Things to do in Chiang Saen

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The Mekong is a trans-boundary river in Southeast Asia. It is the world's 12th-longest river and the 7th-longest in Asia. Its estimated length is 4,350 km (2,703 mi), and it drains an area of 795,000 km2 (307,000 sq mi), discharging 475 km3 (114 cu mi) of water annually. From the Tibetan Plateau the river runs through China's Yunnan Province, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In 1995, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam established the Mekong River Commission to assist in the management and coordinated use of the Mekong's resources. In 1996 China and Myanmar became "dialogue partners" of the MRC and the six countries now work together within a cooperative framework. The extreme seasonal variations in flow and the presence of rapids and waterfalls in the Mekong make navigation difficult. Even so, the river is a major trade route between western China.
The Mekong is a trans-boundary river in Southeast Asia. It is the world's 12th-longest river and the 7th-longest in Asia. Its estimated length is 4,350 km (2,703 mi), and it drains an area of 795,000 km2 (307,000 sq mi), discharging 475 km3 (114 cu mi) of water annually. From the Tibetan Plateau the river runs through China's Yunnan Province, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In 1995, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam established the Mekong River Commission to assist in the management and coordinated use of the Mekong's resources. In 1996 China and Myanmar became "dialogue partners" of the MRC and the six countries now work together within a cooperative framework. The extreme seasonal variations in flow and the presence of rapids and waterfalls in the Mekong make navigation difficult. Even so, the river is a major trade route between western China.
At the Golden Triangle in Chiang Saen, Thailand. It's where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. It's a beautiful and relaxed place, with very friendly people.
The Golden Triangle is one of Asia's two main opium-producing areas. It is an area of around 950,000 square kilometres that overlaps the mountains of three countries of Southeast Asia: Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.
A recent picture of Sob Ruak where the two rivers convene at the famous Golden Triangle in northern Thailand.

Chiang Saen Attractions

There's something rather enchanting about smaller cities. Whether you're going to Chiang Saen for a weekend or you're planning on staying for longer, it won't take you long to fall in love with this place. In fact, with so many wonderful things to do and awesome attractions to see, you mightn't want to leave!

If you're ready to discover the best of Chiang Saen, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly guide show you the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {7 fun activities in Chiang Saen fun activities in Chiang Saen} are also worth looking into.

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What to do in Chiang Saen

Free Things to Do in Chiang Saen

Taking a break in Chiang Saen on a budget? The following can be experienced for nothing.

Golden Triangle Park - If you're into pottering about the garden, this attraction will captivate your green thumb.

Things to Do in Chiang Saen with Kids

There are plenty of fun activities to do with the kids in and near Chiang Saen. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Chiang Saen? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Chiang Saen

Golden triangle

Golden Triangle Park

Explore the great outdoors at Golden Triangle Park, a lovely green space in Sop Ruak. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Golden Triangle Park
Khao Luang cave, Phetchaburi, Thailand

Tham Khao Luang Cave

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Tham Khao Luang Cave during your travels in Chiang Saen. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Tham Khao Luang Cave

Doi Sa Ngo

You can learn about the history of Chiang Saen with a stop at Doi Sa Ngo. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Doi Sa Ngo

Golden Triangle Viewpoint

You can find out about the history of Sop Ruak when you stop by Golden Triangle Viewpoint. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Golden Triangle Viewpoint

Hall of Opium

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Hall of Opium during your trip to Sop Ruak. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Hall of Opium

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti & Wat Chom Chaeng

After visiting Wat Phra That Chom Kitti & Wat Chom Chaeng, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Chiang Saen. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti & Wat Chom Chaeng

Wat Chedi Luang

You can find out about the history of Chiang Saen with a stop at Wat Chedi Luang. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Wat Chedi Luang

Wat Pa Sak

Wat Pa Sak is just one of the places to see in Chiang Saen, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Wat Pa Sak

Chiang Saen National Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Chiang Saen National Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Chiang Saen. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.

Chiang Saen National Museum

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Chiang Saen

Golden triangle

Sop Ruak

Life in the Jungle 😎 #chiangrai #katiliya

Mae Chan

Tachileik from Mae Sai, Thailand

Mae Sai

panorama view of mae khong river and laos

Chiang Khong

The edge of Northern Thailand by Mae Khong River. Lao is on the other side of the River. All I want is simply life.✌️

Rim Khong

Frequently asked questions

Is Chiang Saen worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of fun things to do in Chiang Saen. Be sure to experience the area's blend of unmissable attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Chiang Saen?
Golden Triangle Viewpoint and Doi Sa Ngo are two excellent places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Chiang Saen while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Chiang Saen?
Golden Triangle Viewpoint is one of the top tourist attractions in Chiang Saen and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Chiang Saen?
Three days will be enough time to tick off the leading city attractions, including Golden Triangle Viewpoint, Golden Triangle Park and Doi Sa Ngo. The average stay in Chiang Saen is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Chiang Rai isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Chiang Saen with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all of your group, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Chiang Saen with kids.

What to do in Chiang Saen for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Chiang Saen for adults including House of Opium.
Are there free things to do in Chiang Saen?
In Chiang Saen, Golden Triangle Viewpoint is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Chiang Saen.

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