4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS - DISCOVER CHAING MAI

TEMPLES - ELEPHANT CAMP - MARKETS

 

DAY 1: CHIANG MAI
After check in of your hotel you start your journey with the most important landmark of Chiang Mai.
13:30-17:30/Pick up from your hotel. Visit Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's most important and visible landmark, and overlook the city from its forest mountain backdrop. It is 3,520 feet above sea level. The temple is approached on foot by climbing a steep staircase comprising 290 steps. (While climbing the stairs, you should pay attention to the giant dragons on the sides of the stairs - the less energetic may ascend by funicular railcars) The Temples' golden pagoda contains a holy Buddha relic and attracts Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world throughout the year. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

 

DAY 2: CHIANG MAI (B)
After breakfast you start your sightseeing with a  visit Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, where the famous Emerald Buddha was enshrined for 32 years (from A.D. 1436 to 1468). Leave Chiang Mai along the mountainous highway to Lampang (90 Kms. away). On the way shot stop at Local market where you could see wild animals. Drive on to visit Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang, one of the northern finest temples and the best presentation of Lanna style architecture. Continue to Lampang, a unique town that still uses a colorful horse carriage as a mean of today's transport. Then take a Horse drawn carriage around the city center, visit Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, where the famous Emerald Buddha was enshrined for 32 years (from A.D. 1436 to 1468). Lunch is provided at a local restaurant. Returning to Chiang Mai, branch off the highway into Lamphun, with its history dating back to A.D. 700, and its ancient and revered temple: Wat Phrathat Haripunchai, and Wat Chama.

 

DAY 3: CHIANG MAI AND ITS HILL TRIBES (B)
After breakfast  you start your one day excursion - a chance to visit hill tribe people in one day! Drive through beautiful scenery north of Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao (approximately 80 km) Visit Lisu hill tribe village, the colorful costume was originated in Tibet.  Walk to a  Karen hill tribe village, they are 'peace loving warriors', and very industrious and faithful people. Then visit the Palaung hill tribe village, wearing one of the most beautiful costume tribe, coming from Myanmar. This tour includes the Hill tribe Museum: this ethnological museum has collections illustrating the cultures of tribal groups. Transfer back to Hotel late afternoon. (The Hill tribe Museum is closed on Saturday and Sunday, visit instead: Chiang Dao Cave.)

 

DAY 4: CHIANG MAI - ELEPHANT CAMP (B)
After breakfast you will spend pleasant morning in the company of these magnificent gentle giants. In present day Thailand, elephants are only used as tremendously powerful beasts of burden. But in the earlier times, they were a vital part of the King's army and played a very important role in Thai History. On this trip you will witness the traditional techniques still used in the training process. For a small fee, the adventurous can also enjoy the short but unforgettable elephant ride! On the return journey to the HOTEL a stop is made at the beautiful Mae Sa Waterfall, as well as one of the region's orchid farms displaying a full variety of some of Thailand's exquisite blooms.
In the afternoon visit some of the handicraft workshops which makes Northern Thailand so popular. Of all Chiang Mai’s cultural achievements, none are more remarkable than their handicrafts.