Chiang Rai
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To the north, lies Chiang Rai and the “Golden Triangle”, that spellbinding spot where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet. The region is, however, most strongly colored by the various hilltribes who make their homes in the highlands.
Last Modified On: Thursday, 02/November/2006 00:52:10am
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To the north, lies Chiang Rai and the “Golden Triangle”, that spellbinding spot where the borders of Thailand, Burma and Laos meet. The region is, however, most strongly colored by the various hilltribes who make their homes in the highlands. Each tribe has it’s own distinct culture, region, language and colorful style of dress – these people maintain independent lifestyles. They are nonetheless hospitable and welcome visitors to their villages where their singular cultures are mostly untouched by the 20th century.
Chiang Rai is the most northern province bordering Myanmar and Laos. It was once the capital of Lanna Kingdom. Chiang Rai is famous for its tasty lychee fruit, it’s rice crop and its beautiful scenery. Chiang Rai has many attractive sites to offer such as Wat Phrasing, where the 15th century Theravada image was located, Mae Fa Luang Farm, Hilltribes settlements and Phrathat Doi Tung, which is on the top of Chiang Rai highest mountain.
Chiang Rai is situated on the Kok River basin 416 metres above sea level. With an area of some 11,678 square kilometres. It is about 785 kilometres from Bangkok. Mostly mountainous, it reaches the Mae Khong River to the north and borders on both Myanmar and Laos.
The province is rich in tourism resources in term of natural attractions and antiquities, evidence of its past civilisation. It is also home to several hilltribes who follow fascinating ways of life. Chiang Rai is also a tourism gateway into Myanmar and Laos.
Major Destination
Chiang Saen / Golden Triangle: Chiang Saen is a small town lovely set on the Mae Khong River. It is the most famous attraction where the borders of the three countries, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar, meet. Accommodations are available for tourists who want to stay overnight. Boats can be rented for trips along the Khong River.
