Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Thailand's hidden gems, where lush landscapes, rich culture, and captivating history await. From the tranquil gardens of Doi Tung Palace to the bustling markets of Chiang Mai, this 10-day adventure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Explore sacred temples, cruise the legendary Mekong River, and connect with local hill tribes. With stunning mountain views, vibrant markets, and unique experiences like bathing elephants at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, this itinerary promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Upon arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, our local driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
We will depart to visit Doi Tung Palace, also known as the King’s Mother's Garden. Nestled in a beautiful valley, the palace boasts an extensive garden with a wide variety of flowers. Inside, you can explore the main hall, where visitors pay their respects to photos of the Princess Mother.
You'll also find silk embroideries displaying flower names in English alphabetical order and stunning paintings that change color and light as you move. Enjoy breathtaking views from the palace balcony, overlooking the gardens and mountains. You can also stroll through the garden and capture photos of “The Continuity” statue at its center.
Afterward, we will continue to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand, to see the border between Thailand and Myanmar, known as “Tha Khee Lek.” This bustling trading hub offers a variety of Thai, Burmese, and Chinese goods.
After lunch (at your own expense), we will visit the Golden Triangle, once infamous for the opium trade. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a boat ride on the Mekong River, crossing into Laos and enjoying the scenic views that separate the three countries.
After the boat ride, we will return to Chiang Rai.
Begin with a stroll through the vibrant local market, where residents sell fresh fruits and vegetables. Next, visit Wat Phra Kaew and the Rai Mae Fah Luang Museum. Continue to Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple—the region's most visited landmark. Although construction began in 1997, Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat estimates it will take 60 to 90 years to complete. Its unique design and pristine white facade make it a must-see attraction.
We will head to Thaton where we'll visit the impressive Thaton Temple, majestically perched atop a mountain. The temple complex features multiple pagodas and statues, each offering stunning views of the lush valley below. From the summit, you can admire panoramic vistas of the Kok River winding through rice fields and forests for 78 kilometers from Myanmar into Thailand.
Travel to Chiang Dao and visit Chiang Dao Cave, a historic site that once served as a resting place for Myanmar soldiers before their attack on Chiang Mai in the 1500s. Admire the impressive limestone stalactites and stalagmites.
After lunch (at your own expense), continue to Pai, a charming town in Mae Hong Son province. Stop at Mae Malai Village to explore a local market with unique Thai products.
We’ll also visit Mork Fah Waterfall, a stunning 60-meter cascade that flows year-round. Enjoy a short walk through the forest to admire the misty falls.
Next, stop at Pong Duet, one of Chiang Mai's most beautiful hot springs. This natural spa, minimally commercialized, offers relaxing pools surrounded by lush greenery.
Arrive in Pai in the evening and check in to your hotel.
Visit the local market before departing for Mae Hong Son. En route, stop at Ban Jabo village, home to the Black Lahu community. Here, you’ll meet local Lahu people dressed in traditional attire and playing wooden instruments.
Continue to Ban Tham Lod, where you’ll explore the stunning Tham Lod caves by bamboo raft. Cruise along an inland lake to admire limestone formations and ancient prehistoric coffins. The cave system spans nearly 500 meters in height and has been shaped by water erosion for over a million years. The site consists of three main caves: Sao Hin, Tukta, and IP Man, accessible via a 1,600-meter raft ride.
Lunch will be served along the way.
Upon arrival in Mae Hong Son, visit three scenic temples near Jong Kham Lake—a central landmark of the city, surrounded by restaurants, a night market, and a scenic walkway.
Explore Wat Chong Kham, the older of two neighboring temples, built in 1827 by the Shan sovereign of Mae Hong Son. It houses a 5-meter-tall seated Buddha in the Burmese style. Next, visit Wat Chong Klang, built in the 1860s, featuring a distinctive Burmese-style chedi visible from the lake.
End the day with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, Mae Hong Son’s main hilltop temple, overlooking the city like a sentinel. The best time to visit is at sunset, between November and February, when the surrounding mountains are draped in mist.
Embark on a boat ride along the Pai River, offering scenic views of the lush landscape and simple riverside lifestyles. Visit the Long-Neck Karen village, where the women wear traditional brass rings around their necks.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the Su Tong Pae Bridge, Thailand’s longest bamboo bridge, built by monks and villagers to connect their temple with nearby rice fields.
Next, head to Baan Rak Thai Village, a fascinating community near the Thailand-Myanmar border, situated by a scenic lake. Then, continue to Baan Ruam Thai (Pang Oung), a peaceful Shan village surrounded by rugged mountains. Often referred to as the Switzerland of Thailand, this hidden gem features a breathtaking reservoir, pine forests, and colorful winter flowers, with cool weather year-round.
Depart in the morning, heading south toward Mae Chaem, with a visit to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters. Enjoy panoramic mountain views and a refreshing nature walk.
Visit the Royal Pagodas, Napamaytanidol and Phra Mahathat Napaphon Bhumisiri, built to commemorate the King’s and Queen’s 60th birthdays. Stroll through the surrounding Royal Flower Garden, renowned for its vibrant blooms.
Continue to a hill tribe market, where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and vegetables from their farms. Then, stop at Wachirathan Waterfall, one of Thailand’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls, which flows year-round.
Arrive in Chiang Mai.
Embark on a morning walking tour of Chiang Mai’s charming old town. You'll visit the ancient city wall, the moat, and one of the historic gates before exploring some of the city's most beautiful temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.
Afterward, take a stroll along quaint streets lined with traditional houses, followed by a scenic rickshaw ride. Next, immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to Warorot Market, a bustling hub of fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Journey to Doi Suthep Hill, a sacred site steeped in history and spiritual significance. Visit the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning golden temple perched atop the hill. Climb the 306-step Naga staircase to reach the temple, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
08:00 – 08:30: Pick-up from your hotel in Chiang Mai. Drive approximately 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forests, and local farming areas.
10:30: Arrive at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Meet your guide and take a 10-15 minute walk through the jungle to the sanctuary. Change into traditional Karen clothing and enjoy an introductory lesson on elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.
11:00: Meet the elephants! Feed, interact, and play with them in their natural environment while learning about their behavior and history. Capture unforgettable moments with photos.
12:00: Enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Thai food and fresh fruit.
13:00: Learn how to make herbal medicine balls, feed the elephants, and walk with them to the river. Bathe and brush them as they enjoy the cool water.
14:00: Join the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa. Swim in the river and take more photos with these gentle giants.
15:00: Change clothes and say goodbye to the elephants.
15:30: Depart from the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and drive 1.5 hours back to Chiang Mai.
17:00 – 17:30: Drop-off at your hotel.
Transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for your return flight.