Thais love their elephants and trekking by elephant will let you see the indigenous tribes of the Karen, Ackha and Mien hill tribes.
The Opium Museum at nearby Sop Ruak, shows the tools used in the production, plus the ill effects caused by its use. Well worth a half day, the remainder of which could be spent on a relaxing boat trip down the Mekong.
Mountain bikes can be rented locally, allowing you to cycle in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountain landscape. Many trails are available to follow, or bring a guide along.
Lower prices hire an SUV at Chiang Rai Airport.
Discounts on minivan rentals and MPVs in Chiang Rai.
Always rent your Single, or Double Cab, early..
Cheaper holiday auto hire available here.
Cheaper MPV rental costs if book today.
SUVs are popular, so book early.
Travel & Car Rental for Chiang Rai
Global Positioning Systems is must in this part of Thailand as some parts are very remote. It comes in English and other languages that can be spoken, but the map only has a choice of English or Thai wording.
We also advise bringing a good road map. Asking and receiving directions in Thai is not easy as it is a tonal language, so you may thing you can speak it, but no one may understand you. We also advise booking the Fortuner 4x4 SUV, if you intend to explore the surrounding steep and rugged mountains.
However, drive carefully and going on dirt tracks should be avoided, to avoid damage to theunderside of the vehicle, as this invalidates the insurance.
Asia Thai Airways operate daily flights to Chiang Rai. By bus, ensure that you request the air con bus service as the journey can take upto 11 hours. Buses leave from the north bus terminal at Kamphaengphet 2 Road Bangkok.
If going by car from Bangkok, we can arrange to have it waiting for you outside arrivals, or we can arrange to have delivered to your hotel. A road map will be provided. However take Highway No.1 out of Bangkok towards Ayutthaya, a distance approx 800 KM
By train. There is no direct service to Chang Rai, but you can get the train to Chiang Mai and then an onward bus of approx two hours to Chiang Rai.
With so much to do and see, and quiet roads, a hire car in Chiang Mai is recommended to really appreciate this beautiful part of Thailand.
Chiang Rai Tourism Info
For the latest information on what going on, check with the
Thailand Tourist Board.
Need a pickup truck in
Chiang Mai?
21st May 2020