As our 17-day adventure was coming to an end, we arrived in Chiang Rai, Thailand, the final gem on our journey through Southeast Asia. This charming city in northern Thailand promised us unique experiences, delicious food, and beautiful sights. At first, we had modest expectations, but Chiang Rai pleasantly surprised us with its vibrant atmosphere and warm hospitality.
Now, let’s recount our last stop in Chiang Rai. We will explore the highlights and wonderful moments that made a memorable ending to our incredible trip. From stunning temples to hidden coffee farms and peaceful waterfalls, this city had so much to offer. So, let’s dive into the enchanting world of Chiang Rai and enjoy the finale of our epic journey.
Discovering Chiang Rai, Thailand
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Upon arriving at the bus terminal just outside Chiang Rai, we took a local bus for $0.60 to the city center. With some time before checking into our guesthouse, we explored the city and found a highly-rated Thai restaurant called “Barrab.” The meal was excellent, and the friendly staff made us feel at home.
After lunch, we rented a motorbike to maximize our four days in Chiang Rai, Thailand. We believed this quieter town would be perfect for motorbike adventures. So, the restaurant staff helped us arrange the rental for 250 baht a day ($8).
Our accommodation, “Baan Suan Jantra Homestay,” was booked through Airbnb for $103.44 for three nights, including breakfast. Nestled in the peaceful countryside, our guesthouse felt like a lovely escape, surrounded by exotic trees and a lagoon.
Day 2: Visiting the Night Market
After settling in, we explored the night market, which surprised us with its modern vibe, including large hotels and fancy shops. The market also offered entertainment, traditional dances, and shopping.
The next morning, we awoke to the sounds of nature and enjoyed breakfast in the outdoor dining area overlooking the lagoon. For breakfast, Nee served us homemade bread and jam, carrot cake, and local coffee and tea, all made from scratch.
After breakfast, she suggested visiting the famous Doi Chang Coffee Farm, about an hour’s motorbike ride away.
Day 3: Doi Chang Coffee Farm and Khun Korn Waterfall
The ride to the coffee farm took us through winding roads and small villages of Chiang Rai with stunning scenery. Unfortunately, upon arrival, we found that the harvesting season had ended, resulting in a quiet atmosphere. However, we enjoyed a nice coffee shop at one of the farms with a beautiful view.
On our way back, we stopped at Khun Korn Waterfall, one of Thailand’s tallest waterfalls, which our host had recommended. Despite arriving close to closing time, the gate attendant kindly let us in. The easy half-hour hike led us to the magnificent waterfall, where we could get up close and enjoy its beauty.
After returning to our homestay, we took a short walk through the rice fields and tea plantations. There, we were treated to one of the most incredible sunsets we’ve ever seen.
For dinner, we ordered Thai food from Nee, who was both an excellent baker and cook. The portions were generous, and the dishes—including tofu pad Thai, veggie and tofu green curry, and pineapple fried rice—were delicious and affordable.
Day 4: Temple Visits and Thai Massage
On our last full day in Chiang Rai, Thailand, we hopped on our motorbike and set out to visit four famous temples.
Our first stop was the stunning White Temple, which was just a 10-minute ride away and had a small entrance fee of 50 baht ($1.60). It was even more magical in person than in photos, quickly becoming our favorite temple.
Next, we visited the intriguing Black Temple, which had an 80 baht ($2.60) entrance fee. This temple featured dark-colored structures and artifacts. Although it wasn’t as impressive as the White Temple, it still provided a unique experience.
Our final stop was the Blue Temple, which had no entrance fee. While smaller than the others, it had its own charm and was conveniently located just 10 minutes from the city. Unfortunately, we missed the Jade Temple due to time constraints.
After our temple visits, we returned to our guesthouse for a scheduled Thai massage. For 300 baht ($10) per person, we enjoyed a relaxing 1.5-hour full-body massage. It was a fantastic deal that left us feeling completely rejuvenated.
Final Reflections
Chiang Rai pleasantly surprised us. While we initially had modest expectations for this city, it turned out to be quite different from what we imagined. What made our visit truly special were the people we met, especially our hosts, Nee and Aoy.
Their warm hospitality made us feel like part of their family, and their attention to detail added a special touch to our stay. The kindness of the people in Chiang Rai left a lasting impression on us.
When it comes to food, it’s important to note that many local dishes contain meat. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, don’t hesitate to ask for special options at most restaurants. Eating local food is not only more affordable but also gives you a more authentic experience compared to pricier Western dishes.
Our visits to the temples were amazing, and exploring the city on a motorbike was an adventure we will always remember. I’m already looking forward to returning to Chiang Rai, Thailand for more memorable experiences.
Don’t forget to check out my three other posts about Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Luang Prabang in this 17-day trip diary.
A Tribute to My Ex-Husband
It’s been two years since my ex-husband left us, but his memory still lives on in our hearts. This post is dedicated to him because he played a significant role in my life, even though we’ve taken different paths.
Our journey together had its ups and downs. We shared joyful moments and faced challenges, creating a unique history. Even after separating, our bond as partners remained strong. As I continue my travels, I often think about the person who once shared those experiences with me. Therefore, I want to celebrate his life, kindness, and the positive impact he had on me and my children.
Through all the highs and lows, my ex-husband’s memory remains a part of my journey. This tribute honors him and reminds me to cherish the people and moments in our lives, as they shape our stories. I will carry the lessons and love he left behind, forever grateful for the time we spent together.
