A slow-paced tour combining the cultural and natural beauty of Thailand’s two northernmost provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai with insights to local traditions and visits to intriguing museums and temples. Enhancing the tour experience are overnight stays at carefully selected luxury hotels that provide a heaven of charm and style.

Day 1  Arrive Chiang Mai

Arrive at Chiang Mai airport and transfer to the Hotel The Chedi, located on the banks of the Ping River and within walking distance to 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, adorned with a 7-tier golden umbrella, is a popular pilgrimage site, its location at the end of a winding road, 1056 metres above sea level, offering splendid views over the city of Chiang Mai and its surroundings. A special dining experience awaits you at the “Le Grand Lanna” Restaurant, one of Chiang Mai’s most famous restaurants.

Overnight: The Chedi Chiang Mai (5*****) 
Meals: Dinner.

Day 2  Chiang Mai

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. Return to Chiang Mai for lunch and for a relaxing Thai Traditional massage in one of the city’s many spas (not included) or for a stroll through the latest “designer” markets and casual boutiques with their tempting array of local handicrafts. Evening is free for your individual programme.

Overnight: The Chedi Chiang Mai (5*****) 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3  Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle

Early morning drive to Chiang Rai, “Gateway to the Golden Triangle”. Visit Wat Rong Khun Temple, outstanding for its unique design and colour. A winding road leads 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 and enjoy a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of Ma Fang Luang. Proceed to the Golden Triangle, marking the border between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, for overnight.

Overnight: Anantara Golden Triangle Resort (4****+) 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4  Golden Triangle

Visit the Hall of Opium Museum, providing intriguing background on the history of opium trade. Enjoy a short boat ride on the Mekong River before continuing to Chiang Saen, trading port with Laos and China and one of Thailand’s oldest settlements. At Mae Sai, Thailand’s northern-most town at the border with Myanmar stroll across the market and take a glimpse at Tachilek, the Burmese city across the border. (Visit to Tachilek is subject to permission by immigration authorities and to a USD 10 border fee to be paid on spot). Return to the hotel in the afternoon. 

Overnight: Anantara Golden Triangle Resort (4****+) 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5  Depart Chiang Rai

Transfer to Chiang Rai Airport for the continuation of your programme or return flight to Bangkok.

Meals: Breakfast