Destination Thailand
Chiang Rai: Gateway to the Golden Triangle
Known as the gateway to the Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Mengrai as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Wat Pra Keow in Chiang Rai was once home to the famed 'Emerald Buddha' now residing at Wat Pra Keow in the Grand Palace. Chiang Rai itself is situated in a valley and the mountains in the surrounding area, are home to many people of the various ethnic minority 'hill tribe' groups. It is possible to arrange treks into the nearby mountains to visit the villages where these people still live a basic lifestyle, albeit one that is changing rapidly. One of the most popular activities in this area is to visit the 'Golden Triangle' or other places of interest such as Mae Salong and Mae Sai.
