Highlights
- Explore the natural paradise that is Inthanon National Park
- Trek along streams and rushing waterfalls of Northern Thailand
- Experience life in a traditional Hmong village home
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai |
| Day 2 | Inthanon National Park from Khun Wang | Village Homestay |
| Day 3 | Trek to Pamon Village | Village Homestay |
| Day 4 | Trek from Pamon to Mae Sapok Village | Village Homestay |
| Day 5 | Depart Chiang Mai |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Chiang Mai
Welcome to Northern Thailand. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you are met and transferred to your hotel to meet your fellow travelers. Once you have settled in, head out for a local lunch of traditional khao soi, a curried rice dish. After lunch, drive up Doi Pui Mountain to begin your first hike. This is an easy hike with rolling terrain along a ridge covered in pine trees and wild lilies. Halfway up, stop and try some local coffee at the local Hmong village. Then trek downhill to the original 800-year-old temple ruins and end your hike at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Dinner tonight is on your own. Feel free to explore the night market and the many food stalls or one of the lively restaurants within walking distance of your hotel.
Day 2: Inthanon National Park from Khun Wang
Following breakfast, set off on a leisurely four-hour drive to the stunning Inthanon National Park. Here lies the highest peak in all of Thailand, Doi Inthanon, as well as countless waterfalls and ethnic villages. Hike down to a rushing waterfall where you can enjoy a peaceful, packed lunch. Afterward, continue trekking for 2.5 hours to your remote homestay within the park.
Day 3: Trek to Pamon Village
Wake up bright and early for today's full-day trek along the flowing river to the hill tribe village of Pamon. The scenic route passes by plenty of waterfalls and pools, which you will have ample time to swim in or wade. Following lunch, you arrive in the village and are greeted by the locals. Pamon Village is made up of three extended families of Karen people, many of whom are Catholic. As such, you will notice a distinct difference in their food, dress, and language.
Day 4: Trek from Pamon to Mae Sapok Village
This morning after breakfast, bid farewell to your gracious hosts before continuing your trek along the river. The next few hours will take you past endless waterfalls, pine forests, and rolling hills before reaching the forest's end late this afternoon. From here, you drive one hour to the village of Ban Kat, where you will be hosted in a traditional rural Thai house. Enjoy a hearty meal of Northern Thai food and take in the variety of antiques from both Thailand and Myanmar.
Day 5: Depart Chiang Mai
This morning after breakfast, make your way to Chiang Mai. En route, stop to explore Ban Tawai, a small woodcarving village known worldwide for its quality furniture and woodworking. Once in town, head to Santitham Breakfast for a relaxing local lunch. Here Chef Gong blends traditional food from Eastern Thailand with cuisines of the north, making for a unique and delicious Thai flavor. Afterward, indulge in a therapeutic foot massage, a well-earned treat for your days of trekking. From here, you'll transfer to the airport for your onward travels.
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