seeing the Elephant shows by bathing, responding to the commands of the mahouts, a demonstration of dragging and pushing logs. In Thailand’s history, the Elephants have been revered for many centuries. Famous as the strongest beasts of burden, they were also important in battle, with kings mounted on Elephants fighting the Burmese to defend Thailand on many occasions. They have also been noted for their intelligence, memory and pleasant nature. A Thai legend has it that a marriage is like an Elephant-- the husband is the front legs, that choose the direction, the wife the back legs, providing the power.

Villages of this colorful ethnic group are found in the mountains of China, Myanmar (Burma) and northern Thailand. There are approximately 21000 Lisus living in Thailands; Northern provinces of Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Sorn and Chiang Rai. They originate in eastern Tibet. A few Lisu people have been converted to Christianity by western missionaries. They are among the least bashful of these ethnic groups and in general adjusting well to the changes taking place in their society.

Explore around the village seeing their unique costume, traditional bamboo housed and a simple way of living.

Don't miss this trip, as it leads on a very good road through beautiful mountains. The splendid views on the way alone are worth driving to Mae Salong. The little town was founded in the 1960s by former Kuomintang (Anti-Communist) soldiers who had been expelled from Burma (Myanmar) and settled on the lovely mountain, unfortunately only in order to compete with the local drug barons for a sizable share in the opium and heroin trade. Enjoy shopping at the hill tribe market also exploring around the Chinese Settlement (use to be the Chinese refugee camp or 93rd division of Chiang Kai Chek).

where the Clay Houses in Chinese Style are seen then Bann Thai (Lisu), Baan Arsae (Akha), Baan Arle (Akha) and Baan Lao Sib (Yao).

Thai & Burmese and Laos, situated at the junction of the Mekong and Sop Ruak Rivers.

an ancient town located on the bank of the Mekong River, was originally called Wiang Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang, served as the capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom until King Meng Rai established Chiang Rai as the capital in 1262. Ruins of the old double city walls and many other antiquities remain both inside and outside the district town.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the Mekong River and the country of Laos.