Thailand’s northernmost city (about 180 km from Chiang Mai), Chiang Rai dates back to 1262. The atmosphere here is more relaxed than in Chiang Mai, but it is a good starting point for treks into rural areas.

Northern Temples
Temple enthusiasts should visit Wat Phra Kaew, which once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddha image, during periods of turbulence between Thailand and Laos in the 16th – 18th centuries. Formerly kept at several northern temples, the image is now safely ensconced in the temple of the same name in Bangkok. Chiang Rai also has a Wat Jet Yot. This one has an interesting Thai astrological fresco on the wooden ceiling of its main building. Other temples to see are the Shan/Burmese Wat Paa Kaw and Wat Phra That Doi Thong, which overlooks the scenic Kok River.

Hill Tribes
You can take treks to hill tribe villages from numerous agents in Chiang Rai. Ethnic groups in the province include the Karen, Lisu, Lahu, Akha, Meo and Yao. Booking treks through guesthouses is probably better and cheaper, as they have been operating longer than agencies and may employ more experienced TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) guides. You can also take boat rides to small but interesting towns and hamlets along the Kok River.

Tribal Handicrafts
The Hill Tribe Education Center on Thanalai Road has informative slide shows and displays of tribal artifacts and handicrafts in its museum section, open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Handicrafts are for sale on the 1st floor.