Top Things To See and Do in Chiang Saen, Thailand

Travel back in time to uncover the town’s fascinating history as you explore the Chiang Saen National Museum. Wander around the archaeological artefacts in the two exhibition halls as you piece together Chiang Saen’s 15,000-year-old legacy.

Chiang Saen National Museum, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand, +66 53 777 102

Discover the ancient ruins of Wat Pa Sak just a short 200-meter walk from the main city gate (Pratu Chiang Saen). This historic site is an archaeologist’s heaven and includes the ruins of seven monuments, including the revered chedi which dates back to the mid 14th century.

Wat Pa Sak, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand, +66 53 650 803

Hop on a bike, and head out to Chiang Saen Lake for a fun-filled day of natural beauty. The lake is a popular bird watching spot and is particularly famous for waterfowl and waders that migrate to the lake between November and February each year. This beautiful spot is well worth checking out and is a great opportunity to explore the town’s surrounding countryside or to just sit and relax.

Chiang Saen Lake, Yonok, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Wander up the 350-step mythical naga serpent staircase to the forest hill temples of Wat Phra That Chom Kitti. Alternatively, there is a road for those who can’t or do not want to climb the steps. The slightly off-kilter temple chedi is believed to contain a strand of Buddha’s hair. From this hilltop vantage point, the views of the surrounding area are spectacular.

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Saen is blessed with numerous markets including the nightly Walking Street Market where you can mingle with locals and sample delicious foods on the banks of the mighty Mekong River. In addition to the Walking Street Market, there is also a Sunday Morning Market, a Saturday Evening Market and a daily produce market. The town’s markets are a great way to gain deeper insight into the local culture and to pick up some authentic Thai souvenirs.

Walking Street Market, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Saen is located a short drive south of the famous Golden Triangle, and while you’re in the area, you might as well check out this much talked about spot. The Golden Triangle is where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet at the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak Rivers. The area is well-known for its opium-growing past and has a fascinating history to uncover.

Golden Triangle, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand

A few kilometres out of town is the sacred Wat Phra That Pha Ngao which offers splendid views of the countryside below and is home to a special Chiang Saen era Buddha statue. The serene atmosphere makes this temple an attractive place to explore and even includes an ancient manuscript depository.

Wat Phra That Pha Ngao, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai, Thailand, +66 53 777 151