Explore soaring landscapes and discover a treasure trove of wonders on this Mae Salong tour. Witness Buddhist monks traveling by horseback to collect their daily alms. Explore Akha and Yao villages, seeing cultures untouched by time. And learn about the fascinating history of the KMT army with a visit to a mountainside settlement.
Pick up at 07:00. Set off early in the morning from Chiang Rai on this Mae Salong tour to discover a part of Thailand that is not yet on the main tourist trail.
The first stop is ‘Wat Tham Pa Acha Thong’, or ‘Golden Horse Monastery’. This remote monastery is one of a kind in Thailand, as its monks collect their daily alms by horse instead of on foot. Learn the story behind this unique procession while walking around the grounds. There may be an opportunity to make an offering to the monks as they pass by on horseback. Continue to a nearby hilltop temple where monks and novice monks often practice Muay Thai martial arts.
Having seen a unique side of Buddhism, venture into Mae Salong’s hills to meet some of Thailand’s ethnic groups. Visit villages inhabited by the Yao and Akha people, learning about their traditional cultures and beliefs, such as spirit worship.
Continue to climb further up the mountains, arriving at Santi Kiri, home to a settlement of Kuomintang (KMT) refugees. Learn how the KMT Nationalist Chinese Army fled to Thailand during the Chinese Civil War and has since fought alongside the Thai army. The descendants of the army have been given land rights to stay in this beautiful corner of Thailand. Visit tea plantations and a co-op store selling homemade wine, traditional medicines, and other locally grown products from the KMT and other Santi Kiri residents.
After this insightful visit, continue driving through spectacular Mae Salong before returning to Chiang Rai early this afternoon. (L)
Inclusions:
🥘 Lunch
Here is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerHere is a selection of products that may also fit the needs of your client.
Become a partnerOur sales team is on hand to ensure that the process of working with us is as smooth as possible. If you should have any questions, feel free to reach out to them.