In and around Chiang Rai
'Back again', I wrote on this blog about eight weeks ago. Long enough ago to feel completely at home again and to enjoy my stay and of course being together with my partner to the fullest. We have known each other for 9 years now and we hope to add a few more years to that...
Thaton–Chiangrai; not an easy choice
One of my most favorite and spectacular routes through the north of Thailand is the drive from Thaton to Chiangrai. The starting point is usually Chiangmai from where you can travel to Thaton by bus.
Back home…
After spending half a year in the Netherlands, Chiang Rai feels like coming home again. Despite the recent severe flooding in the province, nature has recovered beautifully. Local initiatives are helping the affected villages to rebuild, while I can finally enjoy cycling through the lush, green landscape again. A contrast between beauty and the power of nature.
Doi Mae Salong, more than just tea (video)
Doi Mae Salong is a mountain in the very north of Thailand and is located in the province of Chiang Rai, just 6 km from the border with Burma. The region is best known for the cultivation of tea, but has much more to offer.
The three imposing structures of the Wat Huay Plak Kung in Chiang Rai
If you think that Thailand already has enough temples, then you are wrong. On a new temple site, Wat Huay Plak Kung, in the province of Chiang Rai, you can admire no less than 3 special buildings: an image of Guan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy), a golden Chinese Pagoda and a white Buddhist temple.
Severe flooding hits 60.000 provinces in Thailand, affecting more than XNUMX households
Thailand is experiencing severe flooding in ten provinces, affecting more than 60.000 households. The worst-hit areas include Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son and Phetchabun. Landslides and rising water levels are causing extensive damage and danger. Authorities are working hard on relief operations, while other provinces are also bracing for heavy rains and rising river levels.
The Lanna influences in Northern Thailand
Those who visit the north of Thailand such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai still see many influences from the Lanna era. Lanna means in Dutch: one million rice fields. The Lanna kingdom, which also covered part of Burma, lasted for 600 years and was founded in 1259 by King Mengrai the Great. He succeeded his father as leader of the Chiang Saen kingdom.
Hall of Opium in Chiang Rai
A special museum in the Golden Triangle Park in Chiang Saen in the province of Chiang Rai is the Hall of Opium. Visitors to this museum take a walk through the long and varied history of opium.
About a watchful dog and a sleeping princess
In many mythical places in Thailand one can find strange, often fabulous rock formations that stimulate the imagination. A large number of these bizarre, strange phenomena can be discovered in Sam Phan Bok, which is also - and in my opinion not entirely wrong - called the Grand Canyon of Thailand.
TB Immigration Information Letter No. 017/24: 3-in-1 at Immigration Office in Chiang Rai
Another good experience at the Immigration Office in Chiang Rai. I went there again last Monday - like every year - for my extension period of stay on my non-immigration visa. I immediately applied for a “Multiple Re-Entry” and submitted a 90-day notification. Service was excellent as always and requests were handled well.
Santi Khiri: Chinatown in the Thai mountains
High in the mountains of northern Thailand, relatively close to the border with Myanmar (Burma), is a village that is XNUMX percent Chinese, although the residents also speak fluent Thai. Chinese inscriptions, signposts and billboards welcome you to this remarkable enclave.
Chiang Rai – Pearl in the far north of Thailand
Chiang Rai is not the best known, but it is the northernmost province of Thailand. The region is home to a number of scenic mountain landscapes.
Chiang Rai and cycling…..(10)
It's been a while since I wrote episode 9 of my 'bicycle serial' set in and around Chiang Rai. In May 2021, when he was still 75 years 'young'. Now 78, but still enjoying cycling through the city and - especially - the country. So a tenth episode to round off the series with a nice round number. Just like in the previous episodes, I add some photos taken during my rides to share the beauty of the area with the readers and, where appropriate, I also cycle through some other experiences and adventures.
Tham Luang Cave opens doors: Historical rescue revives for visitors
Tham Luang Cave, known for the heroic rescue of the 'Wild Boars' football team, now opens its mysterious depths to the public. Beginning December 15, the Department of National Parks will offer guided tours of the infamous Room 3. These unique tours will give visitors a rare glimpse into the site where an incredible rescue mission took place five years ago, and highlight the complex challenges of the operation.
TB Immigration Information Letter No. 049/23: Immigration Chiang Rai – Thai Marriage Annual Extension
This morning I went to the new location of Immigration in Chiang Rai, now located in Central Chiang Rai, to apply for an extension of my stay here. I had copied everything in duplicate according to the checklist provided by this service and knew that this should not cause any problems, but I had not counted on Immigration itself.
Discover Chiang Rai, a hidden gem in Northern Thailand, where ancient temples and vibrant markets merge with modern art and natural splendor. Rich in cultural heritage and enveloped by misty mountains and lush jungles, this city promises an unforgettable journey through its fascinating history and vibrant contemporary scene.
Discover the mounted monks of Wat Tham Pa Archa Thong – A Thai temple tradition (with video)
Step into a world where tradition and nature merge at Wat Tham Pa Archa Thong, a temple notable not only for its name, but also for its unique custom. Here monks ride on horseback through the landscape to collect alms, a living tradition that provides a deeper insight into the unknown, spiritual Thailand. In the shade of the forest and the guidance of horse hoof, this place reveals a story of devotion and community, guided by the determined abbot Phra Kruba Nuea Chai Kosito. Welcome to a temple experience you won't soon forget.
Chiang Rai, a highlight in the North of Thailand (video)
Chiang Rai is not the best known, but it is the northernmost province of Thailand. Chiang Rai province shares its borders with Myanmar (Burma) and Laos. The provincial capital Chiang Rai is located almost 800 km north of Bangkok and 580 meters above sea level.
Chiang Rai, one of the oldest cities of the former principality of Lanna, has quite a few temple and monastery complexes. The most important temple from a historical point of view is undoubtedly Wat Phra Kaew at the intersection of Sang Kaew Road and Trairat Road.
Just Chiang Rai
I have never made it a secret on this blog that I feel very much at home in Chiang Rai. In the city, yes, but much more so in the province of the same name; the northernmost in Thailand.
From Chiang Rai to Thaton by boat?
We want to go from Chiang Rai to Thaton by boat. Does this also work in that direction? Most sites speak from Thaton to Chiang Rai. Do you have to book for that too?
Fairytale wintry white: the Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai
Especially when you visit Thailand more often, many Farang get the idea of, pff..... another temple, I've seen it now. But the "Wat Rong Khun" is really special and immediately stands out at first sight, even for a layman.