A trip to Chiang Rai, A traveler’s Paradise

If you have been to Thailand a lot of times, or have read all about Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya or Samui, its time to discover something new and Fabulous in the country that makes “a perfect travelers paradise” for all. Firstly, let me tell you that no matter where ever you ll be going in Thailand, the international flights will arrive at Bangkok Airport from where you may take a local flight to any other exciting destination, turquoise beaches and heavenly islands, Thailand is known for. Cheap flights to Bangkok are available with almost all top airlines, since its one of the most visited tourism cities in the world. Cheap flights to Bangkok from London fly both direct and indirect; some promotional fares are available nowadays at cheap flights to Thailand.

Chiang Rai is the north-most province of Thailand and is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China. Rich in tourist’s attractions Chiang Rai remain until today a heaven for people looking for a rather laid back holidays, close to nature. It is endowed with abundant natural tourist’s attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Scenic dense mountains, river valleys, hot springs, water falls, ancient settlements and historic sites, Buddhist Shrines, and hill tribe villages all can be found in Chiang Rai. Combine all these and you’ll know why it is a very worthwhile destination for travelers.

Chiang Rai may have once been overlooked in front of the grandeur of Chiang Mai, but the city has much more to offer besides the Golden Triangle. Thrilling adventures- rafting, boating and elephant trekking awaits you along the river Mae Kong and Mae kok. The treks can be electrifying, weaving through misty mountains and silent jungles, rushing down rivers and waterfalls, past interesting caves and temples.

One of the best things about Chiang Rai province is its rich cultural diversity- lots of different ethnic communities- various hill tribes, Thais , ancient aboriginal people like the Lawa or Khamu, Shans , Lao, Chinese, Mon they all live peacefully and friction free together. Most visitors go with a certified guide but others simply go on their own. It is all right to stay overnight with the villagers to enjoy the visit. Bazars and local markets are good place to pickup trinkets, tribal handicrafts, silver jewellery, jade and precious stones, leather and clothes.

The attractions of Chiang Rai also include Temples and some museums. Some of the famous temples are Wat Phra Kaew- famous because it once housed the Emerald Budhha, legend has it, that the Chedi was struck by lightning in 1436 to reveal the famous Emerald Buddha. You can now see a jade replica on display. Wat Phra Singh was build in 15th century and houses the replica of Phra Singh Buddha. Wat Doi Tong is in a hilltop to northwest of town. It provides the panoramic view of the villages and houses the city pillar. Wat Ra Khun is also known as the White Temple. The temple is well known for its decoration with white tone decorated reflected mirrors. The provisional town has a few live music pubs and discotheques, aimed at foreign tourists. Some of the museums are Hill tribe museum and education center, Oub Kham museum (the collection includes objects from the areas once belonging to or affiliated with the Lanna kingdoms), and Chiang Sai national museum (exhibits artifacts excavated locally).

Chiang Rai beach lies on the bank of river Kok and is a popular picnic spot in summer. Long tailed boats and cruise can be made from town to travel along both sides of lovely sceneries. Gate of Siam- on the border with Laos- you stand high up on the mountains and Laos is in front of you and the mighty Mekong River. Visit Hua Hin Fon hot springs and nearby waterfalls. One of the geysers is so prominent, it’s hard to miss while driving pass. Some other hot springs are in Pong Phra bat and Pha Soet.

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