Northern Kingdom Explorer
Chiang Mai → Chiang Rai → Golden Triangle
Trip Overview
Discover the ancient Lanna Kingdom with ornate temples, hill tribe villages, and the mystical Golden Triangle.
Highlights
Regions Covered
Estimated Costs
*Estimates per person, excluding international flights
Best Season
November - February
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 Days
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Morning
Fly into Chiang Mai
Afternoon
Old City walking tour, Tha Phae Gate
Evening
Sunday Walking Street (if Sunday) or Night Bazaar
Temple Day
Chiang Mai
Morning
Doi Suthep Temple (sunrise recommended)
Afternoon
Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh
Evening
Khao Soi dinner, cooking class
Hill Tribe Experience
Chiang Mai
Morning
Elephant Nature Park visit
Afternoon
Karen long-neck village or local hill tribe
Evening
Riverside dining
Chiang Rai Temples
Chiang Rai
Morning
Drive to Chiang Rai (3 hrs)
Afternoon
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Evening
Blue Temple, Chiang Rai night market
Golden Triangle & Departure
Golden Triangle
Morning
Golden Triangle viewpoint, Mekong cruise
Afternoon
Hall of Opium museum
Evening
Return to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai for departure
Packing Tips
- Layers for cooler mountain weather
- Temple-appropriate clothing
- Good walking shoes
- Camera
- Insect repellent
Pro Tips
- Book Elephant Nature Park well in advance
- Doi Suthep at sunrise avoids crowds
- Try Northern Thai food - it's different from Bangkok
Ready for Your Thailand Adventure?
Use this itinerary as your guide and customize it to create your perfect trip.