Golden Triangle Information

The Golden Triangle: where two rivers, three countries and a history of opium converge. The infamous Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge, is Chiang Rai province's most popular attraction, luring thousands of visitors annually. This notorious area, located approximately nine kilometres from the historic town of Chiang Saen, is bolstered by its history and the surrounding towns. It's riverfront position at the confluence of the Mekhong and Ruak rivers lends it a unique appeal.

Located near the Northern-most point of Thailand - The Golden Triangle was once the centre of all opium poppy growing in the country, and actually refers to a large area of the three bordering countries. However, the point of actual convergence of these borders is what most people now call the Golden Triangle. Here, the illicit crops have long since been replaced by the small tourist village of Sob Ruak, and today the roads are flanked by countless small restaurants and vendor's souvenir stalls along the banks of the Mekhong river.

Sob Ruak's most enjoyable tourist pastime is its boat tours. Longtail boats are available for hire here, and cruising up and down the Mekong River allows visitors a glimpse of village life in the many riverside settlements - particularly over in Laos. It's a good way to escape the many tour buses that roll into town daily. There is also a casino, popular with Thai folk, over on the Myanmar side and special arrangements have to be made to get there - though they are not difficult.

Accommodation in Sob Ruak is supplied by two hotels of international standard, the Imperial Golden Triangle Hotel and the more upmarket Baan Boran. The latter establishment has a lovely terrace restaurant with outstanding views of the Mekong valley and lush green undulations beyond, and is an excellent place for lunch, even if you don't plan on an overnight stay. From Sob Ruak, it is also possible to organise trekking tours to some of the many hill tribe villages that are located in the outlying areas.