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The must-sees of northern Thailand

9 DAYS / 8 NIGHTS
From €1,033/pax - Price based on 2 people

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    The must-sees of northern Thailand

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    IN CONSTRUCTION

    HIGHLIGHTS

    • Explore iconic sites like the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, and Chinatown, while cruising the klongs of Thonburi by canoe.
    • Visit the Damnoen Saduak floating market, the Bridge on the River Kwai, and the majestic ruins of Ayutthaya, a remnant of the ancient Siamese kingdom.
    • Hike in Erawan National Park, kayak on the River Kwai, and discover the wildlife of Khao Sok National Park.
    • Spend a night in a floating bungalow, enjoy a boat safari, and explore the park’s lush caves and forests.
    • End your trip in complete serenity on the heavenly beaches of Khao Lak, where you can swim and relax.

    Day 1: Welcome to Thailand!

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    Self-guided

    Welcome to Thailand! Welcome by a representative, transfer to the hotel. Check-in (rooms available from 2 p.m.). Free time for rest and leisure.

    Overnight in Ban Chang Tong

    Day 2: The Best of Chiang Mai

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    With a guide

    Visit a Lanna family’s home for a traditional cooking class with meals on site.
    Discover the Thai way of life in Chiang Mai: their homes, their kitchens, and their vegetable gardens. You will visit Mr. Prapat’s family home, one of the last to perpetuate the ancestral Lanna traditions. Upon arrival, a family member will offer a guided tour of the traditional stilt house. Here, nothing is left to chance; everything is perfectly calculated according to Lanna rules: the position of the bed, the location of the adults’ bedroom, the open kitchen… It will then be time to formalize your arrival with a Lanna ceremony, a true privilege. We will then head to the immense family garden where we will introduce you to the various medicinal herbs as well as the fruits and vegetables from the garden. You will then participate in the preparation of your meal with the help and guidance of your host. Enjoy your delicious meal before returning to your hotel.

    Climb to Doi Suthep and visit the old town and night markets
    This afternoon, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is said to house a sacred Buddha relic inside its golden stupa.

    According to legend, a white elephant chose the site of this pagoda while climbing Doi Suthep mountain. Carrying the relic on his back, he is said to have abruptly stopped to blow his horns three times before letting himself die on the spot. A chedi covered in gold leaf was then built on the very spot where the pachyderm allegedly lost its life. Since then, this site has become a temple and a place of pilgrimage for many Thai people. Then, return to the city to the old quarter.

    You will enter the grounds of Wat Phra Singh, a peaceful temple and arguably one of the most important in Chiang Mai. Discover the history of Wat Chedi Luang, a shrine erected by King Saen Muang Ma to house his father’s ashes, which was partially destroyed by an earthquake. Finally, enjoy a free evening to explore Chiang Mai’s night markets, including Warorot Market, considered the oldest and most popular in Chiang Mai, and the Night Bazaar, the epicenter of Chiang Mai’s shopping.

    Overnight in Ban Chang Tong

    Day 3: The Best of Chiang Mai

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    With a guide

    Warorot Market and Samkamphaeng Hot Springs
    Explore Chiang Mai’s markets, including Warorot Market, the oldest and most popular in the city. Head to the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs and indulge in the warm waters of two mineral pools, perfect for boiling eggs. The temperature of the pool can reach 100 degrees Celsius and is divided into several sections. These hot springs are rich in minerals and can help relieve skin problems and improve blood circulation. They are also beneficial for relieving muscle and joint pain. You can also visit the footbath area and soak your feet in the nearby spring, where the temperature gradually decreases as you move away from the spring. The surroundings are magnificent, adding to the charm of the place.

    Baan Mae Kampong Excursion
    Head to the small village of Baan Mae Kampong with your guide, located 50 kilometers east of Chiang Mai. Upon arrival at the village, you will be greeted by the villagers who will be happy to accompany you on a walk of approximately one and a half hours through their tea plantations and coffee fields. A 30-minute walk will then take you to the Mae Kampong Waterfall, on the stream that runs through the village of Ban Mae Kampong. The waterfall has seven waterfalls, and at the highest point, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the northern mountains.

    Overnight in Ban Chang Tong

    Day 4: A day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park – Hiking, sightseeing, and waterfalls.

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    With a guide

    After breakfast, your English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel. Then, you will be transferred to Doi Inthanon National Park (approximately a 2-hour drive). Perched atop Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon is a natural park teeming with waterfalls and mountain forests. Dedicated to the protection of flora and fauna, it is also a place of worship and tradition. Your first stop will be at Kew Mae Paan for a short hike along the nature trail for approximately 2 hours. Halfway through, you will be in the meadows offering a view of the town of Mae Chaem. Then, you will depart to the point known as “Thailand’s highest peak.” Next, you’ll take a short walk along the Angka Nature Trail, where the trees and ground are covered in moss. Next, you’ll stop at the royal chedis of Doi Inthanon. These two chedis are dedicated to the recently deceased king and his wife. They were gifts from the Royal Thai Air Force for their 60th birthdays. The King’s was built in 1987 and the Queen’s in 1992. These magnificent chedis overlook some of the most incredible mountain views. Next, you’ll head to Mae Chaem to visit Huay Zai Luang Waterfall and Mae Paan Waterfall, where you can enjoy a dip. To reach the waterfall, you’ll take a short 15-minute walk along a small trail. Lunch – At a local restaurant. Late afternoon, transfer to your hotel.

    Overnight in Ban Chang Tong

    Day 5: From Chiang Mai to Mae Taeng

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    Self-guided

    Embark on a van journey from the bustling city of Chiang Mai to the picturesque mountainous region of Mae Taeng. All services for a complete journey are included in the price. However, some services are subject to change depending on circumstances.

    Trekking and village accommodation, interaction with elephants
    This morning, your English-speaking trekking guide will meet you at your hotel. You will be transferred by van to the north of Chiang Mai. Along the way, you will stop at the local market in Mae Malai. Then, you will take an excursion to the natural Mok Fha waterfall to rest and swim. You will continue your journey to a charming little Karen village. Lunch at the Karen village. Finally, you will walk for approximately 3 hours to the Karen village of Bann Pa Kao Lam. Visit the village and discover the daily life of the villagers. Visit an elephant center to feed the elephants and bathe with them in the river. Return to the village. Dinner at a local’s house. Overnight stay (basic comfort). Drinking water not included.

    Overnight in Umdomporn

    Day 6: Cultural Tour: Karen, Lahu, and Shan Tribe Villages with Bamboo Raft Adventure

    Stops: Chiang Mai

    Self-guided

    Breakfast in the village in the morning, followed by a hike of approximately one hour to reach the rafting starting point. You will then embark on a 2.5-hour bamboo rafting adventure along the Taeng River, crossing multiple rapids (the duration may vary depending on the water level) to the Shan village of Bann Sob Kai. During the trip, you will stop at the Lahu hill tribe village located in Bann Pong Ngan. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a late lunch in a Shan village before returning to Chiang Mai by local truck. The vehicle will drop you off at your pre-booked hotel.

    Overnight in Ban Chang Tong

    Day 7: From Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

    Stops: Chiang Rai

    With a guide

    Welcome in Chiang Mai and transfer to Chiang Rai by minivan

    White Temple and Blue Temple of Chiang Rai, and Baan Dam Museum
    You will begin your visit with Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai’s flagship attraction and more commonly known as the “White Temple.” As the temple fell into disrepair at the end of the 20th century, Mr. Chalermchai Kositpipat, a renowned artist and native of Chiang Rai, offered in 1997 to completely renovate the building at his own expense. His work, which is expected to be completed in 2070, is an interpretation of access to paradise according to his beliefs. The choice of white symbolizes the purity of Buddhism, and the thousands of pieces of sparkling mirrors spread throughout the buildings symbolize enlightenment. Like an offering to Buddha, the artist hopes to receive merit and recognition for all his work. Visit Wat Rong Suea Ten or “Blue Temple,” whose style is quite similar to the White Temple. Its name, “the dancing tiger,” refers to the tigers that once lived in the region and used to jump into the nearby Kok River. The temple houses a magnificent white Buddha statue, and its interior is covered in numerous blue paintings. The site is under continual construction in an attempt to evolve with the times. Continue to the “Black House,” or Baan Dam in Thai, the work of Mr. Thawan Duchanee, another artist born in Chiang Rai. Once the artist’s home and studio, the site has been transformed into a museum housing an assortment of his original and sometimes disconcerting works of art designed to illustrate the darkness within humanity.

    Overnight at Khamthana Colonial Hotel

    Day 8: On the road to the famous Golden Triangle

    Stops: Chiang Rai

    With a guide

    Departure for the Golden Triangle, a historic site of opium cultivation. At the crossroads of Laos, Burma, and Thailand, the Golden Triangle is a magnificent, wild, mountainous region. Begin your adventure by visiting Doi Tung, a majestic mountain known for its breathtaking scenery and rich history. Climbing to its summit is rewarded with panoramic views of the lush forests and surrounding terraced gardens. Explore the ethereal Mae Fah Luang Garden, adorned with vibrant flowers and meticulously landscaped to perfection. Delve into the region’s fascinating past at the Doi Tung Royal Villa, once the residence of the late Princess Mother, and discover her philanthropic efforts to promote sustainable development in the region. Next, venture to the legendary Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), and Laos converge. Absorb the mystery of this historic region and visit the House of Opium, which offers an immersive journey into the history of the opium trade in the region and the current fight against drug addiction. Stroll along the Mekong River and witness the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers, creating a picturesque setting against a backdrop of rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Enjoy some free time to admire the magnificent view of the Mekong River from Wat That Doi Pu Khao.

    Overnight at Khamthana Colonial Hotel

    Day 9: Free time in Chiang Rai. Departure transfer to Chiang Rai Airport.

    Take advantage of your free time to explore the surrounding area or enjoy the facilities at your hotel.

    Departure transfer to Chiang Rai Airport. End of services.

    DAY ITINERARY
    Day 1 CHIANG MAI
    Day 2 CHIANG MAI
    Day 3 CHIANG MAI
    Day 4 CHIANG MAI
    Day 5 CHIANG MAI – MAE TAENG
    Day 6 CHIANG MAI
    Day 7  CHIANG MAI – CHIANG RAI
    Day 8 CHIANG RAI
    Day 9 DÉPART DE CHIANG RAI

    Q&A

    Official Language: Thaï
    Political System: Constitutional monarchy
    Capital: Bangkok
    Surface: 514 000 Km2
    Population: 69 800 000 (June 2021)
    Currency: Bath (TBH)
    Telephone code: +66

    Thai Bath is the national currency. But the US Dollar is also accepted throughout the country and prices are generally displayed in dollars. In the case of a payment in Dollar, the currency will be returned to you in Bath. The Euro and other foreign currencies are easily changeable at airports and markets. Credit cards are now widely used in tourist cities and you can withdraw Dollars. 

    Cash withdrawals are possible in major cities, with a credit card (Visa or American Express). Payments are also possible, in some hotels, luxury shops, or in restaurants. But the cost of the levies (variables) remains quite important (commission of 3%). We advise you to have with you cash allowing you to face your personal expenses during all the duration of the trip.

    Thailand’s economy is, according to the IMF, an emerging market economy, highly dependent on its exports, which represent more than half of the GDP, which in 2015 was $654 billion. To date, Thailand is the second largest economy in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia but ahead of Malaysia. Thailand’s recovery since the Asian economic crisis of 1997 is reflected in particular in specialization in certain export sectors such as car manufacturing, the agri-food industry, electronics or which allow large quantities of foreign currency to enter the country, such as tourism. Thailand’s GDP growth since the beginning of the 21st century has been between -2% and 8%.
    Thai cuisine is very famous: fragrant because it uses a multitude of herbs and roots. Due to its proximity to the sea, the country is rich in seafood, fish, but also farm produce, vegetables, herbs, spices and fruits. The basis of Thai cuisine dishes remains rice, but the most important thing is the balance of flavors between sour, sweet, sweet, sweet, bitter and spicy.

    Thailand covers an area of 513,000 km2 with a distance of 2,000 km from north to south. It borders Laos (East and North-East), Cambodia (South-East), Malaysia (South), and Myanmar (North-West and West).

    Thailand is deeply influenced by Buddhism theravāda, an official religion practiced by almost the entire population (4% Muslims and less than 1% Christians). There is also a great durability of animist beliefs. They are manifested in the belief in magic amulets and in the domestic worship of “spirits of the place” (chao thi), to which are dedicated the houses of spirits, small kiosks in front of houses or shops (when possible) and which Thais thank or pray every day if they can by offerings (necklaces of flowers and food). Most of the country’s festivals are celebrated on the same dates each year, some festivals like the New Year Thai, follow the lunar calendar and move a few days before or after each year.

    No vaccination is required. However, it is recommended to protect yourself against hepatitis A and B (ask your doctor for advice). We advise you to bring your own:

    of a broad-spectrum antibiotic;
    of your usual medications if you are undergoing treatment;
    an anti-diarrheal and an intestinal antiseptic (Intetrix, Immodium…);
    a protective cream against mosquitoes;
    moisturizing sunscreen, lip stick;
    a healing ointment and a local antiseptic.

    Water is not drinkable in Southeast Asia. Avoid tap water, require bottled water. It is harmless and safe to brush your teeth, but do not drink it.
    The kingdom of Siam became a constitutional monarchy in 1932, six years before it became Thailand. Since then, the balance between the royal power, the army and the democratic camp has remained precarious, and no fewer than 20 coups d’état have been attempted or succeeded by the armed forces. Bhumibol Adulyadej crowned in 1950 under the dynastic name of Rama IX, was king of Thailand from 1946 to 2016. A constitutional sovereign, he is the head of state and protector of the religions of Thailand. Upon his death in October 2016, his son Rama X became the new king of Thailand.

    Originally, Thais would have come from southern China (Yunnan province) from the 16th century. However, the Thai language is not related to Chinese. It belongs to the Tai group of the so-called Kam-tai branch of the Tai-kadai language family. While the official language spoken by at least 85% of the population is Thai, linguists count more than 60 languages in Thailand. Thai or Thai is close to the two Lao dialects spoken in Laos (the most important of which is Lao Soung before Lao Soum), The second mother tongue is Chinese, a language present in two dialects (between 1 and 2 million speakers), including Hakka, with about 70,000 speakers. English is the second administrative and commercial language, and is spoken in the second language by 3,500,000 actual or partial speakers.

    MINI GLOSSARY

    Hello woman (kaa) and man (krab): Sawat dee kaa / krab
    Thank you for women (aka man krab): Korp koon kaa / krab
    How much: Thao Rai?
    Expensive: Pearng
    Cheap: Thuuk
    My name is : Di / Phom (Women / Men) Chan

    The mobile telephone network now covers a very large part of the country. You can therefore use your mobile phone in Thailand. In addition, the Internet has made its entry into daily life. Most tourist sites are equipped, hotels and restaurants have Wi-Fi.
    The land of smiles offers a wide choice of artisan products that can be found on the markets, in the shops or directly at workshops. It is mainly handicrafts, silk and jewelry.
    Tipping is not mandatory but is commonly practiced (between 10 and 15% of the price). As an indication we recommend 5$ per day and per person for the guide and 3$ per day and per person for the drivers for small groups of less than 10 people. For groups of more than 10 people we recommend $3 per day per person for the guide and $2 per day per person for the driver.

    No special rights to pay for photographing or filming in Thailand. In some places, photos are prohibited … thank you to carefully follow the instructions on this subject, to avoid any inconvenience.

    Concerning drones: To date, it is prohibited to import a drone into the country itself for recreational use without prior authorization subject to costs.

    220V with several possible socket types: two flat plugs, two round plugs or three plugs. Plan to bring a universal adapter. Power cuts occur, but most hotels have their own generators.

    On your way, you will often have the opportunity to meet local people. Wherever you are, be discreet and humble. The multiplicity of cultures and traditions means that certain attitudes are perceived differently in different countries. To avoid being disrespectful, take the time to understand the people you meet, take the time to make connections. There too, listen to the advice of your guide! 

    He knows better than anyone the behaviors to avoid or adopt. For example, if you want to take a picture of someone, always ask them for permission. The best way for acceptance is to have established a prior contact. Similarly, do not distribute gifts at all … This often encourages children to beg, to avoid this kind of drift, it is better to refer to the local structures competent (donate to school, hospital, village chief etc.). Finally, be careful not to wear too light clothing (short shorts, cleavage …) and avoid exuberant behavior