Chiang Rai & The Golden Triangle Travel

Nestled in the verdant hills of northern Thailand, Chiang Rai has been called Chiang Mai’s smaller, quieter sister. The province and its namesake city remain less traveled, making the destination a welcome retreat if you’re looking for a slower pace and bucolic setting.

Chiang Rai Province shares borders with Myanmar and Laos, earning the region the name ‘The Golden Triangle’ and making it one of the most culturally and geographically diverse parts of Thailand. Where towering mountain peaks meet the Mekong River’s floodplains, float down the storied river in a traditional long-tail boat, or pedal through rice terraces and palm-dotted hillsides on a bike tour. There’s no shortage of exquisite temples here, either, including Wat Rong Khun, or the White Temple, a surrealist piece of modern art created by Buddhist artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Maybe surprisingly, this quieter enclave in Thailand is home to some of its best hotels, and properties like Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle and Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort offer atmospheric, sophisticated stays enriched by exclusive experiences. Both properties boast unique accommodation like luxury tents or bubble domes nestled in mist-shrouded jungles, as well as ethical encounters with elephants.