Chiang Saen (Chiang Rai) Hotels
The extremely southern point of the Golden Triangle is the home to one of the most ancient cities in Thailand, known as Chiang Saen. Even today, Chiang Saen is a very small town and a popular tourist attraction. Skirting the banks of the Mighty Mekhong River, Chiang Saen was a major trading center back in the 7th century and was part of the Yonok Kingdom, and believed to be the birthplace of King Mengrai, the founder of the Lanna Kingdom.
Even today, the Chiang Saen makes for an exciting study in ancient Thai architecture and culture. The old walled town is pretty much the way it was hundreds of years ago when established by King Mengrai in 1261. For a deeper glimpse into the historic past of the town, a visit to the 50 years old, Chiang Saen National Museum is a must.
Thailand’s landscape is punctuated by numerous old Wats, or temples dating back to many centuries. Chiang Saen is no different, the Wat Jedi Luang, who’s Jedi (Chedi) is considered as the ‘Grand Jedi’ is a grand example of the might of the Mengrai Dynasty. Another temple, the Wat Pa Sak, is built within a site that was a forest of tall teak trees. The wat has been restored in the recent years. Outside the walled city lies the very old, 7th century, Wat Prathart Doi Jom Gitti, perched atop a hill providing panoramic views of the Chiang Saen town as it flirts with the majestic Mekhong River. A mesmerising sight indeed!
Chiang Saen – Truly ancient and captivating!