A Backpacker’s Guide to Chiang Rai
- Martha Pillin
- Dec 8, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2024
Chiang Rai is like Chiang Mai’s quieter, more chilled-out sibling, and that’s exactly what makes it awesome. It’s the perfect spot for backpackers who want to slow down and soak in some unique vibes. From the stunning White Temple to the green hills and the laid-back night markets, there’s plenty to see and do without the hustle and bustle. Plus, it’s super affordable, so your budget will thank you. If you’re up for some adventure mixed with a bit of relaxation, Chiang Rai is the place to be!
When To Visit Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is great to visit year-round, but the best time depends on the weather and what you want to experience:
Cool Season (November–February)
The best time to visit, with cool, comfortable weather (12–28°C). Perfect for exploring the White Temple, Golden Triangle, and tea plantations. Nights can get chilly, so bring layers. This is the peak tourist season.
Hot Season (March–May)
Temperatures rise to 30–38°C, with hazy skies due to agricultural burning. It’s a quieter time for visitors, and early mornings or evenings are best for outdoor activities. The Songkran festival in April adds lively celebrations to your trip.
Rainy Season (June–October)
Chiang Rai becomes lush and green with cooler temperatures (24–30°C). Afternoon rains are common but brief, making it a good time to visit waterfalls, rice fields, and tea plantations. The city is less crowded, and prices are lower.
Best Time
November to February for cool weather and clear skies. Visit during the rainy season for greenery and fewer tourists.
How To Get There
Getting to Chiang Rai is pretty straightforward, whether you’re coming from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or even Laos. Here’s how you can make your way there:
1. By Bus
From Chiang Mai: The most popular option is taking a bus from Chiang Mai. Green Bus is the main operator, offering three types of buses: VIP, First Class, and Second Class.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Cost: Around 129-300 THB (£3-£6.50) depending on the class
From Bangkok: Buses from Bangkok are longer but budget-friendly.
Duration: 11-12 hours
Cost: Around 500-900 THB (£11-£20)
2. By Plane
Chiang Rai has its own airport, Mae Fah Luang International Airport. You can fly directly from Bangkok or other major cities in Thailand.
Duration: 1.5 hours from Bangkok
Cost: Flights start at around 1,000-1,500 THB (£22-£33) with budget airlines like AirAsia or Nok Air.
3. By Train (to Chiang Mai, then bus)
There’s no direct train to Chiang Rai, but you can take a train to Chiang Mai and then continue by bus.
Duration: Train to Chiang Mai (11-13 hours) + bus (3-4 hours)
Cost: Train tickets range from 800-1,200 THB (£18-£26) for sleeper class, plus bus fare.
4. By Private Car or Taxi
Hiring a private car or taxi is a comfortable but more expensive option. It’s ideal for groups or if you’re short on time.
From Chiang Mai: Around 2,500-3,500 THB (£55-£77) for a one-way trip.
Duration: 3-4 hours
5. From Laos (If coming from the border)
Chiang Rai is a common stop for travelers crossing from Laos. Take a bus or minivan from the Huay Xai border.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Cost: Around 300-500 THB (£6.50-£11)
Getting Around
Getting around Chiang Rai is easy, with several convenient options to suit different travel styles and budgets. Here’s how you can explore the city and its surroundings:
1. Songthaews (Shared Pickup Trucks)
Best For: Budget-friendly travel within the city.
Hop on and off these shared trucks, which act as local buses, running along set routes.
Cost: Around 10-30 THB (£0.20-£0.65) depending on the distance.
2. Tuk-Tuks
Best For: Short trips or quick rides to nearby attractions.
Negotiate the fare before hopping in, as they don’t use meters.
Cost: Around 50-150 THB (£1.10-£3.30) depending on the distance.
3. Motorbike Rentals
Best For: Exploring at your own pace, including areas outside the city like the White Temple or the Blue Temple.
Rent a motorbike from local shops with a valid license and passport.
Cost: Around 200-300 THB (£4.40-£6.50) per day, plus petrol.
4. Bicycle Rentals
Best For: Exploring the city center and nearby attractions like night market.
Rent from guesthouses or bike shops.
Cost: Around 50-100 THB (£1.10-£2.20) per day.
5. Grab (Ride-Hailing App)
Best For: Convenient and comfortable travel with fixed pricing.
Download the Grab app to book rides around the city.
Cost: Varies, but generally starts at around 60 THB (£1.30) for short trips.
6. Private Car with Driver
Best For: Day trips to farther attractions like the Golden Triangle or the Black House.
Hire a driver for the day through local tour operators or hotels.
Cost: Around 1,500-2,500 THB (£33-£55) for a full day.
7. Walking
Best For: Exploring the city centre and visiting attractions like the clock tower, temples, and night markets.
Cost: Free!
Things To Do In Chiang Rai
1. Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple)
This is one of the most iconic spots in Chiang Rai, and it’s easy to see why. The temple is completely white, with intricate designs and mirrored pieces that catch the light beautifully. Inside, you’ll find some unexpected modern art touches too.
Cost: 50 THB (£1.10)
Travel Tip
Go early to avoid the crowds and get better photos.
2. Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple)
A smaller but equally impressive temple, this one’s all about vibrant blue and gold details. The giant Buddha inside is especially stunning, and the peaceful vibe makes it a nice spot to visit.
Cost: Free
3. Baandam Museum (The Black House)
This place is a bit different—more like an art exhibit than a traditional temple. It’s a collection of dark, wooden buildings filled with unique (and sometimes strange) art pieces. It’s thought-provoking and a nice contrast to the White Temple.
Cost: 80 THB (£1.80)
4. Night Bazaar
A great spot to grab dinner and shop for souvenirs. The market has tons of food stalls serving local dishes like Khao Soi, plus live music to set the mood.
Cost: Free to enter; dishes start at 30 THB (£0.65)
5. Golden Triangle
This is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. You can take a boat ride along the Mekong River or just enjoy the view. There’s also the Hall of Opium Museum nearby, which gives some insight into the area’s history. It’s a bit of a trip from the city, so plan a full day for it.
Cost: Free to visit; boat rides start at 300 THB (£6.50)
6. Singha Park
A huge, scenic park with tea plantations, bike trails, and even ziplining if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a relaxing spot to spend a few hours.
Cost: Free entry; activities like zip lining cost extra (around 500 THB/£11).
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7. Doi Mae Salong
A mountain village with stunning views, tea plantations, and a peaceful vibe. It’s a great escape if you’re looking to get out of the city and see something different.
Getting there takes some effort, so consider renting a motorbike or joining a tour.
Cost: Free to explore
8. Wat Huay Pla Kang (Big Buddha Temple)
This temple has a massive white Buddha statue sitting on a hill, and the views from the top are incredible. There’s also an elevator to the top of the statue if you want an even better look.
Cost: Free; elevator ride costs 40 THB (£0.90)
9. Khun Korn Waterfall
A beautiful 70-meter waterfall surrounded by lush forest. The hike to get there is short and not too challenging, making it a nice way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Cost: Free
Travel Tip
Wear good shoes and bring water—it can get humid on the trail.
10. Explore Hill Tribe Villages
Chiang Rai is home to several hill tribes, and visiting their villages is a chance to learn about their culture and way of life. Make sure to go with a reputable guide to ensure the experience is ethical and respectful.
Cost: Tours start at around 500-1,000 THB (£11-£22)
Travel Tip
Look for tours that focus on cultural exchange rather than just tourism.
Accommodation
Mercy Hostel
Rooms: Offers mixed and female-only dormitories with privacy curtains, lockers, personal lights, and outlets. Private rooms are also available.
Facilities: Clean shared bathrooms with hairdryers, a shared kitchen with free coffee and water, laundry facilities, and fast WiFi throughout.
Extras: Free maps, helpful staff for recommendations, and a small dipping pool to cool off in Chiang Rai’s warm weather.
Common Areas: Includes a lounge with a pool table, seating areas, and a small garden space.
Location: Centrally located near Chiang Rai Clock Tower, restaurants, and local attractions.
Cost: Dorm beds from approximately £7–£8 per night; private rooms starting at £18.
To view the hostel click here
Baan Mai Kradan Hostel
Rooms: Private rooms and dorms with air conditioning, lockers, privacy curtains, and shared or en-suite bathrooms.
Facilities: Free breakfast and WiFi, garden, shared living room, and pantry. Bike rentals (approx. £0.50/hour) and travel desk.
Location: Central Chiang Rai, near the Clock Tower and Walking Street.
Cost: Dorms from £5; private rooms from £15 per night.
To view the hostel click here
BED Friends Poshtel
Rooms: Offers both private rooms (singles and doubles) and dorms with air conditioning, lockers, and shared bathrooms.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, communal kitchen (fridge, microwave, coffee maker), garden, and rooftop.
Extras: Bike rentals, tour desk, and helpful multilingual staff.
Common Areas: Rooftop lounge and shared kitchen.
Location: Central Chiang Rai, a short walk from the bus station and night market.
Cost: Dorms from £7; private rooms from £15
To view the hostel click here
Bed and Bike Hostel
Rooms: Offers dormitories with 4-8 beds and private double rooms. Dorms have individual lights, outlets, and curtains for privacy. Shared bathrooms are modern and kept clean.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, secure lockers, and bicycle rental. Shared kitchen for cooking and lounge areas for socialising.
Extras: Complimentary tea, coffee, biscuits, and water.
Common Areas: Spacious lounge and outdoor seating areas.
Location: Centrally located near Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and the bus terminal, making it easy to explore the city.
Cost: Dorm beds start at approximately £6 per night, and private rooms start at £20 per night, depending on the season.
To view the hostel click here
Connect Hostel
Rooms: Private rooms and dorms (6-8 beds) with air conditioning, lockers, and personal outlets.
Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, shared kitchen, and laundry.
Extras: Bike rentals, luggage storage, and tour desk.
Common Areas: Spacious lounge and outdoor patio.
Location: 10-minute walk to the city center and night bazaar.
Cost: Dorms from £6; private rooms from £18.
To view the hostel click here
Food and Drink
Coffee Shops and Cafés
Chiang Rai has a growing cafe scene, perfect for relaxing, working, or simply enjoying a good cup of coffee. Here are some of the best spots to check out:
1. Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House
A charming riverside cafe with a cozy, vintage vibe. They serve great coffee, homemade cakes, and hearty meals. Perfect for a slow afternoon.
Cost: Coffee starts at 80 THB (£1.80)
2. Doi Chaang Coffee
One of Thailand’s most famous coffee brands, this cafe serves top-notch brews made from locally sourced beans grown in the Doi Chaang region.
Cost: Coffee from 60 THB (£1.30)
3. Melt in Your Mouth
Known for its scenic garden setting and European-inspired desserts. It’s a popular brunch spot with a relaxing atmosphere.
Cost: Coffee and desserts from 100 THB (£2.20)
4. Cafe Number 9
A modern cafe in the city center with great coffee and breakfast options. The vibe is laid-back and perfect for digital nomads.
Cost: Coffee from 70 THB (£1.50)
5. Manorom Coffee
A tranquil cafe overlooking rice fields, offering a peaceful escape from the city. They serve excellent coffee and Thai fusion dishes.
Cost: Coffee starts at 80 THB (£1.80)
Travel Tip
Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better views.
Restaurants
Chiang Rai has a variety of great restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best spots to eat in the city:
1. The Wall Street Restaurant
A cozy spot with a modern feel, offering a fusion of Thai and international dishes. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, great service, and delicious food like Thai curries, pasta, and fresh salads.
Cost: 150-300 THB (£3.30-£6.50)
2. Chiang Rai Curry House
For authentic northern Thai cuisine, this place is hard to beat. Their Khao Soi (northern Thai curry noodles) and other regional dishes are the highlights.
Cost: 80-150 THB (£1.80-£3.30)
3. Sweet Rice
A casual spot that specializes in traditional Thai dishes with fresh ingredients and flavorful spices. The vibe is friendly, and the food is perfect for sharing with friends.
Cost: 100-200 THB (£2.20-£4.40)
4. The Pizza Company
If you’re craving Western food, The Pizza Company offers delicious pizza, pasta, and other comfort foods. It’s a reliable spot for backpackers looking for a familiar meal.
Cost: 150-300 THB (£3.30-£6.50)
5. Gusto Pizza
A charming Italian restaurant in the heart of Chiang Rai, known for its wood-fired pizzas and tasty pastas. Great for a laid-back dinner with a good glass of wine.
Cost: 150-250 THB (£3.30-£5.50)
6. Nhi Nhi
A highly recommended Vietnamese restaurant that offers fresh and flavorful pho, banh mi sandwiches, and spring rolls. It’s an affordable and tasty option for a change of pace from Thai food.
Cost: 60-120 THB (£1.30-£2.60)
7. Noodle Soup by the Temple
Located near the Wat Phra Kaew, this casual spot serves some of the best noodle soups in Chiang Rai, featuring a variety of broths and toppings.
Cost: 40-70 THB (£0.90-£1.50)
8. Scent of the Tree
Set in a beautiful garden with a relaxing atmosphere, this restaurant offers a mix of Thai and Western dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and a great variety of vegetarian options.
Cost: 100-250 THB (£2.20-£5.50)
Bars
1. O’Kane’s Irish Bar
This Irish pub is a favorite for expats and locals alike, offering a relaxed vibe, cold drinks, and hearty pub food. It’s a great spot for live music and socialising with fellow backpackers.
Cost: Beers from 60-100 THB (£1.30-£2.20)
2. The Black Dog Bar
A popular spot among expats and backpackers, The Black Dog Bar is known for its laid-back vibe and friendly atmosphere. It serves a range of drinks, including beers, cocktails, and spirits, and has a cozy outdoor seating area. It’s a great place to relax, meet new people, or catch some live music in the evenings.
Cost: Drinks from 50-120 THB (£1.10-£2.60)
3. Reggae Home and Bar
A lively and colorful bar with a relaxed reggae vibe, Reggae Home and Bar is a favorite among travelers looking for a chill atmosphere and good tunes. It’s a great spot to unwind with cold drinks, enjoy some reggae music, and meet fellow backpackers. The laid-back ambiance and friendly crowd make it a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a night out in Chiang Rai.
Cost: Drinks from 50-100 THB (£1.10-£2.20)
4. The Lab Bar
A trendy, modern bar with a unique vibe, The Lab Bar is known for its creative cocktails and stylish, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular spot among both locals and travelers, offering a variety of drinks, from craft cocktails to beers. The minimalist decor and laid-back setting make it a great place to hang out and enjoy a drink with friends or meet new people.
Cost: Drinks from 100-200 THB (£2.20-£4.40)
6. Peace House Bar
A laid-back and friendly bar with a relaxed vibe, Peace House Bar is perfect for travelers looking to unwind. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and cozy setting. Whether you want to grab a beer, enjoy a cocktail, or just hang out with fellow backpackers, Peace House Bar offers a chill space to do so.
Cost: Drinks from 50-100 THB (£1.10-£2.20)
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