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Morning Hotel Pickup in Chiang Mai City
At approximately 08:00–08:30 a.m., a van will pick up travelers from their hotels in Chiang Mai city. The journey heads north and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Chiang Dao District. Along the way, travelers will enjoy scenic views of the natural landscapes on both sides of the road before arriving at Tara Café, a viewpoint offering a stunning panorama of Doi Luang Chiang Dao.
Doi Luang Chiang Dao is the third-highest limestone mountain in Thailand, standing at 2,175 meters above sea level. It is located in the Chiang Dao Wildlife Sanctuary in Chiang Mai Province. The name “Chiang Dao” originates from the term Muang Dao, which means City of Stars” or City high above the sky.
This mountain features a complex range of limestone ridges and is part of the Daen Lao mountain range. It is rich in biodiversity, home to many rare plants and animals such as the Rhododendron (Chiang Dao Rose), Chiang Dao Impatiens, and endemic bird species. It is also a habitat for endangered animals like the serow (goat-antelope).
Historically, Doi Luang Chiang Dao was regarded as a sacred site by the Lanna people, believed to be the dwelling place of gods and mountain spirits. Even today, it holds both natural and cultural significance. To preserve the ecosystem, visitor numbers are restricted, and permits are required to access the summit. In 2021, UNESCO designated Doi Chiang Dao as a Biosphere Reserve, making it Thailand’s fifth such reserve.
Stopping for coffee or a refreshing drink at Tara Cafe while admiring the majestic view of Doi Luang Chiang Dao is a highlight of the trip, offering both awe and insight into the grandeur of northern Thailand’s natural beauty. This stop takes about 30–45 minutes.
Next Stop: Chiang Dao Cave
Afterward, the group continues by van for about 15 minutes to Chiang Dao Cave, another highlight of Chiang Dao. Upon arrival, a lunch break is enjoyed amidst the serene natural surroundings. After lunch, it’s time to explore the Chiang Dao Cave, with about 1 hour allocated for this activity.
Chiang Dao Cave is a large natural cave located at the base of Doi Luang Chiang Dao. The cave system is deep and complex, with various levels and passageways. Inside, you'll find spectacular stalactites and stalagmites in unusual and beautiful formations. Several large chambers can be explored conveniently, and the sections of the cave are named according to their unique features, including:
Kaew Komon Cave
Dark Cave
Reclining Buddha Cave
Kaew Suriyan Cave
Some areas are lit with soft lights, enhancing the visibility of the natural rock formations. There are also Buddha images enshrined in several spots, reflecting the spiritual beliefs of local villagers who consider the cave sacred.
Local legends tell that Chiang Dao Cave connects to a mythical underwater or hidden city, guarded by Nagas (mythical serpent beings) or guardian spirits to protect the cave’s deeper secrets. The cave remains cool and comfortable throughout the year, making it ideal for a relaxed and educational tour focusing on nature, geology, and local folklore.
1:00 p.m. – Visit to Hill Tribe Village
After lunch and cave exploration, the journey continues by van for about 1 hour to visit a multi-tribe hill village nestled in peaceful mountain surroundings rich in natural beauty. We will take a 15–20 minute walk through the hill tribe gardens along the path to the village.
This Hill Tribe Village is home to five distinct ethnic groups:
Akha
Hmong (Meo)
Lisu
Palaung
Karen
The villagers have preserved their traditional ways of life impressively, including terraced farming, hand weaving, and subsistence animal husbandry. Their homes are built using natural materials, with thatched or zinc roofs—simple yet full of cultural charm.
Visitors can learn about each tribe's traditional attire, known for its vibrant colors and unique patterns, and have the chance to interact with locals or observe their daily routines up close—a heartwarming and meaningful cultural experience.
3:00 p.m. – Return Journey to Chiang Mai
After spending time walking around and learning about the lives of the five hill tribes, the group departs for Chiang Mai city by van, which takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
4:00–4:30 p.m. – Arrival at Hotel in Chiang Mai
Return to your hotel in Chiang Mai city safely, enriched by a day full of nature, culture, and warm encounters with the local people.
08:00–08:30 a.m. – Hotel Pickup
Pick up from hotels in Chiang Mai city
Travel north to Chiang Dao (approx. 1.5 hrs)
Enjoy scenic views along the way
~10:00 a.m. – Tara Café & Doi Luang Chiang Dao Viewpoint
Coffee break with panoramic views of Doi Luang Chiang Dao
Learn about the mountain's natural and cultural significance
Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2021
Stop duration: approx. 30–45 mins
11:15 a.m. – Chiang Dao Cave & Lunch
Short drive to Chiang Dao Cave (15 mins)
Enjoy lunch amidst tranquil nature
Explore the ancient cave system with unique rock formations and sacred Buddha images
Learn local legends about hidden cities and guardian spirits
Activity duration: approx. 1 hour
1:00 p.m. – Visit Hill Tribe Village
Drive to a mountain village (approx. 1 hr)
Discover the traditional lifestyles of five hill tribes:
Akha, Hmong, Lisu, Palaung, and Karen
Observe daily life, crafts, attire, and farming methods
3:00 p.m. – Return to Chiang Mai
Depart the village and travel back to Chiang Mai (approx. 1–1.5 hrs)
4:00–4:30 p.m. – Arrival at Hotel
Drop-off at your hotel in Chiang Mai city
End of tour, enriched by a day of nature, culture, and local connection
Tour Includes:
Lunch (Set Menu)
Entrance fees
Accident insurance
English-speaking tour guide
Round-trip hotel transfers
