• Accommodation at luxurious and charming
Thai-style Resorts
• Insight into Thai traditions and history
• Culture and nature at a relaxed pace
Day 1: Arrive Chiang Mai: Mountain
Temple and Handicrafts
Arrive
at Chiang Mai airport and transfer to the Hotel
Rachamankha, an architectural gem built in the style
of a Northern Thai temple and located in the middle
of Chiang Mai’s old town. In the afternoon
drive up to Wat Doi Suthep, one of the most revered
temples of Northern Thailand. Its golden stupa,
1056 metres above sea level is a popular pilgrimage
site and offers splendid views over Chiang Mai.
Afterwards, continue to explore more temples in
the old town, or tour the handicraft workshops to
see the art of spinning and weaving Thai silk and
cotton, making of paper umbrellas, lacquer ware
and wood carving. A special dining experience awaits
you at the famous “Le Grand Lanna” Restaurant.
(D)
Day 2: Elephant Camp and Bamboo
Rafting
For “early-birds” an opportunity to
participate in the traditional offering of food
to Buddhist Monks is given at a nearby temple, followed
by a stroll over the fresh-food market. After breakfast,
you drive to Chiang Dao Elephant Camp to see elephants
at work. Marvel at their working skills, enjoy an
elephant ride into the forest (included) and a peaceful
bamboo rafting on the Ping River, before lunch and
returning to Chiang Mai for a free afternoon. (B/L)
Day 3: Chiang Mai - Golden
Triangle
In
the morning drive from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai,
gateway town to the “Golden Triangle”.
A scenic winding road leads up to Doi Tung where
various crop substitution projects have been initiated
by HRH the Princess Mother of Thailand. Once the
expanse of opium fields, the mountainsides have
been transformed into agricultural land where local
people benefit of a remarkable turn-around in environment
and lifestyle. Visit Doi Tung Villa, former residence
of the Princess Mother and enjoy a stroll through
the beautifully landscaped gardens of Ma Fah Luang.
Continue to the Golden Triangle, marking the border
between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos. Overnight at
Anantara Golden Triangle Resort. (B/L)
Day 4: Golden Triangle
After
breakfast, visit the “Hall of Opium”
Museum, offering excellent insight into the history
of opium trading Proceed with a circle excursion
to Mae Sai, Thailand’s northern-most town
and a bustling market place. Opportunity to cross
the border to visit temples and markets of the Burmese
town of Tachilek (subject to cross-border conditions
at the time of visit). Back on the Thai side, continue
to Chiang Saen, the oldest settlement in Thailand,
to visit Phra Dhat Jom Kitti, a hilltop temple offering
views over the Mekong River. Short boat trip on
the mighty Mekong River and return to hotel for
a free afternoon. (B/L)
Day 5: Departure Chiang Rai
Transfer to Chiang Rai airport for onward
flight. (B)
