Although Chiang Rai is not among the priority destinations that travellers usually dream of visiting, nonetheless the province is rewarding both for its magnificent highland scenery and its distinctive Lanna art and architecture.
The provincial capital is small and possessed of a relaxed easy-going charm, while a handful of historic temples, notably Wat Phra Kaeo and Wat Phra Singh, afford ample sightseeing. Beyond the town, the mountain peaks of Doi Tung and Doi Mae Salong are areas of great natural beauty where the villages of colourful hill tribe people add interest to the landscape. Doi Tung has the further attraction of the pal¬ace of the late HRH the Princess Mother built in an intriguing blend of Lanna and Swiss architectural styles.
Among other places of interest are the historic little town of Chiang Saen, and the famous Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand Myanmar and Laos meet.