Alongside its traditional Thai temples, Chiang Rai has a significant number of temples bearing a distinctly Burmese influence. The region is also home to numerous hill tribes including the Akha, Lisu, Mien and Hmong who live in villages supported by organisations such as Chiang Rai’s Hill Tribe Development and Welfare Centre. The area is rich with handicraft items such as material, wood-carvings and silver ornaments produced by these traditional peoples. The province’s Doi Mae Salong Mountain is home to another traditional people who hail from China and where Chinese is a commonly spoken language. Chiang Rai is an area rich in history and culturally one of the most diverse in Thailand. If you are in Chiang Rai, a visit to the area’s History and Culture sites will prove extremely rewarding.
