Chiang Rai History
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Chiang Rai Thailand
Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 under King Menrai in 1262. With the junction of Sai river, Ruak River, and the mighty Mekong just to the north (1 days elephant ride away) plus the small lazy river Kok runs through Chiang Rai. All put together meant that Chiang Rai was an excellent trading post ... connecting Mekong River Trade (China, Laos, Khamer, and Vietnam States) with a short cut to the Indian ocean (just 2-3 days elephant ride over the mountains).
Wat Phra Kaew was home of the Emerald Buddha ... before it wandered down south.
Historical Facts
- 1262 Chiang Rai built as a trade center for Lanna Kingdom
- 1786 Chiang Rai becomes Siamese territory
- 1919 Chiang Rai is annexed as Thai province
