Thailand Independent Short Break: Chiang Mai & Golden Triangle

Get to know Thailand’s serene North on this Independent Short Break from Chiang Mai to the Golden Triangle, stopping off to see natural wonders and learn about local history along the way. Walk around the Chiang Dao Caves with a local guide, sip tea in Doi Mae Salong and cruise along the Mekong River to Chiang Saen, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Enjoy regional dishes, including a quail egg cooked in a hot spring (then complete the experience by soaking in the spring). This Independent 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 much-loved country.

Day 1: Chiang Mai/Doi Mae Salong
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Chiang Mai. Your Short Break Adventure starts at 8 am, when you’ll be picked up by a local guide from the joining point hotel. Head towards the Golden Triangle region by private minibus, stopping off first at Chiang Dao Cave. These interconnected caves expand more than 10 kms beneath Doi Chiang Dao, the third tallest mountain in Thailand – and you’ll get to explore them with your guide. Look out for hermit images, a reclining Buddha and a royal coat of arms to mark the visit of the Thai Queen. Then, continue to Doi Mae Salong, a hillside town with a large Chinese population. Famous for its Chinese tea traders, the region is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the surrounding mountains. Explore the local markets in the late afternoon, perhaps picking up a piece made by the Akha, a vibrant ethnic minority.
Day 2: Golden Triangle/Chiang Rai
After breakfast, drive to the Golden Triangle, where the Thailand, Myanmar and Laos borders meet. Enjoy lunch overlooking the Mekong River before visiting the House of Opium Museum. This local history museum offers an insight into the opium trade and the region’s troubled past. After, climb on board a longtail boat and travel along the Mekong River to Chiang Saen, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Chiang Saen is surrounded on three sides by impressive ramparts, with the Mekong forming the fourth wall. The town is famous for the local rice whiskey sold from distilleries on the banks of river. After exploring, you’ll head south to Chiang Rai, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Chiang Mai
Get to know Chiang Rai this morning with a temple visit. Wat Rong Khun – more commonly known as the White Temple – remains a work in progress since construction started in 1997. With its strange design references to pop culture icons like Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman (yes, really), it’s definitely one temple worth visiting in Thailand. Then, grab lunch on the way to Mae Ka Chan Hot Springs. Located just off the main road, these simple springs offer an opportunity to soak your feet or enjoy a foot massage ‘fish spa style’ – a foot massage while munching on quail eggs that have been cooked with the heat of the spring waters. Head back to Chiang Mai after, where your Short Break Adventure will come to an end.