Enable Location

We need your location to show you interesting places around you

Discover nearby places

Find interesting locations and hidden gems around you

Precise directions

Get accurate directions and distances to places

Your location is never shared with other users. It's only used when you tap the location button.

Chiang Rai

Log in to your account

Start exploring — it's free

Trusted by 61,452 travelers worldwide

Continue with Google
Continue with Apple
or

We will send you a code to connect

By continuing, you accept our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy

Check your inbox

We've sent a pincode in your inbox. Please enter the code below.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, Provincial capital in northern Thailand.

Description

Chiang Rai is the provincial capital in northern Thailand located at an elevation of about 390 meters. The Kok River flows through the plains near the area where Myanmar borders the region.

History

King Mengrai founded this city in 1262 as a regional capital, but it later fell under Burmese control. It remained under outside rule until 1933 when it became part of modern Thailand.

Culture

The Wat Rong Khun temple shows modern interpretations of Buddhist architecture with white structures and mirror decorations throughout the complex. Visitors see artistic details everywhere that blend traditional and contemporary forms together.

Practical

Visitors can reach the city through its international airport, which offers regular flights to Bangkok and to other destinations in Thailand. It helps to check flight schedules before your visit, as availability may vary depending on the season.

Did you know?

A Buddhist statue that emerged from the ground during an earthquake in 1432 made this place a significant point in Thai Buddhism history. This event attracted pilgrims over the centuries and continues to shape the city's spiritual meaning today.

Inception
1262
Founders
Mangrai
Elevation above the sea
390 m
GPS coordinates
19.90689,99.83327
Latest update
December 14, 2025 18:38

AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Mueang Chiang Rai).

« Chiang Rai - Provincial capital in northern Thailand » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!

From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.

Around Us App Screenshot

A unique approach to discovering new places

Le Figaro

All the places worth exploring

France Info

A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks

20 Minutes

Around Us
Travel Guide & Maps
Download

Send to your phone

QR Code
1

Open the camera app on your mobile.

2

Point at the QR code with your camera. A notification will appear.

3

Tap the notification to open the link.