Golden Lanna Heritage & Northern Thailand Discovery

Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your local English-speaking guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.nBegin your exploration of Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to Chedi Luang Temple, a historic landmark built in the late 14th century. Once the tallest structure in Chiang Mai, it formerly housed the sacred Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most revered religious icon.nContinue to Wat Phra Singh, established in 1345 and celebrated for its exquisite Lanna architecture. The temple is home to a highly respected Buddha image and features one of the finest traditional scripture halls in Northern Thailand.nIn the afternoon, proceed to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in Northern Thailand, located at 1,050 meters above sea level. Ascend the iconic 306-step Naga staircase or take a tram to reach the summit. At the top, admire the stunning golden chedi housing holy Buddha relics and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Chiang Mai City and the Ping Valley.nAfter the visit, transfer back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Depart from Chiang Mai at 08:00 AM for a full-day journey to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters above sea level. Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, lush evergreen forests, rhododendron groves, and rich birdlife.nVisit the summit area and walk along the scenic Ang Ka Nature Trail, where cool misty air and unique high-altitude vegetation create a peaceful natural escape.nContinue to the iconic Twin Royal Pagodas, built in honor of the King and Queen of Thailand, offering panoramic views over the surrounding mountains and valleys.nEnjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to a traditional Karen Hill Tribe Village, where you can observe the simple rural lifestyle surrounded by rice terraces, coffee plantations, and forested hills.nEnd the day with a visit to the spectacular Vachiratharn Waterfall, one of Northern Thailand’s tallest waterfalls, cascading approximately 100 meters into a scenic basin—perfect for photos and relaxation.nReturn to your hotel in Chiang Mai in the late afternoon.

At 07:00 hrs, pick up from your hotel lobby and depart for Mae Taman Elephant Camp, approximately 1.5 hours’ drive through scenic northern mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy an entertaining elephant show featuring the elephants’ impressive abilities such as painting, log pulling, and following commands, highlighting their intelligence and training.nContinue with an optional elephant ride along lush mountain trails, offering a close encounter with Northern Thailand’s natural beauty.nNext, experience bamboo river rafting along the Mae Taeng River. Relax as experienced rafters guide you gently downstream, passing rural scenery, local farms, and verdant countryside views.nLunch will be served at a local restaurant.nIn the afternoon, visit the San Kampaeng Handicrafts Center, where you can observe traditional craftsmanship including silk weaving, silverware production, and jade and gemstone carving. Learn about the production process and explore Chiang Mai’s renowned local handicrafts.nReturn transfer to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

At 08:00 hrs, pick up from your hotel lobby in Chiang Mai and depart for Chiang Rai (approximately 3 hours’ drive) via scenic northern mountain routes. En route, stop at Mae Ka Chan Hot Springs for a short break, where you can relax and observe locals boiling eggs in the natural hot spring water.nUpon arrival in Chiang Rai, visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an iconic contemporary Buddhist temple designed by a renowned Thai artist. The striking white façade is intricately decorated with mirrored glass, creating a dazzling visual effect.nLunch will be served at a local restaurant.nAfter lunch, continue to Huay Pla Kang Temple, home to the towering 79-meter statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. Visit the impressive Nine-Story Pagoda featuring layered contemporary architecture and Chinese-style roofs adorned with dragon motifs.nProceed to the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), known for its vibrant blue interior and exterior and modern Buddhist artistic design created by a student of the White Temple’s original artist.nAfter the visits, transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai for check-in and leisure time.

At 08:00 hrs, pick up from your hotel lobby and depart for a visit to the Long Neck Tribe Village, home to the Karen people originally from Shan State, Myanmar, known for their distinctive tradition of wearing brass rings around their necks.nContinue to Mae Sai Town, the northernmost point of Thailand located at the Thailand–Myanmar border. Enjoy time to explore the local market and shop for Myanmar goods.nLunch will be served at a local restaurant.nAfter lunch, proceed to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Visit the Golden Buddha Statue and enjoy panoramic views over the Mekong River. You will also visit the Opium Museum, which presents the history and stories of opium trade in the region.nContinue to Chiang Saen, an ancient city dating back to around 1328. Explore historical ruins, including ancient temples, stupas, and remnants of the old city walls and moat.nReturn transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Chiang Rai. You will be met by your private van and driver for a comfortable transfer to Chiang Rai Airport, where you will proceed with your onward flight to your next destination. This marks the end of your Chiang Rai journey