North Thailand Highlights

Discover the magic of Northern Thailand, its temples and markets, stunning scenery and hill-tribe villages. Enjoy an adventurous tour by 3-wheel tuk tuk along mountain roads, learning about the way of life of the local people, visiting an elephant sanctuary and taking a relaxing trip down the river on a bamboo raft.

Arrival in Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand. Transfer to
Banthai Village Hotel, a boutique property located in the heart of the old city. Check in and take time to freshen up and settle into your surroundings.

After lunch, begin a walking tour of Chiang Mai’s historic old town:

• Visit Wat Phra Singh, a revered temple showcasing classic Lanna architecture.
• Continue to Wat Chedi Luang, known for its towering ancient chedi.
• Pause at the Three Kings Monument, a tribute to the city’s founders,
• Stroll through Tha Pae Gate, a landmark entrance to the walled city.

Conclude the afternoon at Warorot Market, a lively local hub for shopping and cultural immersion. Return to the hotel to relax before dinner. In the evening, explore the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, a vibrant destination for local crafts, souvenirs, and authentic atmosphere. Enjoy the energy of the market before returning to the hotel for the night.

After breakfast, you'll be picked up from your hotel and transferred about 45 to 60 minutes southwest of Chiang Mai to the tuk tuk base in the scenic Mae Wang district, known for its peaceful landscapes and traditional villages.

On arrival, you'll meet your specially adapted tuk tuk—designed for mountain roads with extra legroom and a roll-back roof for panoramic views. It's a comfortable and immersive way to explore the countryside. Your journey begins through the Mae Wang valley, passing quiet farming communities and winding roads. The first stop is Wat Doi Sapanyoo, a remote hilltop temple with towering Buddha statues and stunning 360-degree views.

Continue north through scattered villages toward Mae Sapok, a tranquil valley of rice terraces, water buffalo, and—if you're lucky—elephants by the stream. A short forest walk leads to a waterfall, followed by a visit to a nearby hill tribe village to learn about local traditions.

At the elephant home, enjoy lunch and discover how Thai communities are working to protect elephants. Help the mahouts feed them, then walk through the countryside to the river and assist in bathing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Next, enjoy a change of pace with a gentle bamboo rafting experience along the local river. With no rapids to worry about, this peaceful float offers a fresh perspective on the surrounding landscape and plenty of light-hearted fun as you navigate the river’s gentle curves.

After rafting, return to Mae Wang via quiet back roads, passing through charming rural communities. Stop at a beautiful temple to learn about the role of monks and spiritual life in these small villages, gaining insight into local traditions and beliefs.

By around 18.00, arrive at a welcoming family-run restaurant, where you’ll be treated to authentic country-style Thai cooking. After a relaxed and flavourful dinner, transfer back to your hotel in Chiang Mai, arriving at approximately 20.00.

After breakfast, leave your hotel in Chiang Mai and begin the scenic journey north toward Chiang Rai. Along the way, stop at Mae Khachan Hot Springs, a popular roadside spot where you can soak your feet in naturally heated pools and even boil eggs in bubbling thermal water—a quirky and fun local tradition.

Continue on to Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple, one of Thailand’s most iconic and visually striking landmarks. With its gleaming white façade and intricate, surreal details, this contemporary masterpiece offers a fascinating blend of Buddhist symbolism and modern art.

After an early breakfast, begin your full-day exploration of Chiang Rai’s cultural and natural highlights. Travel into the mountains that trace the border with Myanmar, where you’ll have the chance to visit remote Akha villages and experience the rhythms of life in this unique hill tribe community.

Your first stop is Doi Tung, a celebrated mountain destination offering sweeping views, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the elegant summer palace of the late Queen Mother. From here, continue along a winding mountain road to Baan Pha Mee, an Akha village deeply connected to the Royal Project. Learn how this initiative helped the community transition from opium cultivation to sustainable coffee farming, now a proud local speciality.

Enjoy a traditional Akha lunch, rich in regional flavours and hospitality. In the late afternoon, return to Chiang Rai with a stop at Wat Rong Suea Ten—the striking Blue Temple—known for its vivid colours and contemporary Buddhist art. As evening falls, head back into the lively night markets to savour more of Northern Thailand’s irresistible street food and vibrant atmosphere.

After breakfast, begin your onward journey as we arrange your transfer to your next destination. Whether you're heading to Chiang Mai Airport, the Train Station, or the Bus Station, your transfer will be tailored to your travel plans, ensuring a smooth and timely departure from the city.

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

• Additional soft drinks/alcohol
• Personal expenses
• Meals not mentioned in the programme
• Gratuities
• Domestic and international flights

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

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

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