If you came to Northern Thailand and didn’t dive into all the things to do in Chiang Rai, did you even enjoy it? First, take a look at the things you can do here, and then we will proceed and read about each in detail!
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Chiang Rai might be quieter than Chiang Mai, but don’t be fooled- there are a lot of places to visit in Chiang Rai. This place is packed with charm, culture, and a sense of wonder that’s hard to match. It’s where art, nature, and history come together in the most magical way.
From the surreal beauty of the White Temple to hidden waterfalls, lush tea plantations, and unique hill tribe experiences, Chiang Rai offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re chasing temples, tasting local eats, or just soaking in the mountain air, this city promises fun, adventurous activities with a splash of the unexpected.
It’s the kind of place where your day can begin with a sunrise at a mountain viewpoint and end with a hot cup of tea in a hillside village.
List of the Best Things to Do in Chiang Rai
Visit the Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
White symbolises peace, and that’s what you can feel here! Wat Rong Khun, often called the White Temple, is truly a sight to behold. It is Chiang Rai’s best tourist attraction, which is known for its truly unique architecture. And it symbolises purity and heaven, and the intricate details are simply mesmerising.
How does it look?
Its all-white exterior, embedded with countless pieces of reflective glass, makes the temple sparkle in the sunlight. This temple also features modern and surreal design elements, with intricate sculptures depicting Buddhist teachings alongside contemporary figures and symbols.
Surrounded by lush green grass and a fountain that highlights the temple’s reflection, makes it look like something out of a fairy tale.
What can you do here?
There’s “the bridge of the cycle of rebirth,” which directs you to the main temple building. It is lined with hundreds of reaching hands sculptures, which symbolise desire, which is quite different from the typical serene imagery found in most temples.
You can explore the beautiful sculptures, pass through the bridge of the cycle of rebirth and witness the unique architecture. There are also interesting art installations and murals inside the main hall.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry fees: 50 THB (140 INR)
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best photos in the sunlight, as the white really shines brightly.
Explore Baan Dam (Black House)
Baan Dam, also known as the Black House, is a stark contrast to the White Temple. It’s a collection of 40 unique buildings designed by artist Thawan Duchanee.
How does it look?
This place is a very unique and unusual collection of art. It’s filled with dark and dramatic structures, many of which are made from animal bones, skins, and other organic materials.
You’ll also find beautifully carved wooden sculptures, strange yet captivating installations, and various artistic items that reflect the artist Thawan Duchanee’s vision.
What can you do here?
Explore the different houses. Each house has its own unique and interesting displays. It’s a very different kind of experience, a bit eerie but also very thought-provoking. You can easily spend an hour exploring the grounds and taking in the unusual art.
The art installations highlight
- Human suffering due to desire and greed
- Death and mortality
- Samsara- the process of life, demise, and reincarnation
Note: Visit both the White Temple and the Black Temple together to gain a deeper understanding of human life that draws teachings from Buddhist philosophy.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: 80 THB (220 INR)
Visit Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
Wat Rong Suea Ten, known as the Blue Temple, is famous for its bright blue colour, which stands out and attracts attention. This temple is a burst of rich blue hues with golden accents. From the ceilings to the walls, everything is painted in blue colour, which narrates the story and teachings of Buddha.
How does it look?
Unlike traditional temples, Wat Rong Khun has very modern and surreal elements incorporated into its design. The artwork features detailed sculptures and carvings. They show scenes from Buddhist teachings, as well as more modern and unexpected figures and symbols.
The main entrance has stairs that are protected by naga serpents. Their tails are detailed and move beautifully. The temple windows are protected by an angelic figure standing on a pedestal, with feathered wings open and a staff held behind its back.
Brightly colored Yakshas, which are female nature spirits, stand nearby. They are there to protect the temple from evil. Behind the temple, a Buddha statue sits in an abaya-mudra pose, creating a calming presence and inviting visitors to let go of fear and anxiety.
Timings: 7 am to 8 pm
Entry fee: Free
Witness the Confluence at the Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is the place where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. It is located at the point where the Ruak and Mekong rivers come together. Historically known for the opium trade, it now offers stunning views and historical insights.
The Golden Triangle used to be full of bright opium poppy fields where hill tribes grew, used, and traded opium. Now, Thailand has banned opium sales. Today, the Golden Triangle is calm and peaceful, but still busy with daily life. It is a great spot for a day trip, offering plenty of activities.
Things to do
- Take a boat trip on the Mekong
- Visit the Hall of Opium museum
- Hike up to the viewpoint
- Souvenir hunt at Sop Ruak
Taste the Best Tea at Choui Fong Tea Plantation
Choui Fong Tea Plantation presents incredible views of green hills and tea bushes. It is located in Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai, and is one of the largest tea producers in the area. The plantation offers a calm environment with a wide view of the fields.
Choui Fong Tea Cafe is located in a modern restaurant with large windows and a terrace. The cafe also serves delicious snacks and meals, and has a souvenir shop, and there are many things to do for visitors.
Things to do
- Walk through the tea fields
- Take beautiful photos
- Try different types of tea in their cafe
- Learn about the tea-making process
- Purchase fresh tea to take home
Timings: 8:30 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: Free
Tip: Try their green tea cake, it’s really tasty!
Unveil the Mystery at Wat Phra Kaew, Chiang Rai
Wat Phra Kaew Chiang Rai is an important temple. It is well-known for once having the Emerald Buddha. Though the Emerald Buddha is now in Bangkok, this temple still holds historical importance as it. This temple highlights the Lanna-style architecture.
Temple Highlights:
- The Haw Phra Yok (the main hall)
- Ordination Hall (Viharn)
- Two-storey Teak Museum
- Phra Chao Lan Thong (brass Buddha statue from the 15th century)
What can you do here?
You can explore the beautifully decorated buildings, admire the detailed carvings, and see a jade replica of the Emerald Buddha. This historical site is peaceful and offers a glimpse into the region’s religious history. It’s a place with a serene atmosphere and rich heritage. You can easily spend an hour looking around.
Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
Entry fee: Free
Watch Time Ticking at Chiang Rai Clock Tower
The Chiang Rai Clock Tower is a gold-coloured, beautiful landmark in the city centre, designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. It shines beautifully at night. It is an exemplary combination of traditional Thai art and contemporary forms.
How does it look?
This golden landmark stands out in the city centre. It is beautifully designed and lights up at night, creating a captivating display.
What can you do here?
You can see the light and sound show in the evenings, which occurs at set times- 7, 8, and 9 PM. It also serves as a convenient landmark for meeting points.
Timings: Visible all day and night.
Entry fee: No fee.
Explore The Hall of Opium Museum
The museum helps people learn about how opium poppies grow in the hills of Chiang Rai and how they are traded in the Golden Triangle. It also explains the dangers of opium addiction and how this issue has become a global crisis.
The museum shows the harmful effects of drug abuse on individuals, communities, and countries. It is open to all ages, but it can be intense because it aims to highlight the serious impacts of drug addiction and dependence.
What’s there in the exhibits?
- gGrotesque sculptures
- Chinese Opium Wars
- The colonisation of India
- Interactive and multimedia exhibits
- Bed of poppies, the beautiful flower
Timings: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm (except Mondays)
Entry Fee: 200 THB (530 INR)
Shop at Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Visiting Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is the best thing to do at night. It is a lively place with lots of energy. You’ll find stalls selling authentic hill tribe crafts, clothes, and food. It’s a vibrant hub of activity.
What’s there?
- Handicraft Alleys- sandalwood, and indigo-dyed fabrics made by hill tribe people
- Kad San Jai (Food Court)- You can have food under fairy lights
- Live Music and Dancing- starts at 7:30 PM
Numerous hill tribe sellers offer hand-woven scarves, silver jewellery, and bamboo crafts produced in nearby villages, allowing buyers to support the local community with their purchases.
Shop for souvenirs, enjoy street food, and watch cultural performances. The bazaar is generally open from late afternoon until around midnight. There’s no entry fee. It’s great for an evening out.
Timings: 6 PM- 11 PM
Relax at Mae Kachan Hot Spring
As you get closer to Mae Kachan Hot Spring, you will see warm, mineral-rich water bubbling from the ground. The area is surrounded by lush green trees and plants, creating a calm environment.
What can you do here?
At the hot spring, visitors can enjoy several activities. You can relax by dipping your feet in the warm water, which is known for its soothing effects. For something different, you can try boiling fresh eggs in the hot spring’s hot water. Many people find this activity fun.
You can also explore local stalls nearby that sell tasty snacks, including traditional Thai foods and refreshing drinks. The hot spring is open all day, making it a flexible place to visit.
There is no entry fee to enjoy the hot spring, but a small fee is required if you wish to boil eggs. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning when there are fewer people. This will help you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoy the Best Meal at Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Chivit Thamma Da is a charming place with a riverside location. Visiting any time of the day doesn’t matter, whether it’s morning, afternoon or at night. This place will serve you delicious food in a romantic environment.
It’s beautiful, with green gardens and lovely decor. You can enjoy a range of foods and drinks. The shady garden is best enjoyed in the afternoons. For evenings and nights, their romantic candles and well-lit and decorated terrace make your heart full.
What’s there to do?
Relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the views. Prices vary depending on what you order. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely brunch or dinner.
Timings: 9 AM- 10 PM
Explore Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park (Rai Mae Fah Luang)
Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park is a serene spot with colourful gardens and art exhibitions. It shows Lanna art and history. The park is well-kept.
It used to be a training centre for hill tribe youths and has now become a centre for education and preserving culture. You can explore the largest collection of Lanna artefacts in Thailand, like detailed teak wood carvings and Buddhist scriptures.
What can you do here?
You can stroll through the gardens and see the different sculptures. So, explore-
- Haw Kham (Golden Pavilion)
- Haw Kaew Museum
- Haw Kham Noi
- Botanical Gardens
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: 50 THB (140 INR)
Explore the Beauty of Doi Tung Royal Villa
Doi Tung Palace is the main milestone in the Mae Fah Luang district, Chiang Rai. It was the home of Princess Srinagarindra, the mother of King Bhumibol. She built Doi Tung Palace to carry out her royal duties and to support the Doi Tung Development Project.
What does it look like?
The palace combines Lanna and Swiss architecture because the Princess lived in Switzerland for many years. One of the most notable features is the ceiling in the main hall, which has a constellation of lightbulbs. This arrangement mimics the exact positions of the stars on the day she was born, October 21, 1900.
The interior design of the palace reflects the elegance and beauty for which the Princess is remembered and loved.
Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
Have Fun at Chiang Rai Walking Street
Chiang Rai’s two pedestrian streets are commonly known as the Walking Streets. It has everything to make your day fun and happening, from Thai specialities, handicrafts for shopping and live folk performances.
From late afternoon to night, Thanalai Road (Saturdays) and San Khong Noi Road (Sundays) become vibrant night markets filled with neon lights, sizzling barbecues, and folk dance stages- an essential experience for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Things to do
- Shop Thai handicrafts
- Eat northern Thai cuisine
- Enjoy cultural performances
Saturday Walking Street Timing: 6:00 to 10:00 PM
Sunday Walking Street Timing: 4:00 to 9:30 PM
Take a Day-out at Singha Park
Singha Park is the best place to visit with family. Boon Rawd Farm, owned by Boon Rawd Brewery, is the creator of Singha Beer, Thailand’s first brewery, established in 1933. Today, it is one of the top sustainable tourism spots in northern Thailand.
At the entrance, visitors see a large golden lion statue, which is a popular photo spot. The park has flower gardens, lakes, meadows, plantations, orchards, and vegetable crops.
Rent a golf cart- 100 THB (270 INR) for 2 hours
Activities to do
- Feeding the fish
- Visiting Rubber plantations
- Animal feeding (piglets, goats, cows with baby feeding bottles)
- Fun Fair Park (ziplining and simulated rock climbing)
- Take photos of the Singha statue
If you take the farm tour activities, you will be taken by an electric tram for the farm tour. It has 5 stops-
- Swan Lake (feeding the fish)
- Tea tasting point and the flower bloom photo check
- Mini Zoo (feeding animals)
- Red Barn House Sport Centre (Rent a scooter, bicycle, private golf cart rental service, a tea plantation, the “Blend your own tea” activity, and extreme adventure activities like ziplining and simulated rock climbing)
- Learn about Thai tea.
Visit the Sai Market
A market between the borders of the two countries, Thailand and Myanmar. And the privilege of visiting there? You get the chance to shop and buy goods from both countries, each reflecting their rich cultural heritage.
Things you can do here
You get imported jewels and antiques from China and Burma, and also, stories about their crafts and traditions. You can enjoy bargaining for unique souvenirs while savouring the fresh street food that fills the air with enticing aromas.
In addition to shopping, the market serves as a cultural crossroads, where you can witness the intertwining of Thai and Burmese traditions. As you explore the colourful stalls, you’ll also spot local craftsmen and artists showcasing their skills.
This market provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of people from both countries, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich Southeast Asian culture.
Things to buy here-
- Precious gemstones
- Silverware
- Jewellery
- Wood and stone carvings
- Sneakers and souvenirs
- Cigarettes and snacks
- Cultural artefacts
- Hoodies
- Handcrafts
Mae Sai Market showcases the cultural exchange between Burma and Thailand, where money, people, and goods flow freely between the two countries.
Explore the Oub Kham Museum
The Oub Kham Museum exhibits the Lanna history and culture. Curated by Julasak Suriyachai, who has a royal heritage from Burma, the museum reflects his deep love for Lanna traditions.
The Oub Kham Museum showcases the rich history and vibrant culture of Lanna in a captivating way. He has assembled a remarkable collection of items that represent the diverse heritage of the Lanna Kingdom.
What can you do here?
Inside the museum, tourists can see Lanna textiles and intricate jewellery that highlight local craftsmanship. They can also admire various sculptures and statues that tell stories from the past.
The museum features pottery and antiques, each telling its own story of Lanna’s cultural journey. Among the treasures, unique items stand out, like a monkey-bone food taster, once used in royal cuisine, and a gold-coated bamboo bowl that served monks and kings alike.
The museum not only preserves these artifacts but also serves as an educational resource, helping visitors understand the significance of Lanna’s history and the traditions that shaped the region. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the fascinating culture of Lanna.
Timings: 8 AM- 5 PM
Entry Fee: 300 THB (800 INR)
Sense Peace at Phu Chi Fa Forest Park
Sunrise, a sea of mist and looking down from the top is a surreal feeling. That’s what this place offers. This unique place provides a view that convinces everyone to visit; it’s a must-do thing in Chiang Rai. It is located in Northern Thailand- Phi Pan Nam Range, from where you get views of both Thailand and Laos.
Visitors often stay in nearby resorts to witness the sunrise from the viewpoint around 5 a.m. The park offers tent camping areas, but accommodation in the area is more commonly found in nearby resorts.
Bow Your Head at Wat Huay Pla Kang
Wat Huay Pla Kang is one of Chiang Rai’s most iconic temples, best known for its massive white statue often mistaken for the “Big Buddha”. It beautifully blends Thai, Chinese, and Lanna-style architecture, set on a quiet hilltop just a short drive from the city.
How does it look?
The highlight is the towering white statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, which stands around 70–80 metres tall. The site has a 9-tiered pagoda with a red roof and a beautiful white main hall (wihan). The hall is protected by detailed naga staircases. The view from the top is peaceful and panoramic.
What can you do here?
You can take an elevator inside the Guan Yin statue (for about THB 40) and enjoy stunning views from the upper floors. Explore the peaceful pagoda, walk up its nine levels, and admire various Buddha statues. Don’t forget to visit the main temple hall with intricate designs and quiet prayer spaces.
Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry fee: Free entry to temple grounds; THB 40 (110 INR) for the elevator inside the Guan Yin statue
Witness the Beauty of Doi Mae Salong
Doi Mae Salong is a scenic mountain village in northern Chiang Rai, known for its Chinese heritage, rolling tea plantations, and peaceful vibes. It offers a unique cultural blend of Thai and Yunnanese influences, making it a refreshing retreat away from city crowds.
How does it look?
Located in the highlands, Doi Mae Salong features lush green hills, terraced tea farms, and traditional Chinese-style houses. In winter, the roads are lined with cherry blossoms, creating a picture-perfect pink landscape.
What can you do here?
You can visit tea plantations and sample fresh Oolong tea, walk through charming local markets, and explore Chinese temples like Phra That Doi Mae Salong. The viewpoint at the Sinakarintra Stupa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Don’t miss the cherry blossom season from December to February.
Timings: Open all day. Best visited during daylight hours.
Conclusion
Chiang Rai is full of special places to see and fun things to do. From the shining White Temple to peaceful mountain views, this city has something for everyone. You can explore temples, visit the Golden Triangle, enjoy tasty local food, or just relax and take in the calm vibe. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy the real beauty of northern Thailand.
Want to see the best of Chiang Rai? Check out our Thailand tour packages and start planning your trip today! You can even customise your plan to make it just right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to Do in Chiang Rai
What are the top attractions in Chiang Rai?
Must-visit sites include the White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House Museum, and Doi Tung Royal Villa.
Is Chiang Rai worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for unique temples, peaceful nature, tea plantations, and authentic local culture.
What can I do in Chiang Rai in one day?
You can explore the White Temple, Blue Temple, Black House, and enjoy a local market or tea farm nearby.
What’s the best time to visit Chiang Rai?
November to February is ideal with cool weather, clear skies, and beautiful scenery.
Are there things to do in Chiang Rai at night?
Yes! Visit night markets, enjoy riverside cafés, or relax with a Thai massage after a day of exploring.
Is Chiang Rai good for families or kids?
Yes! Kids will love the colorful temples, gardens, and cultural parks like Singha Park.
