Discover the charms of Northern Thailand: A journey through enchanting Chiang Rai and cultural Chiang Mai

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure in Northern Thailand. Discover the highlights of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai – from the mysterious Golden Triangle and sacred temples to unforgettable elephant encounters and authentic Thai cooking classes.

"When most people think of the Golden Triangle, they picture a quick photo by the river. But to truly understand what happened to this land—and what grew in its place—you need more than just a viewpoint. Believe me, this is far from a history lecture. You'll spend the day with the people who lived there, in places most tours simply pass by. I'm saving the best moments for you—some things are better left untouched."

Travel Highlights

Travel Moments

A travel itinerary for inspiration

This daily itinerary is an excellent starting point and has been put together by our experts to present you with the best of Thailand at a comfortable pace.

Arrival in Chiang Rai

  • Upon your arrival, you will be met at the airport by your tour guide and driver and taken to the hotel.
  • Use the rest of the day to get used to jet lag or to stroll around your hotel.

    • The Golden Triangle: What came after opium?

  • Begin your Golden Triangle adventure at the House of Opium, a private museum that reveals the region's turbulent history through captivating stories and authentic artifacts. Step inside and discover a side of the Golden Triangle beyond its famous name.
  • Next, we'll head to the Golden Triangle viewpoint, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Enjoy the view of the Mekong River and gain a deeper understanding of this legendary border region.
  • Embark on a journey into the mountains and experience the changing landscape of the Golden Triangle. Meet locals and discover how communities have transformed their relationship with the land through new opportunities and sustainable livelihoods.
  • Finally, we will take you back to your hotel in Chiang Rai, where you will leave with a deeper understanding of the past and present of the Golden Triangle.

    • Temple tour in Chiang Raig, transfer to Chiang Mai

  • After breakfast, you should visit three remarkable temples in Chiang Rai: the White Temple, the Blue Temple, and the Black House Museum.
  • Listen to the stories of the locals and take breathtaking photos in these unique places.
  • The White Temple blends unconventional art with Buddhist tradition, while the Black House Museum presents shrines in a somber aesthetic. The Blue Temple, the newest addition, captivates with its striking blue facade and showcases modern Buddhism.
  • After the tour, the journey to your hotel in Chiang Mai will take approximately 3 hours.

    • A deeper side of Chiang Mai: Buddhist traditions and elephant care

  • Start your morning at Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai's oldest temple, and discover the city's Buddhist heritage in the peaceful atmosphere of early morning.
  • Next, we will go to Wat Chedi Luang, where you can experience morning chants, participate in a traditional flower offering, and learn about the rhythm of daily temple life.
  • Get in touch with a monk and gain a deeper understanding of Thai Buddhism through a personal conversation that goes beyond the temples themselves.
  • In the afternoon you will visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary to get to know each of the remarkable elephants and gain a special understanding of their daily lives and behavior.
  • Learn how to make herbal balls, feed the elephants, and then go with the elephants to the river where you will have the opportunity to bathe and brush them.

    • A private cooking experience on an organic farm

  • In the morning, visit a local family where you will receive a warm welcome from your hostess. She will guide you through her organic vegetable garden, where you can gather various herbs and vegetables to prepare traditional Thai dishes.
  • Learn how to prepare some of the best home-cooked meals that you can easily recreate at home.
  • During the course, in addition to cooking, you will also have the opportunity to taste dishes from the northern, northeastern and central regions of Thailand.

    • Departure from Chiang Mai

  • Your eventful journey through Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai is coming to an end. Your tour guide and driver will see you off at the airport.
  • Thank you for traveling with Thailand Highlights. We hope to be able to assist you again soon.

    • Ideas to make this trip your own.

    Special experiences can enrich a honeymoon, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

    Hand-picked hotels

    We select hotels with style and local flair. Tell us your preferences, and we'll find the perfect hotel for you.

    What is included in the delivery?

    No surprises, no hidden costs. Our prices are transparent and tailored to your individual plan. Here you can see clearly what is typically included.

    Price guide

    Their inclusions

  • Modern, spacious vehicle with air conditioning and driver
  • Dedicated, English-speaking local tour guide
  • All admission prices and listed activities
  • All nights in hand-picked hotels
  • Daily breakfast and set meals
  • ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)

    • Good to know

  • Based on two people, traveling in the off-season.
  • The final price will be individually tailored to your group, travel dates and your wishes.
  • Want to combine different hotels? Absolutely. We'll put together a trip that fits your budget.
  • International flight (we are happy to help you with booking)
  • Most lunches and dinners (for flexibility)
  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Discounts for children under 8 years old.
  • We accept USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR and other currencies.

    • Let's plan your trip together.

    It's very simple. Here's how it works: 1. Share your ideas with us using the plan below. 2. Your travel consultant will contact you within 24 hours.

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