6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS - CHIANG MAI EXCLUSIVE

TEMPLES - LISU LODGE- ELEPHANT CAMP - COOKING CLASS

 

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 relics and attract 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. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

 

DAY 3: CHIANG MAI - ELEPHANT CAMP (B)
After breakfast your guide will pick you up to visit Mae Sa elephant camp which is half an hour drive from Chiang Mai to visit the elephant camp. You will see the demonstration of the elephant work , their skills used in the logging industry as well as even some artistic! Mae Sa elephant camp is the best elephant camp in Thailand. Don’t miss the visit to the paper factory where the paper are made from elephant dung. 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 Thailandso popular. Of all Chiang Mai’s cultural achievements, none are more remarkable than their handicrafts. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

 

DAY 4: CHIANG MAI - LISU LODGE (B/L/D)
It is only an hour drive to Lisu Lodge which is located in the hills north of Chiang Mai offering a unique chance to experience exotic hill tribe atmosphere in relative comfort. Where the forest meets the rice fields, the Lodge brings the opportunity to experience traditional Thai hospitality that has been practiced for over 700 years. Nestled among the rice paddies, in the hills north-west of Chiang Mai, the Lodge provides a unique adventurous experience among the natural beauty of Northern Thailand. You arrive late morning and their guide from the village will take you for a walk through the village. It starts from Ton Lung temple and continues to Lisu village families. Have a cup of tea and a spot of traditional medicine at the shaman’s house! Return to Lisu Lodge for a tasty Thai Lunch.

In the afternoon visit the cultural center and ‘museum’ created by the villagers. Inside you will find a collection of typical household items and tools from the Lisu as well as well as the Akha mountain peoples.
Afternoon until dinner at leisure. You have several options to chill out in the afternoon:
Steam bath (appr. 200 Baht) or a Thai Massage (appr. 350 Baht)
Or get active and the Lodge organises a Ox-cart ride through farmlands and orchards to the Thai village of Baan Pang Mai Daeng - about an hour ending up back at Lisu Lodge.
Or book a guided biking tour around the Lisu Lodge area. Overnight at  the lodge.

 

DAY 5: LISU LODGE (B)
Breakfast will be at the Lodge.  Drive to Mae Kam Pong village, located in the mountains, and on the hills 1.300 meters above sea level. There is a little temple - Wat Mae Kum Pong - where the people produce tea leaf pillows (yes!) Take your lunch at the Tan Tong lodge and try delicious Northern Thai cuisine. After lunch drive back to Chiang Mai. Relax at a spa or shop till you drop! Overnight in Chiang Mai.

 

DAY 6: CHIANG MAI (B/L)
Today you cook your first Thai Food ! Learn how to create authentic 6 Thai  dishes Your chef will display a tray of ingredients and will go through each  one and explain how to prepare it, how to store it and what can be used as a  substitute. You will learn a 5 dish course - perfect for introducing your new skill to your family and friends back home! Bon Appetitet !