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 kilometers 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 Here, the illicit crops have long since been replaced by the small tourist village of Sob Ruak, and today the roads are flanked by countless small restaurants and vendor's souvenir stalls along the banks of the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. Long tail 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 arrangementshave to be made to get there - though they are not difficult. Accommodation in Sop Ruak is supplied by two hotels of international standard, the Imperial Golden Triangle Hotel and the more upmarket Baan Boran. Nearby however, is the Anantara Resort which is in a league of its own. Baan Boran 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 Sop Ruak, it is also possible to organise trekking tours to some of the many hill tribe villages that are located in the outlying areas.
Sop Ruak is the Thai name of the town that visitors know as the Golden Triangle. The small town has a number of interesting things to see and do and boasts of some fine hotels with good views.
Many visitors only pass here, stopping for half an hour of so. The scenery is one of the main draws with unforgettable sunsets when the weather is clear. Misty mornings are also a popular feature with visitors.
Shopping. The usual selection of stalls offers tribal souviners, clothing, shirts and sun-hats and an astonishing array of Chinese dried mushrooms.
Several tribal villagers including Akha are located near-by via a route of mud paths. Transportation will be necessary to get to them.
The hillside temple offers a panoramic view of the three countries that are bordered by the Mighty Mae Khong river. At 4184 kilometers or 2600 miles it is the longest river in SE Asia and the eighth longest river in the world. It is also known as the Cuu Long Giang, Dza-chu, Lancang Jiang, Lan-ts’ang Chiang, Mae Nam Khong, M?gaung Myit, Song Cuu Long, Tonle Thom. The river runs from Tibet, China, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.
Opium House is a small museum located in the centre of the town. It has an interesting collection of opium regalia and, at only 50 c admission fee represents excellent value. Photographs, models, opium weights and displays are all well laid out and some interesting details about Khun Sa are also posted