ThaiUnika

Overview

Discover the captivating charm of northern Thailand on an unforgettable journey through its enchanting landscapes and vibrant local cultures. This enticing tour invites you to explore the villages of Karen, Lahu, Palong, and Akha ethnic groups, immersing yourself in their traditions and colorful way of life. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Chang Dao Cave, renowned as one of Thailand's most beautiful natural wonders, with its intricate limestone formations and hidden chambers.

Embark on an exhilarating trek through corn fields, agricultural farmlands, and bamboo forests, all set against the backdrop of majestic limestone mountains. Immerse yourself in the harmony of nature and witness the serene beauty of the countryside. A visit to the historically and spiritually significant Doi Suthep is a must, where you can ascend the mountain and marvel at the panoramic views of Chiang Mai city.

The itinerary begins with your arrival in Chiang Mai, followed by a scenic drive to the Chiang Dao hill tribe region. Engage with the local communities, enjoy authentic flavors during meals, and relax in the tranquility of your accommodation. The next day, continue exploring the hill tribe region, trekking through breathtaking landscapes and learning about the local ecology. On the final day, visit Doi Suthep temple before returning to Chiang Mai.

This tour promises an immersive and enriching experience, where you can embrace the rich cultural heritage of northern Thailand, witness stunning natural wonders, and create cherished memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Don't miss the chance to embark on this extraordinary adventure - book your journey now and let the magic of northern Thailand unfold before your eyes.

Highlights

• Visit villages of local ethnic groups like Karen, Lahu, Palong, Akha
• Explore one of the most beautiful caves in Thailand - Chang Dao Cave
• Trek through corn fields, agricultural farmlands and bamboo forest surrounded by limestones mountains
• Pay a visit to Doi Suthep, one of the most historically and spiritually significant places in Thailand

Itinerary in Details

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4

Day 1: Chiang Mai Arrival

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you will be picked up and transfer to your hotel in Chiang Mai. Today you will be free to relax, ready for your trekking tour on the next day.

Day 2: Chiang Mai–Chiang Dao hill tribe (B, L, D)

Today after breakfast, our guide will pick you up to visit Chiang Dao Cave, one of the largest caves in Thailand which is made up of several 12 km galleries. We then continue trekking for 1 km from the entrance to the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary, a great destination for hiking and bird watching.

We have lunch at the local mountain nearby the caves, then proceed to Baan Huay Go – an Aha village to start a 2-3 hour trekking trip. Going through corn fields, agricultural farmlands and bamboo forest surrounded by limestones mountains, you will have an opportunity to see such a beautiful and peaceful landscape.

We arrive in Palong (Dara Ang) village called Baan Pang Daeng Nai, where the Karen ethnic minority group live for overnight. You can enjoy dinner cooked by the host, then take a walk around the village to interact with the locals.

Day 2: Chiang Mai–Chiang Dao hill tribe (B, L, D)

Day 3: Baan Paang Daeng Nai - Baan Mae Chon (B/L/D)

Great trekking
Second day of your Chiang Dao private trekking. After the sounds of nature and the locals woke you up, your guide will prepare breakfast. After breakfast, your guide will show you around the village. He will explain about the village shrine and the ‘huja rawl’, the ‘village heart’. After this, we will continue our trek through the forest about 3-4 hours to another Palong village. Your guide will take his time to explain about the natural environment. We will invite you to recognise wild ginger, rattan and the pitcher plant in the forest and tell you all about bamboo and its many uses.

Mae Chon, village of the Palong people
We walk out of the forest into the Mae Chon, another Palong village. Once we have arrived in the village, you can rest for a while or spend some time playing with the children. Your guide will prepare your evening meal for you all, and if you like, you can join him to cook dinner. At the campfire after dinner, it’s time to share some more stories with your guide and the local Palong people.
Overnight will be at Palong hill tribe village Baan Mae Chon.

Day 4: Ban Mae Chon – Chiang Mai (B/L) No accommodation in Chiang Mai

Spirit Temple at Lahu village
Third day of your Chiang Dao private trekking. After the sounds of nature and the locals woke you up, your guide will prepare breakfast. After breakfast, we will trek about 2,5 hours to the Karen village Thakilek. Along the way, we will stop at Lahu village where we will visit the fascinating spirit temple. After this, we will continue trekking to the Karen village.

Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park
Drive to the foot of Doi Chiang Dao, the 3rd highest mountain in Thailand. Here we will have lunch in a local restaurant. Visit the famous Caves of Chiang Dao. Drive back to Chiang Mai. Last stop today will be the Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park. During an excellent self-guided tour, you will see all the stages of the production of paper from elephant dung and learn about the history of papermaking.
Return to Chiang Mai. It is the end of your Chiang Dao private trekking.

Trip notes

Included:

Accommodation in twin/double room with daily breakfast at the below indicated room types (see hotel category list below) (check-in and check-out around noontime)
Services of a driver and private air-conditioned vehicle during all tours and transfers
Experienced English-speaking guide during all tours and transfers
Entrance fees for all visits as mentioned in the itinerary
Meals (B/L/D) (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) as indicated in the program
02 bottles of mineral water per person per day on bus - on days of transfer and sightseeing only