Chiang Rai Holidays

Things to do in and around Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is an ideal destination for city-themed, family, and business vacations. Visitors can explore vibrant public markets, shopping areas, and engage in various activities for an active holiday. The city also offers opportunities to admire local art and experience adventure in Thailand, ensuring a delightful blend of entertainment options for all travellers.

Shopping

The Chiang Rai Night Bazaar offers a vibrant atmosphere for local crafts and delicious street food. For a more extensive shopping experience, Central Chiang Rai features a range of shops and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, Lan Mueang Market is also a great spot for local goods.

Recreation

The Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort offers a unique wellness experience with spa treatments inspired by traditional Thai healing practices. Guests can enjoy yoga sessions amidst tranquil surroundings, accompanied by breathtaking views of the lush landscape and the Mekong River, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation.

The Sanctuary of Truth is a captivating wooden temple that combines art and spiritual wellness. Visitors can explore its intricate carvings while engaging in mindfulness practices, surrounded by nature's beauty, perfect for reflection and inner peace.

At the Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, relax with organic coffee and wholesome meals, set in a charming garden. The tranquil atmosphere invites leisurely conversations and a moment to unwind, making it an ideal spot to recharge.

Adventure

At Thanathon Orchard, located 48.3km from Chiang Rai, you can immerse yourself in a delightful fruit-picking adventure. Explore the lush orchards, savour fresh tropical fruits, and enjoy the serene countryside, making it a perfect day out for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, where you can savour local street food and shop for handicrafts. For a relaxed drink, visit the Bar 88, known for its friendly atmosphere and cocktails, or enjoy live music at The Old Bus Station.

Find the best attractions in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai offers a delightful blend of cultural and urban experiences, making it ideal for city, business, and family vacations. Visitors can explore fascinating temples, modern educational institutions, and the iconic clock tower. This charming destination caters to those seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and vibrant city life, ensuring a memorable experience for every type of traveller.

• Wat Huai Pla Kung Temple: Nestled in the serene landscape of Chiang Rai, this temple offers a tranquil atmosphere with friendly locals. Its majestic statue of the Goddess of Mercy provides a unique spiritual experience, inviting visitors to reflect in its peaceful surroundings.
• Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong: This culturally rich temple stands as a testament to the region's heritage. With its intricate architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it immerses visitors in the local culture, making it a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.
• Tham Tu Pu & Buddha Cave: An adventurous escape, this cave offers outdoor exploration and stunning natural formations. Ideal for thrill-seekers, it combines adventure with spiritual discovery, showcasing intricate Buddha statues within its depths.

Best time to go to Chiang Rai

The best time to visit Chiang Rai can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Chiang Rai falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Chiang Rai falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	74.8°F (23.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	84.7°F (29.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	73.2°F (22.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chiang Rai

To save money during your visit to Chiang Rai, plan your trip between May to June or September, as prices are lower compared to the peak season from November to January. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can also yield the best rates, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Utilise Expedia for last-minute deals and package bookings that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Moreover, consider eco-certified hotels for affordable yet comfortable accommodations while exploring the city's free attractions and using the efficient public transport system.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Chiang Rai are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to November to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Chiang Rai about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Chiang Rai is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Chiang Rai is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Chiang Rai with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.