Just 85 kilometers north of Chiang Rai, on the Mekong River, lies the borders between Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Known as the Golden Triangle, this fascinating tourist spot is a must visit on your trip to north-west Thailand.
Leaving early from Chiang Rai and traveling on the well-paved road north, you will arrive at the Golden Triangle after 80 minutes of driving, well before most of the tourists arrive for the day. There is plenty of parking alongside the road and close to the statues and images of Buddha that you came to see.
Head first to the golden arch featuring the flags of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Here you can take some photos showing exactly where you are, with the sign saying ‘Golden Triangle’ at the top. Close by is the most recognizable landmark of the Golden Triangle, the multi-colored triangle showing the locations of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Close by are some other landmarks and Buddha statues at which you can marvel before heading to the large elephant statue.
After visiting the elephant statue, walk up the steps to the large golden Buddha statue. With spectacular views along the Mekong River to the south, the Buddha statue is by far the most impressive feature at this site. Spend a few moments to reflect on the significance of this location, perhaps lighting a candle at the base of the statue.
Shortly it will be time for your morning coffee. Unfortunately, I found the local coffee shops quite unhelpful, especially so early in the morning, so I found the closest 7-Eleven and grabbed a few drinks. I found a quiet bench overlooking the Mekong River and enjoyed the coffee in the quiet of the morning, well before the tourists had arrived for the day.
Wandering a little further down the river you will spot various signs reminding you of where you are. How about a stop at the souvenir vendors to treat yourself to a fridge magnet or other reminder of your trip?
Heading back towards the elephant statue and the golden arch, you may want to find the path, alongside the office of the Tourist Police, and head down to the edge of the water. Here you will find a small floating platform on which you can stand and put your hand into the Mekong River. Take some time to admire the serenity of the spot as you gaze over towards Myanmar, just a stone’s throw away from where you are standing, or over towards Laos, a little more than a driver and pitching wedge away.
With your visit to the Golden Triangle having come to an end, and the tourists now starting to arrive, head back to your car for the next stage of your day. After my visit to the Golden Triangle I drove to Tham Luang Cave, the cave from where those school children and their coach were rescued in July 2018, as detailed here. My blog post on my visit may be found here.
Enjoy your visit to the Golden Triangle, appreciating this unique tourist spot in north-west Thailand.
You can find directions to the Golden Triangle on Google Maps by clicking here.
During my visit to Chiang Rai, I stayed at the lovely Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort. You are welcome to start your planning by clicking here. Otherwise consider one of the accommodation options in Chiang Rai by clicking in the box below with booking.com or with Agoda here.
Booking.comOur other posts on Thailand may be found here.
(Visited June 2024)