Chiang Mai & The North of Thailand
Thailand's second city offers almost as much to see and do as Bangkok, but if the capital is overwhelming for some people, Chiang Mai gives visitors a manageable slice of Thailand.
The old walled city is one square mile and seems to be almost completely full of temples. The city also boasts river-cruises, gardens and zoos, museums and of course a multitude of mouth watering eating places.
No longer a Shangri La, Chiang Mai is now very much a working city, with a vibrant economy and its own buzz. Chiang Mai is full of Art galleries, street markets, coffee shops and cool places to sit and watch the world go by. It is also the perfect place to spend some time learning about the Thai way of life – including cookery or massage courses – or simply to relax, enjoy one of the many spas, eat and stock up on souvenirs before or after a trek or adventure trip.
A short drive or easy bike ride out of the city you find superb mountain and river scenery stretching away to the Burmese (Myanmar) and Laos borders. The mountains are home to a bewildering number of ethnic groups, or hiltribe people, as well as national parks full of exotic birds. As well as trekking, the adventurous traveller can find white water rafting, mountain biking and even rock climbing to keep busy.
Further north and equally exotic-sounding is the 'Golden Triangle' where Burma, Laos and Thailand converge, north of the burgeoning town of Chiang Rai. Once famous for its opium trade, the mountains are now home to some of Thailand's most exclusive hotels and lodges.
A week in the region will give you time for a 1 or 2 day trek (or, if this sounds too much like hard work) a couple of days being driven, a 4-day self-drive tour of the Mae Hong Son mountain road), plus a few days to enjoy the delights of Chiang Mai. With a few more days, you could add a side-trip to the Golden Triangle.
Below are some of our best picks for tours in Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand However, if you prefer to design your own itinerary, fill out our tailor-made form and we will get back to you within 24 business hours.
The Northern Loop – Self Drive - 5 Days / 3 Nights
Take an unforgettable journey along the mountainous landscapes and rivers of Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Sorn provinces, seeing the splendid, spectacular mountains scenery, richness of natural attractions and fascinating hill tribe. 
Lanna Heritage Trail - 4 Days / 3 Nights
Travel back to trace the history and charms of Lanna Kingdom, the 'Land of a Million Rice fieldsâ€, through a diversity of religious heritages, sanctuary of a variety of traditional architectures, handicraft art collection and authentic Lanna surroundings.
Lanna Experience (3 Days/ 2 Nights)
Experience Lanna Country – get out and meet the people: Lisu, Lahu the all sorts of tribes, while staying at cosy country lodges (Lisu style).
The Road to Mae Hong Son (2 Days/ 1 Nights)
Escape to Little Burma – Mae Hong Son is one of Thailand's most under rated and least visited destinations. Now there are direct flights from Bangkok.
Chiang Rai and The Far North (3 Days/ 2 Nights)
Welcome to Chiang Rai, the first Lanna Thai capital, the northernmost area of Thailand with the historic sites. Visit Oum Kham Home Collection museum of Lanna Kingdoms exploring the center of Lanna; drive into the mountains for the royal residence and travel to the heart of the Golden Triangle.
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