Chiang Saen: A Tranquil Haven at Thailand's Northernmost Frontier

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of northern Thailand, Chiang Saen, a district in Chiang Rai province, stands as a testament to the country's rich history and cultural heritage. Bordered by the majestic Mekong River, this tranquil town offers a captivating glimpse into the region's past and present.

Embark on a Journey of Discovery

Join us as we delve into the captivating allure of Chiang Saen, exploring its hidden gems and iconic landmarks. From the breathtaking vistas atop Doi Sa Ngo to the revered sanctity of the Phra That Chom Kitti temple, each destination unveils a unique facet of this enchanting town.

Unveiling Chiang Saen's Treasures

  • Doi Sa Ngo: Ascend to the summit of Doi Sa Ngo, where panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the meandering Mekong River await. Witness the golden hues of sunrise paint the landscape, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

  • Phra That Chom Kitti: Step into the hallowed halls of Phra That Chom Kitti, a revered Buddhist temple adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering golden spires. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship that adorns this sacred site.

  • Golden Triangle: Embark on a boat ride along the Mekong River, venturing into the heart of the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Witness the confluence of these three nations and learn about the region's complex history and cultural tapestry.

  • Wat Phra That Chedi Luang: Discover the architectural grandeur of Wat Phra That Chedi Luang, a magnificent temple complex that houses a towering stupa adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering gold leaf. Explore the serene courtyards and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site.

  • Chiang Saen Lake: Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Chiang Saen Lake, a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush greenery. Admire the serene beauty of the water reflecting the surrounding mountains, creating a picture-perfect postcard moment.

A Tapestry of Culture and History

Chiang Saen's rich tapestry of culture and history is woven into the fabric of its streets, temples, and landscapes. From the ancient ruins of the Lanna Kingdom to the vibrant markets brimming with local crafts, each corner of this town whispers tales of a bygone era.

A Journey for the Senses

Indulge in the culinary delights of Chiang Saen, savoring the authentic flavors of northern Thai cuisine. Sample the region's signature dishes, from fragrant curries to spicy salads, and tantalize your taste buds with the unique blend of spices and herbs.

Embrace the Tranquility

As the sun sets over Chiang Saen, casting a warm glow over the Mekong River, find solace in the town's tranquil atmosphere. Let the gentle breeze carry away your worries as you immerse yourself in the serenity of this enchanting destination.

A Journey Awaits

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Chiang Saen, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Discover the hidden treasures of this tranquil town and create memories that will last a lifetime.

For this trip to Chiang Saen, we stayed at Sabai at Chiang Saen.

Accommodation page >> https://www.facebook.com/sabaihotel/

Chiang Saen district is located approximately 80 kilometers from Mueang Chiang Rai district. The first impression upon arrival is a sense of tranquility.

Visiting Chiang Saen requires paying respects to the sacred Phra That Chom Kitti, located in Wiang Sub-district, Chiang Saen District. This revered landmark has served as a symbol of the town for centuries. Accessing the temple involves climbing 339 steps of the Naga staircase, although vehicles can also reach the summit.

Beyond the Phra That Chom Kitti and the Ubosot, there is a spacious courtyard offering panoramic views. The majestic Mekong River and mountain ranges serve as a breathtaking backdrop.

We arrived in Chiang Saen in the late afternoon and checked into the Sabai at Chiang Saen Resort, which is located near the Chiang Saen district and on the banks of the Mekong River.

The evening ambiance at Sabai at Chiang Saen, a Lanna-style boutique hotel, is...

The evening atmosphere at Sabai at Chiang Saen

This morning, we woke up around 6:00 AM to travel to Doi Sa Ngo. From Sabai at Chiang Saen, it took us only 30 minutes to travel the 14 kilometers to reach Doi Sa Ngo.

To reach the top of Doi Sa Ngoen, the last 500 meters of the journey can only be traversed by four-wheel drive vehicles due to the extremely challenging terrain. Visitors can park their cars at the village parking lot and take a local villager's four-wheel drive vehicle or an "e-tan" truck for a mere 100 baht per vehicle.

This afternoon, we visited the Golden Triangle, located just 7 kilometers from Sabai at Chiang Saen. The Golden Triangle is home to a magnificent, large-scale Phra Chiang Saen temple, which stands majestically on the banks of the Mekong River.

Let's take a look at our accommodation at Sabai at Chiang Saen.

This is the room we stayed in, with a balcony offering stunning views of the Mekong River.

This room features a double bed and a balcony with stunning views of the Mekong River, visible from almost every room.

This is the lobby of Sabai at Chiang Saen.

A cozy corner for enjoying coffee, relaxing, and reading.

Or you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

After checking out of our accommodation, we jogged along the Mekong River towards the district office, which was not far away.

Parking and taking a stroll along the Mekong River is a delightful experience. The small walking path is perfect for a leisurely walk or a refreshing jog, while the cool breeze from the river provides a sense of tranquility and joy.

Not far away is Wat Chedi Luang Chiang Saen, another sacred site that has been a symbol of Chiang Saen for a long time.

According to legend, the Phra That Luang stupa is at least 700 years old, having been built in 1834 CE. The stupa stands at an impressive 88 meters tall and has a base width of 24 meters. It is the largest Lanna-style bell-shaped stupa in the Chiang Saen district.

On the way back from Chiang Saen, I was struck by this roundabout, which features a large elephant statue.

Not far from the roundabout, about 3 kilometers into the alley, lies the serene and expansive Chiang Saen Lake.

This afternoon, we continued our exploration of Chiang Rai city. Tonight, we will be staying at Sabai at Chaing Rai, a resort affiliated with the same group as the one in Chiang Saen. It's an industrial loft-style hotel with surprisingly affordable rates, especially considering its prime location in the city center, close to various temples and tourist attractions.

Phone number for accommodation: 053 719 292

Page >> https://www.facebook.com/sabaipage/

The interior atmosphere of the Sabai at Chaing Rai guest rooms.

I like the bathroom here, it's so cute.

Interior of Sabai at Chaing Rai Guest Rooms

Thank you all for following along. See you again on the next trip. Goodbye.

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