Chiang Rai is Thailand’s northern most province situated in the Kok River basin covering an area of 11,678 square kilometers. Located 785 kilometers from Bangkok, the area stands 580 meters above sea level. Chiang Rai reaches the mighty Mekong River to the north and borders on Myanmar (Burma) and Laos.

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Chiang Rai acts as a reminder of its evident past civilization. It was the first capital of the ancient Lanna Thai Kingdom, which gradually evolved from the principality of Yonnokpan or Yonnok Chiang Saen, and later was conquered by Burma.

Founded in 1262 AD by King Meng Rai, whose statue can be seen on the way to Mae Chan, until this day its glorious past can still be seen throughout the area. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory and was proclaimed as a province during the period of King Rama VI in 1910 A.D. Enriched with great culture, Chiang Rai is the home of the original Emerald Buddha, believed to be the divine guardian and protector of the Thai Kingdom. It is also famous for its tasty lychees and Golden Triangle in Amphoe Chiang Saen.

Chiang Rai is worth visiting for its exceptional scenery and cultural diversity. Approximately thirty of Thailand’s minor ethnic groups can be found on the steep mountain slopes surrounding much of the province. Each presents their own individual culture, way of life, customs and traditions, yet lives side by side peacefully.

One of Thailand’s boundless natural heritages is situated in Chiang Rai, offering exotic biodiversity as well as endangered wildlife species. Forested mountains and green valleys, fertile agricultural areas, beautiful beaches and islands, a plentiful range of plants and wildlife are all feast for the eyes. The waterfalls, natural hot springs, and rice fields in the lowlands spread throughout the area are the gems among the country’s remarkable beauty. Lush scenery of young “kla” saplings in the spring gradually turns into sparkling gold heading toward the cooler season. Nature’s scenery entwines together creating an enchanting harmony.

Despite its striking beauty of nature, the inhabitants of the harsh mountainous territory in the north face challenges in their daily life. Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagrindara, the Princess Mother, later mother of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, established the Doi Tung Development Project under Royal initiative in 1988. This was done in order to concentrate on the rural poverty in the area and improve the lives of the locals. For over two decades the project has played a significant role and given a new light to the cultural and social thread in Chiang Rai, giving the people hope for a better future. Thus, to the locals, the Princess Mother is known as Mae Fah Luang, which means the “Royal Mother from the sky” for her continuous devotion. Through the years, the area has portrayed the Royal Mother’s sincere kindness and determined effort to bring about positive changes into the lives of her people. The Doi Tung is truly cherished in the hearts and minds of the people, yet it also marks a vital stage in Chiang Rai’s history.

Many beautiful spots are on offer for a visitor to Chiang Rai. These include Doi Tung Royal villa, the Mae Fah Luang botanical garden and What Phrathat Doi Tung. Must see attractions of the province consist of the 15th century Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Saen National Museum, the Golden Triangle, Doi Mae Salong, the border town Maesai, Pu Kaeng Waterfall, hill tribes and elephant riding.