Chiang Rai, a northern province of Thailand, is a great place to experience the cool weather. It is also very easy to travel around and is very affordable. With a budget of no more than 5,000 baht, you can have a great time.

Chiang Rai for Beginners: A Budget-Friendly Landmark Tour

This trip report, originally published on the Facebook page "เที่ยวคนเดียวต้องสตรอง" (Traveling Solo Must Be Strong), offers a beginner-friendly guide to exploring Chiang Rai's iconic landmarks on a budget. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, friends, or family, this itinerary promises a fun and fulfilling experience.

Day 1:

  • Morning:
    • Visit Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, a revered temple perched atop a hill offering panoramic views and a sacred white stupa.
    • Explore Wat Rong Khun, the "White Temple," renowned for its intricate architecture and unique artistic style.
    • Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Wat Huay Pla Kang, a temple featuring a beautiful white pavilion and a picturesque lake.
  • Afternoon:
    • Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic northern Thai cuisine.
    • Discover the vibrant art scene at the Chiang Rai Saturday Night Walking Street, browsing through local crafts and enjoying live music.
  • Evening:
    • Relax and unwind at your chosen accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Additional Information:

  • For further details and recommendations, visit the Facebook page "เที่ยวคนเดียวต้องสตรอง" (Traveling Solo Must Be Strong).
  • This itinerary is designed to be budget-friendly, allowing you to experience Chiang Rai's highlights without breaking the bank.
  • The trip is suitable for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families seeking a fun and enriching cultural experience.

Note: This translation focuses solely on the provided text, excluding any external links or additional information.

Flight Delay at Don Mueang Airport

The first flight of the day from Don Mueang Airport to Chiang Rai was delayed due to heavy fog in Chiang Rai. This resulted in delays for all flights to and from Chiang Rai.

Upon arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, I took an airport taxi to the Clock Tower area. I rented a 125cc automatic motorbike for 250 baht per day. The deposit amount varied depending on the motorbike and the rental shop. (I tried calling to reserve a motorbike, but no shop would allow reservations or provide prices over the phone. They insisted that I come to the shop in person.)

Our first stop will be Singha Park, which is easily accessible. Starting from the clock tower, turn left onto Highway 1211 and continue straight. Singha Park will be on your right. The road is suitable for motorcycles. (If you are worried about missing it, look out for the prominent Singha statue.) There are signs along the way.

After visiting Singha Park, head out on your motorbike and keep right. Continue on the same road, 1211, for a short distance, then turn left onto Road 1208. Enjoy the ride and you will soon reach your destination.


We're here! See, it only took a moment. Next time you ride a motorbike in the winter, make sure to wear thick clothes, especially gloves. Let me tell you, it's freezing cold! (I mean, my hands are numb.) It's seriously bone-chilling.

Everyone, please don't blame us. We couldn't get in. It was hot. Oh, no, that's not it. There was an important person visiting the temple, so it was closed to tourists. We could only take pictures from outside.

As night falls, deep within the alleyways of Soi Phaen (unrelated, perhaps), one finds oneself drawn to the Clock Tower. There, at precisely 8 pm, a dazzling display of light and sound awaits, reminiscent of the spectacles witnessed in Hong Kong or Singapore.

At exactly 8:00 PM, the lights around the Clock Tower roundabout will be turned off (except for the Clock Tower itself). The Chiang Rai Commemorative Song will then be played, accompanied by a change in the color of the Clock Tower.

DAY 2

Day two, I woke up early and rode my motorbike to "Choui Fong Tea Plantation." I started from the clock tower as usual and rode along Highway 1 (is that Phahonyothin Road?).

There are tourist attractions along the way before reaching the tea plantation, but I didn't stop because I don't ride fast and was worried about wasting time. If you're unsure whether this is the correct route, it will pass the entrance to Mae Fah Luang University. Drive a little further and you will see a sign for the tea plantation (Road 1130). Turn left there. If you think you've missed it, don't worry, there are more signs ahead directing you to the entrance.

Green fields, fresh air (a bit hot), food available, delicious green tea rolls, and delicious green tea. Oh, on the way here, there were also pineapple sales from Phulae, which were incredibly sweet and juicy. After this, I will continue to the Mae Fah Luang Garden at Doi Tung.

The drive is not far, but it is uphill. The incline is not too steep, and the road is in good condition. A 125cc motorcycle should be sufficient for the journey.

There is an entrance fee, which is used for the maintenance and development of the Mae Fah Luang Garden. The garden includes flower gardens, museums, and restaurants, making it a one-stop destination for visitors. The pleasant weather makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

From Mae Fah Luang Garden, I will continue to Wat Phra That Doi Tung. The road is a bit steep near the temple, but it is not dangerous. (If there is fog, please drive slowly. When I went, there was fog, and I was a bit worried because I couldn't see the road, but I drove slowly and it was safe.)

On the way up the mountain, there are scenic viewpoints where you can stop to rest your car and take a break. It's important to avoid overheating your brakes, which can be dangerous.

The temple boasts a pleasant atmosphere, inviting visitors to linger. The presence of monks adds to the serene ambiance. While the temple grounds are not extensive, those with mobility limitations can drive up to the upper level for convenient access.

On the way back to Chiang Rai city, I took the same route. I stopped at some scenic spots along the way. If you have extra time, you can continue to Doi Chang Moob. Alternatively, you can go down from Doi Tung to the Golden Triangle or Mae Sai (I was riding a motorcycle and it was getting late, so I didn't go because I was worried that it would be dangerous to ride back to the city in the dark).

DAY 3

Day three. Nothing much today. I woke up and went to get something to eat at the yellow coffee truck (actually, I ate a lot throughout the trip, but I didn't take any pictures. I was really focused on eating, haha!).

The food was breakfast-like and tasted good. However, I didn't find it particularly unique compared to other restaurants. With some time to spare, I took a leisurely bike ride around the city. (I had originally planned to visit several temples, but after calculating the time, I realized it wouldn't be feasible.)

Before returning the motorcycle, I made a quick stop at the city center.

Farewell, Chiang Rai: A Promise to Return

As the sun peeked through the thick morning mist, it was time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Chiang Rai. The air, crisp and cool at a refreshing 15 degrees Celsius, held the promise of a new adventure. With a heavy heart, I made a silent vow to return to this magical place, where the beauty of nature and the warmth of the people had left an indelible mark on my soul.

However, the allure of the misty morning came with a slight inconvenience. The dense fog delayed our departure, leaving us in a state of suspended anticipation. As we patiently waited, the anticipation grew, fueled by the promise of the journey ahead.

This concludes our simple review of a budget-friendly trip. With a budget of no more than 5,000 baht, you can easily explore Chiang Rai. Chiang Rai is a laid-back city with a low cost of living. Food is very affordable, unlike Chiang Mai, and it's not as crowded (although we still love Chiang Mai). Next time, we'll stay overnight on a mountain. We promise to return for another trip.

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