The Drive to Chiang Rai
The drive to Chiang Rai is such a cool experience, especially if you love scenic road trips. The countryside is full of rice fields, rolling hills, and little villages where life moves at a slower, more peaceful pace. Along the way, you’ll see roadside stalls selling fresh fruit, snacks, and handmade goods. One of the best stops is this natural hot spring where locals boil eggs in little baskets right in the steaming water—it’s such a fun and quirky thing to see! The markets around the area have all kinds of fresh produce and souvenirs, so it’s a great place to stretch your legs and explore a bit.
As you keep driving, you’ll notice a mix of old and new—ancient-looking temples, random satellite dishes in front of houses, and busy little street markets. There are also some roadside food stalls where you can grab some delicious Thai snacks, like grilled meats and sticky rice. It’s not just about getting to Chiang Rai—it’s about enjoying the journey and all the random, interesting things you’ll see along the way!
Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple
When you finally get to Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is an absolute must-see. This place looks like something out of a dream—it’s bright white, covered in tiny mirrors, and practically glows in the sunlight. Walking up to it feels surreal, and once you cross the bridge leading inside, you’ll notice all these eerie, reaching hands symbolizing human suffering. It’s super artistic and different from any temple you’ve ever seen. Inside, the murals are even wilder, blending traditional Buddhist themes with modern pop culture—yes, you might spot superheroes and sci-fi characters!
The area around the temple is just as beautiful, with peaceful gardens, dragon statues, and little art installations scattered around. There are also some cute cafes and food stalls nearby, so you can grab a cold Thai iced tea and take in the view. Whether you’re into art, culture, or just love visiting unique places, Wat Rong Khun is one of those spots that sticks with you long after you leave.
Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew
Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai is a peaceful and beautiful temple with a deep history. It’s best known as the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha, which is now in Bangkok. Even though the original statue isn’t here anymore, they have a stunning green jade replica that sits inside the main hall, surrounded by golden decorations that make the whole place glow.
Walking through the temple grounds, you’ll see intricate wood carvings, golden Buddha statues, and traditional Thai architecture that gives off a calm, spiritual vibe. The monks in their bright orange robes add to the peaceful atmosphere, making it feel like a sacred and special place.
Beyond the main temple, the grounds are full of beautiful gardens, golden dragon statues, and quiet spots to sit and take in the surroundings. There’s also a museum filled with Buddhist artifacts, old scriptures, and historical displays that give more insight into the temple’s past.
Bamboo groves, lotus ponds, and even a few sleepy temple dogs make the whole place feel like a hidden retreat away from the busy city. Whether you’re coming to learn about history, take photos of the beautiful temple, or just enjoy a quiet walk, Wat Phra Kaew is one of those places that makes you feel calm and connected to something bigger.
The Buddha Cave Temple
The Buddha Cave Temple is a hidden gem tucked inside a dramatic limestone cave, making it one of the most unique and peaceful places to visit. Walking up to the entrance, you’re greeted by golden Buddha statues set against the rugged rock walls, creating an almost mystical vibe. Inside, the cave is filled with more statues, candles, and offerings left by visitors and monks.
The air is cool, and there’s a quiet stillness that makes the place feel sacred and calming. Some sections of the cave are dimly lit, adding to the mysterious atmosphere, while small openings let in streams of natural light, perfectly highlighting certain statues.
Outside the cave, the scenery is just as stunning. A beautiful river flows nearby, reflecting the towering cliffs and lush greenery surrounding it. The area is full of vibrant flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and red, adding a splash of color to the earthy tones of the rocks and water.
It’s the perfect spot to relax, take in the peaceful view, or dip your feet into the water. Whether you come for the spiritual experience or just to soak in the natural beauty, The Buddha Cave Temple is a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Ruammit Elephant Camp
The Ruammit Elephant Camp was such an incredible experience! Located by the river in a peaceful village, it’s a place where you can get up close to these gentle giants. We absolutely loved feeding the elephants—holding out bananas and watching their long trunks reach out to grab them was such a fun moment.
The elephants seemed to enjoy the attention, and some even playfully tried to sneak extra treats! It was also amazing to see them walking through the village and along the roads, carrying visitors on their backs. The whole setting, with wooden huts by the river and bright yellow flowers blooming around, made the experience even more special.
Whether you come for the elephant rides or just to watch and interact with them, Ruammit Elephant Camp is a must-visit for animal lovers!
