Adventure in Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai,, Thailand!

Choui Fong Tea Plantation

Why Visit?

Choui Fong Tea Plantation Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Upon arrival at Chiang Rai’s Mae Fah Luang Airport, secure a rental or hop onto a local blue bus to make your way to the serene hills of Mae Chan. The journey to Choui Fong Tea Plantation takes about an hour, winding through lush landscapes that set the stage for adventure. Check into a nearby eco-lodge and spend the evening sampling local Thai cuisine at the plantation’s café, where dishes are infused with their signature teas.

Day 2: Explore Choui Fong Tea Plantation

Start your morning with the fresh aroma of tea leaves. At Choui Fong, a guided tour kicks off early, detailing the plantation’s 50-year history and the intricacies of tea cultivation. For the adventure seekers, gear up for a mountain bike tour around the expansive 1,000-acre estate, navigating between neat rows of tea bushes and soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the modernistic Tea House, designed by IDIN Architects, a perfect blend of contemporary design and natural beauty.

Day 3: Trekking and Local Culture

Post-breakfast, embark on a trek through the plantation’s less-traveled paths. The area is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. In the afternoon, engage with the local Akha community, known for their vibrant costumes and rich cultural heritage. Participate in a tea-picking session with the locals and learn about their traditional methods of tea processing.

Day 4: Departure

Your final morning at Choui Fong can be spent sipping a last cup of freshly brewed tea at the café, overlooking the misty hills. Reflect on the tranquil moments and thrilling escapades before heading back to Chiang Rai for your departure, carrying memories of a unique tea adventure in the heart of Thailand’s highlands.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Hall of Opium Museum

Why Visit?

Golden Triangle Adventure: Hall of Opium Museum Tour

Embark on an exhilarating journey to the heart of the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, with a deep dive into the world of poppies at the Hall of Opium Museum. This enlightening visit is not just about opium; it’s about the history of trade, the impact of drugs, and regional culture.

Getting There

Start your adventure in Chiang Rai, accessible by plane from Bangkok, or bus if you’re keen on scenic routes. From Chiang Rai, rent a motorcycle or hire a cab for a thrilling 70 km ride north to the quaint town of Sop Ruak. This route offers stunning landscapes along the mighty Mekong River and lush greenery.

At the Hall of Opium

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, the Hall of Opium, nestled in Golden Triangle Park, offers a comprehensive timeline of opium from its natural properties to its global journey and its myriad effects on global economies and societies. Engage with the interactive exhibits, walk through a replica of an opium den, and learn about the opium warlords.

Interesting Facts

- The museum was opened in 2003, funded by the royal family to educate on the dangers of drug abuse.

- It’s built into a hillside, symbolizing a journey from darkness (opium’s past) into light (awareness and recovery).

Beyond the Museum

After your museum tour, hike up to the viewpoint where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. The convergence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers adds to the mystique of this historically rich area.

Finishing Up

Conclude your day by cruising down the Mekong River at sunset, a perfect end to an adventurous day, reflecting on the profound stories and serene landscapes of the Golden Triangle.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Chiang Saen

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover’s Guide to Chiang Saen

Nestled in the northern tip of Thailand, Chiang Saen is an adventure-packed destination with a storied history awaiting your exploration. Here’s how to maximize your adventure in this ancient city.

Day 1: Arrival and River Exploration

Start your journey in Chiang Saen by flying into Chiang Rai and take a scenic 60-minute drive to this historic town. Kick off your adventure with a kayak trip down the majestic Mekong River. Paddle through the tranquil waters at dawn to witness the spectacular sunrise and the bustling river life. Rentals are available at Hat Chiang Saen, the main riverside area.

Day 2: Temple Ruins and Hill Tribe Visit

Gear up in the morning and embark on a mountain bike tour to explore the ruins of Wat Pa Sak, dating back to the 13th century and known for its ancient Lanna-style chedi surrounded by teak trees. Cycling tours can be arranged through local operators in town. Next, trek to visit the nearby hill tribes. A guided hike can immerse you in the rich culture of the Akha or Yao communities, providing a glimpse into their daily lives and traditions.

Day 3: Golden Triangle Adventure

No trip to Chiang Saen is complete without visiting the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. Drive or cycle to the viewpoint at the convergence of these three nations, a spot marked by the opulent Golden Triangle Park. Delve into the history of opium at the Hall of Opium museum, an insightful 10-minute walk from the park, unravelling the area’s past in the global opium trade.

Evening Departure

Wrap up your adventure in Chiang Saen with a quiet evening stroll along the Mekong or indulge in some local Northern Thai cuisine at a riverside restaurant before heading back to Chiang Rai for your departure.

Fact Tips

Chiang Saen is one of Thailand’s oldest cities, founded in 545 AD, making it a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. The region is also known for its bird watching opportunities, especially during the migratory season from November to February.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Doi Mae Salong

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary: Doi Mae Salong, Thailand

Day 1: Arrival and Trekking

- Getting There: Start your journey from Chiang Rai, renting a motorbike or hopping on a local songthaew (a shared taxi) for a scenic 1.5-hour drive. Winding roads through lush landscapes make for a thrilling ride to Doi Mae Salong.

- Activity: Upon arrival, gear up for a trek through the village"s outskirts leading you into the Akha and Yao hill tribe communities. The trail promises rich cultural insights and fantastic photo ops of traditional life and landscapes.

- Stay: Overnight in a charming guesthouse in the village. The simple, welcoming accommodations offer a chance to unwind under a starlit sky.

Day 2: Tea Plantation Tour and Horse Riding

- Morning: After a local breakfast of khao soi (noodle soup), visit the sprawling tea plantations that carpet the hillsides. Learn about Oolong tea production – a legacy of the area’s Chinese settlers. Taste different brews and pick up some leaves to take home.

- Activity: Post-tea tasting, saddle up for a horseback ride exploring deeper into the surrounding hills. The routes offer breathtaking views and a chance to spot vibrant birdlife.

- Evening: Return to the village to enjoy a meal at a local eatery, featuring Yunnanese influences and fresh mountain ingredients.

Day 3: Market Visit and Departure

- Morning: Stroll through the morning market to witness daily mountain life and pick up unique handicrafts. Try some local snacks or a hearty bowl of noodle soup before packing up.

- Departure: Check out from your guesthouse and make your way back to Chiang Rai, filled with fresh mountain air and unforgettable memories of Doi Mae Salong.

Interesting Fact: Doi Mae Salong’s origin traces back to the anti-communist Kuomintang soldiers from China who settled here in the 1960s, lending a fascinating cultural blend to the area.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Mae Sai (Maesai)

Why Visit?

Mae Sai: A Gateway to Adventure

Nestled on the northernmost edge of Thailand, Mae Sai offers adrenaline junkies a unique blend of pulsating activities and cultural dives. This border town, where Thailand meets Myanmar, can be reached by a scenic 4-hour drive from Chiang Mai, passing lush landscapes and local villages.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Kick-off your Mae Sai adventure by delving into the lively border market. Accessible by local tuk-tuk from any part of town, the market bursts with everything from gems to exotic fruits. Adventure lovers can gear up here with handmade local goods perfect for the rugged trips ahead.

Day 2: Wat Phra That Doi Wao & The Scorpion Temple

Start your morning with a short ride to Wat Phra That Doi Wao. Perched on a hilltop, this temple offers panoramic views of the Mae Sai Valley and the sprawling landscapes of Myanmar. Trek the ancient steps carved into the hillside, an invigorating start to your day. The temple is also home to a giant scorpion statue, guarding the sacred site and offering an excellent photo op against the misty mountain backdrop.

Day 3: Hall of Opium Museum

Take a local bus heading south to the Hall of Opium Museum, located in the nearby Golden Triangle area. This museum provides an insightful look into the opium trade"s dark history in the region and its global implications. The interactive displays and eerie opium dens reconstructed inside make for an educational yet thrilling exploration.

Day 4: Tham Pla National Park

Conclude your Mae Sai adventure with a trip to Tham Pla National Park. Here, you can hike through dense forests and discover mysterious caves and serene mountain streams. Don’t miss the famous ‘Fish Cave’ where large schools of fish can be seen in the crystal-clear waters.

Mae Sai is an undiscovered gem offering a perfect mix of culture, history, and adrenaline, ready to satiate the thirst of any adventure lover!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.