Chiang Rai with kids might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a family trip to Thailand, but this underrated gem in the north is absolutely bursting with magic for little ones. Quieter and more relaxed than its big sister Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai offers stunning temples that look like they’re straight from a storybook, kid-friendly nature adventures, and a chilled-out local vibe that makes travelling with kids genuinely enjoyable.
From toddlers to teens, Chiang Rai has something for every age. Little explorers can roam colourful temples, older kids will love quirky museums and waterfalls, and the whole family can enjoy boat rides and elephant encounters. Chiang Rai with kids is a peaceful alternative to the busier cities, giving families the chance to slow down and really enjoy Thai culture, food, and nature.
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Is Chiang Rai Family Friendly?
Absolutely. Chiang Rai with kids is a dream if you’re after a less hectic, more authentic Thai experience. It’s safe, clean, and locals are incredibly warm and welcoming to children. We found people going out of their way to help us with directions, giving the boys treats, and making sure we were comfortable.
There are plenty of pharmacies for essentials, and most supermarkets stock nappies, wipes, baby formula, and familiar snacks. If you’re worried about food allergies or picky eaters don’t be! Many places offer Western food or simple rice dishes that kids will happily scoff. English isn’t as widely spoken as in places like Bangkok, but signs at attractions are usually in English too, and you can get by easily with a few key phrases or Google Translate.
Things to Do in Chiang Rai with Kids
Chiang Rai with kids is all about discovery, fun, and just enough weirdness to keep things interesting! Here are our top family-friendly activities:
1. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Yes, it’s a temple, but not as you know it. This sparkling white fairytale structure is part spiritual site, part art exhibit. The boys were mesmerised by the gleaming exterior and the quirky pop culture references inside (think Hello Kitty and Minions among the murals!).
2. Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten)
More vibrant and less crowded than the White Temple, this brilliant blue structure is a visual feast. Younger kids will love the colours, while older ones can learn about Buddhist art.
3. Baan Dam Museum (Black House)
Edgy and eerie in parts, this dark-themed art collection is best for older kids and teens. It’s a great cultural stop, though some of the displays might be a little intense for sensitive little ones.
4. Singha Park
A huge park with bike rentals, a petting zoo, tea plantations, and zip lines. You could easily spend a whole day here. There’s also a farm-themed restaurant with decent food and a kids’ play area.
5. Elephant Valley Thailand
Ethical elephant encounters where you observe these gentle giants without riding or bathing them. Educational, respectful, and memorable.
6. Khun Korn Waterfall
An easy hike through the jungle leads to a beautiful waterfall. Suitable for older kids who enjoy a little adventure – pack swimmers and water shoes!
7. Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park
A peaceful space with gardens, traditional buildings, and art exhibits. A lovely spot for a quiet afternoon, with room to run and picnic.
8. Evening Markets
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar is super family-friendly, cheap eats, live music, souvenirs, and snacks. It’s not overwhelming, and the kids loved the colourful lights and atmosphere.
Rainy Day Options:
- Oub Kham Museum: Small but interesting history museum
- Indoor play centres in Central Plaza Mall
- Visit a local café with a play area (Try: “Polar Boulangerie & Patisserie”)
Hidden Gems in Chiang Rai with Kids
While the big sights are great, some of the best moments in Chiang Rai with kids happen off the tourist trail:
- Huay Pla Kang Temple: A massive white statue of Guan Yin (often mistaken for a giant Buddha). You can take a lift up inside for panoramic views.
- Tea Plantation at Choui Fong: Enjoy fresh tea, wide open spaces, and the yummiest cakes with a view. Great for a peaceful day out.
- Local Playground at Suan Tung and Rajabhat Park: Swings, slides, and space to roam – perfect if the kids need to burn off energy.
- Boat Ride on the Kok River: A gentle boat trip is a calm and scenic way to explore the area, especially fun for little ones.
Best Nature Spots for Kids in Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai with kids is ideal for families who love a bit of outdoor fun:
- Singha Park (mentioned above): Beautiful, safe, with bike trails and animals.
- Khun Korn Waterfall: A jungle adventure!
- Doi Tung Tree Top Walk: Older kids will love this short-but-thrilling canopy walk.
- Mae Sai Border Viewpoints: For older kids interested in geography, you can visit the border with Myanmar.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Rai with Kids
Chiang Rai has three main seasons:
- Cool season (Nov–Feb): The best time to visit Chiang Rai with kids. Pleasant temps (20–28°C), low humidity, clear skies.
- Hot season (Mar–May): Hot and dry, with highs over 35°C. Not ideal for little ones unless you’re sticking to AC and pools.
- Rainy season (Jun–Oct): Afternoon downpours are common, but mornings are usually dry. Still doable if you pack ponchos and indoor play options.
Avoid March–April if possible due to burning season (air quality can get quite bad).
Where to Stay in Chiang Rai with Kids
Budget
- Baan Jaru Guesthouse – Affordable, central, family rooms, great reviews.
- Mercy Hostel – Budget-friendly with a small pool and communal areas.
Mid-Range
- Le Patta Hotel – Spacious family rooms, good breakfast, walkable location.
- Laluna Hotel and Resort – Lush gardens and a big pool, ideal for kids.
Luxury
- The Riverie by Katathani – 5-star, riverside, kids’ pool, playground, babysitting available.
- Mora Boutique Hotel – Gorgeous family suites and lovely service.
Best areas for families: Stay near the Night Bazaar or by the river for quieter vibes.
Where to Eat in Chiang Rai with Kids
- Heaven Burger – Western-style comfort food, great for picky eaters.
- Chivit Thamma Da – Gorgeous riverside café with highchairs and a kids’ menu.
- Lung Eed – Local-style dining with delicious curries and fried rice options kids will love.
- Hungry Wolf’s Steak & Ale House – Great Western options with a play corner.
- Central Plaza Food Court – Easy, quick, air-conditioned.
How to Get to Chiang Rai with Kids
Flying
- Direct flights from Bangkok on low-cost airlines like AirAsia and Nok Air.
- Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) is only 15 minutes from town.
Buses
- From Chiang Mai: 3-4 hours by bus. Green Bus VIP seats are comfy and have AC.
Transfers
- Private car hire from Chiang Mai is a great option with kids and luggage.
Driving to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai with Kids
Driving to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai with Kids
If you’re planning a Northern Thailand adventure, the road trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is an absolute must—and yes, it’s totally doable (and surprisingly fun!) with kids in tow. The drive takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop for snacks, toilet breaks, or random photo ops (we stopped for all three, naturally).
The route is mostly smooth, with winding mountain roads and lush jungle scenery that’ll have the kids glued to the window (or at least off the iPad for five minutes). If you’re hiring a car in Thailand, this stretch is a great one to self-drive. You’ll get way more flexibility to explore en route, and the whole journey feels like an adventure, not just a transfer.
Kid-Friendly Stop: The Hot Springs Egg-Boiling Pit Stop 🥚♨️
About halfway through your drive, you’ll hit Mae Kachan Hot Springs and trust me, this is a pit stop your kids will rave about. It’s set up right beside the main road, making it super convenient and very tourist-friendly, with toilets, souvenir stalls, snacks, and a place to stretch little legs.
But the real draw? Boiling eggs in the hot springs. Yes, it’s as random and wonderful as it sounds. You can buy a mini bamboo basket of eggs from one of the vendors (they’re pre-packaged and ready to go), then walk over to the bubbling mineral pools and lower them into the steaming water to cook. Kids love it it’s quirky, interactive, and makes the whole journey feel like an experience.
They’ll get a kick out of the sciencey bit (“Mum, is this lava?!”), and it gives everyone a much-needed break from the car. Bonus: the eggs are genuinely delicious and make a healthy snack to tide them over until Chiang Rai.
Tips for the Drive:
- Leave early to beat the heat and give yourselves time for stops.
- Bring motion sickness bands or ginger sweets if your kids are sensitive to winding roads.
- Have a playlist, snacks, and offline games readymobile signal can drop out in the mountains.
- Consider renting a car with a built-in car seat or bring your own travel booster if needed.
- If you’re not keen on driving yourself, there are private transfers with drivers who’ll happily include stops like the hot springs.
This journey isn’t just a way to get from A to B it’s part of the adventure, and if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll be talking about those hot spring eggs long after you’ve arrived in Chiang Rai.
Getting Around Chiang Rai with Kids
- Grab app is reliable and easy to use.
- Taxis and tuk-tuks available near tourist areas.
- Rental car or private driver for day trips.
- Walking is manageable in the centre, but footpaths aren’t always pram-friendly.
How Long to Spend in Chiang Rai with Kids
We recommend 3 to 5 days in Chiang Rai with kids. It’s perfect for a slower pace, with plenty to fill your days without feeling rushed.
Sample Itinerary for Chiang Rai with Kids
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: White Temple, Blue Temple, Night Bazaar
Day 2: Singha Park, Baan Dam Museum, riverside dinner
Day 3: Khun Korn Waterfall, café stop, relax at hotel
5-Day Itinerary
Add: Elephant Valley, boat trip, hidden temples, tea plantation visit
Day Trips from Chiang Rai with Kids
- Golden Triangle: See where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Take a boat over to Laos for 1 hour NO PASSPORT OR VISA NEEDED! Scenic and educational.
- Doi Tung Royal Villa & Gardens: Gorgeous gardens, viewpoints, tree-top walk.
- Mae Sai Border Town: Explore markets and cultural mix.
Essential Tips for Visiting Chiang Rai with Kids
- Pack layers – mornings can be cool, afternoons hot.
- Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
- Carry tissues and hand sanitiser (some toilets don’t have paper).
- Don’t drink tap water – bottled water is cheap and easy to find.
- Keep Google Translate handy.
Family Travel Apps to Use in Chiang Rai
- Grab – for taxis.
- Google Maps – surprisingly accurate in Chiang Rai.
- HappyCow – find vegetarian-friendly options.
- AirVisual – check air quality, especially during burning season.
Packing List for Chiang Rai with Kids
- Light, breathable clothes
- Bug spray + sunscreen
- Swimsuits + water shoes
- Ponchos or umbrellas (rainy season)
- Nappies, wipes, formula (if needed – available locally too)
- Baby carrier or light stroller
FAQs About Visiting Chiang Rai with Kids
Is Chiang Rai with kids safe? Yes! It’s calm, safe, and welcoming to families.
Are there nappies and formula in Chiang Rai? Yes, available at 7-Eleven, Big C, and local supermarkets.
What language is spoken? Thai, but basic English is understood in tourist areas.
Do I need vaccinations? Consult your doctor, but Hep A and Typhoid are commonly recommended.
Chiang Rai vs Chiang Mai with Kids
Chiang Rai is quieter, smaller, and more peaceful. Great for families who want to relax.
Chiang Mai has more activities, cafes, and digital nomads, great if you need more variety or longer stays.
Do both if you can!
Chiang Rai Route Planner / Multi-Stop Itinerary
- Fly into Chiang Mai → bus or car to Chiang Rai → fly out of Chiang Rai
- Northern Loop: Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai → Pai (for the adventurous!)
- Combine Chiang Rai with a trip to Luang Prabang, Laos if you’re doing a regional tour.
Should You Visit Chiang Rai with Kids?
If you’re looking for a laid-back, culture-rich, affordable destination, Chiang Rai with kids is an absolute yes. It’s the kind of place where you can let the kids run, explore temples without massive crowds, and connect with Thai culture in a deeper, more meaningful way.
One thing we loved most? Watching the boys gasp at the sparkle of the White Temple, totally awestruck. One must-do tip: pack snacks and take it slow, the magic of Chiang Rai is in the moments you least expect.
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