Example Itinerary

Golden Triangle Exploration: Three Countries, Five Days

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations
Thailand

Visit three countries in five days on this tour of the Golden Triangle. The borders of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand come together in the northern province of Chiang Rai, and this tour is the perfect way to get a glimpse at all three. From scenic drives to the heights of Doi Ang Khang and tuk-tuk drives through Tachilek, to longtail boat rides down the mighty Mekong, this diverse tour offers a little something for every type of world traveller.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • River Cruise: Coast down the Mekong River on a longtail boat to reach Don Sao Island in Laos.
  • Dark History: Delve into the historic underbelly of the region with a visit to the Hall of Opium Museum in Chiang Saen.
  • Tachilek by Tuk-Tuk: Hop over the border into Myanmar and explore the Shan State town via the most quintessential method of Southeast Asian transport.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Thaton

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Chiang Mai bright and early. Start the tour with a scenic drive to Doi Ang Khang. The narrow road that hugs the Thai-Burmese border is host to a plethora of magnificent views. Make a stop in Tham Ngob before reaching Doi Ang Khang, and having a midday meal. Next, we will visit a Royal Project, one of many village-based community development projects set up by Thailand’s revered monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Head to Thaton and check in at the Maekok River Village Resort, where you can enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.

Hotel Options
About

Welcome to the Maekok River Village Resort, located in the hilly northwest corner of Thailand, hugging the Myanmar (Burma) border. This comfortable resort provides a picturesque place to lay your head – and enjoy lush garden views – while soaking in the history and culture of the city of Thaton.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Chiang Rai

Begin the day with a refreshing boat ride along the Kok River. Disembark at the Lahu village Pha Thai and continue by car to Santikhiri, on Doi Mae Salong. After a guided tour, enjoy lunch and continue to Chiang Rai, enjoying the scenic drive. Check in to Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort. Enjoy the hotel’s fantastic facilities, staying in and relaxing, or ask the guide for a tour of the city’s vibrant, bustling night bazaar.

Hotel Options
About

The perfect little hideaway, Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort is the ideal oasis for travelers in northern Thailand. This luxurious resort, sprawling over 10 glorious acres, is situated on the Mae Kok river and boasts an outdoor pool, spa and children’s center for ultimate relaxation.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai

Day 3

Chiang Rai

Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a full-day exploration of the Golden Triangle, including crossing over in Laos. Begin by visiting Wat Rong Khun, the famous ‘White Temple.” Head to Chiang Saen and take in the history at the Hall of Opium Museum. Have a tasty lunch at Yungkhao Restaurant before a ride in a local longtail boat down the Mekong River for a stop at Don Sao Island, Laos. Return to Thailand and continue on to your new hotel in the Golden Triangle. The evening is yours to enjoy.

Day 4

Chiang Rai

Today you will be leaving Thailand for the day and crossing over to Myanmar.  Start the day with a drive to Mae Sai, a bustling border town. Cross over to Myanmar and take a tuk-tuk tour of Tachilek. Visit the Temples of the Enrobed Elephant and Mahamyatmuni; these are exquisite examples of Burmese architecture. Enjoy an authentic Burmese lunch at a local restaurant, before visiting the fascinating flurry of activity that is the border market of Tachilek. Return to your hotel in Thailand for a relaxing evening.

Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai

Day 5

Departure

Enjoy breakfast before you are transferred to the airport in time for the next leg of your journey, either home, or to your next destination.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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