The Golden Triangle
Where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet on the Mekong — the Golden Triangle's opium history, river views, and Hall of Opium museum.

About this Place
The Golden Triangle marks the convergence of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar where the Mekong and Ruak rivers meet — historically the world's most notorious opium-producing region. Today the viewpoint at Sop Ruak village is a popular tourist landmark with a large golden Buddha on a floating barge in the middle of the river and views across into Laos and Myanmar simultaneously. The Hall of Opium museum presents a sobering and well-curated history of the opium trade from its origins through modern drug enforcement efforts. Take a longtail boat ride on the Mekong to the Laos side. Chiang Saen ancient city ruins are 15km south and worth combining. Visit the Anantara Golden Triangle resort for its elephant camp and remarkable river views. 60km north of Chiang Rai.
Location
20.3569, 100.0849
More Nearby Locations
National Artist Thawan Duchanee's provocative compound — 40 black buildings filled with animal skins, bones, and dark spiritual art.
Chiang Rai's spectacular free blue temple — cobalt nagas, gold details, and an incredible mandala ceiling with far fewer crowds than the White Temple.
The late Princess Mother's mountain villa at 1,200m — royal gardens, sustainable development legacy, and cool highland scenery in northern Chiang Rai.
Thailand's most breathtaking contemporary temple — artist Kositpipat's all-white masterpiece with mirror-mosaic details and surreal pop art murals.