Old Town Architecture
In less than two kilometers, you’ll uncover the many layers of this ancient town’s charm. Its streets follow a rare rectangular city plan, once encircled by moats and earthen walls. At its heart once stood a grand Khmer stone sanctuary, later crowned with a Lan Xang–style stupa when Khmer power waned. You’ll spot barays—ancient Khmer water reservoirs—quietly telling tales of past ingenuity, and wander past old wooden shophouses built by Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants generations ago. Some of these historic homes have now been reborn as cozy guesthouses and stylish cafés, welcoming travelers while preserving the town’s gentle, slow pace.
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Baan Sa Ngiam-Manee
Step into a beautifully restored three-story wooden house, over 70 years old, now reborn as a charming boutique stay in the heart of Sakon Nakhon’s Old Town. Under the loving care of two architects—Fah and Tidtee, the third-generation heirs of the home—this 4-room retreat preserves its original soul while offering modern comforts. Each room—Yon Sakon, Mon Nong Han, Lalan Na, and Thueng Phu Phan—carries its own story, inviting guests to connect with the heritage of the city. Beyond just a stay, it’s a living tale of preservation, local pride, and warm hospitality. On the ground floor, the aroma of craft coffee, matcha, and homemade gelato from CUUN and Co. mingles with the hum of guest conversations, creating the perfect space to slow down and savor the moment.
Opening Hours: By appointment
Tel: 06 2727 7126
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Phra That Choeng Chum
Standing proudly within the Phra That Choeng Chum Worawihan Royal Monastery, this revered stupa is the spiritual symbol of Sakon Nakhon. The lotus-shaped, square-based Lan Xang–style structure we see today was built to enshrine—and quite literally cover—the original laterite Khmer stone sanctuary that once stood here. The temple grounds also hold treasures of their own: a nearly 200-year-old ancient ordination hall (sim) adorned with delicate vine murals and celestial beings, as well as a three-story drum tower and bell tower. Although they are more recent, these towers exhibit Vietnamese architectural influences, serving as a reminder that this sacred site has historically united people of various cultures in faith.
Opening Hours: Daily, 06:00–22:00
Don’t Miss: Every January–February, the temple hosts its grand annual festival—Phra That Choeng Chum Worship Fair—featuring a spectacular ritual dance performed by more than 5,000 graceful dancers in honor of the stupa.
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Grandma Thongkham Chinese Sausage Shop
In the heart of Sakon Nakhon’s Old Town lies a beloved souvenir shop with decades of history—famed for its signature Chinese sausage (kun chiang). Grandma Thongkham, the matriarch behind the counter, swears by her secret: pure lean pork, no flour, no borax, and no preservatives. From this signature recipe, the shop has expanded into other local favorites—Isan sausage, fermented pork (naem), and shredded pork—all just as popular. These days, Auntie Maem, Grandma’s daughter, joins her to introduce a new crowd-pleaser: steamed rice-skin dumplings (pak mor). What began as a family treat became a local legend after Grandma served them at a temple fair, where they were so loved that customers begged her to sell them at home. These dumplings, made with only the finest ingredients, are available in four irresistible styles—classic, with fried egg, rolled omelet, or folded egg wrap—and areserved with a thick, flavorful dipping sauce that keeps everyone coming back for more. Opening Hours: Daily, 08:00–18:00
Tel: 08 8321 2502
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Klang Thongchai Community
Travel back in time to Klang Thong Chai, the inaugural neighborhood of Sakon Nakhon’s Old Town. Its origins trace back to the Thonburi era, when the deputy ruler of Kalasin was ordered to bring his family to settle in Ban That Choeng Chum to safeguard the sacred Phra That Choeng Chum. The community grew following the traditional Thai concept that temple and neighborhood stand side by side, supporting each other as the heart of daily life. Many of today’s residents are direct descendants of those original settlers. While history still lives in its lanes, Klang Thong Chai has embraced the present, weaving modern touches into its heritage. Street art now dots the neighborhood, telling local stories and adding a fresh, creative vibe to this historic quarter.
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Jai Phasuk Road
Walking the Historic Streets of Old Sakon Nakhon
Old Sakon Nakhon is laced with historic streets—Charoen Mueang, Suk Kasem, and Jai Phasuk—each with deep roots in trade and community life. Once bustling hubs of commerce for Chinese and Vietnamese settlers, these streets still whisper stories of the past. A stroll here reveals charming wooden shophouses with shops on the ground floor and living quarters upstairs—an architectural style that’s becoming increasingly rare. Look closely, and you might spot the letters “ญอ” on some wooden doors, marking homes once occupied by Vietnamese migrants who fled war and religious persecution from the reign of King Rama V through the post–World War II era. These few surviving buildings are precious fragments of the city’s living history.
Don’t Miss: On Jai Phasuk Road, you’ll find Jai Phasuk Brewery—a proudly local craft brewery. Step inside, sip a cold pint, and leave with your heart every bit as happy as its name promises.
Opening Hours: 17:00–24:00
Tel: 081 232 4936
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Piccolo Café
Piccolo Café
Despite its name appearing on the menu, owner Ohm insists the café’s signature drink isn’t actually a piccolo. Instead, the name “Piccolo” comes from the Italian word for “small”—a nod to this charming little coffee shop in a small town whose quality is anything but small. The house blend combines Thai and Kenyan beans, roasted medium-light to bring out the fullest expression of flavor in every sip. The space embraces warm earth tones, perfectly complementing the old wooden-and-brick house it calls home. If you visit on a weekend, you’re in for a bonus—right outside Piccolo on Ruang Sawat Road, the street transforms into the Indigo Fabric Street Market, where you can browse beautiful local indigo-dyed textiles, one of Sakon Nakhon’s most treasured crafts, to take home as a keepsake.
Opening Hours:
Mon–Fri (closed Wed): 08:00–15:00
Sat–Sun: 09:00–16:00
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Srinakarin Garden
Encircling the historic Pang Thong Pond, this lush public park is more than just a green escape—it’s a living piece of Sakon Nakhon’s ancient heritage. Once a baray (reservoir) from the Khmer era, it has long been a vital water source for the community. Just a short stroll away, you can still see the ancient moat and earthen walls that once protected the old city along the shores of Nong Han Lake. Believed to date back to the same Khmer civilization, they were built both as city defenses and as a barrier against mountain waters from the Phu Phan Range. Today, both historic sites have been transformed by Sakon Nakhon Municipality into two beautiful public parks—Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park and Somdet Chao Fa Kalyaniwatthana Park—fondly nicknamed by locals as the “Mother and Daughter” Parks. They’ve become favorite spots for walking, exercising, and soaking up the slow, peaceful rhythm of the city.
Opening Hours: Daily, 04:00–21:00
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Nam-Samai Shop
Step into Namsamai Shop, housed in a charming three-unit wooden shophouse over 70 years old. The ground floor is open to visitors, while the upper floor remains a lived-in home. Run by 74-year-old Mae Thassana, the store has witnessed decades of change—from tailoring shops and pharmacies to photography studios—yet Mae Thassana always greets every guest with a warm, welcoming smile. Inside, shelves are neatly stocked with daily necessities, snacks, and ice cream, reminiscent of a cozy convenience store straight out of a movie scene. Visiting isn’t just a shopping trip—it’s a chance to support the local community and take home a little extra: Mae Thassana’s infectious smile.
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House of Stars
Every December 22–24, the Christian community of Tha Rae lights up with faith and festivity in the spectacular Star Parade, celebrating the birth of Jesus. First held in 1982, the festival’s highlight is the dazzling procession of stars, both on land and water, creating a truly magical experience. If you visit Tha Rae outside the festival dates, you can still enjoy the magic by visiting Khun Lamphorn’s House of Stars on Fuangfoo Street (also called the Street of Star Makers), where stars are handcrafted and sold nationwide. Sizes range from charming 10 cm stars to impressive 150 cm masterpieces—perfect for taking a piece of Tha Rae home with you.
Tel: 08 4401 8289
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Nong Han Sunset Viewpoint
Nong Han Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern Thailand and the second-largest in the country, after Bueng Boraphet. Spanning 12 subdistricts of Sakon Nakhon, it’s a vital habitat for freshwater fish, waterbirds, and wetlands, making it one of Thailand’s most important ecological treasures. But Nong Han Lake isn’t just about nature—it’s also a hub of local life. Fishing supports the livelihoods of communities across Sakon Nakhon and neighboring provinces, while for visitors, the lake offers unforgettable experiences like birdwatching and scenic boat rides at sunset, where the skies light up in colors as stunning as anywhere in Thailand.
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Ancient House
Once the proud residence of the son of Sakon Nakhon’s former governor, it is now a century-old relic steeped in history and mystery. Originally built as a family home, it became an unlikely sanctuary during World War II, when government orders forced the closure of Tha Rae Church. Local Catholics needed a sacred space for Mass, weddings, and other rites, and the owner’s family—having a Catholic priest among their descendants—opened their doors to the community. Legend even whispers that Ho Chi Minh, the former leader of Vietnam, once lived here during his time in Thailand.
Tragically, the house was later ravaged by fire, left to crumble without restoration. Over time, nature reclaimed it—trees sprouting through its walls, turning it into the haunting yet captivating ruin visitors see today.
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Ong Luang Sorin’s Ancient House
Built in 1932 by the same Vietnamese artisans who crafted the Udomdetwat Mansion, it stands as a timeless symbol of French colonial elegance blended with local craftsmanship. This two-story standalone residence was constructed using a unique mix of white lime, sand, and natural plant resins from yang bong trees and sugarcane juice, replacing conventional cement. The upper floor features mostly wooden structures, while certain fittings were imported directly from France. Its architectural highlights include intricate stucco detailing, folding wooden doors, and graceful archways adorning both the front and sides. Although it is no longer a family home, the mansion remains under the care of the Sorin descendants. Every curve, carving, and corner still whispers stories of the people, traditions, and local wisdom of Tha Rae’s past.
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Udomdetwat Mansion
Built in 1933 by skilled Vietnamese craftsmen who had settled in Nakhon Phanom and Tha Rae, this elegant French colonial–style mansion tells a story of heritage and charm. The two-story building once served as a family home and general store — with the ground floor selling household goods and the upper floor housing two bedrooms flanking a central prayer hall. Here, a beautifully crafted altar displayed the crucifix, statues of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, and revered saints, offering a sacred space for family worship. Today, the ground floor has been lovingly transformed into UDD Udomdetwat Cafe & Bistro, blending history with a modern, cozy vibe.
Must-Try: Udomdet’s Vibes orange latte, Chapter 1 pineapple-honey americano, and lychee cheesecake pie.
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00 / Sat–Sun 08:30–18:30
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Francisco’s Traditional Rice Noodle
Ban Tha Rae is dotted with charming colonial-style heritage buildings—but if you step out from behind St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral, the very first gem you’ll find is Francisco’s Traditional Rice Noodle. This two-story European-style shophouse stands out with its ornate stucco work, a tradition in which homeowners inscribed the name of their patron saint above the entrance. Here, it proudly bears the name of St. Francis Xavier, the missionary who brought Christianity to Asia—and the true inspiration behind the house’s name (with no connection to San Francisco, California!). Today, this beautifully preserved building welcomes visitors as a cozy Vietnamese eatery, serving up beloved local favorites.
Must-Try Dishes: Rice noodle soup (Khao Piak), Vietnamese-style suki, Maoberry juice, freshly baked bread, and Vietnamese coffee.
Opening Hours: Daily 06:00–17:00
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St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral
St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral is a magnificent church shaped like a ship, representing the bamboo rafts and boats used by early Christian settlers fleeing Sakon Nakhon City to find a new home in Tha Rae. Today, this village is the largest Roman Catholic community in Thailand. Step inside and discover its treasures: a museum telling the fascinating story of Tha Rae’s Catholic heritage, an exquisite marble statue of St. Michael imported from Italy, a century-old bell cast in France, and a monument honoring Father Gombouir, the cathedral’s first pastor.
Visitor Tip: Dress modestly—with trousers or skirts below the knee.
Opening Hours: 06:00–18:00
Tel: 042 751 090
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Wat Pa Sak
Step into the spiritual heart of Chiang Saen at Wat Pa Sak, one of the city’s most revered ancient temples. Built to enshrine a sacred relic—a bone fragment from the Buddha’s right ankle—this holy site spans over 16 lush rai and is surrounded by approximately 300 teak trees, which inspired the temple’s name, meaning “Teak Forest Temple.” The highlight of the site is the stunning five-spired Lanna-style stupa, remarkably well-preserved and heavily influenced by Hariphunchai art. At each corner, you’ll find smaller stupas that elegantly blend the styles of Sukhothai, Bagan, and Hariphunchai, creating a uniquely Lanna masterpiece. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice intricate cross-cultural design elements: peony motifs from China, “Bai Raka” feather patterns from Myanmar, and mythical kala faces from Cambodia. These details reflect the rich tapestry of regional influences that shaped this exceptional site.
Cultural Tip: Offerings with a Lanna Touch For a meaningful visit, consider bringing a traditional “Suay Dok” flower arrangement—a beautiful form of Lanna floral art used in Buddhist offerings. You can choose from elegant styles such as the parrot beak or Phra Chao Nang Kon design, each possessing its own unique charm.
Opening Hours: Daily | 8:00 AM to 17.00
Admission: Thai visitors: 10 THB | Foreign visitors: 50 THB
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Chiang Saen National Museum
Located directly across from Wat Phra Mahathat, the Chiang Saen National Museum serves as your entry point to the rich history of this ancient city. This compact yet intriguing museum combines archaeology, art history, and cultural heritage, offering an overview of how Chiang Saen transformed from a modest settlement into a significant spiritual and cultural hub. Inside, you will find rare artifacts that showcase the beliefs, customs, and lifestyle of the local people—ranging from religious items such as Tung (Lanna ceremonial flags), sacred manuscript chests, and miniature stupas to ceremonial objects previously utilized in important spiritual rituals.
Don’t miss the highlights:
• The intricately carved Nāga face (Naga Kala)—a breathtaking example of 18th–19th century Lanna art
• Delicate stucco decorations from ancient stupas—still vivid with detail and symbolism
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday | 8:30 AM to 16.30 (Closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Admission: Thai visitors: 10 THB | Foreign visitors: 100 THB
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Wat Mung Muang
Right across from Wat Phra Buat lies a lesser-known treasure—a historic temple filled with rare and intricate architectural wonders. At its heart stands a stunning ancient stupa, built atop a four-tiered indented square base. Each side features a niche housing a standing Buddha in the “Opening the World” posture, a pose rarely seen today. Crowning the stupa is a rounded bell-shaped dome, with miniature corner stupas reminiscent of those at the famed Wat Pa Sak—a striking blend of elegance and spiritual symbolism. Surrounding the stupa, you’ll find remnants of Chiang Saen’s monastic past, including the Sala Lai (a traditional pavilion once used as monks’ quarters) and an ornate entrance gate called Pratu Khong, showcasing unique craftsmanship that has largely vanished from modern temple design. This temple may not make every travel guide—but for those who seek hidden beauty and historical richness, it’s a must-visit marvel of old Lanna art.
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Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong
Step back in time at Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong, a temple over 500 years old and home to the largest golden Buddha image in Chiang Saen. Crafted in classic Lanna style from pancha loha (a sacred five-metal alloy), this revered statue gets its name—Lan Thong, or “a million gold”—from ”the impressive amount of gold used in its creation. But this temple is more than just a place of worship—it’s also where you’ll find the Chiang Saen City Pillar Shrine, known locally as Wat Sadue Mueang, or “the Navel of the City.” This sacred site is considered the symbolic heart of Chiang Saen.
Behind the main hall, a majestic ancient stupa rises into view—one of the most beautifully preserved historic structures in the region.
A Secret Walking Path to the Next Stop
From Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong, most visitors follow the main road to reach Wat Mung Muang. But if you’re up for a more local, hidden route, take the small alley behind the temple. This path leads you through a quiet neighborhood, where charming old Chiang Saen homes line the way—each showcasing the town’s unique and storied architecture. It’s a peaceful, picturesque stroll through living history.
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Wat Nangfa Kaephueak
This ancient temple is believed to have once stood within the royal palace grounds of old Chiang Saen. But beyond its age and architecture, this temple holds a special place in local hearts—known as the “Temple of Love.” Why? Legend has it that a great king built this temple as a tribute to his beloved, a princess from the Lan Chang Kingdom. That act of devotion still echoes today, drawing locals who come to pray for true love or their soulmate. The temple’s iconic Lan Chang-style stupa, the only one of its kind in Chiang Saen, stands as a testament to this royal romance. When the temple was completed, an astonishing 1,000 monks were ordained to celebrate the opening of its main hall.
And don’t miss this heartwarming detail: look up into the branches of the sacred Bodhi tree, and you’ll see the leaves forming the shape of a heart—a natural symbol of the temple’s timeless connection to love.
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Mekong Riverfront
Take a leisurely stroll through Chiang Saen, and you’ll soon arrive at the majestic Mekong River—a natural landmark that marks Thailand’s northernmost point. Right across the river is Lao, featuring a striking skyline dominated by grand buildings, including the famed Kings Romans Casino, which is part of a Chinese-backed special economic zone. Just upstream lies the well-known Golden Triangle, connecting Thailand, Lao, and Myanmar. This area is also where the Mekong meets the Ruak River, creating a breathtaking sight with a rich history. Chiang Saen serves as a permanent border crossing between Thailand and Lao. You can hop on a local boat—whether a longtail or a covered boat—to cross the river or enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mekong. It’s an easy and affordable adventure, with boats operating daily from 8:00 to 18.00, accommodating up to 15 people, with prices ranging from 800 to 1,500 THB.
Are you considering a visit to Lao? Thai nationals don’t need a passport—just bring your Thai ID card! A quick stop at the Chiang Saen District Office (just a short walk from the riverside) allows you to apply for a border pass and enjoy up to three days in Lao.
Every Saturday evening, the quiet riverfront transforms into a vibrant walking street, lined with community-run stalls offering handmade crafts, local eats, and souvenirs—all set against the backdrop of the mighty Mekong.
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Sai Oua Chiang Saen Shop
This is the kind of place that only true locals know about. Famous for its Chiang Saen-style Sai Oua (northern Thai sausage), this hidden gem has long been a favorite among residents. The sausage is available in two flavors: spicy and mild, priced at an irresistible 40 THB per 100 g. Another must-try dish here is the iconic northern specialty, Kaeng Kradang (jellied pork curry). What sets this version apart? The curry paste is expertly spiced and, unlike others, it’s made without gelatin, allowing you to experience the authentic taste and texture as it’s meant to be.
Once you’ve had your fill, you can continue exploring—right next door is Wat Nanthakhwang, one of Chiang Saen’s most significant ancient sites.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00 to 19:00 (or until supplies last).
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Sin Somboon Market
Sinsomboon Market is a vibrant local hub that has served as the commercial soul of Chiang Saen for more than 100 years. Though the original wooden structure was lost to fire, the market has been functionally rebuilt. This bustling market is a treasure trove of local goods, everyday essentials, and fresh regional produce, much of it brought directly from the hills by ethnic Tai Yai villagers from Doi Mae Aep. Their friendly prices and warm smiles make every visit feel pleasant. Open 24 hours a day, the market is at its liveliest in the early morning, when the scent of Tai Yai cuisine fills the air—a must-try for any foodie. After a hearty local meal, take a short stroll behind the market to Wat Prasat Khum, home to a beautiful brick-and-stucco stupa with a rounded bell-shaped top—the most iconic chedi style in Chiang Saen.
Opening Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Clean restrooms are available for only 5 THB.
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Wat Phra Yuen
The 700-year-old Wat Phra Yuen is one of the oldest and most historically rich temples in Chiang Saen. Although it is now an abandoned site, the temple continues to captivate visitors with its stunning octagonal chedi, which was originally built to enshrine 140 sacred relics. The chedi is situated on a triple-tiered square base, with each level perfectly aligned at 8 meters wide, showcasing the architectural precision of its time. While the viharn and other structures have long since disappeared, the chedi remains remarkably intact. Adjacent to the temple is the Chiang Saen Immigration Office, which is housed in a beautifully preserved wooden heritage building—one of the finest examples of its kind in Thailand.
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Wat Phra That Chedi Luang
Step into the spiritual soul of ancient Chiang Saen at Chedi Luang, the town’s most revered temple and once a central sanctuary of the Lanna Kingdom. Built by King Saen Phu, the third ruler of Lanna, this historic temple was one of 73 within the city walls—but none stand quite as majestically. At its center rises a stunning octagonal chedi, soaring 88 meters high with a 24-meter-wide base—the largest Lanna-style bell-shaped stupa in all of Chiang Saen. This towering landmark once enshrined a nearly 700-year-old Buddha image, originally crafted from stucco. The temple’s main viharn (assembly hall) showcases traditional Lanna architecture, easily spotted by its striking gable design—three tiers in front, two in the rear—a true testament to the elegance of the era.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00–18:00
Getting There & Parking:
> Located in the heart of Chiang Saen, just 250 meters from Wat Pa Sak
> Easily accessible by tricycle (samlor), motorcycle taxi, or on foot
> For those driving, parking is available along the street in front of the temple.
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Singhaklai House
Step into the charm of a century-old heritage home known as the Missionary House—a beautiful colonial-style building designed by Dr. William A. Briggs, the same visionary behind Chiang Rai’s historic provincial hall. Once a quiet missionary residence, it has been lovingly restored and reimagined as the headquarters of the Mod Chana Phai Foundation, a creative hub blending architecture, art, and disaster awareness education. Upstairs, explore a rotating art gallery showcasing local and regional artists. Downstairs, relax at Ban Mod Café, where you can savor Northern Thai dishes and indulge in homemade ice cream made from fresh Chiang Rai ingredients. Just outside, don’t miss the magical tree tunnel that lines the front road—a picturesque, shaded walkway that feels like a scene from a movie.
Open hours: Daily (except Wednesdays): 8:00-17:00
Bonus stop for culture seekers: Walk just 600 meters further and you’ll find the King Mengrai Monument, honoring the legendary founder of Chiang Rai. Visitors flock to this revered spiritual landmark to pay their respects and seek blessings for good fortune.
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Old Provincial Hall
Standing strong for nearly 130 years, the former Chiang Rai Governor’s Office is not just any old building—it’s Thailand’s oldest surviving provincial hall and a powerful symbol of a transformative era in Thai history. Originally built during the administrative reform that brought the region under central Siamese governance, the building was designed by Dr. William A. Briggs, a Canadian missionary who introduced Christianity to Chiang Rai. Its architecture is a rare colonial-style blend, featuring brick-and-mortar construction, a traditional hipped roof, and charming dormer windows—a sight straight out of another century. Though currently closed for renovation, this heritage site is being revitalized. By late 2025, it will take on a new role as the future home of Thailand Creative & Design Center (TCDC) Chiang Rai, where history and innovation will meet.
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Wat Phra Singh
Step into the heart of Chiang Rai’s spiritual heritage at this over-six-century-old temple, home to the revered Phra Singh (Phra Buddha Sihing)—a sacred Lanna-style Buddha image that has long been a symbol of unity and devotion for the people of Chiang Rai. Admire the exquisite Lanna architecture of the ordination hall, crafted in the classic Chiang Saen style of the 21st Buddhist century, and don’t miss one of the temple’s most iconic features—the grand carved wooden door. This masterpiece of intricate design was created by none other than Thailand’s National Artist, Thawan Duchanee.
Open daily: 07:00-18:30
Admission: Free for all visitors
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Old Clock Tower
Just 400 meters from the city’s newer clock tower stands Chiang Rai’s very first timekeeper—a charmingly simple structure near Municipal Fresh Market 1, right at the Pawnshop Junction. Back in 1967, the original tower faced a quirky issue: its four clock faces never agreed on the time. That was when the Chiang Rai Rotary Club teamed up with the local Kodak photo studio to fund the construction of a new, more reliable clock tower. The result? A distinctive local landmark that not only keeps time right but also proudly displays the Kodak logo—a nostalgic nod to the city’s creative past. Today, this humble tower remains one of Chiang Rai’s coolest hidden gems, full of character and local pride.
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Municipal Food Market 1
Welcome to the largest and most vibrant market in town—the true soul of Chiang Rai, where tradition still thrives. Kad Luang (literally “The Big Market”) is a bustling hub of local life, filled with the flavors, crafts, and characters that define northern Thai culture. Wander through stalls brimming with Lanna delicacies like nam ngiao (spicy noodle soup), khao ram fuen (soft rice jelly), sai ua (northern sausage), and fresh hill-grown vegetables. You’ll also find locally made crafts like handwoven textiles and bamboo sticky rice containers—many sold by ethnic highland vendors who bring their goods directly from the mountains. Most shops are generational businesses that have been passed down for decades, adding even more charm to this cultural hotspot. And after you shop, don’t miss a peaceful stop at Wat Mung Muang, a nearby temple that houses a rare, centuries-old Lanna-style stupa with a striking square base—a treasure rarely seen today.
Must-Try Dishes at Municipal Food Market 1
>Pa Nuan’s Nam Ngiao – Famous for its rich, spicy broth. Open daily 6:00-14.00
>Vietnamese Crispy Crepes – Tucked in Soi Rama Cinema, full of nostalgic charm
>Uncle Weerapong’s Coffee Stall – A local favorite.
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Chiang Rai Clock Tower
This spectacular sculpture, which has stood proudly in the center of Chiang Rai for over 20 years, was created by renowned local artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the visionary behind the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). The artwork replicates the detailed style of Chalermchai’s temple designs, combining the elegance of Thai design with the spiritual essence of Buddhism. It took five years to finish and has since become one of the city’s best-recognized monuments. Every evening, the sculpture comes to life with a light, sound, and music show featuring the beloved song “Chiang Rai Ram Luk” (Chiang Rai Reminiscence), which is displayed three times between 19.00 – 21.00
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Chiang Rai Night Bazaar Located in the heart of Chiang Rai, this vibrant nighttime hotspot is a must-visit! A lively blend of local food stalls, handcrafted souvenirs, and artisanal goods, the Night Bazaar is also home to a Lanna-style cultural stage where visitors can enjoy traditional performances under the stars. But don’t wait for sunset—by day, this area transforms into a bustling city center filled with authentic local eateries, relaxing massage parlors, and some of Chiang Rai’s most beautiful old architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Opening Hours
>Daily from 17.00-21.00
>Parking available at Chiang Rai Bus Terminal 1
Nearby Night Markets to Explore
> Chiang Rai Walking Street (Saturday Night Market)
Located on Thanalai Road, this lively street is closed to traffic every Saturday evening as locals turn it into a festive market filled with food, local crafts, and cultural performances—all starting from 17.00 onward.
> San Khong Night Street (Sunday Market)
Just outside the old city zone on San Khong Road, this cozy market invites you to shop for northern-style food and crafts and even join a traditional circle dance with the locals. Open every Sunday from 16.00 – 22.00.
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สถานีขนส่งเชียงราย แห่งที่1 (ท่ารถเก่า)
สถานีขนส่งเชียงราย แห่งที่1 (ท่ารถเก่า)
สถานีขนส่งแห่งแรกของจังหวัดที่มีความหมายต่อการเดินทางติดต่อค้าขายของชาวเชียงรายตั้งแต่อดีตจนถึงปัจจุบัน ตั้งอยู่ใจกลางเมือง ให้บริการรถโดยสารสาธารณะทั้งรถสองแถวและรถบัสไปยังอำเภอต่างๆ รวมถึงจังหวัดใกล้เคียงในภูมิภาค อีกทั้งยังมีบริการรถรางเที่ยวรอบเมือง ภายในอาคารตกแต่งด้วยภาพวาดศิลปะที่รวบรวมอัตลักษณ์ของจังหวัด และเป็นที่ตั้งของศูนย์บริการการท่องเที่ยว มีเจ้าหน้าที่คอยให้ข้อมูลการท่องเที่ยวที่ครบถ้วน ส่วนด้านบนของอาคารให้บริการจอดรถในราคาที่เป็นมิตร สามารถจอดรถที่นี่แล้วเดินเที่ยวรอบเมืองได้อย่างสะดวกสบาย
วิธีการเดินทางและที่จอดรถ
>สถานีขนส่งเชียงราย แห่งที่ 1 อยู่ห่างจากเชียงรายไนท์บาซาร์ 120 เมตร
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>รถส่วนตัว สามารถจอดรถได้ที่อาคารจอดรถของสถานีขนส่งเชียงราย แห่งที่1
เวลาเปิดปิด :
-ทุกวัน สำนักงานจะเปิดบริการตั้งแต่เวลา 07.00-18.00 น. ส่วนรถโดยสารมีให้บริการถึง 24.00 น.
-อาคารจอดรถเปิดบริการตลอด 24 ชม.