Cultural Gems of Northern Thailand: 10-Days of Thailand Travel

Highlights of the Trip

Set off on an incredible 10-Day journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural fusion of Northern Thailand. This meticulously crafted tour is a symphony of diverse experiences, history, culture, scenery, and wildlife for those seeking a bespoke Thailand travel adventure like no other. This tour offers you some of the very best places to go in Thailand.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Chiang Rai 

• Doi Tung Palace: Once the summer residence of the late Princess Mother, Srinagarindra, and her family.
• Wat Phra Kaew Temple: The cities most revered Buddhist temple.
• Wat Rong Khun: Also known as the White Temple, is a strikingly beautiful Buddhist temple.

Thaton

• Thaton Temple: A magnificent Buddhist temple that holds great significance in the history and culture of Thailand.
• Chiang Dao Temple: This used to be the cave where the soldier troops of Myanmar stopped for resting before attacking Chiang Mai in 1500s.
• Mork Fah Waterfall: Falling 60 meters and flowing all year
  round.

Pai

• Jong Kham and Jong Klang Temples: These temples hold a significant place in the cultural and religious history of Thailand.
• Doi Inthanon National Park: The largest national park in the province.

Chiang Mai 

• Wat Phra Singh Temple: A stunning display of traditional Lanna architecture, with intricate golden carvings and glistening pagoda.
• Wat Phan Tao: Deeply revered by locals for its religious and cultural significance.
• Wat Chedi Luang: The main attraction is the towering chedi, or stupa, which stands at a height of 82 meters.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Golden Triangle: Thailand’s side of the Golden Triangle is home to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, including lush jungles, rolling hills, and picturesque rivers. One of the main attractions in this area is the Chiang Rai province, known for its diverse ethnic groups, including the famous long-necked Karen tribe. Visitors can explore these tribes’ villages, learn about their traditions and customs, and even purchase traditional handicrafts made by the locals.

Mae Malai Village: A hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is home to a close-knit community of Thai locals who warmly welcome visitors with their genuine hospitality. As you walk through the village, you can’t help but be enchanted by the sight of traditional wooden houses, colourful gardens, and sparkling streams that flow through the village.

Long Necked Karen Village: An ethnic group hailing from the regions of Myanmar (formerly Burma) and Thailand. This tribe is well-known for their unique cultural tradition of wearing brass rings around their necks, giving the appearance of elongated necks. The village of the long necked Karen people is unlike any other, and visiting it is truly an immersive experience.

Lahu Hill Tribe Village and Lisu Hill Tribe Village: Admire the primitive and traditional lifestyles in these villages during your holiday to Thailand. Lisu is home to the Lisu people, an indigenous tribe known for their rich culture and customs. The village is made up of traditional stilt houses, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colours, which reflect the Lisu’s deep connection to nature and their surroundings.

Elephant Sanctuary: Enjoy time with elephants in their natural habitat and learn about the daily habits and rituals of these beautiful elephants.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Thailand

During your holiday to Thailand, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including the famous Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish that is a quintessential part of the country’s street food culture. Another popular street food dish is the Som Tam, a refreshing and spicy green papaya salad that combines the flavours of sour, sweet, and spicy. For a more indulgent experience, one should not miss out on the delicious Tom Yum soup. This hot and sour soup is made with a variety of aromatic herbs, spices, and seafood (shrimp or fish) and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

River Boat Ride: Meander down the Mae Khong River.

Sightseeing Cruise: Sail down the Pai River to embrace striking natural scenery and the laid back local lifestyle.

Bamboo Raft: Immerse yourself in the local culture on a raft ride to and through Tham Lod Cave.

Accommodation of this Tour

Chiang Rai: Grand Vista Chiang Rai 4*. Deluxe Room.

Thaton: Maekok River Village Resort Superior Room.

Pai: Ai Pai Boutique hotel 4*. Deluxe Room.

Mae Hong Son: Imperial Mae Hong Son Resort 4*. Deluxe Room.

Chiang Mai: Bohdi Serene 4*. Superior Room.

Itinerary

Day 1: Chiang Rai Arrival

Arrive Chiang Rai airport. Your guide will welcome you and take you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure or exploring the many sights of Chiang Rai. Stay overnight in Chiang Rai.

Day 2: Golden Triangle Tour

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Chiang Rai. Drive to ‘Doi Tung Palace’ or ‘King’s Mother Garden’. Enjoy the views and walks around the flowering garden. Travel to Mae Sai – see ‘Tha Khee Lek’ en route. Visit the Golden Triangle area. Opportunity to travel the Mae Khong River by river boat ride to neighbouring Laos and see the scenery along the Mae Khong River. Return to the mainland Chiang Rai and stay overnight in Chiang Rai.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Chiang Rai City Tour

Enjoy breakfast in the mountainous, wooded surroundings of Chiang Rai, northern Thailand. Visit the city of Chiang Rai. Take a walk at the local market, visit Wat Phra Kawe Temple and Rai Mae Fah Luang Museum. Visit Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple. Check out by noon and choose somewhere for lunch. Head to Thaton Area in the afternoon. Trek the mountain to Thaton Temple and enjoy the view of Kok River. Travel to Thaton for check in and overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4: Pai Transfer via Chiang Dao, Local Markets, Villages & Hot Springs

Have breakfast. Check out from hotel. Travel to Chiang Dao. Visit Chiang Dao Temple cave. Choose your own lunch. Travel to Pai, a small town in Maehongson. See Mae Malai Village and visit the local market. Drive on through Mork Fah Waterfall and walk through the forest trails to see the renowned floating fog. Stop at Pong Deuid hot springs to relax and enjoy a swim. In the evening you’ll arrive in Pai for check in and overnight stay at your hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 5: Pai River Cruise with Temples & Mae Hong Son Transfer

Your driver will pick you up from your hotel. Enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Pai River. Visit the Long-Necked Karen village – an interesting place to go to in Thailand. In the afternoon, travel to Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu at the top of Kong Mu Hill. Continue your journey. Visit the Jong Kham and Jong Klang Temples. Stay overnight in Mae Hong Son.

✓ Breakfast

Day 6: Tham Lod Cave Visit, Lahu & Lisu Hill Tribe Villages

Enjoy breakfast. Take a bamboo raft to visit Tham Lod Cave. On arrival, walk to see the raft man at the cave entrance who will bring you in by the bamboo raft inside the cave. Visit the Lahu Hill Tribe village in the afternoon, seeing rice farming, corn planting and raising animals. Visit the Lisu Hill Tribe village, renowned for their silverware, embroidery and sewing. Transfer back to your hotel for overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch.

Day 7: Chiang Mai Transfer via Doi Inthanon National Park

Have an early breakfast. At approx. 7am visit the local market – a bustling place to go in Thailand. Depart for Chiang Mai via Mae Chaem, passing through Doi Inthanon National Park. Stop to visit some breath-taking waterwalls in Chiang Mai province. Evening arrival in Chiang Mai for check in and overnight stay at hotel.

✓ Breakfast

Day 8: Chiang Mai City Tour

Enjoy breakfast. Walking tour of the old town, including visits to Wat Phra Singh Temple (“The Temple of the Lion Buddha”), Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phan Tao. Take a rickshaw tour along the streets. Walking tour through Warorot central market. In the afternoon visit Doi Suthep Hill. Drive partway up, then climb part way up the 300+ steps, before taking an elevator to the top for spectacular views of Chiang Mai city. Return to the hotel and enjoy rest of the evening at leisure relaxing at your hotel or visiting the night market.

✓ Breakfast

Day 9: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Day

8AM: Your driver will pick you up from your accommodation. 8:30: Scenic drive South of Chiang Mai – approx. 1.5hours. 10:30: Arrive at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and meet your guide. Walk for 10-15 minutes through the sanctuary and change into traditional Karen clothing. Enjoy a talk about elephant history, behaviour, and anatomy. 11AM: Meet the elephants to feed, play, and interact with them in their natural environment. Take photos with the elephants. 12PM: Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch with local food and fresh fruit. 1PM: Enjoy a lesson on how to make herbal medicine balls. Feed the elephants and walk with them to the river to bathe and brush them. 2PM: Swim in the river with the elephants, joining them for a therapeutic mud spa. Have some photos with the elephants. 3PM: Change your clothes. Bid farewell to the elephants. 3:30PM: Drive to Chiang Mai – approx. 1.5hours. Drop off at your accommodation for overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Chiang Mai Leisure Morning & Departure Flight

Enjoy today at your own leisure before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

✓ Breakfast

Price

Price: £1,839

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

 Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

FAQs About This Tour

Q1: How do I book this Holiday to Thailand? Booking is easy! Visit our website or contact our dedicated team to ensure a seamless and personalised booking experience.

Q2: Why choose Northern Thailand for a Holiday in Thailand? Northern Thailand offers a unique cultural experience, stunning landscapes, and a slower pace of life compared to the bustling cities. It’s known for its rich history, hill tribes, and natural beauty.

Q3: When is the best time to plan a holiday to Northern Thailand? The cool and dry season from November to February is ideal, but Northern Thailand experiences different climates. Feel free to contact our team for any further advice!

Q4: Are there any specific cultural nuances to be aware of in Northern Thailand? Respect the local customs and ensure that you are polite. You could also consider learning a few basic phrases in Thai. In rural areas, it’s customary to ask for permission before taking photographs.

Q5: What health precautions should I take for a holiday in Northern Thailand? Check with your healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations, carry necessary medications, and be cautious with food and water hygiene. Travel insurance is essential for any unforeseen circumstances.

Q6: What currency is used in Thailand? The official currency is the Thai Baht. 

Q7: Is travel insurance included in the Thailand holiday packages for families? Travel insurance is not included, but we highly recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance. 

Q8: What are the recommended vaccinations for travelling to Thailand? We would advise you to consult with your healthcare provider for the latest vaccination recommendations. Thailand generally requires routine vaccinations.

Q9: What are the visa requirements for a tour to Thailand?  Our team will assist you with the necessary information and guidance for a smooth visa application process.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Chiang Rai. Transfer to hotel; leisure time or explore Chiang Rai.

Day 2: Visit Doi Tung Palace, Mae Sai, and the Golden Triangle; take a river boat ride along the Mae Khong River.

Day 3: Explore Chiang Rai city, visit local markets, Wat Phra Kaew, Rai Mae Fah Luang Museum, and Wat Rong Khun (White Temple).

Day 4: Transfer to Pai via Chiang Dao. Visit Chiang Dao Temple cave, drive to Pai via Mae Malai Village, Mork Fah Waterfall, and Pong Deuid hot springs.

Day 5: Enjoy a Pai River cruise, visit Long-Necked Karen village, Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, Jong Kham, and Jong Klang Temples in Mae Hong Son.

Day 6: Explore Tham Lod Cave by bamboo raft, visit Lahu and Lisu Hill Tribe villages.

Day 7: Transfer to Chiang Mai via Doi Inthanon National Park. Visit local market, pass through Doi Inthanon National Park, and enjoy scenic waterfalls on the way to Chiang Mai.

Day 8: Walking tour of Chiang Mai old town, rickshaw tour, visit temples, and Doi Suthep Hill for panoramic views.

Day 9: Interact with elephants in their natural habitat, enjoy a Thai lunch, and swim with elephants in the river.

Day 10: Free time in Chiang Mai before departure flight from Chiang Mai airport.

FAQs

1. What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
   • Accommodation varies from comfortable hotels to traditional guesthouses, providing a mix of experiences throughout the journey.
2. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, most meals are included as indicated in the itinerary, typically consisting of breakfast daily and select lunches or dinners during specific excursions.
3. What activities are available during leisure time?
   • Leisure time allows for personal exploration or relaxation, with options to explore local markets, visit nearby attractions, or simply unwind at the accommodation.
4. How physically demanding are the activities on this tour?
   • Activities range from leisurely walks in cities to moderate treks in natural settings. Most activities are suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness.
5. Will there be opportunities to interact with local communities?
   • Yes, the tour includes visits to local markets, hill tribe villages, and cultural attractions, providing opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about their way of life.
6. What type of transportation is used throughout the tour?
   • Transportation includes comfortable air-conditioned vehicles for overland travel and private transfers between destinations. River boat rides and bamboo rafts are also utilized for specific excursions.
7. Are there any optional activities or extensions available?
   • While the tour itinerary is comprehensive, optional activities or extensions may be available upon request, allowing travellers to tailor their experience further to their interests.