City Attractions

King Mengrai Monument
Commemorating the founder of Chiang Rai, the monument should be the first place to visit, since locals believe that respect should be paid to King Mengrai before travelling further. The monument is located on the city outskirts beside the road to Mae Chan.

The King Mengrai Stupa
In front of Wat Ngam Mueang atop Doi Ngam Mueang in Mueang district the stupa was built by King Chaisongkhram to contain the remains of his father (King Mengrai).

Wat Phra Sing
This temple, on Singhakhlai Road, is a fine example of Lanna religious architecture. The Phra Phuttha Sihing image, now at Chiang Mai's Wat Phra Sing, was originally enshrined here. A copy now sits in its place.

Wat Phra Kaeo
Located behind Wat Phra Sing, Wat Phra Kaeo is noted for its late Lanna image hall and several fine bronze Buddha images. The temple is more famous, however, as the place where the statue of the Emerald Buddha, now housed in Bangkok, was originally discovered.

Wat Phrathat Doi Chom Thong
This ancient hilltop temple predates the founding of Chiang Rai and commands fine views of the Kok River. It is believed that from this vantage point King Mengrai first surveyed the site of the city. Situated on a small hill west of Wat Phra Kaeo, the temple has an ancient brick chedi that is the reliquary for the remains of King Mengrai.

Oub Kham Museum
It's located near the Den Ha market, 1 kilometre from the centre of town. The collection showcases objects from the areas once belonging to, or affiliated with, the Lanna kingdoms: present north Thailand and some parts of northeast Myanmar, southwest China and Vietnam. Apart from ritual objects the collection mainly consists of objects used in royal courts like lacquerware, silver jewellery, and clothing. A golden bowl once reserved for royals is a masterpiece. It is open daily from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tel: 0 5371 3349

Ho Watthanatham Nithat
The site is a museum exhibiting ancient artefacts and written records on history, literature and local know-how as well as exhibits on royal activities by the late Princess Mother at Doi Tung. It is open to the public Wednesday - Sunday from 8.30 a.m. until 3.30 p.m.

Kok River
This scenic river is a major transportation artery from neighbouring Chiang Mai province, especially the town of Tha Ton. The river runs some 130 kilometres through the heart of Chiang Rai passing on its way several hilltribe settlements and
elephant camps from where jungle treks start. Long-tailed boats are available daily for 3-4 hour tours.

Namtok Khun Kon Forest Park
Khun Kon, also known as Tat Mok Waterfall, is located about 30 kilometres south of Chiang Rai. The 70.metre waterfall is the highest and most beautiful in Chiang Rai.