Highlights / General details

Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai:

It is recorded that an ancient community was founded in the north of Chiang Rai Province more than 2000 years ago. This ancient town was named Yonok Nak Phan. According to legend, King Singhanawat founded the town, and the Nagas (mythical serpents) helped dig the town’s moat. Later, Yonok Nak Phan faced it’s unfortunate destiny; it collapsed and turned into a swamp. According to the geological evidence, it is believed that the town’s destruction was caused by an earthquake which turned it into present-day Chiang Saen Lake.

The above story is just a historical tale. However, it is clear that Chiang Saen existed during in the reign of King Meng Rai of the Lanna Kingdom, because it known that he truly existed. In the ancient Tai language of Burma and Northern Thailand, the word ‘chiang’ means ‘a big town’, while the word ‘saen’ presumably comes from King Saen Phu, King Meng Rai’s nephew. After King Meng Rai passed away, King Saen Phu came back, renovated Chiang Saen, and was its third king. He also resided and worked there; therefore, Chiang Saen was a capital city from 1327 – 1341, spanning the reigns of King Saen Phu and his son, King Kham Fu. After that, Chiang Saen declined in importance from the capital city to simply a leading town. Nevertheless, Chiang Saen Town was well developed, and Buddhism was dearly cherished by its governors. Ruins of 75 temples have been found within the town walls, and 66 were situated outside. This large number of temples attests to the thriving civilization of Chiang Saen.

In 1557, Chiang Saen, Chiang Mai and several towns of the Lanna Kingdom were captured by Burma. Later, Ayutthaya won them back, and eventually they came under the control of Bangkok.

The many ancient ruins make Chiang Saen a peaceful tourist attraction, with lots to explore. The Town offers a charming and serene atmosphere on the banks of the Khong River, at the three-country border between Laos, Burma and Thailand. Chiang Saen has both scenic natural attractions and an impressive cultural heritage. In particular its impressive Buddha images showcase Lanka, Sukhothai and Ayutthaya art and techniques. Besides, the graceful stuccos and splendid craftwork found in the area are Thailand’s great heritage for its younger generations.

Inclusion

Roundtrip transfer; Fee Entrance Ticket; Local insurance; Licensed Local English Speaking Guide.

Exclusion

Personal expenses; Gratuity.

Hours of operation

Available daily at 7:00am.

Duration

Approximately 13 Hours.

Itinerary

This tour goes to Chiang Rai, about 180 km north of Chiang Mai. We use an air-conditioned van for transport.

On the way to Chiang Rai we will make a stopover at some hot springs. Then we will drive to the ancient city of Chiang Saen where we visit a museum and an ancient temple. From there we will drive to the "Golden Triangle". Then we will drive to Mae Sai, a border town with Burma for shopping.

Lunch will be a Thai buffet lunch.

After lunch we will visit villages of the Yao and Karen hill tribes. From the Karen village we will make a walk to the Long Neck Karen village.

We will be back in Chiang Mai at about 8:00pm.

Policies

Requires minimum of 2 passengers to operate. Maximum 6 passengers.

Guest must call to reconfirm tour within 48 hours.

Cancellation: 7 days prior 30% penalty, 4 days prior 100% penalty. No show always 100% penalty.

Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**