DAY 1 CHIANG MAI

On arrival transfer to the hotel and day at leisure. Time to relax or explore the northern capital by your own.

DAY 2 CHIANG MAI

Sightseeing tour in Chiang Mai, which does include a visit to the old part of the city with a stop at an ancient temple. Go on to Doi Suthep mountain temple, which is the landmark of Chiang Mai and offers great views to the city. Next stop will be at Wiang Kum Kam, the former Mon city from the 12th century with it's ruins. Finally you will take a look into some traditional handicraft factories in Bosang like silverware, lacquerware sa-paper umbrella making etc. (just the ones in which you are interested). Overnight in Chiang Mai. 

DAY 3 CHIANG MAI - THATON

Early morning depart for an elephant camp north of the city. On route brief stops are possible, such as at an orchid farm and a local countryside market. Watch the demonstration, how these giants take a bath and hauling logs etc. Then start for a ride (one hour) on one of them, followed by a trip down the river on a bamboo raft. Continue and visit one of the rare Palong hill tribe villages. On route further to the north stop at a traditional rice mill. Finally arrive Ban Thaton for overnight at a riverside resort.

Day 4 THATON - CHIANG RAI

After breakfast visit Wat Thaton with its giant Buddha images, stunning views over the Burmese mountain wilderness and to the valley of the Kok River. Continue to the Shan village Ban Mai. The women of this village are famous for their skills in weaving. Then start for a boat ride down on the Kok River to Chiang Rai, passing scenic areas and hill tribe villages. Take some brief stops on route, for example at a Lahu hill tribe village and some hot springs. Arrive Chiang Rai early afternoon. Some time left to relax. Overnight in Chiang Rai. Take a stroll over the little, but colorful night- and food market.

Day 5 CHIANG RAI - GOLDEN TRIANGLE - CHIANG RAI

Travel further north to the former royal town of Chiang Saen. Take a short boat trip on the mighty Mekong River. On route take a quick stop at a the Laotian river island Don Sao. Finally arrive at the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar (Burma) meet. Have a look in to the small Opium Museum. Go on to the market- and border town Mae Sai. Optional side trip to the Burmese border town of Tachilek can be arranged (one day border pass available). Then travel on to the mountain top of Doi Tung. Visit the royal garden and an Akha hill tribe village. In the afternoon return back for another night in the city of Chiang Rai.

DAY 6 CHIANG RAI - CHIANG MAI

In the morning first visit famous Wat Rong Khun (white temple). From here a side trip to Khun Gorn waterfall can be done. It's a 1,4 km walk up and down trough some dense forest and nice flora until you reach the waterfall. Continue towards Chiang Mai, passing paddy fields and small villages. Visit a countryside market with some hot springs. Arrive in the early afternoon. Time left for more sightseeing or shopping in the northern capital. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

DAY 7 CHIANG MAI

Transfer to the airport or railway station, depends on your further schedule.

PRICE INCLUDES:

Air-conditioned transportation during the tour, English speaking tour guide, all transfers and excursions as mentioned in the above itinerary, accommodation at good middle class hotels/resorts incl. breakfast, half board (lunch during tours), entrance fees

NOT INCLUDED:

Drinks, tips and personal expenses