Pioneering the Lanna Trail in Thailand
DTH Travel Thailand
Indulge the senses of Lanna, enjoy the slow and simple life in the teak town of Phrae amidst its serene countryside and take in the cultural splendours of Nan. Around every corner await unforgettable surprises that will steal your heart. This journey soon becomes a love affair for each visitor.
The focus of this tour is on the Northern province Nan, a charming destination bordering Laos to the east with a fascinating landscape, history and culture.
Itinerary
Day 1: Chiang Mai - Phrae
Start from your hotel in Chiang Mai town. If the clients stay out of town, the supplement charge for pick-up time will be advised separately.
According to legend the Buddha once visited the site some 2,500 years ago and donated a hair, which is now enshrined in the fortified temple of Lampang Luang, one of the best examples of Lanna-style architecture in Thailand. Lampang is well-known to most Thais for its chicken bowls. See how local craftsmen are making and painting them by hand. Stop by the iconic train Station before lunch. In the afternoon walk along the old market street with its old wooden houses mixing different styles and see the bridge that was once the longest in Thailand. Before leaving see the first temple in Thailand that got an award of merit from UNESCO for its architectural blend of Lanna, Burmese and Chinese styles.
Overnight at a charming boutique hotel in Phrae
Estimated driving time/distance:
3.5 hours driving / 200 kilometres approximately
Meal included:
Lunch at a local restaurant
Day 2: Phrae – Nan
Start your day with the visit of two well-preserved ‘gingerbread’ residences of the last Lords of Phrae fusing Lanna architecture with European style. The fine furniture and the photos illustrating life in Phrae give a fascinating glimpse of life more than a century ago. The Burmese legacy in Phrae can be seen in the unique teak sanctuaries they helped to build such as Wat Chom Sawan quite a sight to behold. Organic indigo-dyed cotton clothes are most common for farmers all over Thailand. See the art of natural dyeing which is still alive here. Be mystified by the forest of the city of ghosts with its spooky legends. After that discover a beautifully lit cave which is the source of much local folklore. Before arriving in Nan enjoy one of the most iconic views with a walking Buddha looking down on the valley below and the mountains beyond.
The night market near your hotel is a great place to immerse yourself in local culture. Enjoy this array of local specialities and stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs. A perfect place for people-watching with a refreshing drink. It’s real, unspoilt and deliciously authentic.
Overnight at a charming boutique hotel in Nan
Estimated driving time/distance:
2 hours driving / 120 kilometres approximately
Meal included:
Breakfast at the hotel
Lunch at a local restaurant
Day 3: Nan
As the sun makes its ascent residents are keen to make merit before the start of their day. See the ritual of food donation to the monks, or almsgiving that helps to sustain the monastic community.
After breakfast see first Wat Phumin the most famous landmark in Nan. It has some of the most unique murals in Thailand that depict Buddhist legends and the everyday life of the people, particularly the Whisper of Love.
Travel back in time at the splendid teak Nan Noble House which is filled with heritage antiques including ancient weapons, war elephant ivory and old photographs. See afterwards the vintage palace of Nan’s last lords with comprehensive information about the history of local life. After lunch venture further afield Tha Wang Pha District to engage with the rich Tai Lue culture that is very much alive. Next to Wat Nong Bua watch the intricate Nam Lai textile weaving. Before returning to Nan stop by the most sacred temple Wat Chae Haeng. Guarded by two lions there is the massive golden chedi. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the spectacular view. Enjoy your last evening with shopping and dipping into the street-food delights.
Overnight at a charming boutique hotel in Nan
Estimated driving time/distance:
1.5 hours driving / 80 kilometres approximately
Meal included:
Breakfast at the hotel
Lunch at a local restaurant
Day 4: Nan Departure
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Nan Airport.
Estimated driving time/distance:
10 minutes driving / 5 kilometres approximately
Meal included:
Breakfast at the hotel
Included Services in bullet points
Our tour prices are inclusive of
- Accommodation in shared Twin/Double room with air-conditioning and a private bathroom
- Meals as specified in the programme
- Transfers and tours as stated in the programme with a German or English Speaking Guide
- Entrance fees
- Daily drinking water and cold towel per person
- Service charges, room tax and baggage handling
Excluded Services in bullet points
Not included are
- All donations to temples are voluntary and do not include
- Supplements for travelling during peak seasons (quoted separately if applicable)
Lufthansa City Center