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Chiang Mai & Golden Triangle

Chiang Mai & Golden Triangle

From $ 810 AUD

Description

Experience the serenity of northern Thailand while exploring the notorious Golden Triangle region. Beginning and ending in the charismatic city of Chiang Mai, the trip takes you to explore the Chiang Dao Caves before arriving at a charming town of Doi Mae Salong. The region is famous for its Chinese tea traders and you can enjoy a cup of tea in a traditional Chinese tea house overlooking the mountains. Then, make tracks to the Golden Triangle and stand on the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers. Uncover facts and fables about the region’s chequered history, visit the Opium Hall. Enjoy bold landscapes and tuck into mouth-watering regional dishes, before ending the adventure soaking in the hot-springs of Mae Ka Chan. This short break covers many highlights of the less-frequented northern reaches of Thailand, making it a must-do for travellers who want to dig beneath the surface of this enthralling country.

Trip Name
Chiang Mai & Golden Triangle
Last Updated
2024-09-02
Days
3
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Journey into the countryside north of Chiang Mai on this short trip and experience the Golden Triangle, the infamous area where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet
  • Discover rural village life with an overnight stay in Doi Mae Salong, a beautiful region up in the mountains where tea is grown and local hilltribe people come to sell their crafts in the town market
  • No trip to Chiang Rai would be complete without a visit to the funky White Temple. Check out the startling modern design, and see where traditional Thai art and murals are broken up with pop culture references
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Animal Protection. Donations support them to promote better living conditions for elephants in captivity and help rescue elephants from inhumane conditions. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. AGE RESTRICTIONS: Age restrictions apply to this trip - minimum age 5.

Day 1 - Chiang Mai/Doi Mae Salong
This morning you’ll be picked up from the joining point hotel by your local guide between 8am-9am, along with other travellers in your group. If you prefer to be picked up from a different, centrally located Hotel in Chiang Mai, please advise your sale agent at least 14 days before your departure date. Set off by road to the Golden Triangle region, the area where Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos. Your private minivan/car (depending on numbers) will head first to Chiang Dao Caves (approximately 1.5 hours). Explore the set of five interconnected caves that make up Chiang Dao, thought to expand more than 12 kilometres into Doi Chiang Dao Mountain. The caves are among the most extensive in the county and are associated with Wat Chiang Dao, and so are a popular pilgrimage spot for both monks and ordinary Thais. The caverns contain hermit images, a reclining Buddha, rock formations, and also a royal coat of arms to mark the visit of the Thai Queen. You’ll then continue on to the charming small town of Doi Mae Salong (approximately 3 hours). The atmosphere here is reminiscent of a small southern Chinese village, and the region is famous for its Chinese tea traders – so enjoy a cup of tea in a traditional Chinese tea house overlooking the mountains and tea fields. In the late afternoon there is time to explore the interesting markets, where you may see produce and crafts made by hilltribe people like the Akha. Please note sometimes in the low season the markets will close early. You’ll stay overnight here in Doi Mae Salong.
Day 2 - Golden Triangle/Chiang Rai
After breakfast, jump in a private minivan/car and visit the point of the Golden Triangle, where the Thailand, Myanmar and Laos borders meet. Enjoy lunch overlooking the mighty Mekong River and then pay a visit to the House of Opium Museum for a deeper insight into opium culture and this area’s problematic, drug-filled past. This afternoon climb on board a longtail boat and travel on the Mekong River to the old city of Chiang Saen, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. On the way there is a chance to step foot into Laos. Chiang Saen is surrounded on three sides by impressive ramparts, with the Mekong forming the fourth wall. Ruins lie around this charming one-street market town of quiet wooden shophouses. The town is also famous for the local rice whiskey sold from distilleries on the banks of river. From here you will travel south from the Golden Triangle to Chiang Rai (approximately 75 minutes), where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3 - Chiang Mai
Chiang Rai boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a great night market, and a variety of good restaurants. This charming city has a small-town feel and is a great place to explore on foot. For many, the privately owned Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple, is a must-visit. Travel approximately 30 minutes out to this contemporary temple, started in 1997 and expected to be a work in progress for another 60 to 70 years. The temple is constantly being added to and its strange design features references to Buddhist mythology, human sin and pop culture icons such as Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman. You will then journey 70 minutes to Mae Ka Chan Hot Springs, with a lunch stop along the way. Although oddly located in the 'car park', the springs offer an opportunity to take a relaxing soak, and/or enjoy a foot massage 'fish spa style', whilst munching on quail eggs which have been cooked in the heat of the waters. After enjoying the hot springs you’ll hop back on the bus and return to Chiang Mai, the journey taking about 1.5 hours and arriving back at around 5pm. Notes: Please note no accommodation is included tonight.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
14-11-202416-11-2024AUD $ 810-
16-11-202418-11-2024AUD $ 810-
17-11-202419-11-2024AUD $ 810-
19-11-202421-11-2024AUD $ 810-
21-11-202423-11-2024AUD $ 810-
23-11-202425-11-2024AUD $ 810-
24-11-202426-11-2024AUD $ 810-
26-11-202428-11-2024AUD $ 810-
28-11-202430-11-2024AUD $ 810-
30-11-202402-12-2024AUD $ 810-
01-12-202403-12-2024AUD $ 810-
03-12-202405-12-2024AUD $ 810-
05-12-202407-12-2024AUD $ 810-
07-12-202409-12-2024AUD $ 810-
08-12-202410-12-2024AUD $ 810-
10-12-202412-12-2024AUD $ 810-
12-12-202414-12-2024AUD $ 810-
14-12-202416-12-2024AUD $ 810-
15-12-202417-12-2024AUD $ 810-
17-12-202419-12-2024AUD $ 810-
09-01-202511-01-2025AUD $ 830-
11-01-202513-01-2025AUD $ 830-
12-01-202514-01-2025AUD $ 830-
14-01-202516-01-2025AUD $ 830-
16-01-202518-01-2025AUD $ 830-
18-01-202520-01-2025AUD $ 830-
19-01-202521-01-2025AUD $ 830-
21-01-202523-01-2025AUD $ 830-
23-01-202525-01-2025AUD $ 830-
25-01-202527-01-2025AUD $ 830-
26-01-202528-01-2025AUD $ 830-
28-01-202530-01-2025AUD $ 830-
15-02-202517-02-2025AUD $ 830-
16-02-202518-02-2025AUD $ 830-
18-02-202520-02-2025AUD $ 830-
20-02-202522-02-2025AUD $ 830-
27-03-202529-03-2025AUD $ 830-
29-03-202531-03-2025AUD $ 830-
30-03-202501-04-2025AUD $ 830-
01-04-202503-04-2025AUD $ 830-
03-04-202505-04-2025AUD $ 830-
05-04-202507-04-2025AUD $ 830-
06-04-202508-04-2025AUD $ 830-
17-04-202519-04-2025AUD $ 830-
19-04-202521-04-2025AUD $ 830-
20-04-202522-04-2025AUD $ 830-
22-04-202524-04-2025AUD $ 830-
24-04-202526-04-2025AUD $ 830-
26-04-202528-04-2025AUD $ 830-
27-04-202529-04-2025AUD $ 830-
29-04-202501-05-2025AUD $ 830-
01-05-202503-05-2025AUD $ 830-
03-05-202505-05-2025AUD $ 830-
04-05-202506-05-2025AUD $ 830-
06-05-202508-05-2025AUD $ 830-
08-05-202510-05-2025AUD $ 830-
10-05-202512-05-2025AUD $ 830-
11-05-202513-05-2025AUD $ 830-
13-05-202515-05-2025AUD $ 830-
15-05-202517-05-2025AUD $ 830-
17-05-202519-05-2025AUD $ 830-
18-05-202520-05-2025AUD $ 830-
20-05-202522-05-2025AUD $ 830-
22-05-202524-05-2025AUD $ 830-
24-05-202526-05-2025AUD $ 830-
25-05-202527-05-2025AUD $ 830-
27-05-202529-05-2025AUD $ 830-
29-05-202531-05-2025AUD $ 830-
31-05-202502-06-2025AUD $ 830-
01-06-202503-06-2025AUD $ 830-
03-06-202505-06-2025AUD $ 830-
05-06-202507-06-2025AUD $ 830-
07-06-202509-06-2025AUD $ 830-
08-06-202510-06-2025AUD $ 830-
10-06-202512-06-2025AUD $ 830-
12-06-202514-06-2025AUD $ 830-
14-06-202516-06-2025AUD $ 830-
15-06-202517-06-2025AUD $ 830-
17-06-202519-06-2025AUD $ 830-
19-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 830-
21-06-202523-06-2025AUD $ 830-
22-06-202524-06-2025AUD $ 830-
24-06-202526-06-2025AUD $ 830-
26-06-202528-06-2025AUD $ 830-
28-06-202530-06-2025AUD $ 830-
29-06-202501-07-2025AUD $ 830-
01-07-202503-07-2025AUD $ 830-
03-07-202505-07-2025AUD $ 830-
05-07-202507-07-2025AUD $ 830-
06-07-202508-07-2025AUD $ 830-
08-07-202510-07-2025AUD $ 830-
10-07-202512-07-2025AUD $ 830-
12-07-202514-07-2025AUD $ 830-
13-07-202515-07-2025AUD $ 830-
15-07-202517-07-2025AUD $ 830-
17-07-202519-07-2025AUD $ 830-
19-07-202521-07-2025AUD $ 830-
20-07-202522-07-2025AUD $ 830-
22-07-202524-07-2025AUD $ 830-
24-07-202526-07-2025AUD $ 830-
26-07-202528-07-2025AUD $ 830-
27-07-202529-07-2025AUD $ 830-
29-07-202531-07-2025AUD $ 830-
31-07-202502-08-2025AUD $ 830-
02-08-202504-08-2025AUD $ 830-
03-08-202505-08-2025AUD $ 830-
05-08-202507-08-2025AUD $ 830-
07-08-202509-08-2025AUD $ 830-
09-08-202511-08-2025AUD $ 830-
10-08-202512-08-2025AUD $ 830-
12-08-202514-08-2025AUD $ 830-
14-08-202516-08-2025AUD $ 830-
16-08-202518-08-2025AUD $ 830-
17-08-202519-08-2025AUD $ 830-
19-08-202521-08-2025AUD $ 830-
21-08-202523-08-2025AUD $ 830-
23-08-202525-08-2025AUD $ 830-
24-08-202526-08-2025AUD $ 830-
26-08-202528-08-2025AUD $ 830-
28-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 830-
30-08-202501-09-2025AUD $ 830-
31-08-202502-09-2025AUD $ 830-
02-09-202504-09-2025AUD $ 830-
04-09-202506-09-2025AUD $ 830-
06-09-202508-09-2025AUD $ 830-
07-09-202509-09-2025AUD $ 830-
09-09-202511-09-2025AUD $ 830-
11-09-202513-09-2025AUD $ 830-
13-09-202515-09-2025AUD $ 830-
14-09-202516-09-2025AUD $ 830-
16-09-202518-09-2025AUD $ 830-
18-09-202520-09-2025AUD $ 830-
20-09-202522-09-2025AUD $ 830-
21-09-202523-09-2025AUD $ 830-
23-09-202525-09-2025AUD $ 830-
25-09-202527-09-2025AUD $ 830-
27-09-202529-09-2025AUD $ 830-
28-09-202530-09-2025AUD $ 830-
30-09-202502-10-2025AUD $ 830-
02-10-202504-10-2025AUD $ 830-
04-10-202506-10-2025AUD $ 830-
05-10-202507-10-2025AUD $ 830-
07-10-202509-10-2025AUD $ 830-
09-10-202511-10-2025AUD $ 830-
11-10-202513-10-2025AUD $ 830-
12-10-202514-10-2025AUD $ 830-
14-10-202516-10-2025AUD $ 830-
16-10-202518-10-2025AUD $ 830-
18-10-202520-10-2025AUD $ 830-
19-10-202521-10-2025AUD $ 830-
21-10-202523-10-2025AUD $ 830-
23-10-202525-10-2025AUD $ 830-
25-10-202527-10-2025AUD $ 830-
26-10-202528-10-2025AUD $ 830-
28-10-202530-10-2025AUD $ 830-
30-10-202501-11-2025AUD $ 830-
01-11-202503-11-2025AUD $ 830-
02-11-202504-11-2025AUD $ 830-
04-11-202506-11-2025AUD $ 830-
06-11-202508-11-2025AUD $ 830-
08-11-202510-11-2025AUD $ 830-
09-11-202511-11-2025AUD $ 830-
11-11-202513-11-2025AUD $ 830-
13-11-202515-11-2025AUD $ 830-
15-11-202517-11-2025AUD $ 830-
16-11-202518-11-2025AUD $ 830-
18-11-202520-11-2025AUD $ 830-
20-11-202522-11-2025AUD $ 830-
22-11-202524-11-2025AUD $ 830-
23-11-202525-11-2025AUD $ 830-
25-11-202527-11-2025AUD $ 830-
27-11-202529-11-2025AUD $ 830-
29-11-202501-12-2025AUD $ 830-
30-11-202502-12-2025AUD $ 830-
02-12-202504-12-2025AUD $ 830-
04-12-202506-12-2025AUD $ 830-
06-12-202508-12-2025AUD $ 830-
07-12-202509-12-2025AUD $ 830-
09-12-202511-12-2025AUD $ 830-
11-12-202513-12-2025AUD $ 830-
13-12-202515-12-2025AUD $ 830-
14-12-202516-12-2025AUD $ 830-
16-12-202518-12-2025AUD $ 830-

Accommodation

Hotel (2 nights)

Transport

Boat,Minibus

Map