Golden Triangle

Overview of the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle has now become an ideal eco-tourism destination that is appealing to tourists all over the world.

• The Golden Triangle is 9 kilometers away from Chiang Saen City and 70 kilometers from Chiang Rai.
• Its name: “Triangle” is the gathering place of three countries. “Gold” was used for payment by the first opium traders.
• This place used to take the lead in harvesting and extracting opium from the world since the 1950s.

Aerial View Golden Triangle At Mekong River

Best Time To Visit Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai

• The time between November and February is considered to be peak season since there is no rain and the temperature is cool, which allows tourists to have the best time at Chiang Rai 
• April & May is the least recommended time to travel for those who cannot withstand the sweltering heat
• During June, the number of tourists decreases since it is the rainy season. However, if you don’t mind the rain, it is ideal to pay a visit here since both the temperature and the traveling cost drop

Things To Do At Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai

• Go to see the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), a unique blue temple that houses the striking image of a huge white Buddha statue
• Visit the "heart" of the Golden Triangle - Sop Ruak - a small town that lies in the center of the Golden Triangle, the crossroads of Ruak and Mekong river  
• Gain knowledge about opium, the former worldwide infamous drug trading zone, and more at The Hall of Opium Museum
• Visit Tham Khao Luang Cave or “the lost children’s Cave”. The cave receives more attention after the rescue of a teen football team

Things To Explore At The Golden Triangle

How To Get To Golden Triangle Chiang Rai

• Get on an air-con minivan from Chiang Rai then hop off at the main car park near the river. Departures are very frequent all day long. The trip will take you two hours in total.
• Sob Ruak is on the route between Chiang Saen and Mae Sai and a public blue songthaew can drop you off and pick you up here. Fares are THB20 to Chiang Saen and THB40 to Mae Sai. This service is available only in the morning.