Van Rental 5 Days 4 Nights – Chiang Mai – Mae Hong Son – Pai – Chiang Mai:
Overview: Experience the best of Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces with our private van rental service, complete with a skilled driver and guide. This 3-day adventure will take you to a variety of captivating tourist attractions. Begin your journey by exploring the breathtaking Doi Inthanon National Park. Marvel at the natural wonders and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Wachirathan waterfall. Continue your ascent to the top of Doi Inthanon Mountain, the highest peak in Thailand, and be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view that will leave you in awe. Visit the enchanting Ban Rak Thai Village, a settlement of Yunnan people who migrated to the Thai-Myanmar border during the revolution in China. Indulge in the finest teas and savor the flavors of Yunnan cuisine, immersing yourself in a cultural and culinary delight. Explore the picturesque Ban Ruam Thai Shan Village, also known as Pang Aung or the Switzerland of Thailand. Nestled in a valley, this charming village offers breathtaking views of flower fields and pine-covered mountain ridges. Allow the beauty of nature to captivate your senses as you wander through this idyllic landscape. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Lahu people as you visit Ban Jabo village. Engage with the locals and witness the magnificent scenery that surrounds the village, creating a memorable and immersive experience. Throughout your journey, our knowledgeable guide will provide insights and historical background, enhancing your understanding of the region’s heritage and traditions. Our experienced driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the sights. Discover the hidden gems of Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces as you embark on this unforgettable 3-day adventure. Let us handle the logistics while you soak in the beauty and embrace the unique cultural experiences along the way.
● 25,000 Thai baht
● 1 Van + Fuel + Driver
● English speaking guide
● Travel accident insurance
● Accommodation and meals for guide and driver
● Meals
● Accommodations
● Expenses during the trip
Itinerary
After arriving at Chiang Mai Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. Once you have checked in, the remainder of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to relax and enjoy your stay in Chiang Mai. Take this opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. You will spend the night at the hotel, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay in Chiang Mai.
Begin your journey by departing from Chiang Mai towards the captivating Doi Inthanon National Park. Prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant displays of colorful flower plots and a diverse array of vegetables and fruits at the Royal Agricultural Station Inthanon. This esteemed research facility focuses on studying and promoting winter plants, including flowers, ornamental plants, vegetables, fruits, and highland fisheries. The station also plays a vital role in fostering social development, forest watershed conservation, and fundamental advancements. Furthermore, it serves as a source of income for the families of hill tribe farmers residing in the nearby villages.
Next, immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Wachirathan Waterfall. This magnificent single-tiered waterfall stands tall with its impressive height and boasts year-round flowing water. With a cascading drop of 70 meters, the waterfall creates a breathtaking sight as the water tumbles down with a thunderous roar, sending sprays of mist into the air. During the rainy season, the increased water volume makes the waterfall even more spectacular. Sunlight permeates through the water droplets, often giving rise to stunning rainbows that arc gracefully over the waterfall. Witnessing this awe-inspiring phenomenon enhances the already captivating beauty of Wachirathan Waterfall. The surrounding lush greenery and the cool, refreshing air add to the sense of tranquility and natural splendor, making it a perfect spot for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Twin Royal Pagodas, Napamethanidol and Napapolpumisiri, situated atop a lofty hill in Doi Inthanon National Park. Phra Mahathat Napamethanidol was built to honor and pay homage to Phra Bat Somdet Phra Paraminthra Maha Bhumibol Adulyadej Rama IX during the auspicious celebration of His Majesty the King’s 5th cycle birthday in 1987. Similarly, Phra Mahathat Naphaphonphumisiri was constructed as an offering to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit during the celebrations of Her Majesty the Queen’s 5th cycle birthday in 1992. The surrounding landscape is adorned with enchanting winter flower gardens and a diverse array of plants. With its cool climate throughout the year, this vantage point offers stunning panoramic views and is renowned as one of the most picturesque spots in Chiang Mai.
Conquer Doi Inthanon Mountain, Thailand’s highest peak, which reaches an elevation of 2,565 meters above sea level. This majestic mountain is part of the Thanon Thongchai Mountain range, which stretches all the way from the Himalayas. The region boasts a rich variety of climates and forests, spanning across several countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Visitors to Doi Inthanon can traverse different types of forests at various altitudes, including dense rainforests, serene pine forests, and diverse mixed forests. The mountain is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species. As you ascend, you will encounter vibrant rhododendron bushes, delicate orchids, and towering ferns. Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. On clear days, you can see the patchwork of fields and forests below, while the horizon is often crowned with a sea of clouds. The perennially cool weather, combined with the abundance of natural beauty, makes Doi Inthanon an irresistible destination for travelers from around the globe. Conclude the day by spending the night in Mae Hong Son, a place filled with its own unique charm.
Start your Mae Hong Son exploration with a visit to the stunning the Su Tong Pae Bridge, Thailand’s longest bamboo bridge and a testament to local ingenuity and tradition. Stretching gracefully across lush paddy fields and tranquil canals, this remarkable structure connects Suan Tham Phusama Temple with the quaint Kung Mai Sak Village, offering both practicality and beauty. The bridge’s charm is especially striking during the rainy season, when the surrounding fields are a vibrant green, or in winter, when golden grains shimmer under the sunlight. Framed by majestic mountains, the picturesque landscape enhances the bridge’s timeless elegance, making it a favored spot for photography and quiet reflection. As you walk along the gently swaying bamboo planks, the rhythmic sounds of nature surround you, from rustling leaves to the soft murmurs of flowing water. The experience immerses you in the tranquil beauty of Mae Hong Son’s countryside, offering a unique perspective of the lush fields and serene waterways.
Journey to Baan Rak Thai village, situated near the Thailand-Myanmar border. This village, founded by the Yunnanese ethnic group—former members of the Chinese Nationalist 93rd Division, also known as the “Kuomintang”—offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors will be captivated by the stunning mountain scenery, serene lakes, and vibrant shrubbery within the village. The picturesque rows of green tea plantations curving along the mountainside provide a beautiful sight. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor authentic Yunnan cuisine and sample the renowned Chinese tea, known for its exceptional quality in the Mae Hong Son province. The village’s rich cultural heritage and scenic charm make it a captivating destination.
Experience the tranquil and picturesque atmosphere of the Shan village known as Baan Ruam Thai, or Pang Oung. Nestled amidst the rugged mountain range, this village boasts a breathtaking reservoir often referred to as the “Switzerland of Thailand.” Encircled by pine forests and adorned with colorful winter flowers, the village offers a cool climate year-round. The sight of the expansive reservoir flanked by pine trees, the ethereal mists, and the vibrant array of flowers consistently enthralls tourists, making it a popular destination throughout the year. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful boat ride on the reservoir or exploring the picturesque trails, Baan Ruam Thai offers a serene escape into nature’s beauty.
Continue your journey to Ban Ja Bo village, home to the Lahu hill tribe. Enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery that unfolds along both sides of the road as you approach the village. Situated atop a high mountain, the village is surrounded by stunning vistas. Don’t miss a visit to Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint, a renowned spot where Thai and foreign visitors gather to witness the mesmerizing sea of mist enveloping the valley. This viewpoint offers an unparalleled panorama, especially at dawn when the mist rolls over the landscape like a dreamy sea, often accompanied by a plethora of colorful flowers that add a splash of vibrant hues to the scenery. The early morning light combined with the lush green surroundings and the sea of mist creates an ethereal atmosphere that is truly enchanting.
Indulge in the vibrant local lifestyle as you explore the lively walking street in Pai. This bustling street comes alive from 5 p.m. until midnight, offering an array of handmade products, clothing, jewelry, baskets, and souvenirs for purchase. Numerous Thai and international restaurants dot the street, inviting you to savor a variety of delicious cuisines. From authentic Thai street food to global delicacies, the culinary options are as diverse as they are delectable. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, where the air is filled with the sounds of live music, the buzz of conversation, and the enticing aromas of street food. The walking street not only offers a shopping and dining experience but also provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Conclude your day by spending the night in Pai, cherishing the memories of a remarkable journey. The town offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers.
Before bidding farewell to the charming little town of Pai, travel to Santichon Village, home to the Yunnan Chinese community that migrated from China and settled here a long time ago. Despite the passage of time, the village has managed to preserve its unique Yunnan Chinese style, including its architecture, decorations, and overall ambiance. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the village as you explore its traditional houses and surroundings. The village is a living museum of Yunnan culture, where you can witness traditional practices, sample authentic Yunnan cuisine, and perhaps even partake in a tea ceremony. The intricate designs on the buildings and the vibrant colors of the decorations transport you back to a different era. Just a short distance from Santichon Village lies Yun Lai viewpoint, offering a mesmerizing panorama of Pai city. Marvel at the breathtaking landscape, adorned with paddy fields and a majestic, rugged mountain range. Whether it’s winter or the rainy season, the area is often covered by a captivating sea of mist, creating a truly enchanting sight. The viewpoint is particularly magical at sunrise, when the first light of day illuminates the mist-covered valley, casting a golden glow over the landscape. This is a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the serene beauty of nature.
Continue to visit Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple, an enchanting site perched atop a high hill in Mae Yen village. This sacred temple is both a spiritual haven and a vantage point offering unparalleled views of Pai city. As you make your ascent, the journey itself becomes a meditative experience, accompanied by the sound of rustling leaves and the gentle whisper of the wind. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic vista. The sweeping scenic beauty stretches far and wide, painting a serene landscape of lush greenery. The most captivating moments here are the stunning sunrise and sunset scenes. As dawn breaks, the mountain ranges are bathed in a golden glow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. In the evening, the sky transforms into hues of orange, pink, and purple, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of nature’s artistry. The temple itself is an impressive structure, boasting traditional Thai architecture with intricate carvings. The large white Buddha statue overlooking the valley symbolizes peace and tranquility, offering solace and a sense of calm to all who visit.
Discover Pai Canyon, also known as Kong Lan, a captivating natural attraction formed by soil subsidence on high mountains and shaped by wind and rain erosion into deep trenches and cliffs. Some parts of the canyon form long, winding ridges, spanning over an area of more than 3 acres. The canyon offers a unique and dramatic landscape that is both beautiful and slightly eerie. Surrounding the canyon, you’ll find a diverse mix of deciduous forests with a wide variety of plant species. The narrow and steep trails wind along the ridge, offering adventurous paths with breathtaking views of the forests and deep chasms below. At the pinnacle of Pai Canyon, witness a picturesque vista encompassing the villages, farms, and intertwining high mountains in the background. The views are especially stunning at sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange, casting a warm glow over the canyon.
Step back in time at the Memorial Bridge, a historic structure built during World War II when Japan had a significant presence in Thailand. The bridge served as a transportation route for troops and weapons into Myanmar, much like the Kwai River Bridge. While a newer bridge has replaced it for practical purposes, the worn-out Memorial Bridge now stands as a symbol of history and attracts tourists who capture its essence through photographs, commemorating its significance in Pai’s past. Walking across the bridge, you can almost feel the echoes of history and imagine the many stories it holds. Conclude your journey with a return to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay while reminiscing about the captivating experiences of your trip.
Your trip concludes with a smooth transfer to Chiang Mai airport, marking the end of our services.