Chiang Rai

The northernmost of Siam, the frontiere of three lands, the home to the culture of Lanna and Doi Tung Temple.

  1. The northernmost province of Thailand, filled with the atmosphere of a complex mountain range and valuable Lanna culture. 

  2. Set in the mountainous far north of Thailand with a relaxed atmosphere, delicious local food, and plenty of temples to admire.

Chiang Rai

/ˈtʃɪæŋ raɪ/ Noun

Unlike Chiang Mai, its bubbly-charactered sister, Chiang Rai offers a more serene experience—perfect for those who seek a slower pace to pause and enjoy fantastic earthly beauties and unique, offbeat attractions. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with rich cultural depth and unforgettable views, with a dash of adventure, it’s time to put Chiang Rai at the top of your travel bucket list. ✍️

Without further ado, let’s explore the many sides of Chiang Rai — from its thriving Coffee & Tea Hub and recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Design to its Health & Wellness retreats, rich local cultures, and diverse cuisines.

Coffee, Tea, or Me?

I hope you didn’t pick me because Chiang Rai makes good coffee and tea, like, really good.

Chiang Rai’s Legendary Tea and Coffee Culture

Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast drawn to the robust flavours of Doi Chang’s speciality beans or a tea lover seeking the delicate, fragrant brews of Doi Mae Salong’s plantations, Chiang Rai offers an unforgettable taste journey steeped in history and natural beauty.

Chiang Rai’s fertile highlands have long supported a strong agricultural identity, and in recent years, this has blossomed into something truly special: A renowned tea and coffee culture that rivals some of the best in Asia. The cool mountain air, fertile soil, and traditional farming methods combine to produce some of the finest Arabica coffee and aromatic teas in the country. 

If you like Coffee, 

Go Doi Tung (in Mae Chan District) and Doi Chang (in Mae Suai District)! Once reliant on opium cultivation, they now thrive with the success of sustainable coffee production, which allows community-wide prosperity and the preservation and flourishing of local craftsmanship. Coffee Beans from both mountains have earned Geographical Indication (GI) certification for their great quality.

  • Doi Tung: Doi Tung’s coffee is an Arabica species originally from three varieties: Catimor, Caturra, and Catuai.

  • Doi Chang: Doi Chang coffee, also Arabica, is balanced in acidity with low caffeine content.

The best time to visit for a true coffee experience is from November to February, the harvest season, when you can witness the entire process—from harvesting to washing, drying, and roasting. The height of activity occurs during December or January, with clear mountain weather adding to the charm. If you are more interested in catching the rare sight of blooming fragrant white flowers on the coffee trees, the hills also welcome you around March and April.

There are several must-visit stops if you want to experience the full depth of the region’s coffee culture:

  • Doi Tung Development Project

    Although the coffee farming process is not open to visitors, you should still visit the Doi Tung area! This includes Doi Tung Royal Villa, Mae Fah Luang Garden, Mae Fah Luang Arboretum. Sip a cup of coffee straight from the origin and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, while admiring the results of the project’s success.

  • Doi Chang Coffee Farm

    This is where it all started for one of Thailand’s most famous coffee beans. Visit Doi Chang to see how this community-based model brought prosperity to the region. Tour the plantation, learn about the roasting process, and of course, enjoy a cup brewed to perfection.

  • Pha Hee Village

    Tucked along the Thai–Myanmar border, this small Akha village is known for its scenic beauty and exceptional beans. Here, coffee production is tightly woven into daily life, and you can sip freshly brewed cups while taking in panoramic views over misty valleys.

  • Leehu Coffee Farm

    A family-run farm that embraces innovation, Leehu Coffee Farm is the place to experience on-the-ground eco-friendly farming practices while taking sips of freshly roasted and brewed coffee.

  • Leesoaw Macadamia

    This farm combines coffee and macadamia nut cultivation to create delicious twists in their products, which range from drinks to snacks. They also offer visitors a chance to chat with the farmers themselves.

Chiang Rai Cafés with a View

  • Pha Hee Coffee

    Above the misty mountains and a quaint village sits this little coffee shop. Sip a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a moment far from the noises of mundane life.

  • The Wanderer Cafe

    This charming riverside café sits right by the Kok River Bridge in Chiang Rai Province. Escape the heat under the shade of a lush, forest-like atmosphere. The menu has a bit of everything: coffee, pastries, cakes, and savoury dishes!

  • Jai Pun

    Located near Mae Fah Luang Airport, this café is any Chiang Rai trip’s perfect last stop. Relax beneath the trees and enjoy delicious dishes, or pick a book from the bookshelves to read with your favourite drink.

  • Lee Hu Doichang Coffee

    This charming cafe overlooks Huai Pla Kang Temple and the impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin. You can sip coffee from Doi Chang while sampling Akha dishes and desserts. The thatched roof gives a unique look and adds to the peaceful and relaxing vibe.

  • Hug Hom Mai Farm

    Tucked on the route to Mae Sai, this charming farm & cafe is built around a lush garden and a small stream, providing visitors with a tranquil atmosphere where you can delight in a diverse menu featuring freshly brewed coffee, homemade baked goods, and savoury Northern Thai dishes.

  • Panor Coffee House

    Located in the Mae Chan District of Chiang Rai, this elegant and photogenic stop features a classic, sophisticated ambience with beautiful antique-style decor and a tranquil setting surrounded by nature. Beyond expertly-brewed coffee, you can take delight in a wide variety of pastries, sandwiches, and classic Thai dishes.

If you like Tea,

Head further north to Doi Mae Salong. This picturesque mountain village was where the defeated Kuomintang army settled after the Chinese Civil War, bringing with them centuries-old tea-growing traditions.

Today, Doi Mae Salong is famous for its high-quality oolong, green, and jasmine teas. Visit one of the local tea houses perched on the slopes, where you can sample fragrant brews while overlooking endless rows of emerald tea bushes. The experience is meditative, quiet, scenic, and steeped in culture.

Here are a few top spots to experience the best of Doi Mae Salong’s tea culture:

  • Choui Fong Tea

    One of the largest and most famous tea plantations in the area, Choui Fong has a café that offers various tea-based drinks and desserts, including signature tea sets showcasing the region's best. Visitors can also tour the stunning terraced tea fields plantation, experiencing tea cultivation and processing first-hand.

  • Wang Put Tan Tea Plantation

    High up in the mountains, join guided tours & learn all about the rich history of tea cultivation on the premises, admire the sweeping views of the verdant hills, and savour a cup of some of the finest oolong tea in the area.

  • Tea Plantation 101

    Searching for a peaceful retreat amongst the greenery? Look no further! Travellers are welcome to discover all about tea — from the sustainable cultivation process to the flavours of organic teas, while taking in stunning panoramic views.

  • Choke Chamroen Tea Plantation

    For a more authentic, intimate tea experience, visit Choke Chamroen and dive deep into local tea culture. With its small-scale production and personal touch, this plantation allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful, undisturbed tea session while learning about the traditional methods still in use today.

  • Singha Park Chiang Rai

    In the sprawling park that spans to include lakes, gardens, and plenty of green spaces, Singha Park’s tea plantation is perfect for lovers of interactive experiences —whether it's tea-tasting tours, cycling through the fields, or simply soaking in the good vibes.

Almost forgot that this is the whole point…

Enjoy the beauty of art and designs.

No (need for) thoughts, just vibes.

From its bold temples and eco-conscious architecture to community-driven art spaces, the city is a living canvas where heritage and innovation thrive side by side.

Chiang Rai’s creative identity directly sprang from the Lanna culture, the legacy of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, which thrived from the 13th to 18th centuries across much of Northern Thailand. 

Chiang Rai: A UNESCO Creative City of Design

The culture is characterised by a mixture of Theravāda Buddhism, animist beliefs, and local folklore, all expressed through distinctive art, architecture, textiles, and rituals.

Chiang Rai carries this legacy into the present day. The city’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Design in 2023 honours how it fuses this ancient heritage with contemporary expression. Here are some must-visit art spaces:

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Sea of outstretched hands grasping up beside the bridge, powerful figures of heavenly guardians, terrifying skulls and demonic faces.

Designed by Chiang Rai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, Wat Rong Khun is a modern tribute to Northern Thai spiritual heritage. In its architecture and spirit, the pure-white building perfectly combines traditional Lanna Buddhist symbolism with surreal, contemporary elements.

Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple)

Wat Rong Suea Ten presents a fresh, contemporary take on classic Lanna-style architecture. Both the exterior and interior are a striking deep sapphire blue, adorned with shimmering gold, and at the centre sits a pure white Buddha statue.

The temple was designed by Phuttha Kabkaew, a student of the renowned Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Baan Dam Museum (Black House)

Created by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee, this striking complex of dark wooden buildings boldly explores themes of life, death, and spirituality, using Lanna architecture and provocative, symbolic art to guide the way.

Part museum, part spiritual space, Baan Dam also houses Duchanee’s art, collected artefacts, and thought-provoking installations.

Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park 

This is one of the most significant places in Chiang Rai for anyone interested in Lanna heritage. It houses the region’s largest collection of Lanna artefacts, including ancient Buddha images, wood carvings, textiles, and ceremonial objects. The Haw Kham (Golden Pavilion) is a stunning example of traditional Lanna architecture, built from reclaimed teakwood in homage to old Northern palaces.

  • Wat Phra Kaew Chiang Rai

    One of the oldest temple in the region and the original home of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered religious image. The temple’s architecture and art—steep multi-tiered roofs, intricate woodwork, and local symbolism—reflect classic Lanna design. The onsite museum also contains many Lanna religious artefacts.

  • Oub Kham Museum

    Founded by a local historian and art collector, this private museum showcases the multicultural roots of Lanna civilisation, extending beyond Thailand to include Tai peoples from Myanmar, Lao PDR, China, and even Northeast India. Historical textiles, jewellery, lacquerware, and royal regalia collected here offer a deeper, more academic insight into Lanna history.

  • Art Bridge Chiang Rai

    A contemporary art gallery and community space where local artists exhibit modern Thai works. Great for catching temporary exhibitions, performances, and even workshops.

  • Doi Tung Royal Villa & Mae Fah Luang Garden

    While not always labelled as “Lanna” sites, the Royal Villa incorporates traditional Lanna architectural elements and reflects the legacy of Princess Mother Srinagarindra, who was instrumental in preserving and reviving Northern Thai culture through sustainable development. The gardens and development projects honour Lanna craft, local textiles, and community-based living.

Creative Souls of Chiang Rai

With its laid-back atmosphere, natural beauty, and deep-rooted cultural heritage, Chiang Rai has quietly been a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike. From contemporary galleries and community art spaces to striking temples designed by visionary minds, this city invites visitors to explore a thriving Thai artistic landscape.

Let’s get to know some of the most notable artists from here!

Thawan Duchanee 

Chalermchai Kositpipat

Damrong Wong-Uparaj

Damrong Wong-Uparaj

Born into a local artistic family, Damrong was exposed to the region’s traditional arts and customs from an early age. This deep connection kept Thai heritage at the heart of his inspiration even while travelling and residing in different corners of the world.  

While his multidisciplinary talents played a key role in advancing Thailand’s art industry in many dimensions, Damrong Wong-Uparaj was best known for his evocative rural landscape paintings The countryside was his personal symbol of peace and serenity, and the bridge that connected him and his artistic identity. 

Thawan Duchanee 

Thawan Duchanee stands as one of Thailand’s most influential and provocative modern artists, whose bold vision redefined Thai art on the global stage. Born in Chiang Rai in 1939, Thawan fused traditional Buddhist philosophy with intense, often haunting imagery, creating a body of work that is as spiritual as it is unsettling. His deep, monochromatic palette and powerful brushwork conveyed themes of life, death, inner conflict, and cosmic struggle.

His greatest legacy is Baan Dam (The Black House), an extraordinary art complex in Chiang Rai made up of over 40 buildings.

Until his passing in 2014, Thawan remained a powerful voice in Thai art— unapologetically original and fiercely philosophical. His legacy lives on through Baan Dam, which continues to draw visitors from around the world seeking to understand the mind of a master who dared to blend darkness, tradition, and transcendence.

Chalermchai Kositpipat

Chiang Rai’s induction into the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in October was largely credited to renowned national artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. His masterpiece, Wat Rong Khun, prominently featured on UNESCO’s website, symbolises his tribute to both Buddhism and King Rama IX. Born in 1955, Chalermchai has been a driving force in modern Thai art, known for resisting Western influence and promoting traditional Thai aesthetics. His contributions include two of Chiang Rai’s most well-known landmarks, Wat Rong Khun and the Clock Tower in the downtown area. 

Over the years, he has earned numerous accolades, including the Silpathorn Award, recognition as a National Artist, and several honorary doctorates. Now retired, Chalermchai lives simply—devoting time to meditation, art, and motorbike adventures. His latest creation can be found near Wat Rong Khun, a mural in the making with other graffiti artists.

Level Up Your Chiang Rai Itinerary!

We mean it literally. Go for a hike in Chiang Rai! It’s giving ✨free yoga✨

  • Phu Chi Fa (Level: Easy)

    Even if you're a beginner, a breathtaking mountaintop view is just a short climb away! In just 20 to 40 minutes, you can steadily hike up this 1-kilometre trail and be treated to sweeping views of lush green peaks, and on some days, a sea of dreamy clouds. 

    For those looking to explore further, this trail also connects to other scenic routes of other mountain peaks within the Doi Pha Mon sub-range—a natural border between Thailand and Lao PDR. For the best scenery, start your climb early at dawn to catch the sunrise!

  • Khun Korn Forest Park  (Level: Easy) 

    Looking for a natural escape not too far from Chiang Rai? Head to Khun Korn Forest Park for a beginner-friendly hike to the breathtaking Khun Korn Waterfall! As you make your way along the trail, you'll be surrounded by towering bamboo groves and might even catch glimpses of birds darting through the forest. The round-trip hike is just 1.8 kilometres and can be completed in about an hour, perfect for a quick yet refreshing adventure. 

  • Huay Kaew Waterfall Extended Loop (Level: Moderate)

    For more experienced hikers, this 11-kilometre trail might be just what you're looking for. As you make your way toward the waterfalls, the route winds through dense forest, rivers, tea plantations, and even a local village. With so much to see along the way, it's best to set aside around 4 hours for the full hike. The area is also popular for birdwatching and camping, making it a great spot for a full day of nature immersion.

  • Mae Salong Tea Trail (Level: Hard)

    Tea lovers and hikers, listen up: Mae Salong Tea Trail is the perfect adventure for you! Beginning at Ban Mai Santi, this scenic trail leads you through peaceful stretches of forest and tea plantations nestled in the valley. Along the way, feast your eyes on the stunning rows of tea plants set against a backdrop of vibrant greenery, an experience that blends natural beauty with cultural charm. Though considered a hard hike, it’s actually quite a short one!

  • Doi Pa Ka Peak - Doi Mae Tho (Level: Hard) 

    Located in Khun Chae National Park, this challenging trail takes you from Doi Pa Ka Peak to the summit of Doi Mae Tho. Perfect for experienced hikers, the route offers a rewarding journey through vibrant green landscapes and sweeping mountain views, ideal for those looking to push their limits while enjoying nature’s beauty.

Meet the Hill Tribes.

Weaving a meaningful thread into your Chiang Rai journey.

Thailand is home to 6 main ethnic Hill Tribe groups. Chiang Rai, especially, can be considered a melting pot of different hill tribe groups, making it the perfect place to connect with and understand authentic hill tribe culture and traditional hill tribe life. 🌿👣

These communities have preserved their rich cultural heritage, languages, traditional clothing, and unique ways of life, with many opening their villages to visitors through homestays, cultural demonstrations, and unique opportunities to learn about local customs, crafts, and food. 

If you would like to know more about the Hill Tribe communities, head to the Hill Tribe Museum and Education Center. The exhibitions will give you a better understanding of how the Akha, Hmong, Karen, Lahu, Lisu, and Yao hill tribes lead their way of life — a great way to educate yourself before a visit!

Within Chiang Rai, three hill tribe villages welcome visitors with open arms.

Akha Villages

In Mae Salong, you will find an Akha hill tribe village called Ban Lorcha. Established in the 1970s by local Akha residents, the village was created as a model community to welcome the growing number of visitors interested in learning about Akha culture. Today, Ban Lorcha offers guided experiences led by villagers, giving visitors a respectful and insightful look into Akha life. From traditional stilt houses to cultural demonstrations such as weaving, hunting techniques, and ceremonial dances, Ban Lorcha provides a meaningful opportunity to engage with this living culture.

Hmong Villages

If you saw wooden houses built on the ground, perhaps you have found one of the Hmong people’s villages! If you're lucky, you may also have the chance to see Hmong women showcasing traditional embroidery—a distinctive craft known for its vibrant, cross-stitch-style patterns on black fabric.

Lahu Villages

Lahu hill tribe communities often retain more traditional ways of living, with homes built on bamboo stilts and villages connected by simple dirt paths. They are well known for playing the “khaen,” a bamboo reed instrument, and for their vibrant “Jaku” dance, performed during both celebrations and community gatherings.

💡 Reminder: Hill tribe communities are real, living communities and not cultural exhibits frozen in time. Like all societies, they continue to adapt and change with the world around them. Some villages may display modernity and look more commercialised, while some may cater more towards cultural learning. Despite these differences, the continuation of all such villages serves as a way to preserve ethnic traditions and culture.

Visiting the tribes is not “Show Time”, it’s “Show Respect Time”!

Each Indigenous hill tribe community in Chiang Rai has its language, dress, traditions, and way of life. Meeting these tribes can be an enriching and eye-opening experience. However, as tourism continues to expand into the most remote corners, it is more important than ever to approach these encounters with thoughtfulness and respect.

If you are planning to visit Indigenous villages in Chiang Rai, here are some guidelines on how to do so ethically and responsibly:

Not all tours are created equal. Some are designed with community benefit in mind, while others may be more focused on profit, often at the expense of the local people.

Look for tours that:
✔️ Are locally owned or community-led
✔️ Share profits with the village
✔️ Limit group sizes
✔️ Emphasise education and cultural exchange—not performances

Ask questions like: “Do the communities consent to this visit?” and avoid any experience where people are treated as photo props.

🤝 Choose a Responsible Tour Operator

When you are invited into someone’s community, home, or place of worship — remember to show up with humility.

Dress modestly: Covering shoulders and knees is often appreciated in rural areas.
Observe before acting: Wait to be invited before taking part in a ritual or entering a home.
Do NOT assume: Ask if something is allowed before acting on it.

Many tribes have customs that may differ from what you are accustomed to. Showing respect by learning and adapting speaks volumes.

🛕 Respect Culture & Sacred Spaces

It is tempting to reach for your camera when you see traditional clothing or a beautiful landscape, but not everything is yours to capture.

🤲 Always ask permission first, especially when photographing people.

🚫 Do NOT offer money in exchange for photos. This can turn genuine interaction into a transaction and sometimes disrupt local dynamics.

Remember, you are a guest in someone's daily life, not at a performance.

📸 Ask Before Taking Photos

A great way to give back is by supporting local businesses and craftspeople.

🧶 Buy handmade goods such as textiles, jewellery, or carvings directly from artisans.
🛍️ Skip the mass-produced souvenirs you find in city markets that may not be made locally.
🍛 Eat at family-run guesthouses or community kitchens if offered. These are where you will have the most authentic exchanges and flavours.

💰 Support Local Economies Directly

Take time to learn about the different tribes. Understanding the background of the people you are visiting helps shift the experience from sightseeing to a genuine exchange.

For example, learn a few basic greetings or thank-yous in the local dialect—it is a simple gesture that often leads to smiles and connection!

📚 Educate Yourself Before You Go

Ethical travel is all about engaging with intention. Sometimes, that means being present in the moment.

So, before you step into the Indigenous communities of Chiang Rai, try putting your phone on silent and your camera back safely in its pouch. Make this the time to open your mind, sit and listen, watch and learn, and even join in on local activities (if invited, of course) without needing to capture or share every moment with the world.

🌏 Be Mindful of Your Presence

🌱 Recommended Ethical Tour in Chiang Rai: Ban Lorcha (Akha Community Project)

Ban Lorcha is a standout ethical and sustainable tourism initiative located in an Akha hill-tribe village near Chiang Rai. It offers an enriching, respectful way to experience Akha culture—run by the villagers, for the villagers.

This community-based tourism project shifted the role of the Akha people from passive participants to the leaders of their tourism operation, empowered with the authority to decide how it should be run and how the profits are shared.

What makes the “Akha Community Project” ethical?

  • 100% Community-Owned: Revenue goes directly to the village and is shared fairly among families.

  • Cultural Respect: Activities are based on what the community is comfortable sharing.

  • Sustainable Livelihoods: It helps preserve traditions while providing income.

#FoodisLife

Thai hospitality rule #1: You are not leaving on an empty stomach, never.

Chiang Rai’s food scene is a mixture of Northern Thai flavours, a hint of ancient Lanna heritage, and a dash of hill tribe influences.

But where to begin? If you are a traveller new to Thai food—or simply curious about how adventurous your taste buds can be—we have got you covered. Below is a guide to must-try Chiang Rai dishes, organised by a simple ⭐️ star system:
⭐️ = Mild, tourist-friendly, ⭐️⭐️ = Moderate spice, bold flavours , ⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Adventurous, for the brave and curious

Main Courses

  • Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย) - ⭐️

    Approachable, comforting, mildly spicy – a Northern Thai favourite

    A creamy, coconut-based curry noodle soup served with chicken or beef, topped with crispy noodles, pickled mustard greens, and lime. A must-try Northern Thai classic.

  • Kai Oob Fang (ไก่อบฟาง) – ⭐️

    Smoky, tender, rich in aroma

    This rural Northern dish involves wrapping a whole chicken in banana leaves, covering it with hay, and setting it on fire. The result is a smoky, tender chicken infused with herbs. Harder to find in city restaurants, but you may encounter it in local food

  • Yum Jin Gai (ยำจิ้นไก่)/Chicken Herbal Soup- ⭐️⭐️

    Slightly spicy

    Made with local herbs, tender chicken, and often eaten during cooler seasons, this hot and sour soup is seasoned with roasted rice powder and lacks the heavy sourness that Tom Yum has.

  • Gaeng Hung Lay (แกงฮังเล)/Northern Pork Belly Curry - ⭐️⭐️

    Mellow spice, hearty and fragrant, slightly sweet.

    A slow-cooked Burmese-influenced curry made with pork belly, garlic, ginger, tamarind, and pickled garlic.

  • Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (ขนมจีนน้ำเงี้ยว) – ⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Strong fermented notes and complex flavour profile with deep, savoury layers.

    Fermented rice noodles topped with a rich, spicy tomato and pork broth. Finished with pickled greens, crispy garlic, herbs, and crispy pork rinds.

  • Khao Kan Jin (ข้าวกั้นจิ้น)/Northern-Style Blood Rice - ⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Rich, iron-like flavour, for the adventurous foodie

    A traditional dish made from rice mixed with pork blood, garlic, and spices, then steamed in banana leaves. Often eaten with fried garlic and green chillies.

Side Kicks

  • Larb Moo Kua (ลาบหมูคั่ว)- ⭐️⭐️

    Savoury, slightly oily, mild to medium heat 

    A spicy minced pork salad stir-fried with local herbs, garlic, and roasted rice powder. Unlike Isaan-style larb, this version is typically cooked and oilier.

  • Tam Khanun (ตำขนุน)/Young Jackfruit Salad -⭐️⭐️

    Earthy, herbaceous, a bit spicy , an unusual but tasty side dish

    A savoury salad made from boiled unripe jackfruit, mixed with minced pork, herbs, and chilli paste. Served warm and often eaten with sticky rice.

  • Sai Ua (ไส้อั่ว)/Northern Thai Sausage - ⭐️⭐️

    Bold, herby, slightly spicy – very flavourful and aromatic

    A fragrant grilled sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and red curry paste. Often eaten with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.

  • Jeen Nham (จิ๊นแหนม)/Fermented Pork - ⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Funky, sharp, and bold – an acquired taste.

    A tangy, slightly sour fermented pork sausage or slice, often eaten raw with garlic, chillies, and peanuts or deep-fried as a snack.

  • Khao Niaw Ping (ข้าวเหนียวปิ้ง)/Grilled Sticky Rice Parcels- ⭐️

    Sweet and chewy – perfect as a snack or dessert

    Sticky rice with coconut milk and sometimes filled with banana or taro, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.

Snackity Snacks

  • Kaeb Moo (แคบหมู)/Crispy Pork Rinds- ⭐️

    Salty, crispy, addictive – perfect with beer or sticky rice.

    A popular crunchy snack often served with chilli dips like Nam Prik Noom (green chilli dip) or Nam Prik Ong (tomato-pork chilli dip).

  • Nam Prik Noom (น้ำพริกหนุ่ม)- ⭐️⭐️

    Spicy and smoky – goes well with veggies and pork rinds.

    A green chilli dip roasted and pounded with garlic, shallots, and lime juice. Best paired with sticky rice, pork rinds, and vegetables.

  • Nam Prik Ong (น้ำพริกอ่อง)- ⭐️⭐️

    Milder, savoury – the friendlier chilli dip of the two.

    A Northern Thai dip made with tomatoes, minced pork, garlic, and chilli, often served with steamed or raw vegetables and sticky rice.

Unique Traditional Food

  • Aeb Pla (แอ๊บปลา) - ⭐️

    Fragrant, smoky, herb-packed – a true Northern classic

    Fish mixed with herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled. While not too exotic, it is a rustic dish often found in traditional Northern homes.

  • Jing Reed Tod (จิ้งหรีดทอด)/Fried Crickets - ⭐️⭐️

    Crunchy, savoury, and oddly moreish.

    A common Northern Thai snack, especially at local markets. Crickets are deep-fried with kaffir lime leaves and garlic, served crispy like beer snacks. Sometimes sold alongside other insects like bamboo worms (Rot Duan) or silkworm pupae (Non Mai).

  • Larb Leuat Neua (ลาบเลือดเนื้อ)/Raw Beef Larb with Blood - ⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Spicy, not for the faint-hearted.

    A raw minced beef dish mixed with fresh herbs and raw blood, seasoned with lime, fish sauce, and spices.

  • Goong Ten (กุ้งเต้น)/Dancing Shrimp – ⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Tangy, zesty, wriggling in your mouth.

    Live baby shrimp mixed with spicy herbs and lime juice, eaten while still “dancing“. Found more commonly in rural settings or local gatherings.

📍Must-Try Local Restaurants in Chiang Rai

  • Larb Sanam Keela - A favourite among locals, this restaurant specialises in Northern Thai meat dishes like Larb Moo (spicy minced pork salad) and grilled pork. Known for its authentic flavours and casual atmosphere. 

  • Lulum Restaurant Chiang Rai - Set along the Kok River, Lulum offers a scenic dining experience with traditional dishes such as Gaeng Hang Lay and Nam Prik ng.

  • Por Jai Restaurant - Known for its creamy coconut curry noodle soup, this spot serves up classic Khao Soi with options like chicken and beef.

  • Nam Ngiaw Mor Din Pa Aeed - Specialising in Nam Ngiao, this eatery is a go-to for those seeking traditional flavours in a simple setting. 

  • PAAM - This downtown restaurant fuses local Northern Thai dishes with international cuisine, featuring items like fried rice with Sai Ua and Nam Prik Ong spaghetti. 

  • Roti Pa Yai - Located in the Muslim community area, this eatery serves authentic halal dishes such as Roti Mataba Gai (chicken-stuffed roti) and Gaeng Gari Gai (Yellow curry with chicken).

  • Moom Mai Restaurant - Known for its traditional Thai ambience with garden-like decor, Moom Mai offers Lanna cuisine and Chinese-influenced dishes, including crispy catfish with mango salad. 

  • Chiang Rai Night Bazaar - A vibrant market offering a variety of local street foods, including Thai hot pot, grilled seafood, and mango sticky rice, along with live performances. 

🍽️ Where to find the unique traditional dishes

Rooted in rural kitchens and hill tribe traditions, these dishes are bold, rare, and culturally significant. While you won’t typically find them on tourist menus, they can be discovered in local markets, family-run eateries, or village homes if you know where to look.

  • Larb Sanam Keela (ร้านลาบสนามกีฬา) 🍖 – for raw and grilled meats like Koi Neua and Larb dishes.

  • Night Bazaar or Walking Streets 🌙 – for fried insects, Naem, and occasional Kai Mot Daeng (red ant eggs).

  • Local fresh markets 🧺 (e.g., Chiang Rai Central Market, Kad Luang) – for seasonal delicacies like Jing Reed Tod (fried crickets).

  • Ethnic village visits 🏞️ (e.g., Akha or Lahu villages) - may offer truly local, home-cooked versions of these dishes.

🔥 Final Tip:
Don’t be afraid to ask vendors to tone down the spice if you’re unsure. Chiang Rai locals are proud of their cuisine and equally welcoming to curious eaters!

So whether you stick to creamy Khao Soi or venture out for more adventurous dishes, one thing’s certain: Chiang Rai will surprise you with flavour, heat, and heart in every bite.

Now,

Let’s Go, Shall We?

Getting there:

From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is located about 180 km north of Chiang Mai. One of the most common ways to travel between the two cities is by bus:

  • 3–4 hours, around THB 300 (≈ $9) one way

  • Depart from Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1

From Bangkok to Chiang Rai

  • Plane:

    • 1.5 hours, around THB 2,500–4,000

    • Depart from Don Mueang (DMK) or Suvarnabhumi (BKK), arrive at Chiang Rai Airport (CEI)

  • Overnight Bus:

    • 11–13 hours, around THB 620–990 (varies by class and comfort)

    • Depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, arrive at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 2

  • Train + Bus:

    • Train: Bangkok to Chiang Mai (10–13 hours, THB 300-1500 depending on time and class) + Bus: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai (~3 hours, around THB 300)

  • Private Car or Transfer:

    • 11–13 hours, great option for road trippers or groups wanting flexibility

Getting around:

  • Songthaews (shared red trucks) – Great for short distances around town and a fun local experience.

  • Rental Bikes or Bicycles – Many guesthouses rent them, and the city is fairly bike-friendly.

  • Tuk-tuks & Private Drivers – If heading to remote areas, hiring a local driver for the day can be a great option.

  • Apps: Bolt, Lineman, Grab – Convenient for quick rides and more comfortable transport, especially within the city.