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An update from Evaneos
Chiang Saen

Chiang Saen (Thailand)

Practical information on Chiang Saen

  • Family
  • Encounters with locals
  • River
  • Place or Religious Monument
  • Place or Historical Monument
  • Off the beaten track
4 / 5 - One review
How to get there
2 1/2 hours from Chiang Rai by bus
When to go
From November through May
Minimum stay
One day

Reviews of Chiang Saen

Seasoned Traveller
193 written opinions

Chiang Saen is a little peaceful village in northern Thailand located on the banks of the Mekong, across from Laos. The many temple ruins in and around the town testify to the historical importance of Chiang Saen.

My suggestion:
Late in the day, many young people and families come to enjoy the banks of the Mekong. I suggest that you come and sample the atmosphere, after a day of exploring the surroundings, and enjoy a cool drink on the banks of the river.
My review

The town of Chiang Saen is a small quiet village where it's nice to spend a day or two, in order to have time to visit the town and its surroundings. I particularly liked seeing Wat Pa Sak, the "Temple of the Teak Forest," and its beautiful sculpted tower surrounded by trees.

To change your perspective on the region, I suggest you go up to Wat Phra That Pha Ngao, located4 km south of the town. Not only is the temple itself worth the side trip, but the view of the Mekong and Laos is amazing!

Finally, during your stay in northern Thailand, after admiring the Golden Triangle's landscapes, why not visit the Hall of Opium? This huge museum built in the side of a mountain presents in a very interesting way the ins and outs of poppy cultivation from 5000 years ago through today.

Chiang Saen's temple ruins