The area in northern Thailand around Chiang Rai not only ranks among the most beautiful regions in the country, it is also one of the most authentic. With a backdrop of rivers and mountains, and the unique lifestyle of tradition-drenched minorities, the character of this area is unlike any other part of the land of smiles.

The lifestyle of the Akha and a Yao has been more or less the same for centuries. Their customs and rituals are only sparsely adapted to modern times. They do not wear traditional costumes, but actively propagate their culture. More striking are the longneck Karen who wear stacked brass rings on their necks.

Apart from visits to the villages where these minorities live, you will also see the ancient temples of Chiang Saen along the Mekong River. And visit the equally famous and infamous Golden Triangle. This area where Laos, Burma and Thailand meet was long the hub of the opium trade. After having lunch, the tour continues to Mae Sai on the border with Burma.

From Mae Sai, you take a boat trip in the border area between Thailand and Laos. After this, you'll have a great view of this special area. The above together already constitutes a full programme, yet we have even more for you. If you are in Chiang Rai, the fascinating White Temple should not be missed.

Wat Rong Khun (as the temple is officially called) is not even finished yet, but already world-famous. Trying to shape the path to heaven, the modern and rather unusual temple has a striking white exterior, expressing Buddha's unstained purity. Buddha's wisdom is depicted with a white mosaic. Somewhat sinister are the white hands (untamed desires) reaching up from the ground in front of the temple….

You will be picked up at your hotel in Chiang Rai at the start of the tour and dropped off here afterwards.

You can also take this tour privately from Chiang Mai at an additional cost.