Chiang Rai City
Date: Sunday 5th February 2012Chiang Rai city is the capital of Chiang Rai province, in Northern Thailand. The town has a population of approx 65,000 and is the main commercial centre serving the Golden Triangle region of Thailand, adjacent to the borders of Myanmar and Laos.
12.5% of the population are hill tribe people, a collective term for the minority ethnic groups in the North of Thailand such as the Karen, Akha, Lisu, Meo, Yao and Muser. Many Chinese, particularly from Yunnan Province, have migrated to the area and assimilated with the Thai population to such extent that well over half of the large businesses in northern Thailand are owned by people of Chinese heritage. *Source: Wikipedia
There are a wealth of attractions within the city in terms of activities, history, culture, temples and markets!
Chiang Rai is also an excellent base for exploring the northern region, because it is centrally located with many towns located within approx 100 kms – i.e. within “day trip” distances;
There are numerous hotels, covering a range of budgets and catering for all accommodation requirements. In addition to hotel restaurants, there are a multitude of good dining options scattered across the town.
Located 10 kms south of Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun - the White Temple, by renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat - is a visual symphony in white, a striking architectural masterpiece in a land of beautiful temples! Prints of Chalermchai's paintings are available at a shop within the temple grounds. 
The Karen elephant camp at Baan Ruammit on the bank of the Mae Nam Kok (Kok River) is located 19 kilometres from Chiang Rai. Well worth a visit, its easily reached by either long-tail boat (recommended), car or motorcycle. There are a few souvenir shops, hot coffee, and its a nice trip, however you get there. 
