Chiang Mai:Hidden Gems: From Ancient Ruins to Serene Temples

Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, holds a treasure trove of hidden gems. This captivating tour unveils ancient ruins, serene temples, and stunning Lanna architecture. From the lush jungle setting of Wat Phratat Sang Chan to the artful wonders of Wat Ram Poeng, each stop promises an immersive experience in Chiang Mai’s rich heritage. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors can uncover the secrets that lie beyond the city’s well-trodden paths.

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Key Points

Explore a unique itinerary showcasing lesser-known Chiang Mai destinations, including ancient jungle ruins and serene Lanna-style temples.
Experience a full-day tour with live guides offering insights into the historical and architectural significance of each site.
Choose from private or small group options for a personalized sightseeing experience.
Enjoy scenic views and local transportation to enhance the overall tour experience.
Adhere to dress code and other guidelines to ensure a seamless and enjoyable tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour is priced at $53.32 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Priced at $53.32 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later. The tour is valid for one day.

It provides live English, Chinese, and Thai-speaking guides. Guests can choose between private or small group options.

Transportation via local trucks is included at one of the sites. The tour isn’t recommended for individuals over 95 years old.

Visitors must follow a dress code of no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts.

Looking for more options in Chiang Mai? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with hotel pickup at 8:30 AM, leading guests to their first stop at Wat Phratat Sang Chan – a hidden jungle ruin.

Next, they’ll visit Wat Ram Poeng, notable for its Lanna art and one of the three remaining stupas.

The journey continues to Wat Aranyawas, a multi-tiered Lanna-style brazen palace with scenic views. Guests take a local truck to explore this site.

The final stop is Wat Ton Kwen, showcasing pure Lanna architectural style, before drop-off at the hotel around 2 PM.

Tour Features

This tour offers a live tour guide available in English, Chinese, and Thai, catering to the needs of diverse travelers.

The tour features several notable amenities:

Private or small group options, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Local truck transportation at Wat Aranyawas, providing a unique mode of transportation.
Scenic views included throughout the tour, offering a visually captivating experience.
Suitable for a wide range of ages, with the exception of individuals over 95 years old.

The tour’s features cater to the needs of various travelers, ensuring an enriching and memorable exploration of Chiang Mai’s hidden gems.

Important Information

Although this tour is suitable for a wide range of ages, it’s not recommended for individuals over 95 years old.

Guests should dress appropriately, avoiding shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts, as these attire aren’t permitted at the religious sites visited.

The tour features local truck transportation at one of the stops, which costs an additional 50 THB.

Regardless of the weather, it’s important to bring comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves exploring ancient ruins and navigating uneven terrain.

Following these guidelines will ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout the day.

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Customer Feedback

Customers who’ve experienced this tour have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Customers who’ve experienced this tour have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The tour has an impressive 5/5 rating based on 6 reviews. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides who bring the historical sites to life.

Key highlights include:

The unique, less touristy destinations that offer a glimpse into Lanna architecture and culture.
The scenic views, especially at Wat Aranyawas, that create a serene and picturesque experience.
The small group or private tour options that provide a more personalized and intimate exploration.
The overall value, with the tour providing a full day of activities at an affordable price.

There's plenty more to explore in Chiang Mai

Discovering Wat Phratat Sang Chan

Tucked away in the lush jungle just outside of Chiang Mai, Wat Phratat Sang Chan is a hidden gem that offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This ancient ruin, dating back to the 14th century, boasts intricate Lanna-style architecture and a serene, meditative atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the crumbling pagodas, wander through the tranquil grounds, and enjoy the site’s historical significance.

With its off-the-beaten-path location and lack of crowds, Wat Phratat Sang Chan provides a unique opportunity to connect with Chiang Mai’s spiritual and architectural legacies.

Exploring Wat Ram Poeng and Wat Aranyawas

The next stop on the tour is Wat Ram Poeng, a temple notable for its Lanna-style art and one of the three remaining stupas in the region.

After exploring the intricate carvings and architectural details, the group moves on to Wat Aranyawas, a multi-tiered Lanna-style brazen palace with scenic views.

The key highlights at this temple include:

Impressive Lanna-style architecture
Ornate wall paintings and murals
Panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape
Opportunity to ride a local truck to reach the upper tiers

With each temple visited, the tour uncovers the unique cultural and historical treasures that make Chiang Mai a truly captivating destination.

Uncovering the Architectural Charm of Wat Ton Kwen

Where does the tour journey take visitors next?

The last stop on this Chiang Mai cultural tour is Wat Ton Kwen. This temple showcases the pure Lanna architectural style, with its distinctive multi-tiered roofs, wooden structures, and intricate carvings.

Visitors will marvel at the temple’s serene ambiance and well-preserved features. The guide will explain the historical significance of Wat Ton Kwen and its role in the region’s Buddhist heritage.

After exploring the temple’s grounds, the tour concludes with drop-off at the hotel, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for Chiang Mai’s hidden gems of Lanna history and architecture.

Since You Asked

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography and video recording are allowed during the tour. The tour description doesn’t mention any restrictions on taking photos or videos at the sites visited.

What Is the Average Group Size for the Small Group Option?

The small group option typically has 6-8 participants. The tour company keeps the group size small to provide a more personalized experience and allow for easier movement between the different temple sites.

Is There Any Option for a More Flexible or Customized Itinerary?

The tour offers a private option that allows for a more flexible and customized itinerary. Customers can work with the tour provider to adjust the sites visited and schedule based on their interests and preferences.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

The tour includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as local transportation at one site for an additional 50 THB fee. There are no other major additional costs during the tour.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include More Temple Visits?

The tour can be extended to include more temple visits, but additional fees may apply. Customers should check with the tour provider for pricing and availability of extended itineraries.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating tour that unveils Chiang Mai’s hidden gems, from the enchanting Wat Phratat Sang Chan to the serene Wat Ton Kwen. Guided by knowledgeable experts, you’ll learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage, marveling at ancient ruins and stunning temples. This unforgettable experience promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Chiang Mai’s timeless beauty.