5 days in the North: the essentials and must-sees

Culture, nature, and thrills

Chiang Mai

  • Tour in mix
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  • Ref. CNX501
5 days in the North: the essentials and must-sees
Partager

You are staying only 5 days in Chiang Mai and its surrounding area and want to make the most of this time to cover the essentials of the culture and enjoy the region’s natural riches?

This package skillfully combines must-see places, which are naturally a bit crowded during high season, with private activities and off-the-beaten-path experiences that will allow you to fully enjoy the traditional local culture!

It also takes you to the Chiang Rai region to visit the very famous White Temple, Wat Rong Khun.

Highlights: Overnight stay in a non-touristic Karen White village Balanced mix of temples, culture, and nature Visit to the Chiang Rai region Departure from the airport or bus/train station on the first morning.

Program:

Day 1: Private car pickup from the airport, train station, or bus station Self-guided visit to the Golden Temple on the mountain, Doi Suthep Panoramic view of Chiang Mai city Return to the old city and drop off at your hotel or guesthouse Explore the old city on foot by yourself Overnight stay in a traditional guesthouse or 3-star hotel

Day 2: Group tour to Chiang Rai and its surroundings (shared mini-van) Departure from your hotel around 7:00 - 7:30 AM Stop at hot springs and geysers for a visit Visit the very famous White Temple, Wat Rong Khun Thai buffet lunch Visit the Blue Temple Visit the Black House (Baan Dam) Depending on the season, a 30-minute stop at the Long Neck Women’s Village (entrance fees not included, this visit is not recommended) Return to your guesthouse around 7:00 - 8:00 PM Overnight in the guesthouse or 3-star hotel

Day 3: Day trip to Inthanon, the highest mountain in the kingdom at 2,565 meters (shared mini-van) Departure around 7:00 - 7:30 AM from your hotel Entry to the National Park Thai lunch Visit the King and Queen Pagodas Visit Wachirathan Waterfall Visit Hmong market Visit Siripoom Waterfall Return to your guesthouse or 3-star hotel around 5:30 PM

Day 4: Private trek off the tourist trail, departure from your hotel around 8:15 - 8:45 AM Stop at a local market to buy food for the day Arrival at your guide’s village, from the White Karen tribe Begin hiking through Thai jungle, passing fields of flowers and terraced rice paddies surrounding the village — about 2-3 hours depending on your wishes and ability Visit other Karen villages to discover their way of life and see the women’s weaving techniques During the day, stop at a waterfall with a swimming spot if you wish to bathe Return to your guide’s village and cook with the family if you want Overnight stay in the village, in a wooden and bamboo house

Day 5: Breakfast and departure for an elephant experience Arrival at the camp in the jungle and meet your new big friends Dress like the Karen tribe people Learn about the elephants and their history with the Kingdom of Thailand Feed the elephants as your first interaction Thai lunch (for you this time) Make vitamin supplement balls for the elephants and feed them Enjoy a mud bath with the elephants Swim together in the river Spend the afternoon with the elephants roaming freely on the hill overlooking the river Take your time, take photos, play with the elephants, watch them eat and bathe Change clothes and receive a souvenir before leaving the camp Visit a small, non-touristy waterfall nearby Visit a Royal Agricultural Project Return to Chiang Mai, arriving around 5:00 - 5:30 PM Overnight not included

  • Included:
  • All accommodations (3-star guesthouse or local village)
Book now

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Come join us for a day that promises to elevate you to the pinnacle of Thailand.


Doi Inthanon stands as the highest mountain in the country, nestled within the Himalayan range, boasting lush vegetation that has established it as one of the most sought-after national parks in the region.


Amidst various points of interest, immerse yourself in the charm of the magnificent King and Queen's Pagoda surrounded by their lush garden and explore the expansive Royal Project. This project showcases a diverse array of vegetables, plants, and fruits cultivated with utmost care, free from any chemical products and in complete harmony with nature. Doi Inthanon is not just a national park; it's a captivating natural haven.

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Our program offers a 2-hour trek along one of the most renowned trails in the Park, the Kew Mae Pan trail. This trail leads you to the highest point in Thailand, treating you to an absolutely extraordinary viewpoint above the clouds during the early morning. The remainder of the day is dedicated to exploring the park.


(Note: During the rainy season, the Kew Mae Pan trail is closed and replaced by the Pha Dok Siew rice paddy fields)

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This day trip lets you experience the best of Chiang Rai without the need for an overnight stay.


Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Chiang Mai between 7:00 and 7:30 AM in a comfortable minivan. The first stop is at the Mae Kajan hot springs and geysers, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the natural thermal waters.


Next, you'll visit the breathtaking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a dazzling masterpiece of pure white architecture, embellished with countless tiny mirrors that shimmer beautifully in the sunlight. You'll have plenty of time to explore its intricate details and take in its surreal beauty.

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Its dark, striking architecture is adorned with enigmatic sculptures and intricate carvings, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Inside, you'll find a fascinating collection of contemporary art, antiques, and traditional artifacts, offering a glimpse into the artist's unique vision.

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Embark on a unique day trip to the Chiang Dao mountains, a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path region north of Chiang Mai, known for its unspoiled nature and authentic charm.


We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 7:30 a.m., then head toward Chiang Dao. Along the way, we’ll stop at a local market to pick up fresh ingredients for our lunch — a great way to start the day immersed in local life.


Our adventure begins in a nearby mountain village, where we’ll set off on a 6-kilometer jungle trek. The hike takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, leading you through a pristine natural setting. You'll cross a river 21 times, pass by coffee plantations, and walk beneath the towering shade of ancient trees over 500 years old. 


A picnic lunch will be enjoyed either in the heart of the forest or back in the village, depending on the weather and timing.

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After the trek, we’ll visit the famous Chiang Dao Caves — a vast network of limestone caverns filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and even a hidden Buddhist shrine nestled deep within the rocks. You’ll have about 1 hour to explore this magical underground world.


Next, it’s time to relax and recharge at the Chiang Dao Hot Springs. Enjoy 1 hour of downtime, with the option to soak in a natural outdoor bath, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.


Before heading back to Chiang Mai, we’ll stop at Wat Ban Den, a breathtaking temple known for its vibrant blue roofs and detailed Lanna architecture — a true hidden gem and a perfect way to end the day.

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Looking for a refreshing escape in nature?

Treat yourself to a 2-day / 1-night private eco-adventure to Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand! Not only will you explore breathtaking landscapes, but you'll also gain insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Karen hill tribe, who cultivate rice on stunning terraced fields.




Day 1 – Immersion and Jungle Exploration


Your guide will pick you up from your Chiang Mai hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m., with a quick stop at a local market for last-minute items before your jungle trek begins.


Upon arrival at your Karen guide’s village, the day unfolds at your pace. Since this is a private experience, the trek can be tailored to suit your preferences — whether you want a more relaxed village immersion or an active jungle hike.


If you choose to trek, your guide will lead you through lush forest trails, past terraced rice fields (best seen between May and October), and to refreshing waterfalls where you can take a dip — don’t forget your swimsuit!


After a local lunch, the adventure continues with more trekking followed by a traditional bamboo rafting experience on a nearby river. You’ll then return to the village for the night.


Your accommodation is a private bamboo and wooden house, built in the local style. Share a homemade dinner with your guide — and you’re welcome to help cook, too — before relaxing for the night.

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Day 2 – Doi Inthanon National Park and Summit Hike


Wake up refreshed for a full day in Doi Inthanon National Park, located close to the village. Get an early start to enjoy the summit of Thailand’s highest mountain (2,565 m) before the crowds arrive.


You’ll take a gentle 20-minute walk on the Angkha Trail, a serene path through the cloud forest, followed by the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail — a 2-hour loop famous for its breathtaking views. At 2,200 meters above sea level, the scenery changes with the weather: clear blue skies, mystical fog, or even a sea of clouds. (Note: this trail is closed during the rainy season; you'll do the scenic Pha Dok Siew trail instead, surrounded by rice fields.)


Next, visit the twin pagodas of the King and Queen, and admire their beautiful gardens. Your guide will explain their symbolism and cultural significance.


After lunch, stop by the impressive Wachirathan Waterfall, then continue to the National Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon, where you'll learn about sustainable farming projects that support the local hill tribes through research on highland agriculture, fish farming, and crop development.

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Experience the ultimate adventure and witness elephants in their natural jungle habitat, free from chains and hooks. Our camp, nestled deep in the forest, offers a rare chance to observe these majestic animals roaming freely in their natural environment.


Unlike many tourist attractions, our camp is not located by a road and was never built for mass tourism. Instead, it is a peaceful sanctuary where elephants live alongside the White Karen ethnic hill tribe, who will be your knowledgeable and welcoming guides.


Our family-run camp is home to just five elephants, ensuring a calm and intimate experience. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your gentle new friends and receive a short introduction to the day’s schedule.


Elephants are awe-inspiring, but they’re also known for their friendly and curious nature. Once you feel comfortable, you’ll have the chance to join them for a mud spa, followed by a refreshing bath in the river to help clean them.


Throughout the day, you’ll also:



As the day draws to a close, you'll visit a beautiful waterfall and an agricultural royal project, before heading to your guide’s local village. There, you’ll meet his family and get a glimpse of daily rural life. You're welcome to assist in preparing dinner and spend the night relaxing and reflecting on your unforgettable experience.

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Day 2 – Jungle Trekking and Local Discoveries


After a delicious breakfast, it’s time to lace up your shoes and explore more of the region’s natural beauty. You and your guide will set off on a 2-hour hike through the forest, discovering wildflowers, lush rice terraces, and hidden mountain paths.


Because this is a private trek, you can choose the pace and level of difficulty that suits you best. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a break at a secluded waterfall, with the option to swim and relax in nature.


After lunch, it’s time to gradually make your way back toward the village and civilization. If you wish, you can finish the adventure with a peaceful bamboo rafting experience before heading back to your hotel in Chiang Mai, arriving around 5:00 p.m.




This two-day journey is more than just a tour — it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, learn from local communities, and create lifelong memories with the elephants.

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Your bike—equipped with large wheels (a fat bike) and a powerful electric motor—will allow you to easily reach places that would be difficult to reach with a simple bicycle. It's enough to make you feel like you've grown wings!

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After picking you up from your hotel in Chiang Mai, we'll take you to our offices located in the countryside, where we'll equip you before heading out into the mountains. This half-day will take you along small neighborhood roads as well as dirt trails, which, during the rainy season, may get a bit wet! We'll make numerous stops along the way, whether to visit small temples hidden in the forest, or to discover local villages or an organic market. We'll also stop at a small café hidden in the jungle to take some time to rest.


This activity lasts approximately 4 hours and is suitable for the whole family. A minimum height requirement of 1.5 meters is required. For those less athletic, it's possible to organize a half-day trip on flat roads only.

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