Northern Thailand exudes a charm that makes it unique from the rest of the country. A lot of this is attributed to the former Lanna Kingdom, of which remnants can be seen today. That includes the architecture, food, culture, history and yes, the people themselves. Head up north for that ‘words cannot describe it, you have to be there’ experience.

A trip up the northern echelons of Thailand warrants a visit to Chiang Mai, the region’s biggest city. Your day with a scorpion tailed boat ride to take in the historic sites of the river, including the old trader community of Wat Gatekaram. While you’re at it, sample the north’s finest gastronomic delicacy, the Khao Soy. Shop for northern wares and absorb the atmosphere at the night market.

It’s now time to check out the real character of Northern Thailand. Head out of the city and into country land at Mae Kampong village, stopping en route at a local market to select the ingredients for your lunch. This is the perfect opportunity to mingle and blend in with the locals. They’ll teach you how to make some northern food and work their magic on you with a relaxing massage.

A highlight on any tour up here is Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, the north’s most revered temple. The glittering gold monastery is up on Doi Suthep Mountain, so expect some awesome views of the city as well.

Ever wonder how life was life hundreds of years ago? Get a glimpse as you visit a traditional Hmong village, one of the hilltribes you’ve heard so much about. Then spend the night at Lisu Lodge, the perfect accommodation to experience Northern Thailand’s hill tribe cultures.

Can’t miss out on those elephants! Hop on their back at an elephant camp and rumble through the jungle with this massive animal as your guide. From four stomping legs to the water, hop on a raft for some white water pedaling on the Mae Taeng River. All experience levels are welcome. Cap off your nature escapade with time spent at a waterfall. If you aren’t already wet, this is your chance to be so.

Get a taste (literally and figuratively) of the Lanna culture with a four course dinner with the Kingdom’s descendants. But first, you’ll learn all the ingredients, recipes and secrets as you cook these delicacies with them. Then enjoy your masterful creations with your new buddies at a campfire next to a garden.

This is vintage northern countryside. Bask it all in with a relaxing morning bike ride. Head to the market and a nearby temple. Soothe in the morning rhythm. Return back to base for some more culinary insight as you prepare lunch with your friends and feast on it.

Head back to Chiang Mai for your last day of discovery, with excursions to Ton Payom Market and the 14th century forest temple, Wat Umong. Our Buddhist enlightenment continues at the Buddhist Studies Center. Learn from the monks. Learn about Buddhism. Learn about how to live a fulfilling life.

More Thailand delights are waiting for you to experience! From the southern seas and island, to the big capital Bangkok and the untouched Isaan region, our Thailand tours will surely leave a lasting legacy.

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