After a good dose of culture and history, it is time for a day of wildlife and nature in the jungles near Chiang Mai. Get up close and personal with the animal kingdom at the Thai Elephant Care Centre, which was established to provide care for elderly elephants retired from logging and camps. Appreciate
these gentle giants, learn more about their nature, their individual traits, their lifestyles, their talents and their charms. If the time is right, watch them play during their bath-time. Continue the visit with a stop at the Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden in Mae Rim, which first opened in 1992. The facility’s purpose is to promote botanical research and biodiversity and to conserve Thailand’s natural plant resources. The Banana Avenue trail takes you to see the tremendous collection of over 200 different varieties of banana trees, mainly from Southeast Asia. Visit the Tropical Rainforest house, the largest conservatory of the glass complex. With a floor space of 1,000 square metres by 33 metres high, it holds a wide collection of tropical species, such as palms, banana trees and ginger plants. Then stroll through the majestic Orchid House. Another highlight 20 metres up in the air amongst the mountain treetops is Thailand’s longest canopy walkway. The walkway stretches around 370 metres, winding along the mountainside. With glass viewing platforms every 50 to 100 metres, you will certainly feel part of the landscape. Look down at the subtropical jungle plants far below your feet or gaze around at the surrounding mountains. At the end of the walkway you are rewarded with views stretching across the lush subtropical valley. The visit is followed by lunch at local restaurant. After, continue to the Baan Tipmanee woodworking shop. Learn how these artisans make Chiang Mai’s most famous carved wooden products. An optional khantoke dinner is available in the evening.
Overnight in Chiang Mai in selected hotel and board options.
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Chiang Mai