Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai Cultural and Natural Tour

Welcome to Chiang Mai! Arrival at Chiang Rai International Airport in the morning. After you have picked up your luggage, please exit and look for the sign "Meeting Point" at the arrival hall and follow the walking path. After a short walk, you will find your private guide waiting for you near the exit with your name sign. Then, he will escort you to your hotel.

This morning, you will visit the Golden Triangle, which renowned as the center of the opium trade in the latter half of the 20th century. From a hilltop viewpoint, marvel at the splendor of the mighty Mekong as it joins the Ruak River forming the actual "Triangle" between Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. The Opium Museum near the viewpoint of the golden triangle was built to educate people about the dangers of the drug through an entertaining exhibition that traces the history of opium from its first use 5,000 years ago to current issues of drug abuse and addiction. Many publications regard it as one of the best museums in Thailand.

Chiang Rai's close proximity to Laos makes it easy to visit this mysterious country. You will cross the Mae Kong River into Laos to witness local village life. You can walk around the local market where you will have free time to browse and perhaps pick up a few bargains. Return to the Thai side of the Mae Kong River for lunch with river view before leaving for the Doi Tung Royal Palace and Garden (Mae Fah Luang Garden)，Doi Tung was once a secluded area in the heart of the Golden Triangle-a leading region of illicit world opium production. The watershed area was denuded by slash and burn cultivation, and further accelerated by opium growing. After the Princess Mother's first visit to Doi Tung, She announced: "I will reforest Doi Tung".The Princess Mother decided to improve the conditions of Doi Tung, socially, economically, and environmentally. She demonstrated her commitment by building her home in Doi Tung, which is what we called Mae Fah Luang Garden.

After breakfast, we will head to Chiang Mai today! On the way, we will visit the ‘Black House’, known as ‘Baan Dam’ in Thai. Baan Dam is Thawan Duchanee’s artful portrayal of hell. The opaque decor and dead animals adorning each room make Duchanee’s estate the complete opposite of the White Temple, the glimpse of heaven designed by his teacher Chalermchai Kositpipat. Although off the beaten track, the Black House is not something to be overlooked. Then continue to Wat Rong Khun or ‘the White Temple’, blending traditional Buddhist art with contemporary themes. This temple was designed and built by Achan Chaloemchai Khositphiphat. A white ordination hall-Phra Ubosot- is decorated with silver glittering pieces of mirrors. There are large mural paintings of the Lord Buddha in different gestures. A gable- is decorated with a gable apex, al leaf-shaped gable-edging–in the shapes of Phya Naga, dragon and mythical creatures, which are entirely made of white stucco.

En route, stop at a hot spring for relaxation. The water has a high sulfur content and possesses curative and restorative properties. You can have a foot bath with hot spring water to relax muscles, relieve stress and improve circulation. Then continue to Chiang Mai. On arrival, check-in at the hotel and enjoy your afternoon free time.

This morning you will take a local Tuk Tuk to visit Chiang Mai old city, including Wat Pra Singh, It is one of over 200 ancient Buddhist temples located around the city, one of the most well-regarded examples of Lanna architecture. And Wat Chedi Luang, The temple is the site of an enormous pagoda, originally 280 feet high, and which was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545. Then transfer to the Warorot Market, to see and feel the real northern people’s way of life.

After having lunch at a local restaurant, you will continue your Tuk Tuk transfer to the unbelievable Silver Temple - only one in Thailand! This Silver Temple is located south of the Old City and was first constructed at the beginning of the 16th century. Almost everything in the temple is made of silver and aluminum. It has the first silver ordination hall in the world. (please note that women are not allowed entering ordination hall). You will meet with the monks and proceed to the workshop area where silver items are made. You will learn how these silverworks are made at the workshop and attempt to create a personalized silver piece with the help of the artists. After the visit, our guide will take you to walk around the famous Wualai Road, you can visit a few Silversmith Shops along the road and see how the craftsmen make their sliver works. The craftsmen also offer a wide range of goods, plus, with a small purchase, you would certainly help to sustain the silversmith art here. Return to your hotel.

Enjoy your morning half-day eco-tour at the high-altitude village of Mae Kampong. The picturesque Northern Thai village of Mae Kampong is located only 50 kilometers from Chiang Mai city. Nestled on a hillside, 1300 meters above sea level and surrounded by pristine forest, Mae Kampong has a cool and pleasant climate. This village is surrounded by tea plantations which successive generations have woven into the verdant natural landscape. Visitors can experience real Thai village culture as well as enjoy several activities. You will walk around the village to enjoy the atmosphere and relax into the rustic charm of Mae Kampong. Visit local villager's house for a study of hand made pillow using local tea leaf. Do slight trekking through the forest and waterfall, passing tea, coffee and herbal gardens, enjoy strolling through pristine forest and learning how the community manages natural resources and harness hydropower. 

Then, set apart to The Giant, a coffee house located on the top of the tree. Have you been to a giant treehouse that serves coffee with a jungle view? A rope bridge that needs to be crossed to get there? This place seemed too surreal and beautiful to be true. But it is! From the top of the titanic tree and surrounded by virgin rainforests, there's a beautiful prospect over the valley. Enjoy your free afternoon cake or coffee on the tree before return to Chiang Mai.

A relaxing drive about 1hr takes you to the Doi Suthep Mountain. Climb 309 steps (or for the less fitness-oriented, a tram is available for a small surcharge) to the top, enjoying a truly breathtaking scenery all along the way up to the top where you will find Wat Phra That, one of Northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. Have a panoramic view of the city of Chiang Mai. 

Next, take an adventurous ride on a songthaew across the rugged roads toward the exotic Meo hill tribe villages, which is located a further 18 Kilometers from Wat Doi Suthep into the mountains of Doi Suthep Pui National Park. You will visit a native household and discover the daily lives of the friendly villagers. Learn about their unique customs and heritage before returning to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

You can spend your afternoon at your leisure before your guide picks you up for your evening Khan Toke dinner, a traditional Northern Thai food served on a small table with Thai style performance.

After having breakfast, you will be transferred to Chiang Mai airport for your international flight home or to your next destination.