The northernmost province Thailand's Chiang Rai is the gateway to the legendary golden triangle, the border triangle of  Thailand, Lao and Myanmar. On adventurous trekking tours through the mountains, often mystically shrouded in fog, and through dense forests, the perfect beauty of the province opens up to visitors. The rugged mountain ranges Chiang Rais with their lush rainforest are also a colorful mosaic of tribal peoples, of which the Hmong, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Karen are among the best known. These ethnic minorities each have their own languages, costumes and customs - but they all share a common skill in embroidery, weaving, silverwork or woodcarving. Lush, green paddy fields characterize the landscape Chiang Rais  - and so it is hardly surprising that the province is one of the most important rice suppliers in the country. At many places Chiang Rais visitors will find idyllically located and particularly stylish boutique resorts with a wonderful view, their own wellness oases or excellent restaurants with authentic northern Thai cuisine.    

Sights & Temples

Chiang Rai is a small, charming town in the north of Thailand and especially for his white temple, the Wat Rong Khun  known. Another extraordinary temple in Chiang Rai is the blue temple Wat Rong Seur Ten. It's a simple Buddhist temple, not too big, but very special because of its blue colors and unusual statues. The Wat Huay Pla Kung is also a bit outside of the center Chiang Rais, on a small hill, the 100 m high white statue rises in a magnificent setting with a large temple and a 9-storey pagoda.   

The city, which is surrounded by mountains, is the starting point for many travelers for a trip to the golden triangle, i.e    to Chiang Rais sightseeing attractions themselves are interesting and you can easily spend 2-3 nice days in the city here. 

Wat Rong Khun

At the gates of the city Chiang Rai vicinity  Chiang Mai  lies the stunning White Temple Wat Rong Khun. It offers a mixture of traditional Buddhist elements with pop culture influences. In addition to old buildings there are graceful sculptures with a rather spooky character. In the 1990s, artist Chalermchai Kositpipat began construction, which is still far from complete. Upon entering, the visitor is overwhelmed by the sight of the main temple. It is white and decorated with mirror elements that reflect the sun's rays. To get to the prayer room with the Buddha statue, a bridge is crossed that spans the "pits of hell". There are sculptures of prisoners stretching their arms to reach the Buddha. The entire site is a true whimsical work of art. Everywhere there are disturbing features that you would not expect in a temple. A visit is really a special experience because you rarely see such an imposing building in  Thailand find again.   

Overland to Laos

who from the north of Thailand over land Laos wants to travel, for which leads at the border crossing Chiang Khong in the Northeast of Thailand no way around. There you have to mekong cross and in the village Huai Xai on the Lao side Laos enter.

It's best to start in Chiang Rai and the easiest way is  book the complete transfer with a travel agency in Chiang Rai to book (also possible from Chiang Mai out of). About 1,300 baht from Chiang Rai after Luang Prabang (approx. 34 euros, plus visa fees) you have to calculate. Alternatively, you can do the whole trip on your own with local transport be traveled: with local buses from Chiang Rai after  Chiang Khong drive (frequent connections), by tuktuk from  Chiang Khong continue to the border crossing and for 40 baht by boat across the mekong to the immigration desk in   Huai Xai. From Huai Xai can the same day in the afternoon   bus further  to Luang Prabang (about 12-15 hours) or taken in two days with the "Slow Boat" on the mekong after   Luang Prabang be driven.