Chiang Saen is the oldest city in Thailand.

It boasts a rich historical significance and offers an insight into the country's evolution over the centuries.

It houses several sites that attract tourists from all around the world.

Chiang Saen is located on the banks of the Mekong River, at the border between Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. Also known as the Ghost Town, it was a political center of the Lanna Kingdom in the ancient era. Now, it's renowned as the place where tourists from all across the world flock to learn the rich history of Thailand.

Chiang Saen is home to several attractions, most of which are worth a visit.

Wat Pa Sak: The Temple of the Teak Forest

Wat Pa Sak is a sacred Buddhist temple dating back to the 13th or 14th century. It got the name from the hundreds of teaks that were planted here around the time of its foundation by King Saen Phu. The architecture of the temple is splendid, representing the classic Lanna style along with a hint of several other styles including Bagan, Sukhothai, and Hariphunchai.

Chiang Saen National Museum transports visitors to the past

Chiang Saen National Museum is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to get an insight into Thailand's history. It's divided into two sections - the Main Exhibition Hall (which is further categorized into 5 parts), and the Complementary Exhibition Hall (which is further categorized into 4 parts). It is home to lots of artifacts collected from the ruins in the neighboring areas.

Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao is a significant religious site

Wat Phrathat Pha Ngao is arguably the most significant temple in the ancient town of Chiang Saen. It has a massive complex that is home to several buildings. There's an educational center where you can learn about the region's cultural heritage. The two museums here are packed with lots of antiques. Also, it offers a magnificent view of Laos and the Mekong River.

Chiang Saen Lake is a must-visit for bird lovers

Chiang Saen Lake is a massive site that provides shelter to a flock of migratory waterfowl. The lake boasts scenic natural beauty, offering a refreshing escape from all the hustle-bustle of city life. It makes for an amazing place to just relax and enjoy lots of me-time for hours. November to February is considered the best time to visit here.

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is located atop a hill

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti sits at the top of a hill, on the northern side of Chiang Saen. It requires a hike of a 350-step mythical naga serpent staircase to reach the entrance of the temple. There's a road on the other side which you can also use for the same. It has a crooked chedi that houses a fragment of the Buddha relic. The views of the surrounding forests from the hilltop here are spectacular in the truest sense of the term.

You can also visit Golden Triangle, Walking Street Market, Wat Chedi Luang, etc.