Excursions in the Golden Triangle

Excursions in the Golden Triangle

Travel to the northernmost part of Thailand, where the border of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet in a land of rolling hills, rivers, and rich history. Once infamous for opium production and trafficking, the Golden Triangle is now a peaceful area of culture and beauty. Each of these experiences offers a living history of its storied past and an explanation of its exciting present.

Key Excursions & Highlights

Mekong River Cruise and View from the Three Countries

The tour begins at Sop Ruak, the geographic centre of the Golden Triangle, where you will visit the viewpoint to see the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers which mark the natural borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. After a brief visit at the viewpoint, experience the the Mekong River by boarded a traditional longtail boat for a cruise along the river. The cruise will give you a unique perspective from each of the three country’s shorelines, including a large casino complex in Myanmar and picturesque, rural farmland in Laos. It is a short, visa-free trip to market island Don Sao in Laos, where you can set foot in another country.

The Hall of Opium Museum

Not far from the river is the Hall of Opium: The exhibit on the opium trade here is possibly the best exhibit in Thailand. And, while you are near the opium poppies in the Golden Triangle it is a must-visit! This will be an eye-opening exhibit on the history of opium and the international impact it has on the world. You will also learn about the royal initiatives at the turn of the 20th Century that replaced opium poppy crops with cash crops like tea and coffee. This exhibition has immersive theatre, with displays and stringent English-language descriptions. Plan to spend a minimum of two hours at the Hall of Opium because this is a compelling way to learn.

The Ancient Capital of Chiang Saen

You will enjoy the sleepy riverside town of Chiang Saen. This was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the 13th Century and is historically rich, with crumbling chedi (stupas), ancient earthen ramparts reflecting the course of the Mekong, and forgotten temple ruins in the hills. Highlights will be stops at Wat Pa Sak and Wat Chedi Luang. The best way to travel around Chiang Saen is by bike, as you will want to soak in the peacefulness, while searching for evidence of a long-forgotten time and space!

Anantara Elephant Camp & Conservation

If you’re looking for an ethical and unforgettable wildlife experience, the Anantara Golden Triangle resort features a leading elephant conservation camp. The camp accepts rescued elephants and allows guests to participate in intimate and responsible experiences with the elephants. You can take part in the ‘Walking with Giants’ program, which lets you walk next to the elephants and their mahouts in the forest while hearing their own stories and viewing their bathing in the river.

Visiting the Borderlands

For a bit more culture, a visit to Mae Sai, in the far north of Thailand will take you to the border town where you can cross over to Tachileik, Myanmar and see what it’s like to live on the border while visiting a Shan-style temple. We are also able to arrange guided visits to nearby Akha and Mien (Yao) hill tribe villages, providing real opportunities to experience local markets and lifestyle, away from the tourist trail.

Planning your visit

• Gateway City: The main entry point is Chiang Rai which is approximately a 1.5hr drive south.
• Best Time to Visit: There is nothing like the weather from November through February, clear skies and cooler daytime temperatures. Haze may occur depending on the regional agricultural practices in late February and into March.
• Recommended Stay: A night or two should allow you enough time for the region’s highlights and ensure that you do not feel rushed.