10 Day Truly Northern Thailand

Arrive in Chiang Rai and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or take a leisurely stroll around the city.

After breakfast, set out for Doi Tung Palace, the former residence of the Princess Mother. Wander through the lush Mae Fah Luang Garden, famous for its colorful flowers and the symbolic statue The Continuity. Inside the palace, you’ll find delicate silk embroidery and unique paintings that change with the light.

Continue to Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost point, where the border town thrives with markets trading goods from Thailand, Myanmar, and China. After lunch on your own, travel to the Golden Triangle, once infamous for the opium trade. Board a boat for a ride along the Mekong River, cruising past the meeting point of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos while enjoying sweeping river views.

Begin your day with a visit to the local morning market where locals shop for fresh produce. Explore Wat Phra Kaew, home of the revered Emerald Buddha, and the Rai Mae Fah Luang Museum. Continue to the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an extraordinary contemporary temple blending traditional Buddhist imagery with modern art references.

In the afternoon, drive to Thaton, stopping at Tha Ton Temple on the mountain for sweeping views of the Kok River valley.

Travel south to Chiang Dao Cave, a historic cave once used by Burmese troops centuries ago. Marvel at impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Along the way to Pai, stop at Mae Malai Market, then take a short hike to the scenic Mork Fah Waterfall.

Next, relax at Pong Deuid Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural pools surrounded by lush forest. Arrive in Pai in the evening.

This morning, cruise along the Pai River, taking in the serene landscape. Visit the Long-Neck Karen village, where women wear distinctive brass rings around their necks, preserving their cultural traditions.

In the afternoon, head to Mae Hong Son. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, perched on a hilltop with spectacular views, and the lakeside Jong Kham and Jong Klang Temples, built in Burmese style.

Explore Tham Lod Cave by bamboo raft, gliding past limestone formations and colonies of bats. In the afternoon, visit local hill tribe villages. Meet the Lahu people, known for their farming and hunting traditions, and the Lisu tribe, famous for vibrant clothing, embroidery, and silver jewelry.

After an early market visit, depart for Chiang Mai via the scenic route through Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand’s highest peak. Along the way, stop at spectacular waterfalls and enjoy the lush mountain scenery. Arrive in Chiang Mai in the evening.

Begin with a walking tour of Chiang Mai’s Old Town, visiting its iconic temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang. Ride through narrow lanes on a rickshaw and visit the bustling Warorot Market.

In the afternoon, ascend Doi Suthep Hill to visit the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, offering sweeping views of Chiang Mai. In the evening, explore the lively Night Bazaar at your own pace.

08:00 – 08:30: Pick up from your hotel.
08:30: Drive 1.5 hours south through hills, forest, and farmland.
10:30: Arrive at the sanctuary. Meet your guide and walk 10–15 minutes to the site. Change into Karen clothing and learn about elephant history and care.
11:00: Meet the elephants. Feed, play, and interact with them in their natural environment.
12:00: Enjoy a Thai lunch with fresh fruit.
13:00: Prepare herbal medicine balls, feed the elephants, and walk them to the river. Join in bathing and brushing.
14:00: Participate in a mud spa session with the elephants, then swim in the river.
15:00: Change and say farewell.
15:30: Depart and return to Chiang Mai.
17:00 – 17:30: Drop off at your hotel.

Free time until your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.