Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand and shares borders with Myanmar and Laos. The area where these three countries meet is known as the Golden Triangle, notorious for its opium trade in the past.

Chiang Rai is well known for its stunning mountain scenery and is home to several different hill tribes. The main hill tribe groups in this region are the Hmong, Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Mien. These ethnic minorities began to arrive in Thailand at the end of the 19th century and some groups may have been here much longer. Forced out of their native countries such as Myanmar, China and Tibet by civil war and political pressures, each hill tribe still has its own fascinating customs, culture, religion, clothing and language.

The area surrounding Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle evokes images of mist covered mountains and valleys that leave the first time visitor in awe.