This is located on the city outskirts, beside the northern road to Mae Chan, and honours the monarch who founded Chiang Rai in 1262 Ku Phra Chao Meng Rai. Situated in Wat NgamMuang, on Ngam Muang Hillock, this stupa contains King Meng Rai's ashes and relics.

Known in Thai as Maenam Kok, this scenic 130-kilometr long waterway runs through the heart of Chiang Rai. The river is a major transportation artery from neighbouring Chiang Mai province, especially the town of Tha Thon (180 kilometres north of Chiang Mai provincial capital), from whence long-tailed boats make the 3-4 hour journey every day at 12:30pm (Chiang Rai-Tha Thon: 10:30 am). The river passes several hilltribe settlements and elephant camps from where jungle treks originate.

This temple, on Singhakhlai Road, is a fine example of Lanna Thai religious architecture. The Phra Buddha Sihing image now housed in Chiang Mai's Wat Phra Sing was formerly enshrined here.

The historical towns of Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong dates back to 1300's and are beautifully set on the banks of the Mekong River across from Laos. They both boast impressive ruin temples and teak tress. A large Thai Lue community, an ethnic minority from China, sells their distinctive, multi-colored textiles and souvenirs in both towns.