Tachileik

The basics

Tachileik was once a popular visa run stop for long-term visitors to Thailand on tourist visas who would cross over briefly to get visa extensions. Stricter regulations have stopped this practice, but many people still cross over for fun. The town offers a large market with lots of places to eat within walking distance of the border, as well as a pretty pagoda—Tachileik Shwedagon Pagoda—about a 20-minute drive away.

Things to know before you go

• If you have a rental car from a Thai company, you can park on the Thai side of the border and walk across.

• You can use Thai baht and US dollars at most vendors at the border market.

• While visas are not required for citizens of most countries, you should check the regulations before attempting to cross.

• The roads in Tachileik are of lower quality than those on the Thai side of the border, and people who use wheelchairs may find some difficulty getting around.

How to get there

Most people visit Tachileik on a quick day trip from Thailand, and the easiest way to get there is by car or taxi. It's about an hour's drive north of Chiang Rai or four hours from Chiang Mai by car, but it's wise to factor in additional time to cross the border.

When to get there

The best time to visit Tachileik is from November until April, when the weather is generally dry, though April temperatures can get too hot 89°F (30°C) for some people. The rainy season runs from May through October and is best avoided.

Chiang Rai and Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Most people combine a trip to Tachileik with a visit to Chiang Rai. This northern city in Thailand's mountainous north is home to dozens of temples. The most famous is the contemporary Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), an ivory-hued splendor featuring interiors that go heavy on pop culture—even Hello Kitty and Harry Potter make an appearance in the Buddhist temple's art.