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Mueang Chiang Rai (Thai: เมืองเชียงราย; dialect: Mueang Chiang Hai; Lao: Mueang Xieng Hai) is a city in Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Changwat Chiang Rai, a northernmost Changwat of Thailand.

History

The city was founded by King Mangrai in 1262 and became the capital of the Mangrai dynasty. However, it lost this status soon after to a new city built by Mangrai at Chiang Mai. Subsequently, Chiang Rai was conquered by Burma and remained under Burmese rule for several hundred years. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became Chiang Mai vassal. After Siam or Thailand annexed Chiang Mai in 1899 Chiang Rai was proclaimed a province of Thailand in 1933.


In 1432 during the reign of King Sam Fang Kaen of Mangrai dynasty (1402-1441) the Phra Kaeo, or Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha statue, was discovered in Chiang Rai when an earthquake split the Chedi at Wat Phra Kaeo of Chiang Rai City. The beautiful jade figure was then seen concealed within.

In 1992, the City Pillar was moved from Wat Klang Wiang to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, where it is known as Sadue Mueang (Thai: สะดือเมือง), the Navel or Omphalos of the City.

A Guide to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai (เชียงราย), some 785 kms away from Bangkok is the northernmost province of Thailand. Scenic dense mountains, river valleys, hot springs, waterfalls, ancient settlements and historical sites, hill tribe villages such as Karen, Akha, Lisu, Meo and Muser, all can be found in Chiang Rai. Once the province became famous because of the renowned "Golden Triangle" where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge at the banks of the Maekong River and thus the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.

The northernmost town of Thailand, Mae Sai on the Ruak River is the border to Myanmar. Rich in tourist attractions Chiang Rai remains until today a heaven for people looking for a rather laid back holiday, close to nature. Trekking is a highlight in any of the many National Park and roads are perfect for mountain bikes. The city of Chiang Rai was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom and the city's most honored temple is Wat Phra Kaew.


Chiang Rai City Mueang Chiang Rai (เมืองเชียงราย)


Is the capital district of Chiang Rai Province It is very appreciated by visitors for its laid back atmosphere and cooler climate. The main attractions are :

Wat Phra Kaeo (วัดพระแก้ว) once housed Thailand's most revered Buddha image, the Emerald Buddha. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their respective capitals as a symbol of dominance, including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane before finally enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaeo during the reign of King Rama I of the Rattanakosin period.


Wat Rong Khun is the art related Buddhist attraction in Chiang Rai. It was built by the design and the art genius of a Thai artist, Arjarn Chalermchai Kositpipat. With his dedication to Lanna style of art, his works relating to the Buddhist art are recognized by the people around the world. The temple is well known for its decorations with white tone decorated reflected mirrors. The provincial town (amphoe muang) has a few live music pubs and discotheques. Aimed at foreign tourists, there is traditional music in the Night Bazaar with plenty of small tea and coffee shops.