More about hotels in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai
The province of Chiang Rai is a wonderful blend of rich culture, scenic countryside and offers an abundance of organic coffee and exotic fruits. It is the northernmost province of Thailand that borders with Laos to the east and Burma to the north. The Mekong river separates Thailand from Laos and the Mae Sai and Ruak rivers from Burma. The meeting of these three borders is also known as the Golden Triangle, an area which prior to the rise of agricultural production of coffee, pineapple, coconuts, and banana plantations.
A beautiful province that’s home to a few interesting destinations such as the White Temple, Chiang Rai is famous for coffee production as well as rice paddies. A recent tourism interest has been taken in Chiang Rai ever since the airport was built, and businesses are responding quickly to keep up with demand for more attractions and accommodations.
History of Chiang Rai
The Lanna Kingdom of Thailand ruled over modern day Chiang Rai from the 7th to the 13th century. Due to the fact that the region is rich in natural resources, the region was well sought out and has been constantly inhabited. The Burmese attacked and won the region from the 13th century until the late 18th century, when it was reclaimed by Thailand.
Chiang Rai became a province in 1910, previously having been part of the administrative region of Chiang Mai.
Today, Chiang Rai is a top exporter for rice, coffee, other agriculture, and is also a transit point for refugees from Myanmar who are transported there from Kanchanaburi Province in central Thailand.
Surrounding environment
Chiang Mai
One of the most popular towns in Thailand, Chiang Mai is the gateway to many mountainous and outdoorsy activities in the north of Thailand. Famous for khao soi (noodles with meat in curry sauce), Chiang Mai is also a top destination for the Songkran water festival every year in April. Boasting a large night market, a growing coffee and cafe scene and a mix of Western comforts and Thai charm, it’s no wonder Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand.
Shan State of Myanmar
Named for one of the dominant ethnic groups in Myanmar, the Shan State is home to several armed ethnic armies. Although the military government technically signed multiple ceasefire agreements with many of the groups, some of these remain outside of central government control and continue to operate. This area has a long history of turmoil and war dating back to the 1500s.
Bokeo Province of Laos
Right in the heart of the Golden Triangle, Bokeo is not only the smallest province in Laos, but is also home to over 30 different ethnic minority groups. One of the main industries here is panning for gold. Due to its strategic geographical location, Bokeo has long been an important stopover for Chinese traders traveling by boat from China to and from Thailand.
Phayao
A gorgeous, mountainous and river laden town, Phayao is home to three of the major mountains in the north of Thailand, Doi Luang, Doi Khun Mae Fat, and Doi Khun Mae Tam. Another attraction in the town is Lake Phayao, one of only lakes in Thailand that does not allow motor boats on the lake in order to protect it from pollution.
Hotels in Chiang Rai
B2 Chiang Rai Boutique & Budget Hotel
This centrally located hotel is a great option for those who are looking for an affordable and convenient stay. It’s only a short walk from Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra Sing, the Chiang Rai Clock tower and the night market. B2 hotel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas, a 24-hour front desk service, free parking for guests and air-conditioned rooms.
A-Star Phulare Valley
This stunning resort is less central but you might not want to leave! Located in Tha Sut, it is a short drive to Pongphrabath Waterfall and Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong. You will have a choice of private chalets or private pool villas, all with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The resort also offers access to a pool, poolside bar, coffee shop, garden area, conference and meeting rooms, on-site restaurant and parking. There is also an option of airport transfer, which needs to be agreed upon beforehand.
Grand Vista Hotel Chiang Rai
A clean, comfortable and attractive hotel will cater to all of your needs. It’s conveniently located nearby the town’s night market, Central Plaza, Chiang Rai Clock tower and King Mengrai Monument. The room come with free Wi-Fi, breakfast and there’s even an option of a Jacuzzi room. There’s an outdoor saltwater pool, conference room, on-site restaurant, bar and spa centre.
Happynest Inspiring Hostel
Whether you are just passing through town or on a long haul backpacker journey, this is an ideal place for you to stay in Chiang Rai. It’s centrally located, affordable, clean and with a warm, friendly atmosphere. There’s free Wi-Fi, laundry service, breakfast and a 24-hour reception desk.
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
For those looking for an ultimate luxurious and relaxing experience, this resort is the perfect place for you. It offers a great deal of amenities onsite as well as being located close to the city centres and it’s main attractions. The resort has a stunning view of the nearby Kok River and you have a choice of garden view or river view rooms. There’s access to an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, a bar, restaurant and much more.
Transportation
By Plane
Chiang Rai Airport (CEI) is located 10 kilometres from the city centre and is, for it’s size, a rather busy airport. Five budget airlines fly directly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai and there is one direct international flight to China’s Kunming. Flight from Bangkok depart almost hourly and can cost anything between 1000 and 3500 baht, depending on the day of the week and time of day. There are direct flights to both airports in Bangkok; generally Nok Air, Air Asia and Thai Lion fly to/from Don Muang while Bangkok Air and Thai Smile fly to/from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Airport to Town
once you’re out of the Chiang Rai airport, you will have several options of getting into town. Your hotel might offer airport an airport pick-up service, if not, you can choose between meter taxis (100 baht into town), airport taxis (200 baht flat rate) or tuk-tuks (around 150 baht, negotiable). You also have the option to hire a car or a motorbike; this is a great and easy way to drive around the town and local areas. Motorbike hires will cost around 250 baht per day and cars around 1000 baht a day.
By Bus
Taking the bus is a much longer but also much cheaper option. Buses leave Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal at 19:00 every evening with an additional 18:00 departure on Fridays. Bus tickets cost between 600 and 900 baht, depending on the company and class. Nakon Chai Air offers clean, comfortable and air-conditioned buses.
By train
There is no rail link into Chiang Rai but the closest you can get is Chiang Mai, from where you can hop on a local van or bus to Chiang Rai.
Transport in Chiang Rai
While in Chiang Rai, there are plenty of options for getting around. There are many tuk-tuks and meter taxis. You will have to employ your bargaining skills with the local tuk-tuk drivers, aiming at 60 baht for local rides and 120 baht for more distant locations. There are also local songthaews (open back vans), which you can easily hop on and off; these are the cheapest but less comfortable options.
Main Areas
Night Bazaar – located in downtown Chiang Rai; you can find local food, souvenirs and watch free cultural performance
Chiang Rai’s Golden Clock Tower – built in honor of the king, it is a beautiful attraction worth checking out
The Kok river – this serene river flows through downtown Chiang Rai and is a popular picnic spot. You can also hop on a long tail boat and explore the nearby riverside villages
Mae Sai – a quaint town located on the border of Thailand and Burma. Buses leave every hourAttractions in Chiang Rai
Ban Dam Museum
Also known as the Black House or Black Temple. It was created by Thailand’s artist Thawan Duchanee and consists of approximately 40 unique houses built made of wood, glass, brick and serve as exhibits for Duchanee’s paintings and sculptures as well as animal bones, skins and silver and gold items from around the world.
Opening hours: 09:00 to 12:00, 13:00 to 17:00, daily
Entrance fee: none
Wat Rong Khun
Also known as the White Temple. It is designed and privately owned by Chalermchai Kositpipat and is open all year round with free admission. Wat Rong Khun was a run down temple and there were no available funds for it to be repaired, so local artist Kositpipat decided to front the cost, spending 40 million baht to renovate the temple.
Opening hours: sunrise to sunset, daily
Entrance fee: none
Activities in Chiang Rai
Khun Kon or Tat Mok Waterfall
Located in the Namtok Khun Kon Forest Park and is a beautiful spot for forest hiking, bathing, hot springs and enjoying the roaring waterfalls. The tallest fall is 70 meters in height. The best time to visit this waterfall is between May and November, as this is the rainy season and water levels are likely to be high. However, beware of visiting when it is raining or has just monsooned the day before, the trails can be slippery. November is an ideal time to visit, as the rainy season is technically over, but is close enough to the wet season to still have high water levels.
Opening hours: sunrise to sunset, daily
Entrance fee: none
Doi Tung - The Royal Villa
The home of the Princess Mother, this historical and royal activity is one to be enjoyed in the afternoon. There’s an audio tour that teaches visitors all about the royal family as well as the history and botany of the beautiful gardens. These botanical gardens are preserved and maintained precisely and is an activity to be enjoyed by all.
Opening hours: 07:00 to 18:00, daily
Entrance fee: 80 THB
Travel Tips
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Wear a helmet and watch the road – if you decide to rent a motorbike, make sure you check the bike before taking it from the shops. Photograph scrapes and dents and make sure you affirm these with the owner so that you don’t get blamed later. Always wear a helmet and watch the road, there are a lot of potholes and surprises on the windy roads of Chiang Rai.
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Don’t forget sunscreen – Chiang Rai offers so many beautiful and free places to visit and explore. Don’t forget that the sun is strong during the day and if you’re exploring temples and/or hiking, cover your head and wear sunscreen.
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Respect the cultures and traditions – even though Chiang Rai welcomes many tourists all year round, we need to be careful to respect their culture. If you are visiting temples, keep an eye out for signs that ask you to cover your shoulders, take your shoes off or not to touch certain exhibits. If you visit local and rural villages, greet the locals and ask for permission if you want to take pictures.
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Equip yourself with mosquito repellant - seeing that Chiang Rai is an area of rolling hills and humid jungles, there will probably be many mosquitos waiting to explore newcomers. Dengue fever is always something to be weary of, so make sure to use mosquito repellant.
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Be ready for surprise monsoon showers - especially if you are visiting during rainy season (May – October), rain can come out of nowhere. Chiang Rai can also get a little cooler during the evenings so bring a raincoat, light jacket and/or umbrella. You won’t regret packing this little extra item that will keep you warm and dry!
