Duration(in days): 4
From: Chiang Mai
To: Chiang Mai
See more ideas for: Thailand
Chiang Mai province is a laid-back and culture filled stop off and is a favourite on the travellers trail. Famous for elephant trekking there is actually a lot more to this temple filled city, a charming mix of both old and new. The old quarter is home to many celebrated temples and Chiang Mai is the gateway to many local hill tribes, providing an insight into the more traditional ways of life.
Upon arrival in Chiang Mai Airport your guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall holding a sign with your names on it, ready to transfer you by air conditioned vehicle to the hotel in Chiang Mai.
Start the day with a scenic drive north of Chiang Mai, for a peek into the lives of the Hmong people. Your first stop is the famous Wat Umong. The temples full name is Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, which translates to "Temple of the tunnels and Buddha Dhamma garden".
Next, you will continue higher into the hills, to a local hilltribe village inhabited by the White Hmong hilltribe. Spend your time exploring the vilage, meeting the locals and learning about the traditions and customs of this unique ethnic group. After some time exploring, you will head back to Chiang Mai.
Today is yours to explore Chiang Mai, whether you stroll amongst the temples and monasteries of the city or hire a moped and zoom up the hairpin bends to the top of Doi Suthep, where stunning views over the city contend with the golden temple that you’ll discover amongst the trees at the top of the hill. Staying in the city you can explore the shops and restaurants of Chiang Mai – why not try a bowlful of khao soi, a northern speciality made of crunchy noodles, lean beef and delicious Thai spices and herbs.
In the evening you could head over to the night market, exploring the various stalls and shops selling everything from clothes and jewellery to food and souvernirs. Finish the night at one of the city’s many laid back bars, enjoying the relaxed nighttime atmosphere of this northern town.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you during the transfer by air conditioned private vehicle to the airport where you’ll check in for your onwards flight.
The weather in Chiang Mai is most enjoyable from November to mid-February as this is when temperatures are at their most mild and the weather at its driest. During the cooler season (Dec-Mar) the temperatures can become cold at night. March until May is the hot season in Chiang Mai and can be quite extreme.
All of our itineraries are tailor-made to give you an idea of just some of what is possible; this means we can adjust as necessary to completely suit your needs! Let your travel consultant know how long you plan to spend away, what you like to do, what properties you like to stay in and an idea of your budget and we will do the rest!