Spiritual Thailand: Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai

Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort is a luxury boutique resort nestled serenely along the bank of the Mae Ping River in center of Lanna historical city. Chiang Mai is only minutes away and the hotel is close to the city's popular Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
All 75 luxurious guestrooms feature private balconies, widescreen plasma televisions, home theatre, broadband internet and bathrooms with built-in LCD TVs and rain showers. RatiLanna, the 5 star luxury resort, offers the highest standard of services and tasteful facilities.

Today, head out to take a closer look at Chiang Mai's rich traditions with an early morning tour with monks. Set off at first light and drive to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Located on a mountain top, this temple is one of Chiang Mai's most sacred sites. Arrive in time to see the monks emerge from their monasteries for the daily alms collection. Witness the saffron-robed monks shuffle silently down the streets, collecting offerings from local Buddhist residents. This serene ceremony is the perfect introduction to Chiang Mai's spiritual side. Climb up the massive staircase to the top of Doi Suthep, admiring the Golden Naga images that line the stairs. Take a stroll around the golden stupa that sits at the centre of the pagoda and admire the sweeping views of the city.

Continue along the spiritual trail with a visit to tranquil Wat Umong. Dating back to the 14th century, this sacred temple contains a network of mysterious tunnels and caves. In one of these quiet corners, receive a special blessing from a local monk.

Following this introduction to the spirituality of northern Thailand, head to a popular local restaurant for a snack. Order a bowl of khao soi, Chiang Mai's most famous dish which combines crispy noodles and coconut curry sauce. Slurp up the delicious noodles while reflecting on the magical morning then return to the hotel.

Today, take a step on Thailand's spiritual path for an insightful Buddhist experience. Learn the meditation techniques from a local master, focusing the mind and clearing the soul. Sit down with a Buddhist monk to talk about his life while gaining a deeper understanding of Thailand's cultural beliefs.

You will be collected from your hotel in Chiang Mai at 1:00pm by your private guide and private vehicle to enjoy an afternoon of spiritual exploration. You'll practice meditation at serene Wat Suan Dok, take a short tour of the temple while learning about its history and understanding why it is revered as one of the city's most sacred sites.

Amid this sanctuary, find a quiet corner in which to meditate. Learn traditional techniques of meditation from a local expert, discovering how to control the breath and regulate the mind. Discover the importance of meditation in the lives of the Thai people, many of whom practice every day. Spend time practicing meditation, relaxing and purifying the mind and soul.

Feeling refreshed, meet with one of Wat Suan Dok's monks for a chat. Enjoy this unique opportunity to talk with a Thai Buddhist monk and learn about his life, the country's spiritual beliefs and anything else of interest. This exchange provides a remarkable forum for connecting with Thailand's culture.

Following this immersive experience into Thailand's spiritual side, you'll be returned to your hotel.

This morning, you'll be met by your private guide and driver for the overland road transfer to Chiang Rai (drop off service also available in the The Golden Triangle or Phu Chaisai regions).

You'll enjoy scenic landscapes along the way of surrounding mountains and lush paddy fields. On the way, stop for a coffee break. This stop may be made at 'Cabbages and Condoms', a fabulous restaurant that is operated by the Population and Community Development Association. A stop here helps to support their activities in rural communities. Alternatively, stop at Charin Garden Resort, a locally-run business that is famous for its homemade pies. Note: Food and drink are not included.

Another stop will be made to stretch the legs at Wat Rong Khun. Translated as 'The White Temple', this modern monument was designed by a famous local artist and features unusual Buddhist paintings and sculptures.

After exploring the site, continue the drive north, arriving at the destination late this afternoon.

Nestled within the mist-shrouded hills of northern Thailand, Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa brings contemporary luxury to a land steeped in lore. Located in the countryside between Chiang Rai, Mae Sai and Doi Mae Salong, this all-suite resort presides over a spellbinding landscape of lush green valleys, mountain lakes and endless forest-covered hills. Facilities include a large outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, library room and spa.

Discover soaring landscapes and take in a treasure trove of wonders on this tour of Mae Salong. Witness Buddhist monks traveling by horseback to collect their daily alms. Explore Akha and Yao villages, seeing cultures untouched by time and learn about the fascinating history of the KMT army with a visit to a mountainside settlement.

You will be picked up early this morning at 7:00am from your hotel in Chiang Rai, the Golden Triangle or Mae Chan. Set off early to discover a part of Thailand that is not yet on the main tourist trail.

The first stop is Wat Tham Pa Acha Thong, or Golden Horse Monastery. This remote monastery is one-of-a-kind in Thailand as its monks collect their daily alms by horse instead of on foot. Learn the tale of how this unique procession came to be while walking around the grounds. There may be an opportunity to make an offering to the monks as they pass-by on horseback. Continue to a nearby hilltop temple where monks are often practicing Muay Thai martial arts.

Having seen a unique side of Buddhism, venture into Mae Salong's hills to meet with some of Thailand's ethnic groups. Visit villages inhabited by the Yao and Akha people, learning about their traditional cultures and beliefs such as spirit worship.

Continue to climb further up the mountains, arriving at Santi Kiri. Santi Kiri is home to a settlement of Kuomintang (KMT) refugees. Learn how the KMT Nationalist Chinese Army fled to Thailand during the mainland civil war and have since fought alongside the Thai army. The descendants of the army have been given land rights to stay in this beautiful corner of Thailand. Visit tea plantations and a co-op store selling homemade wine, traditional medicines and other locally-grown products of the KMT and other Santi Kiri residents.

After this insightful visit, continue driving through spectacular Mae Salong before returning to your hotel in the Golden Triangle/Mae Chan.

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.