Day 1 - Chiang Rai Day Trip – A Journey Through Temples, Tea, and Tributes
We started our day with a nice breakfast at Gita’s House, a cozy bed and breakfast in Chiang Rai run by a yoga instructor. After an early start, our first stop was the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)—a striking mix of contemporary art and traditional Thai Buddhist architecture, designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. It was a fascinating temple, with surprising elements like Spiderman and other modern characters hidden in the artwork.
Next, we visited the beautiful Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), known for its vibrant sapphire-blue interiors and golden Buddha statue. This temple was designed by Phutta Kabkaew, a student of Chalermchai, and had a very calm, peaceful vibe.
For lunch, we stopped at Give Green Farm House Restaurant, where we enjoyed delicious Thai food made with fresh, local ingredients. The attached organic garden was also lovely and worth a stroll.
In the afternoon, we visited the scenic Choui Fong Tea Plantation. We loved the views of the rolling tea fields, sipped refreshing tea, and even tried their crispy deep-fried tea leaf snack, which was surprisingly tasty!
After that, we headed to Tham Luang Khun Nam Nang Non Cave, known for the dramatic 2018 rescue of the Wild Boars football team. We first arrived at the National Park, then took a local shuttle to the cave site. The museum and memorials, especially the statue of Saman Kunan, were deeply moving and reminded us of the courage and unity shown during the rescue.
We then made our way to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River. The viewpoint offered stunning landscapes, and we enjoyed seeing the Buddha, Shiva, Ganesha, and other statues in the area.
Our final stop was the Hall of Opium Museum, which gave a powerful and eye-opening look into the history of the opium trade in the region. It was informative and thoughtfully designed.
We really enjoyed the company of our amazing guide and driver, Poppy, who was knowledgeable, friendly, and even stayed longer to make sure we saw everything. It was a full and memorable day!
Day 2 - Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai
We had a peaceful and refreshing day exploring some beautiful places in Northern Thailand. Our first stop was the Mercy Temple in Chiang Rai, a quiet and serene spot perfect for reflection and prayer. From there, we visited the Wiang Pa Pao Hot Springs, where we relaxed by dipping our feet in the warm natural water surrounded by greenery.
For lunch, we stopped at Jindy Vegetarian Restaurant, a cozy place with fresh and healthy food that left us feeling light and satisfied. In the afternoon, we headed up the mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. The temple was stunning, with its golden stupa, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the city below.
It was a well-balanced day filled with calm, nature, good food, and spiritual energy — a perfect reminder of the gentle beauty of Northern Thailand.
Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai pictures
Day 3 - Doi Inthanon National Park
We had breakfast at our hotel in Chiang Mai and then drove for about two hours up to Doi Inthanon. Often called “The Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon is the country’s highest peak, rising 2,565 meters above sea level. It’s part of Doi Inthanon National Park — a beautiful blend of lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. We first went on the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail and enjoyed the breathtaking views and flowering trees. We also stopped at the highest spot in Thailand. Next, we visited the twin stupas and admired the stunning gardens surrounding them. On our way down, we saw beautiful cherry blossom trees in bloom.
We had lunch at a lovely spot called At Home Pizza, overlooking peaceful rice fields. They even cultivate organic coffee there. It was a true hidden gem, run by an experienced chef who returned from Europe to open a pizzeria in his hometown. Afterwards, we visited Wachirathan and Mae Ya waterfalls, both spectacular in their own ways. On our way back, we stopped at the Shiva Brahma Narayan Temple. Although it was closed, we admired the intricate paintings and sculptures from outside.
Day 4 - Elephant Nature Park
We left early in the morning, and the vehicle from Elephant Nature Park picked us up at our hotel. There were a few more stops to pick up other visitors from different hotels in Chiang Mai, so it took over an hour to reach the park. Located in Northern Thailand, Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center founded by Saengduean “Lek” Chailert.
When we arrived, we were taken on a short tour to see some of the elephants nearby. We watched them being fed ripe, smashed bananas and banana tree parts — it was fun to see each elephant eagerly pulling the feeding tray toward itself! After our walk, we enjoyed a tasty vegan buffet lunch.
Later, we helped cut watermelons and fed them to the elephants and it was a fun experience. We also fed them sticky rice rolled into balls. After feeding time, we watched the elephants head to the lake for their bath. It was heartwarming to see so many elephants up close — especially the older ones, some of whom had vision or dental issues.
After spending the day learning about and interacting with these gentle giants, we headed back to our hotel, returning in the evening. It was a truly enjoyable and educational experience.
Day 5 - Chiang Mai and Krabi
In the morning, we watched some lively Chinese New Year performances right outside our hotel. After that, we went on a walking tour around Chiang Mai, visiting Tha Phae Gate, the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center, Wat Phra Singh (the Golden Temple), and Wat Chedi Luang. We had lunch at Chada Vegetarian Restaurant before returning to the hotel to pack up. Later, we headed to the airport, flew to Krabi, and reached our hotel by evening.
Day 6 - Krabi, Railey and Phra Nan beach
Day 7 - Khao Sok
Day 8 - Khao Sok and Bangkok
Day 9 - Bangkok
Day 10 - Bangkok
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