Asia Brochure 2023

57 Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand Discover the enchanting world of traditional Thailand when you visit temple filled Chiang Mai, sleepy Chiang Rai, and the hill tribe villages nestled in the mountainous jungle between. D ynamic cities and beautiful beaches might be what you picture when you think of Thailand, but they’re not all this country has to offer. Travel north to discover a calmer, more traditional region where modern life stands shoulder-to shoulder with stunning natural landscapes, tranquil temples, and ancient tribal cultures. Nepal

Clockwise from left: Mae Hong Son; Ob Luang National Park; Mekong River in the Golden Triangle Border

Bhutan

Bangladesh

Chiang Mai, Thailand’s ‘second city’, is in sharp contrast to the buzz of Bangkok. Its low-rise landscape surrounds an Old City filled with incense scented stupas, wooden bridges, and open squares. Local restaurants and street food are everywhere, exhilarating events are held at the Muay Thai ring, and unique souvenirs are found every Sunday at the walking market. Looming over Chiang Mai is the golden stupa of Wat Phra That, at the summit of Doi Suthep mountain. Not only is it a striking temple, but the views from the top of its 309 steps are spectacular. Further north, close to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet, is Chiang Rai. Perched beside the forest trails and waterfalls of Lam Nam Kok National Park, Chiang Rai feels authentic. Witness the breathtaking architecture of the White Temple of Wat Rong Khun, the Blue Temple of Wat Rong Suea Ten, and the enormous Buddha of Wat Huay Pla Kung. See the rehabilitation and conservation work of the Thai Elephant Care Centre, ride a long-tailed boat to Sop Ruak, or meet members of the Akha, Yao and Lisu tribes in the charming village of Doi Mae Salong. When your cultural adventures are finished, you can learn more about the region’s residents at the Hill Tribe Museum or pick up trinkets at the Night Bazaar. Both northern cities are easy to explore independently or, for a complete experience, join a Five-Day Golden Triangle Explorer tour.

INDIA

INDIA

Myanmar

Laos

Chiang Mai | Mae Hong Son | Mae Sariang | Chiang Rai EXPLORE THE NORTH PRIVATE TOUR CULTURE NATURE Day 1: Depart Chiang Mai for Mae Hong Son. On the way, stop at an orchid farm, eat lunch at a restaurant and learn the secrets of local fishermen. Day 2: Pay a visit to a traditional hill tribe village. Enjoy a local lunch and take a boat trip along the Pai River. Day 3: Visit the intricate temples at Wat Jong Klang and learn the rituals of the Buddhist monks. Soak in natural hot springs at Pha Bong, pass through traditional villages and explore a spectacular calcite crystal cave. Discover the rich culture of Northern Thailand on a private tour, visiting ancient hill tribes, spectacular temples and natural hot springs.

Pha Bong

Myanmar

THAILAND

Laos

CHIANG RAI CHIANG MAI

MAE HONG SON

Cambodia

OB LUANG NATIONAL PARK

MAE SARIANG

SRI LANKA

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort The

Malaysia

Riverie by Katathani

Day 4: Explore the natural beauty of Ob Luang National Park and the huge canyon within. Arrive in Chiang Mai and explore the historic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple at sunset. Day 5: Drive through mountain scenery towards Chiang Rai and discover hot springs, hill-tribe settlements and tea plantations. Day 6: Visit the northernmost point of Thailand, witness the remains of a 13th century city, observe the mighty Mekong River and finish at the Golden Triangle with views over Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.

CHIANG RAI

Singapore Includes Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, accommodation, daily breakfast, entrance fees, and an English speaking guide.

MAE HONG SON

CHIANG MAI

Cambodia

The Bush Camp

MAE SARIANG

Raya Heritage

INDONESIA

Tamarind Village

Wat Phra That

Meliá Chiang Mai

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CHIANG MAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Sri Lanka

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