King Mengrai Monument
A revered monument honoring Chiang Rai's founder, King Mengrai, surrounded by symbolic statues and offering a glimpse into local devotion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness vibrant city processions
King Mengrai Monument
Best Time
Witness vibrant city processions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered monument honoring Chiang Rai's founder, King Mengrai, surrounded by symbolic statues and offering a glimpse into local devotion.
"An impressive monument, beautifully decorated and well-kept, with a golden monument providing a great photo background."
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this revered site. :pray:
Capture the Golden View
The golden monument behind the king is a perfect photo backdrop. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
King Mengrai Statue
A solemn and impressive statue of Chiang Rai's founder, exuding a sense of gravitas and history.
Golden Monument Backdrop
The beautifully decorated golden monument behind the main statue provides an excellent, ornate background for photographs.
White Horses and Elephants
Statues of white horses and elephants surrounding the pedestal add to the monument's traditional and majestic aesthetic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Best Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this revered site. :pray:
Capture the Golden View
The golden monument behind the king is a perfect photo backdrop. :camerawithflash:
Observe Local Customs
See locals offering incense and prayers; it's a significant cultural experience. :bow:
Free to Visit
Enjoy the beauty and serenity of the monument without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this revered site. :pray:
Capture the Golden View
The golden monument behind the king is a perfect photo backdrop. :camerawithflash:
Observe Local Customs
See locals offering incense and prayers; it's a significant cultural experience. :bow:
Free to Visit
Enjoy the beauty and serenity of the monument without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the King Mengrai Monument to be a beautiful and well-maintained site, exuding a sense of seriousness and tradition. The golden monument behind the king is particularly praised for photography. While some note the presence of lottery vendors, the overall experience is considered a pleasant and worthwhile stop in Chiang Rai.
"the monument is very beautiful and traditional design. It gives me the sensation of seriousness. Local people gather and show their respection and gratitude bu offering, they also burn incense to wish for good things in life and the protection."
Phương Duy Nguyễn
"Absolutely one of the better monument sites I have been to. It’s not that big but it’s very beautiful decorate and very well kept. I really liked the golden monument behind the King as it provides a good background for photo shots. A place worth to visit in Chiang Rai no doubt about that"
Kasper Hammer-Hansen
"An impressive monument and well kept if small green space. Close to the centre so an easy walk. Not so sure about the many vendors of lottery tickets which do little to dignify the area"
Marc Raven
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The King Mengrai Monument is centrally located in Chiang Rai, making it easily accessible. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the city center. Taxis and songthaews (red trucks) are also readily available and can take you directly to the monument. :red_car:
Yes, it's situated in the middle of a main road, making it quite visible and hard to miss. You'll likely see it as you travel around the city. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no fee to visit and admire the King Mengrai Monument. It's a public space for everyone to appreciate. :moneywithwings:
The monument is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and to observe any local activities, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. :clock1:
📸 📸 Photography
The golden monument situated behind the King Mengrai statue provides a stunning and ornate backdrop for your photos. The surrounding statues of horses and elephants also add to the visual appeal. :camerawithflash:
While photography is generally allowed, it's respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially when they are engaged in prayer or religious activities. :iphone:
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
The monument honors King Mengrai, the founder of the Lanna Kingdom and the city of Chiang Rai. It's a place where locals gather to show respect and gratitude, often offering incense for good fortune and protection. :pray:
You'll see the impressive statue of King Mengrai, surrounded by white horses and elephants. The area is well-maintained with flowers, topiary, and a golden monument behind the main statue. Locals often gather here to pay their respects. :lotus:
Yes, you might encounter vendors, particularly those selling lottery tickets. While they are part of the local scene, some visitors feel they detract from the dignity of the area. :money_bag:
During local celebrations like the Wai Sa festival, the monument area comes alive with colorful processions by the city's people, celebrating the founder of the Lanna Kingdom. :tada:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Cultural Enthusiasts
Consider timing your visit with local festivals, such as the Wai Sa celebration, to witness vibrant processions and experience the monument in its most lively state. This offers a richer understanding of its role in contemporary Chiang Rai society. :pray:
Photographers
Experiment with different times of day to capture varying light conditions. Early mornings can offer a serene, less crowded experience, while festival times provide dynamic action shots. Remember to be respectful when photographing locals engaged in prayer. :iphone:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cultural Significance and Local Reverence
During special occasions like the Wai Sa celebration, the monument becomes a vibrant hub of activity. Colorful processions organized by the people of Chiang Rai bring the area to life, celebrating the legacy of King Mengrai, the founder of the Lanna Kingdom. Witnessing these events offers a unique glimpse into the community's deep connection to their history and their venerated founder.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the central figures, the surrounding elements contribute to the visual narrative. Statues of white horses and elephants flank the pedestal, adding to the monument's traditional and majestic aesthetic. The well-maintained green space, often adorned with flowers like lilies and orchids, offers opportunities for capturing the serene beauty of the site. Visiting during local festivals can also yield dynamic shots of processions and community gatherings. :camerawithflash:
Social
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