The Golden Triangle, found in the Chiang Rai province of Thailand, is one of the country’s most famous regions. The area got its name as the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar all meet here. The locals, however, call it Sop Ruak as this is where the Mekong flows into the Ruak River. The Golder Triangle, which was once well known for growing opium, is now the most popular tourist spot in northern Thailand. With a host of things to do and places to see, the Golden Triangle beckons to all holidaymakers.
When visiting the Chiang Rai province, tourists should take some time to visit Doi Nang Non, roughly translated to “Mountain of the Sleeping Lady”. The unusual hill tract owes its name to its resemblance to a woman lying down. According to legend, there has been a pretty lady whose husband left and never came back. Worried and anxious, she went searching for him but he was nowhere to be found. Days passed and she wandered around the countryside until she collapsed from exhaustion. Too tired to move, she died staring at the vast sky and weeping for her lost husband. Over time her spirit grew and was concealed by earth, causing the hill to be formed.
Doi Nang Non lies to the west of the highway between Chiang Rai and Mae Sai, and can be viewed properly at several viewing points along the highway. Characterised by caves, waterfalls and ponds, it is a serene place perfect for relaxation. Some of the caves have been transformed into tourist spots. The most popular cave is the Tum Luang, which extends several kilometres into the mountain. The natural pond Khun Naam Naang Non is fed by water flowing from a series of rocks high above it, and is thought to be the tears shed by the lady’s spirit.
The main mode of transport in the region are trishaws. Remember to negotiate a fare beforehand. Tourists looking for a luxury hotel in Chiang Rai will find the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand an ideal place to stay. It is highly rated among Chiang Rai hotels and is located on the hills of the Thai border, giving guests gorgeous vistas of the surrounding countryside.
