Tour Code: XMX337IRU9G4
3 Days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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Embark on a 3-day journey through northern Thailand, exploring the cultural heart of Chiang Mai, the scenic beauty of Doi Mae Salong with its tea plantations and hill tribe villages, and the charming city of Chiang Rai. Discover ancient temples, vibrant local markets, and breathtaking landscapes as you immerse yourself in the unique traditions and natural wonders of this captivating region.
This morning, between 8am and 9am, your local guide will pick you up from the designated joining point hotel, along with the other travelers in your group. Should you wish to be collected from a different centrally-located hotel in Chiang Mai, please inform your sales agent at least 14 days prior to departure. The journey will begin with a drive to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Your private vehicle (either a minivan or car depending on group size) will first take you to the Chiang Dao Caves, approximately 1.5 hours away. These caves, connected by a series of five tunnels, extend over 12 kilometers into Doi Chiang Dao Mountain. A significant pilgrimage site, Chiang Dao is linked to Wat Chiang Dao and features a reclining Buddha, hermit statues, striking rock formations, and even a royal emblem marking the Thai Queen’s visit. After exploring the caves, the journey continues to the picturesque town of Doi Mae Salong, about 3 hours away. This charming village, with its southern Chinese ambiance, is renowned for its tea traders. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea at a traditional Chinese tea house overlooking the scenic mountains and tea plantations. In the late afternoon, take some time to explore the local markets, where you might encounter unique hill tribe products and crafts, especially from the Akha people. Please note that markets may close early during the low season.
After breakfast, hop into a private minivan or car and set off to explore the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. The first stop is the border town of Mae Sai, located about 1.5 hours away and the northernmost point of Thailand. This bustling town is perfect for souvenir shopping, offering a variety of colorful shops filled with Myanmar lacquerware, gems, jade, and other products from Laos and China, all at some of the best prices you’ll find! Enjoy lunch with a view of the mighty Mekong River, then visit the House of Opium Museum to gain insight into the region’s opium history and its complex past. In the afternoon, board a traditional longtail boat for a journey along the Mekong River to the ancient city of Chiang Saen, once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. On this trip, you’ll also have the opportunity to briefly step foot into Laos. Surrounded by impressive ramparts on three sides and the Mekong River on the fourth, Chiang Saen is a peaceful town known for its quiet wooden shophouses and ancient ruins. The town is also famous for its locally-produced rice whiskey, made in distilleries along the riverbank. After exploring Chiang Saen, head south from the Golden Triangle to Chiang Rai, a journey of approximately 75 minutes, where you’ll settle in for the night.
Chiang Rai offers a laid-back atmosphere, a vibrant night market, and a wide selection of excellent restaurants. This quaint city exudes a small-town charm and is ideal for exploring on foot. One of the highlights for many visitors is Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, a privately-owned site about 30 minutes from the city. This modern temple, which began construction in 1997, is an ongoing project expected to continue for another 60 to 70 years. Its unusual design incorporates elements of Buddhist mythology, human vices, and even pop culture figures like Michael Jackson, Harry Potter, and Superman. After visiting the temple, travel about 70 minutes to Mae Ka Chan Hot Springs, with a lunch stop along the way. While the springs are located in an unconventional spot—a parking lot—they offer a chance to relax with a soak or enjoy a "fish spa" foot massage, all while savoring quail eggs boiled in the natural heat of the water. Afterward, board the bus for the return journey to Chiang Mai, which takes around 1.5 hours, with an expected arrival time of approximately 5pm. Please note, accommodation for tonight is not included.
Member Since 2024
