Golden Triangle (Sop Ruak),Thailand

• Golden Triangle viewpoint (Sop Ruak) — the three‑country point with large golden Buddha and photo platforms
• Hall of Opium Museum — a modern, well‑curated museum detailing the history and global impact of opium (nearby in Chiang Saen area)
• Mekong River boat trips — short cruises to the three‑country point and across to small Lao riverside villages
• Chiang Saen Historical Park — ancient temple ruins, chedis and museum within easy driving distance
• Riverside markets, riverside restaurants and small handicraft stalls in Sop Ruak village

• Panoramic views over the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak Rivers
• A rare point where three countries are visible within a few meters
• Cultural mix of Lanna Thai and multiple hill‑tribe traditions
• Opium‑trade interpretation at a major museum rather than romanticized displays

• Take a viewpoint walk and photograph the three‑country marker and golden Buddha
• Board a short Mekong boat cruise to see the confluence from the water
• Visit the Hall of Opium to learn the social, economic and medical history
• Explore Chiang Saen’s ancient ruins and local temples
• Shop for hill‑tribe textiles, silverwork and local snacks at riverside stalls
• Enjoy sunset dining by the Mekong — ideal for riverscape photography

Cool season (November–February) for pleasant temperatures and clear skies; avoid the heaviest rains from June–October if you want reliable river‑viewing and dry roads.

Tropical monsoon climate: cool/dry Nov–Feb (15–28°C), hot Mar–May (25–38°C), wet Jun–Oct with frequent afternoon storms and higher river levels.

Golden Triangle viewpoint area is generally free or has a very small local parking/maintenance fee; Hall of Opium typically charges a modest museum fee and is usually open roughly 09:00–17:00 (hours may vary). Chiang Saen Historical Park may charge a small heritage fee. Confirm current prices and opening times before travel.

About 60–80 km (1–1.5 hours) from Chiang Rai city by road (driving or tour transfer). Nearest airport: Mae Fah Luang — Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). Regular buses and songthaews operate between Chiang Rai and Chiang Saen/Sop Ruak. Border crossings to Laos/Myanmar require passports and, where applicable, visas — check immigration rules if planning to step across the border or take cross‑border boat services.

For a focused visit: half‑day to full‑day at Sop Ruak/Golden Triangle (including viewpoint and boat trip). For museums and Chiang Saen ruins: 1–2 days to explore comfortably.

Light breathable clothing, sunhat and sunscreen for daytime; a light jacket for cooler mornings/evenings in the cool season. Comfortable walking shoes for uneven temple grounds, and a waterproof layer during the rainy season.

Try northern Thai dishes such as khao soi and grilled river fish; sample sticky rice and local sweets. Popular souvenirs include hill‑tribe textiles, woven bags, silver jewelry, lacquerware and small teak or bamboo handicrafts. Avoid purchasing items made from protected wildlife or unclear provenance.