Day 1: City Tour
(Operates 08:30 - 12:00 or 13:00 - 16:30)
Start your journey with a visit to Wat Phra Keo, home to one of Thailand's most revered Buddha statues, discovered in 1444. The statue has a fascinating history, having traveled through various capitals, including Lampang, Chiang Rai, and Vientiane, before being enshrined in Bangkok's Wat Phra Keo during the reign of King Rama I. Continue to the stunning Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), an architectural marvel of intricate glass and white mosaic. Finish your morning by exploring the vibrant local market, where you can experience the local culture and pick up souvenirs.
Day 2: Full day Karen Long-Neck and Doi mae salong (B, L)
(Operates 08:30 - 17:00)
Your day begins with a visit to the Padong hill tribe village, home of the famous Karen Long Neck women, where you can learn about their unique traditions. Next, head to Doi Mae Salong, a scenic mountain area known for its ethnic diversity. Visit the Akha and Yao hill tribe villages and the ethnic Chinese KMT village. Wander through the local market, where villagers sell their daily products. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views. Explore the Chinese tea plantations and visit a local tea factory, learning about the tea-making process before returning to Chiang Rai. Day 3: FULL
DAY: Mae Sai and Golden Triangle with boat (B, L)
(Operates 08:30 - 17:00)
Embark on an exciting journey to Mae Sai, the northernmost point of Thailand, where you can witness the bustling border trade and experience the local way of life. Continue to the Golden Triangle, where the Ruak and Mekong Rivers converge, marking the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Visit the fascinating House of Opium Museum to learn about the region’s historical connection to the opium trade. Cross the border into Laos and visit Don Xao Island to explore the lively local market and immerse yourself in the unique Lao culture. Finish your day by visiting the ancient city of Chiang Sean and the historical Wat Chedi Luang, before returning to Chiang Rai by sunset.
Day 4: Half Day Mae Kok Boat Trip to Karen village and Elephant Ride (B, L)
(Operates 08:30 - 12:00 or 13:00 - 16:30)
Enjoy a scenic boat trip along the Mae Kok River, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning views of lush landscapes and traditional riverside villages. Arrive at the Karen village and get a glimpse of life in this fascinating community. Later, embark on an unforgettable elephant ride through the hills and paddy fields, where you’ll experience the raw beauty of nature from atop these gentle giants. Afterward, you’ll return to town by long-tail boat, wrapping up your adventure with lasting memories of Chiang Rai's breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.