Discover Northern Thailand by Tuk-Tuk: Chiang Mai, Mae Wang & Mae Klang Luang - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Chiang Mai

Your Thailand adventure begins with your arrival in Chiang Mai. A driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. It's easy to explore the city center at your own pace. You'll be amazed by the natural beauty as you walk along the city's cozy streets and feel the authenticity of the locals. Don't miss San Kamphaeng Road, also known as the "Handicraft Highway," which stretches 11 miles (18 km). You'll find lots of local crafts, including pottery and silver products. In the evening, the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road is worth visiting for traditional goods and street food. 

If time permits, visit San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, about a one-hour drive from the city center. You will see the hot springs shooting bursts of hot water up to 65 feet (20 m) into the air. You also can soak in the mineral baths and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Or, if you're into adventure, head to Bua Tong National Park, a two-hour drive from the city center, for a hike in the jungle and climb up the "sticky waterfalls," where the limestone texture will allow you easily walk up and down the waterfall without slipping.

Day 2: Transfer to Mae Wang, Tuk-Tuk Ride & Blessing Ceremony

Your driver will meet you at your hotel in the morning and take you southwest from Chiang Mai to Mae Wang through a scenic route dotted with green villages. Upon arrival at Mae Wang, check in at a charming rural hotel and have traditional Thai lunch. Later hop in a tuk-tuk and ride along tiny rural backroads and through picturesque villages to a remote mountain temple. Receive a blessing from the Buddhist monk for the adventure ahead. Take time to enjoy the silent and peaceful atmosphere as you marvel at the rustic beauty of northern Thailand. 

In the evening, feast on local Thai food specialties at one of the best restaurants in the area, soaking up the great atmosphere and fantastic flavors.

Day 3: Explore Mae Wang by Tuk-Tuk, Visit Elephant Camp & Bamboo Rafting

Your tuk-tuk and guide await this morning as you set out along more secluded backroads, exploring rural communities and enjoying the stunning views. Mount the winding roads to the top of a hill, where you'll find a rarely-visited temple and enjoy a panoramic view of the valley. Then head north to visit a small elephant camp that is not designed for visiting crowds of tourists. It was created to educate people about conservation and provide rescued elephants with a friendly and safe environment. 

At the elephant camp, you'll learn the history of the elephants and what the local team does to take care of these animals. After lunch, spend some time with the elephants and feed them. The best part is walking with these pachyderms to the local river where you'll bathe and scrub them, which they will absolutely love you for. After your hard work, jump on a bamboo raft and float through the valley, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. You'll return to your hotel on a tuk-tuk to freshen up before dinner.

Day 4: Transfer to Mae Klang Luang 

As you head up on a tuk-tuk into the mountains this morning, a change of scenery awaits. Continuing southwest with your guide, today's journey leads to one of the most beautiful roads in Thailand. Enjoy the incredible scenery and charming villages as you head forward. With switchback bends, spectacular views, tiny hill tribe settlements, and lush forests, today's drive will be truly memorable. On the way, there will be plenty of opportunities to take pictures and have coffee while enjoying the panorama of the valley.

In the early afternoon, you'll arrive at the small village of Mae Klang Luang. Enjoy lunch and then take a mountain taxi to the highest point in Thailand, Doh Inthanon, at over 8,200 feet (2,500 m). You'll have a traditional Thai barbecue overlooking the rice fields in the evening.

Day 5: Hike Through the Forest, Visit Waterfalls & Local Villages

Today you will have an easy 3.5 mile (6 km) hike through the forests, rice terraces, waterfalls, and local villages. Most of the trek will be flat or slightly downhill at a comfortable pace to enjoy the wonderful landscapes. With your guide, learn about the surrounding areas' people, culture, and wildlife. You will be amazed by the natural beauty of this region and the authentic life of local villagers. On the way, there will be a stop to have a picnic lunch. 

Once back in the village after the hike, there will be time to taste some traditional mountain coffee direct from the nearby forest. You'll return to the resort by mid-afternoon to relax and unwind before another northern Thailand mountain dinner in the village this evening.

Day 6: Transfer to Chiang Mai, Evening Street Food Tour by Tuk-Tuk

After immersing yourself in your peaceful rural retreat, it's time to return to Chiang Mai. A private driver will be waiting to take you on a two-hour drive back to the city. After you've checked in, get some rest because tonight promises to be full of excitement. Hit the streets to discover the authentic flavors of northern Thailand with a local foodie expert. Explore the city's lively markets and stalls, treating yourself to exotic flavors. Meet your guide at the hotel and start your food adventure under the sparkling night sky of Chiang Mai.

Learn about Thailand's rich gastronomic culture as you discover myriad traditional ingredients and mouthwatering specialties, sampling Thai curry fish cakes and sticky rice with pork. Under the moonlight, leave the bustling stalls behind and stroll into a small nearby alley leading to a sleepier residential area to sip a refreshing fruit shake. Pick up some insider eating tips from your guide at another of Chiang Mai's most famous food streets dining on delicious pork skewers and coconut desserts. After the tour, either head back to your hotel or continue exploring.

Day 7: A Glimpse of Chiang Mai's Religious Rituals

With your guide, arrive at the foothill of Doi Suthep Mountain in time to buy offerings and join the locals during the daily almsgiving ceremony. This is a serene Buddhist procession where dozens of monks walk barefoot through the street collecting food and everyday items. Continue up the mountain to Wat Doi Suthep and climb the 309 steps of the Golden Naga staircase to reach its golden pagodas. After a visit to Doi Suthep, discover one of the best-kept secret temples of Chiang Mai, Wat Palad, a significant element of Chiang Mai's history at 650 years old.

Proceed to Wat Umong, built in the 14th century, a heavily forested temple covered by moss and small plants offering a unique sense of natural decay. After walking through its mysterious tunnels, you'll reach the temple's viharn (shrine) to have a private blessing ceremony. For lunch, enjoy a bowl of khao soy. This famous Northern Thai dish combines coconut cream, crispy noodles, and plenty of spice that is sure to delight. In the afternoon, visit the Three Kings Monument, followed by the Chiang Mai City Arts and Culture Center, located in an old building of elegant architectural design built in 1927. 

Day 8: Depart Chiang Mai

It's time to say Sawasdee ka (goodbye) to Thailand. When the time comes, your driver will be waiting to take you to the airport in Chiang Mai for your departing flight. Safe travels!

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