Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv
This temple holds genuine historical weight as a site dedicated to King Mengrai, the 13th–14th century monarch who founded both the Lanna Kingdom and the city of Chiang Rai itself. For travellers with an interest in northern Thai history and culture, it offers a meaningful point of connection to the region's origins, sitting within the Mueang Chiang Rai District and remaining accessible as part of a broader city exploration.
Visitors can expect the calm, contemplative atmosphere characteristic of smaller northern Thai temples — less crowded than major tourist landmarks, which makes for a more personal experience. The site draws a mix of local worshippers and culturally curious travellers. Some ongoing construction work nearby has been noted by visitors, so the surroundings may be less tranquil than usual, though the temple itself remains worth the stop.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Interesting place. You can stop by if you around this area
Closes 5pm
Very nice place, currently construction work next to this place, so it’s not quite, but worth seeing it.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 117 reviews on Google.
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Golden Triangle
Stand where three countries meet on the Mekong, then decide if the 1.5-hour drive was worth it.

Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Come hungry, grab a table near the stage early, and treat it as a whole evening rather than a quick browse.

Singha Park Chiang Rai
A 30,000-rai tea estate you tour by golf cart or bike, but mind the rental time limits.

Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
A colonial-style house on the Kok River where the garden, the food and the prices all run higher than average.
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv worth visiting?
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv holds a 4.5★ rating from 117 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Chiang Rai.
What are the opening hours of Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv?
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv is typically open 09:00-18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv located?
Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv is at WR7G+23M, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
WR7G+23M, Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Wat Doi Ngam Muang
A hilltop 14th-century temple in Chiang Rai holding the ashes of King Mangrai and Thailand's first Emerald Buddha.

Military Museum 37th Army Region
Free military museum in central Chiang Rai with historic exhibits, lovely grounds, and an on-site coffee shop.

Wat Phra Kaew
The temple where the Emerald Buddha was found in 1434, and still quiet enough to actually think in.

Chiang Rai City Pillar Shrine (San Lak Mueang)
A sacred hilltop shrine marking the spiritual and historical birthplace of Chiang Rai city.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.

Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.

The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Ku Phra Chao Mengrai - kiv
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
