Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, we are warmly welcomed by our travel expert and introduced to the cultural heart of Northern Thailand. With its striking backdrop of forested hills and a historic old town enclosed within crumbling brick walls, Chiang Mai offers a slower, more reflective pace than Bangkok. Once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, it remains a centre of spiritual life, craftsmanship, and creativity, all wrapped in a uniquely laid-back northern charm.

Rather than heading straight to the hotel, we begin the day with a gentle introduction to the city. The journey starts with a scenic drive up Doi Suthep, the forested mountain that rises above Chiang Mai. Here we visit the city’s most sacred temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, known for its golden stupa and sweeping views over the valley below. It’s a serene and symbolic place to mark our arrival in the north.

Back in the city, we make our way through Chiang Mai’s old town, where temples and tradition sit side-by-side with street art, cafés, and local markets. We pause at some of the city’s most notable religious landmarks, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, learning how these historic spaces continue to shape daily life. Along the way, we gain insight into Chiang Mai’s layered identity—from its roots in Lanna heritage to its evolving contemporary spirit.

By late morning, we return to our hotel for check-in and a well-earned rest. The afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure, with the option to continue exploring independently. Whether choosing to browse handicraft shops, wander leafy lanes, or sip coconut coffee in a quiet courtyard, this is a chance to absorb the calm yet captivating atmosphere that defines the city.

Chiang Mai is a place of contrasts—historic yet creative, sacred yet easygoing—and today offers a gentle but memorable introduction to all that lies ahead.

Today we leave Chiang Mai behind and take to the hills, embarking on one of the region’s most memorable overland journeys. Rather than driving directly to Pai, we take a scenic, full-day route designed to showcase the landscapes, culture, and surprises of Northern Thailand’s mountainous heartland.

Our first stop is Wat Ban Den, a striking and little-visited temple just north of the city. This sprawling complex of brightly coloured stupas and elaborate wooden structures is one of the most visually impressive temples in the north. With few crowds and panoramic views of the surrounding hills, it’s a peaceful and photogenic way to begin our day.

From here, we continue to Mae Malai Market, a bustling roadside hub frequented by local hill tribe communities. The market is a vibrant place to sample northern snacks, browse fresh herbs and spices, or simply observe everyday life. We might try sticky rice grilled in banana leaves or pick up small handmade items crafted in nearby villages.

As we ascend into the mountains, the scenery grows more dramatic. We pause at Mok Fa Waterfall for a short jungle walk and a refreshing break by the cool cascade. If the weather allows, we can dip our feet or enjoy a moment of quiet surrounded by forest.

The road to Pai is famous for its 762 bends, and while the journey is winding, the vistas of valleys, ridgelines, and dense jungle make the drive engaging throughout. We break up the ride with a visit to Pong Dueat Geyser, where bubbling pools and steaming vents add a geothermal twist to the adventure.

A final stop at a hillside café offers panoramic views and a well-earned drink. By late afternoon, we arrive in Pai—a relaxed riverside town with a gentle atmosphere, creative spirit, and welcoming charm. After checking in to your hotel, the evening is ours to unwind and settle into the peaceful rhythm of Pai.

We leave Pai this morning for a beautiful journey through the highlands as we make our way towards Mae Hong Son. The road climbs steadily through forested hills and rural farmland before levelling out in a plateau of pine trees and mountain air. Our destination is Ban Rak Thai, a unique and picturesque village founded by former Kuomintang soldiers from Yunnan, China. Located near the Myanmar border, the village sits beside a peaceful lake surrounded by tea plantations and terraced slopes.

We take a gentle walk through the village, with time to admire its traditional clay-walled houses and Chinese-style architecture. Our travel expert helps us uncover the story of how Ban Rak Thai came to be, and how its blend of Thai and Chinese culture has shaped daily life here. We visit a local tea shop to learn about the varieties grown in the area and sample a freshly brewed cup while enjoying views across the lake.

Lunch is served at a small family-run restaurant specialising in Yunnan-style cuisine. Dishes such as braised pork with steamed buns, handmade noodles, and lightly spiced vegetables reflect both the village’s heritage and the influence of its cool climate.

Following lunch, we continue our drive to Mae Hong Son Airport, passing through misty valleys and quiet hill villages. Upon arrival, we board a short domestic flight to Lampang. Once we land, our travel expert meets us and we transfer to your hotel, where the rest of the evening is at leisure.

Today’s journey offers a glimpse into one of Thailand’s lesser-known cultural corners and takes us through some of the most scenic and remote regions in the north. With its quiet lake, mountain tea fields, and cross-border heritage, Ban Rak Thai is a special place to pause and reflect before continuing our journey eastward.

Note: Flights are only operational on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the high season. During the low season, alternative routing can be discussed with your travel expert.

After breakfast, we check out of your hotel and begin our final morning with an early journey to one of Northern Thailand’s most unique and dramatic sights—Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat. Located just over an hour from Lampang, this remarkable temple complex sits high atop the limestone cliffs of Pu Yak Mountain. While many temples crown hilltops in Thailand, none are quite like this. Here, white chedis are scattered across jagged peaks, seemingly floating above the forested landscape.

Upon arrival, a local truck transports us partway up the mountain. From there, we make a steady climb along a stairway equipped with handrails. The ascent is fairly manageable, with plenty of resting spots along the way, and the views become increasingly dramatic the higher we go. At the summit, the full panorama unfolds—temple spires perched on distant pinnacles, prayer bells gently ringing, and uninterrupted views stretching far across the valley.

We take our time to explore the network of wooden walkways and terraces, stopping at small altars, gongs, and scenic lookouts. The quiet devotion of this site is palpable, made more powerful by its remote setting and the effort it takes to reach. Photographers will find no shortage of vantage points, and those seeking a final moment of reflection will find this mountaintop sanctuary a fitting farewell.

After descending from the peaks, we return to your hotel in Lampang for lunch and a chance to freshen up. Later in the afternoon, we continue to Lampang Airport for your flight to Bangkok.

PROGRAM CONCLUDES