Chiang Rai

Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and resources, it is easy to understand why Chiang Rai was chosen to serve as the first capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom (the kingdom of a million rice fields) by King Meng Rai in 1262. It was later conquered by Burma, and only became a part of Thailand in 1786.

Today, Chiang Rai is a traveller’s paradise with several natural attractions and antiquities. This area features magnificent mountain scenery, the ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and villages of several hill tribes. It also features two excellent golf courses just outside the city. For those who wish to explore the natural side of Chiang Rai, there are several jungle trekking trails that come highly recommended.