Golden Horizons: The Spirit of Chiang Rai

Day 1
Chiang Rai Arrival

Welcome to Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand, known for its tranquil landscapes and vibrant hill tribe culture. Upon arrival at Chiang Rai Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in the city center. Take time to relax and recover from your journey, soaking in the charm of this historic city that once served as the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th century.

Overnight in Chiang Rai

Meals not included in tour price

Day 2
Chiang Rai City Tour, Boat Cruise on Mae Kok River Chiang Rai

After breakfast, begin your cultural exploration with a visit to a local market, where colorful stalls brim with exotic fruits, spices, and traditional handicrafts.

Your journey continues to Wat Phra Kaew, one of Chiang Rai’s most sacred temples, once home to the Emerald Buddha (now housed in Bangkok’s Grand Palace). Next, visit Wat Phra Singh, showcasing the refined elegance of Lanna architecture and considered one of the city’s oldest temples, dating back to the 14th century.

Discover the enigmatic Baan Dam (Black House), an eclectic art museum by the late national artist Thawan Duchanee. This unique complex of dark teakwood houses filled with animal bones, horns, and intricate carvings symbolizes the mysteries of life and death in Northern Thai culture.

After lunch, embark on a serene boat cruise along the Mae Kok River, passing lush riverside scenery en route to a Karen village, where you can observe or feed elephants – an experience rooted in the region’s deep connection to these gentle giants. Return to Chiang Rai in the evening.

Overnight in Chiang Rai

Breakfast: Included in tour price

Day 3
Chiang Rai, Mae Chan Karen Village (Long Neck), Doi Mae Salong , Golden Triangle

After breakfast, set out for Mae Chan, gateway to the hill tribes of northern Thailand. Stop at the Padong Karen village, where women famously wear brass rings around their necks – a centuries-old tradition believed to enhance beauty and cultural identity.

Continue along winding mountain roads to Doi Mae Salong, a mountaintop town once known for its opium trade, now transformed into a hub for lush tea plantations established by Chinese Yunnanese settlers. Enjoy a tasting of locally grown oolong tea while learning about the area’s rich history and breathtaking vistas.

Visit the Akha village of Loyo, where you’ll witness the unique customs of this hill tribe known for their ornate headdresses adorned with silver and beads.

The day’s journey culminates at the legendary Golden Triangle, where the mighty Mekong River meets the Ruak, forming the natural border between Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Once infamous for its role in the global opium trade, it is now a symbol of cross-border trade and cultural blending. Board a long-tail boat to the Laotian side for a rare perspective of this iconic meeting point. Return to Chiang Rai for your overnight stay.

Overnight in Chiang Rai

Breakfast: Included in tour price

Day 4
Chiang Rai Departure

After breakfast, enjoy your remaining moments in Chiang Rai – perhaps a stroll through the quiet streets or a final cup of local tea – before your transfer to the airport for departure.

Breakfast: Included in tour price