North Thailand Highlights Journey

Arrive in Chiang Rai and meet our representative before transferring to your chosen hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. You might like to wander through the old town, which dates back to the 13th century during King Mangrai’s reign, or visit the lively night bazaar to experience the local atmosphere. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast at the hotel, we begin the day in the city centre with a visit to the iconic monument of King Mangrai. From there, we proceed to the Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre to learn about the diverse hill tribes who have lived in the surrounding highlands for centuries and how they have adapted to modern changes. Next, we travel to the Mae Chan district to explore the remote villages of the Yao and Akha peoples, gaining insight into their traditional way of life. We then continue to Mae Sai, a bustling border town known for its lively market, before entering the heart of the Golden Triangle—where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge. This area was once infamous for extensive opium cultivation during the 1960s. After lunch, we visit Chiang Saen to climb the 350 steps to Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views. We return to Chiang Rai in the late afternoon, leaving the evening free for you to relax or explore independently. Breakfast and lunch are included.

After breakfast, we depart Chiang Rai and head south towards Chiang Mai. On the outskirts of Chiang Rai, we stop at Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. Built in the 1990s, this striking temple is renowned for its intricate all-white façade adorned with mirrored glass, making it one of Thailand’s most visually stunning religious sites. Continuing to Chiang Mai, we visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a highly revered temple perched atop a mountain. You can climb the 309-step naga staircase or take the included cable car to reach the temple, where panoramic views of the city await. Afterwards, we board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the scenic Ping River. Following the cruise, we visit a local farm to enjoy a traditional khao soi noodle curry and watch a captivating dance performance. Before returning to the hotel, you have time to explore a nearby flower and fresh produce market. Overnight in Chiang Mai with breakfast and lunch included.

After breakfast, we visit Elephant Poopoopaper Park, an eco-friendly outdoor museum dedicated to the unique process of making paper from elephant dung fibres. The guided walking tour through lush gardens takes you across eight pavilions, each explaining a stage of production—from collection and rinsing to the final assembly. You can join our skilled artisans and try your hand at this unusual craft. Informative displays also highlight Chiang Mai’s long tradition of papermaking and handicrafts. After lunch, we explore Chiang Mai’s ancient old town, still bordered by remnants of its original walls and moat. We visit Wat Suan Dok, known for its 48-metre-high Sri Lankan-style chedi overlooking the Royal Cemetery, then continue to Wat Phra Sing, a large complex of over 60 buildings. Finally, we see Wat Chedi Luang, a 14th-century temple at the heart of the old city. In the evening, you may choose to enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner (not included). Overnight in Chiang Mai. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Begin your final day in Chiang Mai with a hearty breakfast before checking out of your hotel. The morning is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. Breakfast is included.