Chiang Rai travel guide: planning your stay

Getting there and choosing your base

Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI): Mainly domestic flights, including both Bangkok airports. An airport bus runs into the centre and a desk sells pre-paid taxis to any hotel, so a town-centre room needs no advance transfer.
Bus Terminal 1: The old terminal in the middle of town, beside the Night Bazaar. Provincial buses to Mae Sai and Phayao and local buses to the White Temple start here, which makes nearby hotels practical for day trips without a car.
Bus Terminal 2: About 7 km south of the centre off the highway, used by long-distance buses from Chiang Mai and other cities. A songthaew links the two terminals.

Areas to consider

Clock Tower and Jet Yod Road

Suits walkers who want cafés, temples and guesthouses close together. Rooms in converted shophouses can be small or have internal windows, so look at room photos rather than the lobby.

Night Bazaar and Terminal 1

Suits short stays built around bus day trips and evening food stalls. Listings that say 'near the bus station' may mean either terminal; make sure it is Terminal 1 if you want to walk.

Kok River banks

Suits a slower stay in larger grounds on the river, north and west of the centre. Ask whether the hotel runs a shuttle into town; otherwise budget for tuk-tuks or ride-hailing each evening.

South of town towards the White Temple

Suits drivers and travellers who want resort space and easy access to the highway. There is little within walking distance here, so check what the hotel offers for dinner before booking several nights.

When to go

November to February is cool and dry, the most popular time to visit, with chilly nights in the surrounding hills. From about late February into April, smoke from agricultural burning often leaves the whole of northern Thailand under haze. The rains run from roughly May to October; the provincial festival honouring King Mengrai is held in late January.

Before choosing a room

If travelling during the burning season, ask whether rooms have air purifiers and windows that seal well.
For hill or countryside resorts in the cool season, confirm that rooms have reliable hot water and extra blankets.
For trips to the Golden Triangle, Chiang Saen or Mae Sai, ask whether the hotel can arrange a driver or rental car and has parking.

Sources and planning resources

Facts checked on 29 October 2026. Transport services, taxes and hotel offers can change. Confirm the details for your trip before booking.