Chiang Rai is Thailand's northernmost province, essentially in the legendary Golden Triangle the location where the borders of Laos, Myanmar and Thailand converge, 12 km north of Chiang Saen. The border to Laos can be viewed through the Mae Khong River and also to Myanmar with the Ruak River. You can get some spectacular views in the Wat Phra That Pukhao hilltop pavilion, along with the Wat Phra That Doi Thung temple.

In the united states of Thailand there is a city of Chiang Mai.