Day 1: Arrival in Chiang mai
On arrival at Chiang mai international, meet up with your English speaking guide, transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Chiang Mai (New City) was founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the capital of the first independent Thai state, Lanna Thai (Kingdom of One Million Rice Fields). It became the cultural and religious center of the northern Tai, those who had migrated from southern China to dwell in Thailand, and remained so throughout the turbulent period of recurring Burmese attacks. The Burmese finally captured Chiang Mai in 1556 and occupied it until King Taksin retook the city in 1775, driving the Burmese forces back to near the present border. Burmese influence on religion, architecture, language, cuisine, and culture, however, remains strong. The city stands on the Ping River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya River.
Start with Chiang mai city tour, Visit some of Chiang Mai’s famous temples: Wat Chiang Man situated in town, the first temple built in Chiang Mai around 1300 AD built by the founder of the city 700 years ago, King Mengrai, on the spot where he stayed while planning his new capital; Wat Phra Singh founded in the 14th century to enshrine the ashes of King Kam Fu has the most complete version of Lanna chapel and is home to Phra Buddha Singh, considered Chiang Mai’s most important and sacred Buddha image.
Then be on your own for the rest of the day.
Day 2: Chiang mai city tour
For early risers: Highly recommended because this is a gentle way to see Chiang Mai Buddhist people’s life: wake up early in the morning and take a ride to Kruba Sri Vichat Statue, the holy monk of Northern Thailand to take part in a daily Buddhist ceremony “Tak Bat” or “Merit Making” by giving offerings to monks on their arms-rounds with local people. Purify your mind and learn how to give and learn a part of Buddhism.
At 8:30, be picked up at your hotel and go to Ruamchook Market with your chef. She will explain about rice, how to make fresh coconut milk and how to choose seasonings. Then spend some time walking around to take pictures and watch vendors selling their products.
Upon arrival at the farm, take a walk around the farm with the explanation of the chef about the herbs growing and ingredients. Then learn to cook the first three courses you choose and have lunch with what you have prepared on the terrace overlooking the fishpond where you will have a splendid view of the entire farm as well as the lush nearby mountains. Enjoy lunch with what you have cooked. Then take Chaing mai city your drive up Doi (Mount) Suthep to visit Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep built in 1383 on Doi Suthep (3500 feet above sea – level), is the symbol of Chiangmai. It is the most sacred temple in the city and contains the holy relic of the Lord Buddha which is enshrined in the magnificent golden pagoda with a challenging flight of over 300 steps, flanked by enormous mythological Nagas. A panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside can be seen from the temple grounds.
Day3: Elephant Camp
Head out on an excursion to visit an elephant working site located at Ta Yaak Village, Chiang Dao District, approximately 70km from Chiang Mai. The elephant working camp on the banks of the Mae Ping River and surrounded by rocky hills is where you can see the elephants take a bath in river, drag and push logs. An interesting demonstration of how trained elephants are used as work animals in the teak forests of Thailand around 10.00am. Next, enjoy an exciting trek on an elephant back around camp through the jungle and along the river. Afterwards, board bamboo rafts along a very picturesque stretch of the Mea Ping River to see the beautiful scenery down the river. The rafting lasts about an hour but depends on the depth of the water and the speed of the current. Have lunch at local restaurant.
On the way back, if interested, visit an Orchid Nursery which has more than 50 different varieties of gorgeous orchid blooms in a dazzling array of colors and visit Butterfly Farm to see a superb collection of butterflies which is available for your perusal and study. Drive back to the hotel for your relaxation.
Day4: Chiang mai – free day
Free day until transfer to the airport for flight back.
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