Weekend Getaway in Chiang Rai 2025: Your Complete Guide to Relaxing Spots & Activities
After a long, tiring week, it’s time to unwind and recharge. Whether you’re looking for peaceful solitude or fun activities with family and friends, Chiang Rai offers something for everyone — from nature and culture to a laid-back slow-life vibe.
We’ve gathered 10 must-visit places and enjoyable activities that will make your Chiang Rai weekend both fulfilling and relaxing.
1. Rock Climbing at Singha Park, Chiang Rai
Experience thrilling outdoor adventure amidst nature with the outdoor climbing wall at Singha Park. It’s challenging yet safe, reaching heights equivalent to an 8-story building. This is a great test of strength and concentration, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Expert staff are on hand to assist and guide you closely.
• Activities: Rock climbing, ziplining, and other adventure zone activities
• Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
• Website: Facebook
• Contact: 084 354 1196 (Sports and Recreation Center)
Tips: Ideal for light adventure seekers who want to snap photos amid tea plantations and mountains. Other activities include cycling, tram rides around the park, and visiting the café.
2. Rafting on the Mae Kok River
The Mae Kok River is one of Northern Thailand’s most scenic rafting spots. Popular starting points include Ban Mae Yao, Mae Suai, and Bo Khong in the Lam Nam Kok National Park.
• Activities: White water rafting in rubber boats, river trekking, and nature sightseeing
• Open Year-Round
• Location: Google maps
• Contact: 081 234 5678 (Local Mae Kok River Rafting providers)
Tips: Check water conditions and warnings in advance, especially for pollution alerts. Use official tourism channels such as the Chiang Rai Tourism Authority and national park centers. When rafting independently, choose providers with proper safety equipment like life jackets, flotation rings, and trained instructors.
3. Mountain Biking at Doi Mae Salong
Doi Mae Salong is a popular biking route for those wanting to get close to nature. The terrain features uphill and downhill sections, terraced tea plantations, and hill tribe villages. It’s both enjoyable and scenic, perfect for tourists wanting to experience local life alongside light exercise.
• Activities: Mountain biking, visiting the 101 Tea Plantation viewpoint, sipping warm tea at local tea shops, photographing mountain views and morning mist
• Open Year-Round
• Map: Google maps
Tips: Use a mountain bike with a good gear system, bring water and sunscreen, and if unfamiliar with steep trails, hire a local guide.
4. Silver and Handicraft Workshop at Ban Tham Pha Tong
Immerse yourself in the charm of Tai Lue culture through hands-on local craft activities. Learn silverwork, basket weaving, and traditional fabric weaving from the community.
• Activity Duration: Short workshops lasting 2–4 hours
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
• Website: Website
• Contact: 053 123 4567 (Local Cultural Center)
5. Parvati Spa at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort
Enjoy premium spa treatments at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, focusing on relaxation and healing.
• Services: include Thai massage, oil massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone therapy, body scrubs, wraps, couples treatments, facials, steam rooms, and therapeutic baths—all in a peaceful, luxurious atmosphere.
• Opening Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Special promotions from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM on weekdays)
• Website: Website
• Contact: 053 603 333
6. Chiang Rai Walking Street (Saturday Market)
A lively hub for local products and culture that tourists shouldn’t miss. Held every Saturday evening on Thanon Thanalai in the city center (in front of the old city hall), the street is closed to vehicles and transformed into a vibrant walking market full of shops, folk art, and cultural performances.
• Activities: Shopping for local crafts, tasting local food, enjoying live music
• Opening Hours: Saturday, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
Tips: Arrive in the early evening to explore comfortably before it gets crowded and hot. If driving, park nearby and walk in. Bring cash as many vendors don’t accept QR payments or cards.
7. Sunday Walking Street Market
A cozy, family-friendly market with a relaxed vibe. Located around Wat Phra Singh and San Khong Luang Road, this Sunday walking street is quieter but full of simple charm, perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
• Activities: Sampling local desserts and buying souvenirs
• Opening Hours: Sunday, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
Tips: Bring a reusable bag to reduce plastic use. Evenings can be cool—wear a light long-sleeve shirt. Avoid driving into the market area; park outside and walk in.
8. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
A popular night market next to the Chiang Rai Bus Terminal in the city center. Great for shopping, eating, and watching cultural performances. You’ll find souvenirs, food, clothes, and live art shows on stage.
Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Map: Google Maps
Tips: Arrive at opening time for beautiful photos of the market’s lantern decorations. For a relaxed vibe, head to the beer garden zone at the food court to enjoy a drink and live entertainment.
9. Mae Fah Luang Market
A local market for those wanting to experience the daily life of Chiang Rai residents. Fresh vegetables, fruits, cooked food, and agricultural products are sold here. Visit early in the morning to see fresh produce selection in a friendly, authentic atmosphere.
• Activities: Buying fresh goods, tasting local dishes
• Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
• Contact: 053 676 114 (Mae Fah Luang Subdistrict Office)
10. Tung and Lantern Park, Chiang Rai
A Lanna-style public park in the city center, perfect for walking and taking photos. Formerly an old prison, it’s been transformed into an 11-rai park decorated with traditional Lanna flags (“tung”) and colorful lanterns, creating a unique and iconic photo spot.
• Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Map: Google maps
Tips: Visit during the “flower bloom” season (late December to mid-February) when flowers and music events are held. Evenings offer beautiful light displays. The park is conveniently near the Saturday Walking Street for combined visits.
Chiang Rai truly has everything for your weekend getaway — whether you prefer peaceful relaxation or exciting adventures. With stunning nature, captivating culture, and vibrant local markets, it suits every lifestyle. Whether you come to chill or be active, there’s plenty to choose from for an unforgettable trip.