Top Unique Experiences in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a great place. You know that already, otherwise you wouldn’t be looking for secret travel Chiang Rai now, right. Although the city is very famous thanks to its majestic white temple, not many travelers stay here over night. It is quite common to visit Chiang Rai on a day trip. And this is a big advantage for you, us and every other slow-travel minded globetrotter.
And it is not just the cool and hip corners of Chiang Rai that will make you enjoy the city. Chiang Rai is also home to the stylish Boutique Hostel of Happynest Inspiring Hostel. Spacious room, a super lovely team, and a bright boutique style make the Happynest Inspiring Hostel. Let’s exploce Top Unique Experiences in Chiang Rai below.

Top Unique Experiences in Chiang Rai

Visit the White Temple

The epic White Temple, otherwise known as Wat Rong Khun, had to be first on the list. It’s definitely one of the most famous things to do in Chiang Rai, and in this case, its iconic status is deserved. The White Temple is a sparkling white modern temple with a huge number of quirky, surreal touches. It’s a genuinely breathtaking sight, and I was surprised by just how much I loved it.
The White Temple was designed by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Apart from the famous temple itself, there are other buildings and interesting objects you can walk around, plus a gallery of unusual paintings by the same artist. It’s actually still a work in progress, with surrounding buildings being constructed. You could easily spend a couple of hours taking in the small, surprising details that make up this beautiful temple complex such as the most beautiful and disturbing No Smoking sign I’ve ever seen, or Keanu Reeves in his Matrix outfit painted onto the wall inside the temple.

Visit The Blue Temple

After the White Temple, let’s now discover the Blue Temple, probably the 2nd most popular tourist attraction in Chiang Rai. This temple is also located outside the city, but to the north this time, on the other side of the Mae Kok River. Just like the White Temple, the Blue Temple, or Wat Rong Suea Ten in Thai, has only recently been completed. You have probably guessed it from its name: the Blue Temple is especially famous for being entirely blue.
Inside, you can find a large white sitting Buddha statue, tinted with blue reflections depending on the lighting. Outside, you will also find many blue statues with impressive details, such as the dragons or guards located at the entrance. After the white temple, this is really the place to see in Chiang Rai. The temple is beautiful and the entrance is free.

Dodge Monkeys at the Monkey Temple

Also known as the Fish Cave Temple or Wat Tham Pla, the monkey temple is protected by a dramatic staircase with 7 headed Nagas (mythical serpents) and is absolutely overrun with monkeys. They’re actually quite menacing and are known to jump on unsuspecting tourists and snatch their things, so visit at your own risk.
The monkey cave is a short drive from Chiang Rai and you’ll need a car or scooter to visit. I didn’t rent a motorbike in Chiang Rai but there are several motorcycle rental shops near the central clock tower. The cost will depend on the type of bike you’re looking for. Typically it’s about 200 baht ($6 USD) per day. Although plenty of travellers ride scooters and motorbikes in Thailand, be aware that traffic can be extremely hectic. If you’re in an accident your travel insurance may not cover you if you don’t have a motorbike license.

The Night Bazaar

Where to go to Chiang Rai in the evening. If you want to buy souvenirs during your road trip in Thailand, the best place is for sure Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar. It’s in my opinion prettier than those of Bangkok or Chiang Mai and it’s also cheaper. You will find there many stands selling clothes, jewellery or wooden objects. Several tribes from the surrounding mountains also come there to sell their handicrafts. In the centre of the evening market, you can eat in a very nice wooden restaurant. Just opposite, there is a stage where traditional dance shows are organized.
There are also several food stalls.The Night Bazaar is open every night and is located close to the bus terminal. If you’re in Chiang Rai on the weekend, you should also go to “Saturday or Sunday Walking Street”. The street (a different street depending on the day) becomes pedestrian in order to accommodate many stands. It’s really the ideal place to go to Chiang Rai on weekends: you can do a bit of shopping and try the delicious Thai street food.