Chiang Mai Extension

Gain insights into the ethnic and cultural diversity of northern Thailand with a stay in Chiang Mai, gateway to the country’s North. With a private guide, visit an elephant camp, then ride these gentle beasts through the jungle, encounter hilltribe villagers, take a ride by bamboo raft down the Ping River, and explore Doi Suthep Temple, high in the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Bangkok, Thailand / Chiang Mai

Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure...Meals on your own

Day 2
Elephant Camp and Bamboo Rafting

For centuries, elephants have been traditionally used for transportation and as beasts of burden in the thick jungles of Southeast Asia. Visit the Chiang Dao Elephant Camp to watch elephants being bathed in the river and see how they are trained using traditional techniques. Then, hop aboard an elephant for a ride through the jungle, up and down hills, crossing rivers and streams, and passing waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll visit a Lisu hilltribe village. The mountain-dwelling Lisu are a Tibeto-Burmese ethnic group who are believed to have originated from eastern Tibet. They are noted for their brightly colored clothing. Later, take a ride by bamboo raft down the Ping River, a relaxing and enjoyable way to appreciate the beautiful and serene scenery. Lunch en route at a local restaurant. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon...BL

Day 3
Doi Suthep Temple and Local Market / Bangkok

Explore a local produce market before taking a short samlor (tricycle) ride to Wat Phra Singh (Monastery of the Lion), a 14th century Lanna-style temple that is one of Chiang Mai’s most important sanctuaries. Then it’s on to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple, situated high in the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai. Doi Suthep is the guardian temple of this wonderful city and a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. An optional climb of 290 steps brings you to the top for a superb panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Return to the hotel for lunch on your own. The early afternoon is free to take a refreshing dip in the pool or relax at the spa with an exotic Thai treatment (spa treatments are not included in the tour price). Checkout time is 2:00 p.m. Transfer to the airport for the late afternoon flight to Bangkok...B