Early morning departure from the hotel heading to Mae Salong, 45 minutes drive. The group will transfer into a pick up truck to drive up the mountain to visit the Akha Hilltribe. Then they will continue on to Mae Sai by bus, the Northernmost point in Thailand where they can stroll around and browse at the Myanmar goods as well as observing the border life. Then proceed to the Golden Triangle to observe where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand meet, which is also known for opium land trade. On the way back to the hotel visit they will Chaing Saen to explore the fascinating ruins.

Mae Salong is unlike any other town in Thailand. The combination of pack hill tribes and southern Chinese-style houses conjures up images of a small town or village in the Yunan Province in China. Most people in this area used to speak Yunnanese except, of course, for members of the local hilltribes, who are mainly Akha and speak hilltribe dialects. The Akha hilltribe Village in Mae Salong is one of the least untouched villages, they still maintain their traditional way of life.

This border town faces Myanmar across the Mae Sai River. The Burmese cross the border to trade and sell Burmese products. Visitors can also take the opportunity to view some Burmese style architecture.

The meeting place of the borders of three countries, Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, most commonly associated with the opium trade, the Golden Triangle is now closed for all opium trading and provides a perfect opportunity to view the magnificent sight of the three countries.

Just over 60 km from Chiang Rai, Chiang Saen is a small crossroads town on the banks of the Maekhong River. Scattered throughout the town are the ruins of the Chiang Saen Kingdom, a Lanna principality. Surviving architecture includes Chedis, Buddha images, Wihaan pillars and earthen city ramparts.

Where to lunch?

• At Golden Triangle Hotel

Duration: full day (approx. 7 hours)