Things to see and do North

Located on top of a hill overlooking the city, this Burmese style temple founded in 1860 has two chedi, two viharn, and a statue of Buddha sitting on a pedestal, in the Mara position. There is nothing exceptional about the architecture, but the view over the valley is magnificent. Come there by motorbike or even on foot. No athletic performance is required: a half hour of quiet climbing from Wat Phra Non or Wat Muo Taw.

To enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and river, it is interesting to climb the hill that dominates the agglomeration. At the middle of the temples, at the level of the temples, the view already embraces the landscape and it only requires a quarter of an hour of effort. From the foot of the Buddha statue, you can see clearly the last meanders of the river that leads to mountain foothills before conquering in the plain.

Near where the three borders meet, a huge golden Buddha statue and elephant monument dominate the city and the Mekong River. The seated Buddha statue stands on a massive boat-shaped platform, adorned with colorful stained glass and gilding. The Buddha's full name is Phra Chiang Saen Si Phaendin, and it was built by a Sino-Thai foundation. It is an emblematic monument in the heart of the Golden Triangle. A few small shops can be found on the other side of the street.

From Thaton to Chiang Rai, you can take a motorboat trip down the river. Departure from the Pier at 10:30 a.m. daily. Please enquire the day before, before the boats are full (6 passengers). Passports may be checked by the Tourist Police before departure. Normally, a stop is made at Ruammit, two-thirds of the way along the route. If you're not keen on dugout canoeing, you can take a shared cab to Mae Salong.

Not far from the Thai Elephant Conservation Center, a privileged spot for nature observation (birds, deer). It is possible to camp on site, even to make mountain biking tours.

Camping and even rafting on the Wa River, depending on the season (water level).

It is necessary to climb a little more than 200 steps to reach this temple, famous for its imposing statue of a scorpion which faces Myanmar. It was placed there to intimidate possible invaders. Once arrived at the top, one is entitled to a superb sight on the city of Mae Sai, the river which skirts it. Nice view on the town of Tachileik on the Myanmar side, on the other side of the Ruak river. The temple, of Burmese style, has nothing exceptional, it is for its unique panaroma that the visit is essential if you are in Mae Sai.

Along this large central artery, a number of vendeurs, diamonds and other precious stones have been on the street. In addition, there are plenty of antiques stores from Yunnan, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar (Burma). Very nice opportunity to make a small walk but if you buy: always caution, caution! It is long since the gold cases deserted the shops, and "antiquity" that you will be offered will probably be a successful imitation!

A list of agencies recognised by the Thai Tourist Office is available upon request…

Next to the royal villa a beautiful garden with a wide variety of flowers. For lovers of beautiful colours and nature.