The northern part of Thailand is a popular getaway, with the cooler temperatures and the slower pace very appealing. Chiang Rai is an hour or so from the famous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Burma and Laos meet.
One of the most important places in the city is Wat Phra Kaew. Thais believe this was the original home of the Emerald Buddha, now found in a temple of the same name in Bangkok. The Buddha spent a long time in Laos and they tell you that it was actually stolen from them.
Chiang Rai is a small city but quite charming. The clock tower is certainly unique as you can see.
There are some impressive old buildings like the one below.
We passed by a procession that was in honour of some of new Monks which was quite colourful and loud.
A recent addition to Chiang Rai is the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun. It was built by a local artist, starting in 1998. It is certainly different to your usual Thai temples.
This is another Wat in the same complex.
One of the nice things coming from Bangkok is the green and the mountains.
It was a bit of a walk but the impressive waterfall, Namtok Khun Kon, with a 70m drop, made it worthwhile.
What a charming city. The temples in Bangkok are simply amazing and this small city certainly has its fair share of ornate temples. It is incredible how much you get to see John. What a wealth of knowledge you must be gaining.
ReplyDeleteI guess it is not real gold along the median strip!
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