Best of Northern Thailand in 10 Days

After breakfast, the day kicks off with a visit to Doi Tung Palace, known as the 'King's Mother Garden.' This place is a palace nestled in a valley and boasts an extensive garden filled with a wide variety of colorful flowers. The palace, once the residence of Princess Srinagarindra, offers stunning views from its balcony, showcasing vibrant gardens and the picturesque mountainside. 

Later, the journey heads to Mae Sai, a bustling spot where Thailand, Burma, and China converge. It's a vibrant trading area offering a plethora of products and goods for sale, reflecting the unique blend of cultures in the region.

In the afternoon, venture to the Golden Triangle, historically known for its past opium trade. Hop on a riverboat cruise along the Mae Khong River to soak in the breathtaking scenery that separates the three neighboring nations.

Finally, return to Chiang Rai, where you'll spend the night.

Morning is dedicated to exploring Chiang Rai, starting with the renowned Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singha, one of the oldest Thai temples still inhabited by Buddhist monks to this day.

Your journey continues with a visit to Wat Rong Khun, the stunning White Temple, an architectural marvel of the city. This temple stands out with its radiant white color and the use of glass pieces embedded in the plaster, sparkling in the sunlight.

Afterwards, you'll depart for Chiang Mai, passing through scenic hills, valleys, and charming villages. On the way, there's a brief stop at the Mae Khachan hot spring for coffee, restroom facilities, and a chance to soak your feet in the springs.

A day dedicated to exploring the rich heritage of Chiang Mai, a city founded in the 13th century, which reflects a blend of Lanna, Siamese, and Burmese cultures.

Begin with a walking tour of the old town, including stops at the ancient wall, the moat, and an old town gate. You'll have the opportunity to admire some of Chiang Mai's most exquisite temples, such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.

Following this, wander along quaint streets lined with traditional houses and enjoy a rickshaw ride. Your exploration will lead you to the bustling Warorot Central Market.

In the afternoon, ascend Doi Suthep Hill, which offers splendid panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. You can reach the summit by climbing 290 steps or taking a cable car. At the peak, there's a golden chedi that houses revered relics of the Buddha.

In the evening, enjoy a Khantoke dinner, a traditional Northern Thai meal served in a communal style. Typically, it includes a variety of dishes such as curries, stir-fries, and salads served on a pedestal tray (known as a Khantoke) placed on the floor. Guests sit around the Khantoke on floor mats, sharing the meal together. This dining experience isn't just about the food; it's also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Northern Thai cultural customs and hospitality. Often, traditional performances like folk dances or music entertain guests during the meal.

Reception in Chiang Mai and departure for Pai in the north. On the way, explore Mae Malai Market, where you can sample local delicacies and exotic fruits. Next, visit Pong Deuid Waterfall, one of Chiang Mai province's most stunning hot springs. This spa is a hidden gem within a well-maintained park nestled in a picturesque valley. Downstream from the bubbling geysers, you'll find shallow rock pools perfect for swimming.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before reaching Pai. This small, hillside community offers a natural, clean, refreshing, and warm atmosphere. It's a melting pot of different ethnic groups from the plains and mountains, each with their unique religious beliefs and languages that have come together to create a distinctive cultural tradition. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the secluded village of Pai and visit three other villages representing local ethnic groups, including Ban Bang Paek (Lisu tribe), known for their vibrant clothing and high-altitude settlements.

After breakfast, visit the local market, then depart for Mae Hong Son. Make a stop at the village of Baan Phang Paek, home to the Lisou community, a Sino-Tibetan ethnic minority.

Continue on the road towards Ban Tham Lod and visit the Tham Lod caves by bamboo raft. Cruise on the inland lake, and discover its limestone concretions and prehistoric coffins. From the entrance to the outlet of the cavity, a watercourse has eroded it for over a million years.

Continue along the road to Mae Hong Son with a visit to three temples near the picturesque Jong Kham Lake. Take a walk along the lakeside trail. Visit Wat Chong Kham, which is located next to Wat Chong Klang. It is the older of the two temples, founded in 1827 by the Shan people of Mae Hong Son. The Buddha, in Burmese style and standing at 5 meters tall, is seated there. Wat Chong Klang, constructed in the 1860s, features a Burmese-style chedi that can be easily seen from the lake's shores. Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu is the main attraction of Mae Hong Son, guarding the town like a sentinel. The best time to visit is during sunset between November and February when the surrounding mountains are shrouded in fog.

You'll spend the night in Mae Hong Son

In the morning, we commence our journey by taking a boat along the Pai River. This scenic ride allows you to catch a glimpse of one of the most beautiful landscapes and the simple lifestyle along the Pai River. We'll also visit the village of the Long Neck Karen tribe, known for the women who wear brass rings on their necks.

Our journey continues to Su Tong Pae Bridge, the longest bamboo bridge in Thailand. Afterward, we'll proceed to our next destination, 'Baan Rak Thai Village.' This intriguing village is located on the border between Thailand and Myanmar and features a large lake nearby.

Our next stop takes us to the beautiful and tranquil atmosphere of the Shan village, also known as 'Baan Ruam Thai' or Pang Oung. This village is nestled in the rugged mountain range and is famous for its stunning reservoir or large lake, often referred to as the 'Switzerland of Thailand.' It is surrounded by pine forests and vibrant winter flowers, offering a cool climate year-round.

You'll spend the night in Mae Hong Son.

After breakfast, at approximately 7 am, you will visit the local market before departing for Chiang Mai via Mae Chaem.

You will arrive in Chiang Mai by the end of the day, where you will spend the night at the hotel.

08:00 - 08:30: Begin your day with a warm welcome from your English-speaking guide at your hotel. Then, embark on a car journey, approximately one and a half hours south of Chiang Mai, meandering through hills, forests, and local agricultural areas.

10:30 a.m.: Arrive at the sanctuary. Meet your guide and take a 10-15 minute walk through the jungle to reach the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Here, don traditional Karen clothing and participate in an introductory lesson about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

11:00 a.m.: It's time to meet the elephants. Interact with, feed, and play with these magnificent creatures in their natural environment while learning about their behavior and history. Capture memorable moments with the elephants through photos.

12:00 p.m.: Savor a delicious lunch featuring Thai dishes and fresh fruit.

1:00 p.m.: Engage in crafting herbal balloons, feed the elephants once more, and then embark on a leisurely walk with the elephants to the river. Here, you'll have the opportunity to bathe and brush the elephants.

2:00 p.m.: Join the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa and take a refreshing swim in the river, all while continuing to create lasting memories with these gentle giants.

3:00 p.m.: Bid farewell to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and embark on a 1.5-hour drive back to Chiang Mai.

5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Return to your hotel or accommodation.

Spend the night at your hotel in Chiang Mai.

Depending on your flight schedule, you will return to Bangkok to prepare for your journey home. This marks the conclusion of your unforgettable 10-day North Thailand itinerary with Kampá Tour. We hope you've created beautiful memories to cherish and look forward to welcoming you again for more adventures.