3rd Floor, PDA Building, Mae Fah Luang University, Rob Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
10. Wat Pra Singha – Phahonyothin Road, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
11. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar – Wiang Mueang Rd, Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
12. Singha Park – Mae Kon, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
13. King Mengrai Monument – Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
14. Choui Fong Tea Plantation – 345 Moo 5 Sansai, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand – 5/5 Yelp Rating
15. Wat Huay Pla Kung – 8 หมู่ที่ 1 ซอยศูนย์ศิลป์เเละวัฒนธรรม ตำบลห้วยปลาหมอ Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4/5 Yelp Rating
16. Mae Kok River Cruise – Ban Wang Hin, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
17. Doi Tung Royal Villa – 397 M.8, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai 57110, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
18. Wat Rong Seua Ten (Blue Temple) – Pa Tan Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
19. Hall of Opium Museum – 4/1 Moo 1, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
20. Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park – Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non, Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand – 4.5/5 Yelp Rating
Top 20 Popular Street Food and its Prices:
1. Khao Soi (Chiang Rai’s famous coconut curry noodles) – $1-2.
2. Sai Krok Isaan (northeastern-style sour sausage) – $0.5-1.
3. Som Tum (papaya salad) – $1-2.
4. Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (rice noodles in a spicy tomato broth) – $1-2.5.
5. Khao Man Gai (chicken rice) – $1.5-2.5.
6. Roti (sweet or savory pancakes) – $1-2.
7. Pad Thai (Thai-style fried noodles) – $1.5-2.5.
8. Kanom Krok (coconut cream cakes) – $1-1.5.
9. Mango Sticky Rice – $1-2.
10. Grilled Fish – $2-4.
11. Grilled Chicken – $1-2.
12. Khao Lam (sweet sticky rice in bamboo) – $1-2.
13. Fried Rice – $1.5-2.5.
14. Fried Chicken – $1-2.
15. Kai Yang (grilled chicken) – $1.5-2.
16. Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) – $1-1.5.
17. Khao Pad (fried rice) – $1.5-2.5.
18. Kha Nom Wan (Thai desserts) – $1-1.5.
19. Salted Fish – $1-2.
20. Cha Yen (Thai iced tea) – $0.5.
Recommended Places to Find Street Food:
1. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar – Wiang Mueang Rd, Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand.
2. Ban Phan Ton Market – 91 หมู่ที่ 6 Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand.
3. Thanalai Road – Thanalai Rd, Rop Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand.
Top 10 Most Reasonable Hotels:
1. The Heritage Chiang Rai – 4.4/5, $20-35 USD/night.
2. Chatkham Chiang Rai Hotel – 4.3/5, $20-30 USD/night.
3. The Mantrini Chiang Rai – 4.2/5, $25-40 USD/night.
4. B2 Chiang Rai Boutique and Budget Hotel – 4.1/5, $15-25 USD/night.
5. Childlom Resort – 4.3/5, $25-40 USD/night.
6. Kanmanee Inn – 4.5/5, $20-30 USD/night.
7. Wiangindra Riverside Resort – 4.2/5, $35-55 USD/night.
8. Sann Hotel – 4.3/5, $25-35 USD/night.
9. Teak Garden Spa Resort – 4.0/5, $25-40 USD/night.
10. Baan Warabordee – 4.1/5, $30-50 USD/night.
Top 10 Most Reasonable Airbnb Lists:
1. Studio Room in the Heart of Chiang Rai – 4.7/5, $21-28 USD/night.
2. Deluxe Room near the Night Bazaar – 4.9/5, $15-20 USD/night.
3. Cozy Condo in the City Center – 4.9/5, $18-25 USD/night.
4. Fully Furnished Studio at a Good Price – 4.8/5, $18-25 USD/night.
5. Spacious House in Downtown Chiang Rai – 4.8/5, $40-60 USD/night.
6. Modern Apartment with a Stunning View – 4.9/5, $20-30 USD/night.
7. Thai-Style House near Mae Fah Luang University – 4.7/5, $20-30 USD/night.
8. Peaceful Accommodation near the Airport – 4.8/5, $25-35 USD/night.
9. Designer Room with a Beautiful Garden – 4.7/5, $20-30 USD/night.
10. Chic and Stylish Room for Two – 4.8/5, $20-30 USD/night.
Rating of Chiang Rai:
Overall, I would rate Chiang Rai as 8 out of 10 stars. This city offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature, and the locals are welcoming and friendly. Although some of the infrastructure is not yet fully developed, it adds to the charm and authenticity of this hidden gem. Besides, it is an affordable destination that offers a unique experience beyond the typical tourist hotspots of Thailand.
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