Chiang Rai is located in the midst of the mountains and hills of Chiang Rai Province it is overlooked by many tourists, who prefer nearby Chiang Mai. This is a great destination for a Thailand honeymoon or romantic getaway since it has retained a rustic charm and a laid back atmosphere.
Every weekend the town center it plays host to a fascinating night market with handicrafts. There is also a nice selection of guesthouse eateries and both Thai and western restaurants. One of the most remarkable experiences is to visit the local Hill-tribe villages. There are many other activities you can indulge in - like visiting the only handcrafted White Temple in Thailand (just south of Chiang Rai, off Highway 1). Wat Rong Khun looks like its covered in snow and is only one of its kind temple in Thailand.
Wat Phra Kaew
This is the most highly revered wat in Chiang Rai. Legend has it that in 1434 the stupa was struck by lightning and fell apart revealing the Emerald Buddha. Today it rests in Bangkok in the temple of the same name. A replica, made from Canadian, is now housed on site. With its lush gardens and large stands of bamboo, Wat Phra Kaew has peaceful grounds and at the base of the enclosure that holds the jade replica there is a pond which is home to massive turtles.
Mae Hong Son - a small town with a picturesque lake and several surrounding wats is just the spot for an exotic Thailand honeymoon.
Take a trip to Wat Phra That Soi Kong Mu (Wat Phai Doi) since it overlooks the town from the west and offers superb views of sunsets.
The Forest Park is around 17km from Mae Hong Son on the road to Pai. It's a very romantic spot with the river in the cave feeding a number of creeks that run through the grounds. The main attraction is Fish Cave which is packed with Phluang fish.
For a scenic drive take route 1095 via Pai (280 km) from Chiang Mai (5-6 hours by car).
North of Chiang Mai on the northern route to Mae Hong Son is a small town: Pai. Most come simply for the relaxed atmosphere. Nearby attractions include hot springs and waterfalls, and a hilltop temple. There is also a wonderful canyon which provides the perfect spot for watching a romantic sunset on a Thailand honeymoon.
Worth a stop on a romantic itinerary is Cinema Paradiso, which offers private movie rooms screening the movie of your choice, at any time. Cozy rooms have worn out old armchairs or floor mattresses, cushions and large TV screens.
If want to escape the crowds and have a few slow days then, Tuesday's aside, Soppong is far less touristy and a good place to use as a base for exploring the surrounds.
It is located halfway between Pai and Mae Hong Son and interchangeably called Pang Mapah.
The area is littered with caves -- including the fantastic Tham Lod river-cave system. Tham Lod is considered one of the most impressive caves in Thailand, partly for its size, partly for its attractive limestone stalactite formations and partly for the unusual coffin cave hidden within the main cave
Then there's some good rafting and kayaking opportunities and the hinterland is dotted with dozens of Lisu, Lahu, Karen and Shan villages.
Tuesday is when the town comes alive with a local market. People of all ethnicity come from nearby villages to sell their wares and trade information and products, and clothing and items come from as far as Bangkok.
Romantic Travel Destinations: from the Great Wall of China and the temples of Angkor to lesser known marvels in Thailand, from the mainland to the Indian Ocean tropical islands, Romantic Vacation Destinations offer some of the world's most intimate and unusual vacation destinations.
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