Chiang Rai is the Northernmost province of Thailand, located 785 kms. from Bangkok and 580 meters above sea level.

Chiang Rai, Thailand's furthest northern province, is about 785 kms. from Bangkok and 580 meters above sea level. Its area, mostly covered with mountains, is 11,678 square kilometers. The most important river is Mae Kok ; which is about 130 kilometers long.

Administration is divided into 13 Amphurs and 3 King Amphurs : Muang, Chiang Kong, Chiang Saen, Mae Chan, Mae Sai, Mae Suai, Pa Daet, Phan, Thoeng, Wiang Pa Pao, Wiang Chai, Phaya Mengrai, Wiang Kaen and King Amphur Mae Fa Luang, Khun Tan, Mae Lao.

Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 A.D. by King Mengrai, whose statue can be easily seen on the way to Mae Chan. It used to be the capital of Lanna Kingdom and later was conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Thai territory and proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910 A.D. Nowadays Chiang Rai is famous for its tasty lychees and the Golden Triangle in Amphur Chiang Saen.  

Chiang Rai was for a long time isolated from most of Thailand, which allowing the province for its unique culture, such as those seen in the ancient town of Chiangsaen or Sob Ruang (a piece of land called the "Golden Triangle")

 

For those more interested in the natural beauty of Chiang Rai jungle trekking is recommended along various trails which criss-cross the province's mountains.

 

Chiang Rai, the northernmost Thai province bordering MYANMAR (Burma) and Laos. Various hill tribes Akha, Yao, Lahu still relatively untouched by civilization are to be found in the surroundings of Chiang Rai.