North Thailand Explorer

This tour starts in the northernmost province of Chiang Rai, from where you will go first to the famous Golden Triangle and then on to Thaton, on the banks of the Kok River. Continue along mountainous roads to Pai and Mae Hong Son in the northwestern corner of Thailand. Finally travel through Doi Inthanon National Park to Chiang Mai.

Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to unwind or explore at your own pace. As evening falls, consider visiting Chiang Rai’s vibrant night market, known for its lively atmosphere, handcrafted goods, and delicious street food. It’s a perfect spot to soak in local culture and pick up unique souvenirs before settling in for the night.

After a nourishing breakfast, your journey begins with a visit to the ethereal Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), a dazzling contemporary masterpiece just outside Chiang Rai. If time permits, you may stop briefly at Baan Dam Museum, a striking contrast with its dark Lanna-style architecture and provocative art installations.

Heading north, explore the historic charm of Chiang Saen, once a royal stronghold, now a quiet riverside town steeped in ancient heritage. Follow the Mekong River to the legendary Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Here, a visit to the Hall of Opium offers a sobering yet fascinating glimpse into the region’s complex past.

If you wish, a short boat ride on the Mekong (about 30 minutes) can be arranged to experience the river’s grandeur firsthand. After lunch, ascend to Doi Mae Salong, winding through scenic hills dotted with Akha, Yao, and Lisu villages. Pause along the way to observe daily life and connect with local traditions.

At the summit, visit the Chinese Kuomingtang Village, nestled among lush tea plantations. Sample freshly brewed local teas while soaking in panoramic views. By late afternoon, arrive in Thaton, a tranquil village on the banks of the Kok River. Enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay at a Thaton Riverside Resort , where the gentle river sets the tone for a peaceful evening.

After breakfast visit Wat Thaton, dominated by its giant Buddha statues overlooking the valley of the Kok River and the nearby mountains of Myanmar. Back on the road and stop to see one of the many traditional rice mills near Fang. Just a bit south of Chiang Dao you will enjoy a relaxing trip on a bamboo raft drifting down the river for about an hour. After the lunch break take a stroll through the local market of Mae Malai, where you will find some exotic fruits and snacks and then continue along steep, winding roads through the scenic mountainous landscape to Pai. After a brief stop, take a walk through Kong Lan, or Pai Canyon.  In the evening take a stroll through Pai and pick up some street food for dinner.  Overnight in Pai.

After breakfast you may take an optional trip to some local hot springs with chance to bathe there. Afterwards leave Pai, driving through stunning mountain scenery. First visit a Lisu hill-tribe village and then reach the Ban Soppong and go to visit the spectacular cave Tham Lot. Depending on the level of the small river you may have to cross the cave on a bamboo raft. Continue on winding roads through the mountains towards Mae Hong Son. On route you will pass Lahu villages and a stop can be made to meet the locals. Shortly before reaching Mae Hong Son, stop and take a walk across the rice fields on Su Tong Pae bamboo bridge. Arrive in Mae Hong Son and check in to a local resort. Stay overnight in Mae Hong Son.

After breakfast take a tour in the chaming town of Mae Hong Son and visit two colourful Shan temples. First, Wat Jong Klang by the city lake and then Wat Doi Kong Moo on a hill top, which offers great views across the valley. Afterwards you will leave Mae Hong Son for the full-day journey to Chiang Mai, taking the southern route via Khun Yuam, Mae Chaem and finally passing Doi Inthanon National Park. Make stops along the way, such as, at the Shan Cultural Centre, the 2nd World War Museum in Khun Yuam, at Hmong and Karen hill-tribe villages and also at some picturesque waterfalls. Finally reach Chiang Mai in the early evening and check in to hotel.

After breakfast set off on a sightseeing tour of Chiang Mai. Start by driving around the old city, which is surrounded by wall and moat and has numerous historic temples. The oldest of these is Wat Chiang Man, built in 1296. Just outside the city wall is Wat Lokmolee, a 14th-century temple built in an unusual architectural style. Then head up to Doi Suthep temple. The temple complex is located just 1,000 meters above sea level and if the weather is clear it offers great views over the city and surrounding countryside. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards head back down to the city and on the banks of the Ping River take a stroll around Warorot Market, the largest and most important market in Chiang Mai Province. At the nearby Ton Lanyai Market you will find fragrant flowers, vegetables and tasty fruits and then, if there is time, you can visit some of the well-known handicraft factories in Bosang. These include the famous umbrella painters, as well as silversmiths, makers of lacquerware and wood carvers.  

After breakfast transfer to the airport or railway station for departure to your next destination.

• Private air-conditioned transport and transfers
• Hotels as mentioned in the programme
• Local English-speaking guide
• Meals as mentioned in the programme - lunch from Day 2 till Day 6
• Local community and cultural activities, cave tours
• All entrance fees for visits mentioned in the programme

• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide and driver
• Domestic and international flights
• Meals not mentioned in the programme

For our confidential prices or additional information about any of our services,

please contact us at:  info@nutty-adventures.com 

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