The province of Chiang Rai is a treasure trove for those hoping to see waterfalls, local villages, and hot springs. A hidden gem is Huay Mae Sai, a two-tiered waterfall just 30 minutes from the city.

Chiang Rai — the city shares its name with the surrounding province — has gained a reputation as something of a tourist trap, thanks to the tour buses that ferry visitors from the White Temple ...