A few weeks ago I was invited to join the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Chiang Mai to learn about the 2018 goals throughout the Southeast Asian Nations. All countries are working hard to accelerate economic growth and increase tourism throughout the countries. I enjoyed meeting and learning about each countries goals to work with business partners such as airlines to help increase tourism while many countries are focusing on sustainability throughout their region. This was my third time to Thailand but my first time in Chiang Mai. After a few days learning about ASEAN’s goals for the year, a few of us had the honor of visiting Chiang Rai with the Tourism Authority of Thailand whom helped planned our itinerary. Here’s a quick guide on how to see Chiang Rai 3 days.

CHIANG RAI 3 DAY ITINERARY FROM CHIANG MAI

Chiang Rai is located in the northernmost mountainous region in Thailand. It borders Laos and Myanmar and is 3 hours from Chiang Mai by car. Chaing Rai has a small airport but it’s best to drive from Chiang Mai. There is much more to see outside of the city such as the Choui Fong Tea Plantation, The Golden Triangle (where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet from the Mekong and Ruak River).

DAY 1

Choui Fong Tea Plantation is an hour from Chiang Rai and highly worth a visit. It’s one of the newer tourist spots with stunning tea plantation views and the best matcha desserts!

Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is an ancient and sacred temple with great views of the Golden Triangle.

Where to stay: The Imperial Golden Triangle Hotel (budget) or Anantara Golden Triangle (luxury)

Day 2

Jinnaluck the Miracle of Saa and Ban Pang Ha was one of my favorite experiences! We drove an hour from the Golden Triangle by car and spent half the day learning about the eco-friendly manufacturer of green paper at Jinnaluck. Our group did a DIY paper making class, and went on a tour around the town to a sword-making and candlesticks making session with locals. We also stopped by the guava farm and had a traditional lunch.

Doi Tung & Tree Top Walking – Doi Tung is a mountain in the Thai highlands with beautiful flower gardens and a Tree Top Walking suspension bridge experience.

Where to stay: After a full day, drive back to Chiang Rai and stay at Nak Nakara or The Legend Hotel.

DAY 3 – Chiang Rai

Wat Rong Khun – The famous white temple is stunning and a must visit early morning before the crowds. Women should cover knees and shoulders.

Singha Park is the largest agricultural tourism in Thailand, situated 450m above sea level. The park is very large and has many activities such as: sky diving, farm tour, animal attractions like giraffes and zebras and so much more! You can see the full list of activities here. Stop by the Bhu Bhirom Restaurant for lunch!

Wat Rong Seua Ten – Is a vivid blue modern Buddhist temple with beautiful carvings.

Wat Phra Kaew is also known as The Emerald Buddha, the oldest and most revered temples.

Wat Phra Sing is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai. I did not get to visit but it’s a gorgeous temple with lots of details.

WHERE TO EAT

Melt In Your Mouth – I had the most delicious green curry and desserts here! I highly recommend visiting for lunch.

I could have easily spent another day exploring Chiang Rai but 3 days and two nights were good. If you have more time I highly recommend staying one more day to enjoy the city.

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A Quick Guide to Chiang Mai

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