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This picturesque northern province is situated 785
kilometres from Bangkok and shares borders with Myanmar
in the north and Laos in the east. The city of Chiang
Rai was founded by King Mengrai in 1262 and the centrally
located King Mengrai the Great Memorial depicts the
king in all his former glory.
This is a great place to visit if you appreciate
cool weather, walking amongst attractive natural scenery,
good food and chilling out in a city that has all
the charm and atmosphere of a small village.
The city of Chiang Rai has a rather sleepy, relaxed
feel to it, and exploring the streets can yield some
interesting sights. The pure white temple of Wat Rong
Khum has to be seen to be believed, whilst Wat Phra
Kaeo is the original home of the Emerald Buddha, now
located in the temple of the same name in Bangkok.
Also worth exploring are Wat Pa Sak and Wat Phra That
Doi Tung.
Although not as large as its neighbour in Chiang
Mai, Chiang Rai's Night Bazaar is a great place to
pick up a bargain or two, whilst the sleepy village
of Chiang Saen with its interesting history, warm
welcome and architecture is a great place for a day
trip.
But it is Chiang Rai's natural beauty that draws
most visitors to the area. As well as enchanting jungle
waterfalls such as Khun Korn Waterfall and Pong Phra
Bat waterfall, there are also dozens of hot springs
scattered around the area, where you can soak up the
goodness of meltingly hot water and natural minerals
either in public pools or secluded in your own private
tub. Look out for the Pha Soet Hot Springs and Huai
Hin Fon Hot Springs and Waterfall with its stunning
jungle backdrop. What could be better than listening
to the insects and wind in the trees as you enjoy
a good soak?
The Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre is a great
place to learn about the local people before going
on a trek, and The Hall of Opium museum also provides
a lot of interesting information about life in the
area, both past and present.
No visit to the area would be complete without a
trip to the absolutely stunning Phu Chi Fa Forest
Park, and animal lovers can get up close and personal
with the elephants at the Mae Sa Elephant Training
Center.
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