Old Chiang Rai Airport

Old Chiang Rai Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Northern Thailand, the Old Chiang Rai Airport stands as a living testament to the region’s aviation heritage and urban evolution. Established in 1926 as the first airport in northern Thailand and the third in the country, it played a pivotal role in connecting Chiang Rai to the rest of Thailand during an era when overland travel was challenging. Over the years, it transformed from a strategic military base during World War II to a busy civil aviation hub, before transitioning into a vibrant public space after its closure to commercial flights in 1992. Today, the grounds offer a unique blend of historical remnants, cultural activities, and green recreational space, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, aviation aficionados, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Chiang Rai’s community life.

This guide provides in-depth information about visiting hours, accessibility, cultural events, travel tips, nearby attractions, and practical advice to help you make the most of your visit. Whether planning a historical tour or looking for a tranquil urban retreat, the Old Chiang Rai Airport delivers a multifaceted experience rooted in Chiang Rai’s rich heritage and dynamic community.

For further reading and the latest updates, refer to sources like the Wikipedia entry on Old Chiang Rai Airport, WW2 North Thailand’s Chiang Rai Area Air Facilities Review, and the Chiang Rai International Airport Official Site.

Introduction
Visiting Hours and Access Information
What to See and Do
How to Get There
Historical Overview
Community and Cultural Activities
Facilities and Visitor Experience
Connectivity and Nearby Attractions
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Resources
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources

Visiting Hours and Access Information

Opening Hours:
The Old Chiang Rai Airport grounds are open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. These extended hours accommodate both early-morning joggers and evening visitors. Event-specific hours may vary, so check local listings for updates.

Entry and Tickets:
General admission is free of charge. Special events, concerts, or guided tours may require tickets, which are typically affordable and available on-site or via local tourism platforms.

Accessibility:
The site is accessible by foot, bicycle, tuk-tuk, or songthaew from the city center. Pathways are mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, though some event setups may affect accessibility. Visitors with mobility needs should confirm details for specific events ahead of time (Will Fly for Food).

Guided Tours:
While regular guided tours are not provided on-site, some local tour operators and community groups occasionally offer historical tours. These can be booked through travel agencies or online platforms.

What to See and Do at Old Chiang Rai Airport

Historic Runways and Structures:
Explore stretches of the original runway and surviving World War II-era facilities, offering tangible insights into the site’s military and aviation past.
Community Events and Festivals:
The grounds frequently host local festivals, including Songkran (Thai New Year), Loy Krathong, concerts, and sports events, reflecting Chiang Rai’s vibrant community spirit (The Thaiger).
Markets and Local Commerce:
On weekends and special occasions, pop-up markets feature Northern Thai delicacies, handicrafts, and souvenirs, providing a lively social atmosphere.
Recreational Space:
Outside event hours, the grounds function as an informal city park, popular for jogging, cycling, group exercises, and family outings.
Emergency and Rescue Operations Hub:
The airport serves as a base for rescue helicopters and emergency missions, most notably during the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue (Wikipedia - Old Chiang Rai Airport).

How to Get There

Location:
The Old Chiang Rai Airport is located in the Rop Wiang subdistrict, approximately 2 kilometers from Chiang Rai city center.

Transportation Options:

Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Taxis are readily available. The Grab app offers convenient, fixed-price rides.
Tuk-Tuk or Songthaew: Affordable and authentic local transport for short distances.
Bicycle: Bike rentals are available in the city center.
Rental Vehicles: Car and scooter rentals offer flexibility; an international driving permit is recommended.

Parking:
Limited parking is available on-site and in adjacent areas.

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Years (1926–1941)

Established in 1926, the airport connected Chiang Rai to the rest of Thailand at a time when overland travel was arduous. By the 1950s, it expanded to include two runways (Airports-Worldwide).

Wartime Role (1941–1945)

During World War II, the airport was used by both the Royal Thai Air Force and Japanese forces. Japanese troops constructed additional runways and used the site as a military base (WW2 North Thailand).

Postwar Civil Aviation (1945–1992)

After the war, the airport resumed civil operations, boosting regional economic growth. However, the rise in air traffic and the need for modern infrastructure led to the opening of Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport in 1992 (Chiang Rai International Airport Official Site).

Adaptive Reuse (1992–Present)

The decommissioned airport grounds shifted to public use, hosting community events, markets, and serving as an emergency hub. Architectural remnants have been preserved to maintain a link to the past (Wikimedia Commons).

Community and Cultural Activities

Festivals and Public Events:
The grounds host major Thai festivals, parades, lantern releases, concerts, and sports tournaments throughout the year.
Art and Education:
Local schools and NGOs use the site for history walks, environmental projects, and youth programs, fostering cultural pride and historical awareness.
Markets:
Weekend and night markets feature local cuisine and crafts, supporting small businesses and artisans (The Lost Passport).

Facilities and Visitor Experience

Amenities:
Facilities are basic; public restrooms and shaded seating are available during large events. Bring water and sun protection for daytime visits.
Safety:
The site is generally safe. Community volunteers and local police provide assistance during events.
Photography:
The juxtaposition of preserved infrastructure and community life offers excellent photo opportunities.

Connectivity and Nearby Attractions

The Old Chiang Rai Airport is a convenient starting point for exploring Chiang Rai’s top attractions:

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple): 13 km south of city center—world-renowned for its contemporary all-white design (Salt in Our Hair).
Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): Notable for its vibrant blue hues and intricate architecture.
Baan Dam Museum (Black House): A striking art complex showcasing dark, unique architecture (The Lost Passport).
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar: Evening market with food, crafts, and performances.
Art Bridge Chiang Rai: A nearby contemporary art gallery with rotating exhibitions.

Practical Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit:
The cool season (October to February) offers pleasant weather for outdoor exploration.
Language:
English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas; download the Google Translate Thai language pack for convenience (Salt in Our Hair).
Cash:
Bring cash for markets and small vendors.
Connectivity:
4G coverage is reliable; offline maps and translation apps are advised.
Attire:
Dress modestly, especially when attending local events or entering temples.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Old Chiang Rai Airport?
A: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: General access is free. Some events or tours may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, through local tour operators; advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Most areas are accessible, but event setups may temporarily limit access.

Q: Can I visit the airport as part of other Chiang Rai attractions?
A: Yes. The site is near several major temples and museums, making it easy to include in a day’s itinerary.

Visual Resources

For maps, virtual tours, and images, consult local tourism websites and travel blogs. Alt text such as “Old Chiang Rai Airport visiting hours” and “Chiang Rai historical sites” improves accessibility and SEO (Wikimedia Commons).

Conclusion and Recommendations

The Old Chiang Rai Airport is a vivid example of adaptive reuse, blending historical preservation with community vitality. Its role as both a historic landmark and a hub for public life makes it a highlight for visitors seeking to understand Chiang Rai’s past and present. Plan your visit during festivals or weekends to experience its lively atmosphere, or enjoy a peaceful stroll through this green urban oasis any day of the week.

For up-to-date event listings, travel tips, and exclusive content, download the Audiala app and follow our social channels. Explore related articles on Chiang Rai’s historical sites to enrich your journey. Start planning today to discover the unique heritage and communal spirit that define the Old Chiang Rai Airport.