This two-day, one-night motorcycle trip included an overnight stay in Chiang Rai. The route taken was Chiang Mai - Ang Khang - Tha Ton - Chiang Rai - Chiang Saen.

Departing from Chiang Mai early in the morning, we headed straight for Ang Khang. The road leading up to Ang Khang is quite steep, so please drive carefully.

Doi Ang Khang: A Royal Initiative for Sustainable Agriculture

Nestled in the Mae Ngorn sub-district of Fang district, Chiang Mai province, Doi Ang Khang stands at an impressive 1,400 meters above sea level. Its name, meaning "square-shaped basin" in the northern dialect, aptly describes its geographical feature.

The Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station owes its existence to the vision of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. During a royal visit, the King observed the widespread opium cultivation among the local hill tribes, which not only perpetuated poverty but also devastated the surrounding forests and watersheds. Inspired by this observation, the King envisioned a research and experimental station for cultivating temperate fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This initiative aimed to provide alternative livelihoods for the hill tribes and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The Ang Khang Royal Agricultural Station has transformed the landscape, offering a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Its cool climate, prevalent throughout the year, makes it an ideal destination for all seasons. My visit on February 20-21, 2016, provided a glimpse into the station's remarkable contribution to environmental conservation and community development.

Upon reaching the parking lot, you will be greeted by local Thai vendors selling fresh, large strawberries. They come in various sizes and are priced lower than those found below. You can sit and choose your desired strawberries while enjoying the friendly atmosphere. It's a truly enjoyable experience!

A jumbo rambutan cost around 100 baht. It was a large fruit of the 80 variety. The flesh was sweet, juicy, and delicious.

Doi Ang Khang boasts a diverse array of stunning flowers.

The tour is impressive, and then we continue to Wat Tha Ton. Wat Tha Ton is a third-class royal temple located in Ban Tha Ton, Mae Ai District. It has a total of 9 floors. The top floor houses a beautiful glass pagoda. The glass pagoda refers to a pagoda adorned with various colored glass.

Inside the Crystal Pagoda

The top floor of the temple offers stunning views of the Mae Taeng River and the surrounding cityscape.

The Natnalin Chiangrai offers accommodation for 490 baht per night. Breakfast is not included, but tea, coffee, and hot steamed buns are available for a light snack.

After checking in and storing your belongings, visit the "Rong Suea Ten Temple", a masterpiece by "Slanok", a disciple of the renowned artist Chalermchai who created the famous Wat Rong Khun. The temple is named after the village where it is located, Ban Rong Suea Ten. The new Vihara boasts a unique and stunning artistic style, characterized by its predominantly light blue color scheme.

The sermon is very beautiful.

The principal Buddha image in the viharn is in the Chiang Saen style.

Naga statues flanking the staircase

Let's take a look at Wat Huay Pla Kang. Located in Rim Kok Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Rai Province, Wat Huay Pla Kang is another beautiful temple in Chiang Rai, situated on a hill with surrounding hills offering stunning panoramic views. The temple's most prominent feature is the "Phop Chok Tham Chedi," a unique 9-story pagoda with a pointed shape, blending Chinese and Lanna architectural styles. This temple attracts a large number of Thai and Chinese tourists.

On the second day, we visited the Golden Triangle and had lunch at a riverside restaurant in Chiang Saen. There are many restaurants with beautiful views along the Mekong River. We chose "Rim Khong Restaurant", which had a great atmosphere. Some of the dishes were a bit pricey, but the catfish tom yum was delicious.

Visit the Golden Triangle and enjoy a panoramic view of Thailand, China, and Laos. Make merit at Wat Phra That Doi Pu Khao, also known as Wat Phra That Phu Khao, located in Ban Sop Ruak, Moo 1, Wiang Sub-district, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province (on the Chiang Saen - Sop Ruak route, turn left just before the Golden Triangle). This viewpoint offers a clear view of the Golden Triangle.

This concludes our brief trip review. ^^

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