Chiang Rai Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

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If you’re planning a trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand, you probably have limited time – this Chiang Rai Travel Guide will help you make the most of your visit! 

Chiang Rai is much quieter and less visited than Chiang Mai, and just 3 hours away. Most travelers come here for a day trip, but I recommend spending a few days to fully enjoy the region.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I lived in Chiang Mai for about five months before finally visiting Chiang Rai! I recently spent four days exploring the area, visiting stunning temples, riding my scooter through lush tea plantations, and enjoying delicious local food. 

You’ll find beautiful hikes and waterfalls in Chiang Rai, too.

Ready to plan the perfect trip to Chiang Rai? Let’s go!

🔥 Explore Chiang Rai’s best attractions, including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Choui Fong Tea Plantation, on this top-rated full-day tour from Chiang Rai, with stops at Union Hilltribe Villages, the Golden Triangle, and the House of Opium. Book Now!

Where to Stay in Chiang Rai

First things first, you should decide where you’re staying in Chiang Rai. Most hotels are in the city center, making walking to restaurants and night markets easy.

You can also stay closer to nature, make sure you have a plan for getting around. I stayed in a quieter neighborhood of the city, about a 15-minute walk from the center – I rented a scooter so it was just a few minutes’ drive to the center. I easily could have called a Grab or walked.

😴 Baan Mai Kradan Hostel ($)

An old Thai wooden house turned into a beautiful hostel a few minutes from the Saturday Night Market. It’s clean, quiet, and not a party hostel. Enjoy air-conditioned rooms, nice bathrooms, a large outdoor area, and a free breakfast. They also offer a female-only dorm room.

😴 Saikaew Resort ($$)

Cozy cottages with modern facilities, just a 5-minute drive from town. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors with views of a beautiful lotus-covered lake. This oasis offers scooter and bike rentals and laundry service, making it perfect for those seeking a relaxing stay close to nature.

😴 Mora Boutique Hotel ($$)

I stayed here! It’s comfortable and clean, with exceptional staff and a newly renovated pool. Located about a 15-minute walk from the town center. The amazing breakfast includes omelets, French toast, and waffles.

😴 Le Meridien Hotel ($$$)

A luxurious hotel with a 3-level outdoor pool overlooking the Mae Kok River. It features an on-site spa, a delicious riverside Italian restaurant, and an incredible breakfast with freshly squeezed juice. Surrounded by nature, it’s a 9-minute drive to the city center.

What to Do in Chiang Rai

Before you visit Mueang Chiang Rai, you’ll want to know all the top things to do when you’re here!  There’s so much more to experience than only temples (although the temples are pretty darn pretty!). 

1. Visit the Iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): This stunning, photogenic temple opens at 8 AM, costs 100 baht ($2.75 USD), and I got great shots by arriving early.

2. Get Great Pics at the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): A vivid blue and gold temple completed in 2016, free to enter and close to town.

3. Admire Art at Black House (Baan Dam Museum): This eccentric art museum has unique collections, including paintings and animal skins. Walk the grounds and look for grazing water buffalo!

4. Visit a Tea Plantation in Mae Salong: Choui Fong Tea Plantation is stunning and has scenic back roads. Other beautiful options are Tea Plantation 101 and Wang Put Tan Tea Plantation.

5. Explore Doi Mae Salong Village: This picturesque village has rich Chinese cultural influences and stunning tea plantations. Enjoy exploring the village and eating delicious Yunnanese food at local restaurants.

6. Visit the Giant Goddess of Mercy (Wat Huay Pla Kang): Features Thailand’s largest Guanyin Buddha statue, with an elevator to the 25th floor for views for 40 baht ($1.09 USD). Stop at Lallita Cafe on your way back to town.

7. Hike to Khun Korn Waterfall: A lush 3.1 km (1.9 miles) trail leads to the highest waterfall in Chiang Rai. Swim in the cold, refreshing falls.

8. Take a Thai Cooking Class: Learn to make authentic Thai dishes and visit a local market – a fun, social experience.

9. Enjoy Incredible Cafes: Lalitta Cafe’s enchanted forest vibe and popular spots like Cat ‘n’ A Cup Cafe and Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House.

10. Explore the Night Markets: The vibrant Saturday Night Market on Thanalai Road offers local dishes, performances, and unique items. Try hot pot at the daily Night Bazaar.

11. Visit Singha Park: This park features beautiful landscapes with tea plantations, flower gardens, and serene lakes. It is great for outdoor activities and is family-friendly.

12. Watch the Sunset from Wat Phrathat Doi Khao Kwai: Panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, perfect for a sunset visit.

13. Sunrise Hike at Mount Phu Chi Fa: Famous for its sunrise views over the “sea of fog;” a 20-40 minute hike to the top with cooler weather. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Chiang Rai.

14. Explore Tham Luang Cave: Visit the cave where 12 soccer players and their coach were rescued. Guided tours to Chamber 3 are available, too, if you’re feeling adventurous. The Mae Sai Village is nearby.

15. Explore Mae Sai Village: Northernmost town in Thailand with a vibrant market, stunning views from Wat Pha That Doi Wao, and proximity to Tham Luang Cave.

16. Discover the Golden Triangle, Where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Visit the Hall of Opium and take a boat tour on the Mekong River.

17. Chiang Rai Clock Tower: Catch the (underwhelming) nightly light show at 7 PM, 8 PM, and 9 PM, and grab a gelato at Papa Uno Cafe for a good view.

👉 If you’re looking for more details like how to get there, opening hours, cost, and more, check out my Best Things to Do in Chiang Rai post.

How Many Days in Chiang Rai?

Many people told me that 1 day would be plenty for Chiang Rai, but I couldn’t disagree more! 

While most travelers opt for a day trip from Chiang Mai, driving 3 hours each way to and from Chiang Rai just to snap photos at the temples and head back, I don’t think it’s worth it unless you’re solely after those photogenic shots.

I recommend spending at least 2 full days, ideally 3-4 days. 

My travel style is slower travel these days. I usually like to do one main activity a day and then relax or work the rest of the time. Even with 4 days, I felt it wasn’t enough to do everything I wanted to do in the region. 

For example, I didn’t have time to explore the Golden Triangle or hike to Phu Chi Fa at sunrise. Next time!

If you’re visiting during the rainy season, extra days can be beneficial. Having more time allows you to wait out the rain and avoid muddy trails. I missed out on a hike because it started pouring, and the path became too slippery. 

With a longer stay, you can truly enjoy what Chiang Rai has to offer without feeling rushed.

3-Day Chiang Rai Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary for Chiang Rai, but make it your own! Only you know your travel style and preferences. This is based on my recent trip to Chiang Rai.

Want a more in-depth itinerary? I’ve got you covered!

Day 1 – Temples & Town

• Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) – Arrive a few minutes before it opens at 8 AM to beat the crowds and get great photos. Make sure you have temple-appropriate clothes.

• Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) – This is in the opposite direction from town as the White Temple, so you could go another time. I wanted to see all the main sites my first day so I grouped them together.

• Baan Dam Museum (Black House) – I am not that into art, so I personally wouldn’t consider this a “must-visit,” but it’s a quirky and interesting place to visit if you’re interested! I spent less than an hour there.

• Cafe Stop – By now, you probably need a coffee break, so find a cafe. Cafe’lista is worth a visit!

• Nang Lae Nai Waterfall – This small waterfall is 20 minutes from Baan Dam Museum, in case you want to see some nature! You can also stop by this Rice Terraces viewpoint. Or maybe the Mae Fah Luang University Botanical Garden is more your speed. 

• 1:30 PM Free Tram – If you haven’t explored the town center yet, hop on the free tram at 1:30 PM. Or, explore by foot if you need to get your steps in. The tram stops at temples like Wat Prasing, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Doi Ngam Mueang, Busabok Royal Chariot Hall, and concludes at the Chiang Rai Clock Tower. Announcements are in Thai!

• Night Markets – Thailand is famous for its night markets, so check out Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar (located next to the Bus Terminal and open every night at 6 PM. Or better yet, if you’re in town on the weekend, check out the much more impressive Saturday Night Market or Sunday Night Market. 

Day 2 – Doi Mae Salong

• Tea Plantation Visits – Explore a tea plantation near Doi Mae Salong Village, like Tea Plantation 101, which is just 20 minutes from Doi Mae Salong Village, and Wang Put Tan Tea Plantation. A little further from the village is Choui Fong Tea Plantation, the most popular one to visit.

• Mae Salong Village – Wander around the village and enjoy the Chinese cultural influences. Try Yunnanese food at Wang Put Tan Yunnanese Restaurant. Explore the town, temple, and market. 

• Wat Huay Pla Kang (Goddess of Mercy) – Stop by on your way back to town if you haven’t been yet. The view from the top of the statue is breathtaking, and the statue itself is impressive. Make sure you have temple-appropriate clothes.

• Relax – Enjoy your hotel pool or get an afternoon massage. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

• Dinner – Head to Barrab Restaurant for a delicious meal. I loved being able to try small plates of local dishes here.

Day 3 – Day Trip Options

Ok it’s the final day, so you have some options! Or, extend your trip a little longer so you can do it all.

Option 1 

Take an early morning cooking class with a market visit. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about Thai cuisine. I took a similar class in Chiang Mai and loved it! Then, head to Khun Korn Waterfall for a short hike. You can even go swimming! End the day at Singha Park.

Option 2

Spend the day exploring the Golden Triangle region. Take a boat ride on the Mekong River, explore Tham Luang Cave, and learn the region’s history at the Hall of Opium. Some travelers head straight to Laos on the slow boat from here. Or, consider an overnight stay near Phu Chi Fa for glamping and a sunrise hike. The “sea of fog” at sunrise is incredible!

Best Places to Eat in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai has some fantastic restaurants offering a mix of traditional Northern Thai and Western cuisine. 

Here are some of the best places to eat in Chiang Rai to get you started, perfect for food lovers:

Thai Restaurants

• Barrab Restaurant: My favorite spot for Northern Thai dishes in Chiang Rai. They offer small and large portions, perfect for solo travelers. The staff speak English and will help you order. Vegetarian options available.

• Tum Ka Yum Cafe: Popular with both locals and travelers, this cafe serves delicious Thai food that’s not too spicy for foreigners (let them know your spice tolerance). The air-conditioned restaurant is a comfortable spot to escape the heat.

• Khao Soi Thao Gae Ek: Known for its creamy coconut curry noodle soup, crispy pork belly, and tasty dumplings. Located near Wat Phra Kaew, it’s great for breakfast or lunch.

• ร้านคุณยาย by Chef Keng: A hidden gem offering beef noodles, crispy pork, and crab omelets at great prices. Simple, unassuming, but with fantastic food.

• Leelawadee Chiang Rai Restaurant: Recommended by my hotel, this restaurant offers a great atmosphere next to the canal, with Northern Thai dishes and live music.

Western Restaurants

• Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House: Craving Western food? They offer a variety of dishes including pizza, burgers, and steak. A bit pricier than local food, but worth it for the quality and service.

• Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House: Don’t let the name fool you. This beautiful spot on the river offers both Thai and Western dishes, great cocktails, and a small library upstairs.

• The Wanderer: A peaceful cafe set in the middle of the forest, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Enjoy all-day breakfast options, grilled cheese, and fluffy pancakes in a serene setting.

Getting To Chiang Rai

Most travelers travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai by bus, car, scooter, or tour. 

I recently spent 4 days in Chiang Rai and had a great time exploring the region! I went by bus both ways and had a great experience. 

The drive is pretty easy, so it’s definitely doable on your own if you want to rent a car or scooter (I enjoyed being able to sleep on the bus, though). 

A lot of travelers hire a driver or go by tour from Chiang Mai, too. 

👉 Pro Tip: I use this site to look up train, bus, and ferry routes.

By Bus:

The Green Bus company operates several daily trips from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, with the journey taking about 3-4 hours. The buses offer air conditioning and reclining seats. 

I went with the VIP bus for a slightly faster journey (there’s a toilet on board so no potty stops) and enjoyed getting a seat with nobody next to me, but my friend said the Express Bus was comfortable, too.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station, but it’s wise to book a couple of days in advance, especially during peak season. 

Make sure you get off at the second Chiang Rai stop, Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1. This terminal is right in the center of town, walkable to many hotels. Terminal 2 is a little bit outside of town and inconvenient for most travelers (unless your hotel is nearby). 

🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.

By Car / Scooter:

Driving from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is a popular option for those who enjoy road trips. The drive takes approximately 3 hours and offers flexibility to stop at attractions along the way, such as the hot springs at Mae Khachan and the stunning views at Doi Luang National Park. 

Renting a car from Chiang Mai is easy, with agencies like Budget, Avis, and local companies available. I recommend comparing prices on DiscoverCars. You can also hire a driver for a more personalized experience.

Or, if you want to go by scooter, check out the most reliable scooter shops in Chiang Mai. 

Make sure to have an international driving permit (IDP) if you’re a foreigner. 

If you’re on a motorbike, your IDP should have a motorcycle designation, or you risk getting fined about 500 baht ($13.60 USD) at police checkpoints. I was fined 3 times before I finally got my motorcycle license. Drive carefully!

👉 If you’re short on time and don’t want to spend hours in crowded public transport, check out this Chiang Rai Temples Private Tour from Chiang Mai. It has over 200 5-Star reviews and includes the most famous White Temple plus lesser-known ones without so many tourists.

By Tour:

It’s very popular to take a day tour from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, but honestly, I wouldn’t recommend it. 

It’s a 3-hour drive each way, so that doesn’t leave you a lot of time to explore the area. If you’re really intent on getting pictures at the temples and don’t mind missing out on a lot of the charm the region has to offer, then go for it! It’s your trip 😉 

Tours often include stops at key attractions like the White Temple, Blue Temple, and sometimes the Golden Triangle. They typically provide transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes meals. 

By Flight:

Flying is the quickest way to get to Chiang Rai from cities like Bangkok, but there is no flight from Chiang Mai. 

Mae Fah Luang International Airport is about 5 miles from the city center, and flights are available from major airlines such as Thai Airways, AirAsia, and Nok Air. The flight duration is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. 

You’ll arrive at Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport, located about 5 miles from the city center. There are plenty of taxis available to take you to your accommodation. If there’s no meter, make sure you agree on a price before getting in. Or use the Grab app – it costs about 200 baht ($5.44 USD) to get to town.

Getting Around Chiang Rai

You’ve made it to Chiang Rai! Now what? 

The town of Chiang Rai is very small and walkable, but a lot of attractions are located outside of town. There are several options for getting around, depending on your travel style. 

Walking and Biking

Most places in the town center are walkable. My hotel, which was a 15-minute walk from town, offered complimentary bicycles, making it easy to explore nearby areas.

Free Chiang Rai Tram

The free tram in Chiang Rai is a fantastic way to explore the city center when you first arrive.

Departing twice daily at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM from King Mangrai Monument, it stops at major temples like Wat Prasing, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Doi Ngam Mueang, and more. The tram also stops at the Busabok Royal Chariot Hall and concludes at the Chiang Rai Clock Tower.

The main downside is that the announcements are in Thai, so unless you speak Thai, you won’t get the information about each stop. 

Buses and Songthaews

Local buses and songthaews (shared taxi trucks) connect rural towns. 

For in-town travel, these can be convenient, but for attractions outside the city center, they might not be as practical. 

For instance, there’s a local bus that goes between the bus terminal and the White Temple throughout the day, but there isn’t one that goes to the Baan Dam Museum or Tea Plantations in Mae Salong.

Car and Scooter Rentals

For more convenience, especially if you want to explore attractions outside the city center like the White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House, and Goddess of Mercy, renting a car or scooter is a great option. It’s also great for day trips!

Check this site for great deals on car rentals from reputable companies.

I rented a scooter from Nice Rental for 210 baht/day, which gave me the flexibility to explore at my own pace. Just be prepared for longer rides and potential rain.

Grab and Tuk Tuks

Grab is easy to use within town and for trips to nearby temples. 

However, for more remote destinations like Khun Korn Waterfall, arranging a return trip can be challenging, so you need to negotiate with the driver to wait for you while you hike. Otherwise, you may end up stranded and hitchhiking! 

Tuk tuks are more prevalent in Chiang Rai than in Chiang Mai. They’re usually a little more expensive than hailing a Grab motorbike, but they’re a lot more fun! 

I saw a lot of tuk tuks parked at the bus terminal, and you’ll need to negotiate the fare. I usually check Grab first to get an idea of the price before negotiating.

Guided Tours and Drivers

If you prefer not to drive, hiring a guide or driver is an excellent option. This is particularly useful if you’re short on time or prefer a stress-free experience. 

In-town driver rates are around 2,000 baht ($54 USD) for a full day, while outside of town rates are about 3,000 baht ($80 USD). If you’re a good negotiator, you may be able to get a deal. Some drivers charge for gas separately, so check before you go. You may pay a little extra for an English-speaking driver.

I usually recommend going with a driver your hotel or another traveler recommends so that you know you’re getting someone reliable.

If you’re short on time, there are some great day tours from Chiang Rai of the top attractions in the area. These are better than the ones leaving from Chiang Mai since you don’t waste 6 hours driving to/from Chiang Rai!

Boats

For a unique experience, you can take a boat ride from the port near Mae Fah Luang Bridge along the Kok River, with trips available to the Golden Triangle and other locations. Note that boat availability decreases during the dry season.

🔥 Explore Chiang Rai’s best attractions, including the White Temple, Blue Temple, and Choui Fong Tea Plantation, on this top-rated full-day tour from Chiang Rai, with stops at Union Hilltribe Villages, the Golden Triangle, and the House of Opium. Book Now!

Chiang Rai Travel Tips

• Stay Overnight: Plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Chiang Rai to fully enjoy the sights and experiences. If you take a day trip from Chiang Mai, be prepared for at least 6 hours of driving time!

• Arrive Early: Visit popular temples like the White Temple and Blue Temple early to avoid crowds and get the best photos.

• Dress Appropriately: Always dress modestly when visiting temples—cover your shoulders and knees. Throw a sarong in your day pack to wear around your waist if you want to wear shorts.

• Rent Transport: Consider renting a scooter or car for flexibility, but remember to carry your International Driving Permit (IDP) in case of traffic stops.

• Use Local Transport: For short trips, use Grab or tuk-tuks, but plan for transport back if visiting rural areas. Always negotiate the price before getting in a taxi or tuk tuk. Book your bus ticket back to Chiang Mai a day or two in advance.

• Plan Day Trips: Explore beyond the city with day trips to tea plantations, waterfalls, and nearby villages. The countryside is the best part of visiting Chiang Rai!

• Night Markets: Visit the Saturday Night Market or the Night Bazaar for local food, crafts, and a lively atmosphere.

• Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you’re exploring on foot or hiking.

• Pack for Activities: Bring a bathing suit for waterfalls and hotel pools, and sturdy shoes for hiking.

• Be Prepared for Rain: If traveling during the rainy season, allow extra days in your itinerary to accommodate for rain delays. Keep a plastic poncho in your day bag.

• Stay Safe: Get a local SIM card, and have Grab, offline maps, and Google Translate downloaded on your phone.

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting?

There is a lot to do in Chiang Rai, not just temples! Hike to a waterfall, drink tea on a stunning tea plantation, visit a local village, or spend the day exploring the Golden Triangle.

The city’s charm lies in its quiet beauty and rich cultural experiences, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers who can spend a few days here. I’m so glad I got to spend 4 full days here, and I could have easily done more!

However, if you already have a packed Thailand itinerary and are considering squeezing in a one-day visit, I honestly wouldn’t recommend it. 

That time might be better spent as an extra day in Chiang Mai or another destination. Unless you’re really eager for that famous photo at the White Temple, a rushed trip doesn’t do justice to what Chiang Rai has to offer.

I hope this Chiang Rai Travel Guide has helped you plan an incredible trip to Chiang Rai! Now that you know the basics, dive into the details of everything there is to do here.

Read More About Chiang Rai:

• 15+ Best Things to Do in Chiang Rai for an EPIC Trip
• 4 Ways to Get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: Ultimate Guide
• Chiang Rai Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know
• 15 Best Restaurants in Chiang Rai You Can’t Miss!
• Visiting the Chiang Rai Blue Temple: Ultimate Guide
• Chiang Mai vs Chiang Rai: Which Is Better to Visit?