Luxury Chiang Rai Tours

Chiang Rai is a sweet, sleepy town in the far north of Thailand, often overlooked in favour of its sister city Chiang Mai.

Although smaller and less developed, Chiang Rai holds its appeal in its tranquil atmosphere, cultural treasures, and adventurous activities in the mountainous countryside. 

Flanked by Laos in the east and Myanmar in the west, Chiang Rai sits within the stunning Golden Triangle region. The area is rich in culture and history, and smothered in forested hills, traditional villages, coffee plantations, elephant sanctuaries and winding rivers.

Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Mengrai of Ngon Yang. It was the capital of the north for around thirty years in the midst of centuries of fighting between the Lao, Burmese, Khmer and Thai for control over the fertile hills. 

Today, this charming town is the perfect gateway into a region filled with adventure. You can go trekking through evergreen mountains, cycling along lush rice paddies and white water rafting along the mighty Mekong river. 

Visit magical waterfalls, taste local jungle food and enjoy a picnic in the forest on a trek to see an authentic hill tribe village. You'll get to explore the village and engage with the locals, learning about hill tribe culture and customs.

Take a longtail boat journey along the Kok River towards Ta Thon. Here, you'll disembark and make the drive to Mae Kampong, a beautiful district with hill tribe villages.

You'll meet the colourful hill tribe people and can opt to stay the night in a traditional homestay. It's a special experience offering an enriching insight into their unique lifestyle. 

You can even take day trips into Mynamar or Laos, however there's also plenty to explore within Chiang Rai.

Visit Wat Phra Kaew, the oldest and most revered temple in the city. It was struck by lightning 1434 revealing the Emerald Buddha, the most significant symbol in the country. It is now on display in Bangkok and a replica lies in Wat Phra Kaew.

Marvel at the incredible architecture of Wat Rong Khun. This blazing white complex shimmers in the sunlight from the millions of tiny mirrors, and the inside is filled with surreal, contemporary artwork.

In the evening, head to Chiang Rai's night bazaar, a bustling market where locals and hill tribe villagers come to sell their handicrafts. It's also a fantastic place to sample some of the mouthwatering northern Thai cuisine.