Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand

Thailand’s most northerly province, Chiang Rai is located 785 kilometres from Bangkok and borders Myanmar in the north and Laos in the east. Built by King Mengrai in 1262 the province has a mainly mountainous terrain and helps form the ‘Golden Triangle’ around the Mekong River. Chiang Rai is a major draw for tourists keen to experience the region’s natural attractions and learn about its place in Thailand’s past. Another key reason for tourism to the area is the local hill tribes. Visits to hill tribe villages are regular events and goods made by the hill tribes (materials, trinkets, etc.) are very popular purchases. The province features a number of key attractions including Mai Sai, Chiang Saen – home of numerous ancient ruins, and Doi Hua Mae Kham - home to a number of hill tribe villages.