The first point of interest south of Chiang Khong is Ban Sri Don Chai, which is well-known for the cotton weaving of its Tai Leu inhabitants, who originated from Sipsongpanna in Southern Yunnan.

Across the Ing River, H1155 goes left (east) towards Wiang Kaeng district and then south on a picturesque route. The alternative route (32 kms. longe than the lower route on H1155) via Doi Pha Tang offers some of the most spectacular views of the journey.

Amphoe Chiang Kham is a typical small northern Thai town with one reasonable hotel. The route to Phayao via Chun follows a good highway.

Alternative Route via Doi Pha Tang and Phu Sang Falls (4WD) (103 kms.)

At the village of Pang Hat (KM.53) a left (east) turn goes onto a narrow sealed lane that climbs east to Doi Pha Tang. Past the to the ex KMT Chinese village there are superb views over the Mekhong valley in Laos and west over the Nam Ngao valley . The high all-weather (4WD) military road south passes 'developed' Hmong villages reaching Pu Chi Fa after 36 kms. (walking advised up 2 kms. of very rough track to the dawn viewpoint over Laos - rustic accommodation at the base).

Take the left fork at a Y junction after 67kms. The road becomes sealed from Ban Huat (79 kms.) and passes Phu Sang Falls National Park (84 kms. Closes 18:00. Allow 3 hrs. min. to reach this point). At Key Point 14 (90 kms) turn right (west) to go to Chiang Kham via Ban Sop Pong (9 kms shorter). All distances approx. from Pang Hat.

Overview

• Day 1 Chiang Mai-Thaton (173 kms)
• Day 2 Thaton - Mae Salong - Mae Sai - The Golden Triangle (Ban Sop Ruak) (140 kms.)
• Day 3 The Golden Triangle - Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong (53 kms.)
• Day 4 Chiang Khong - Doi Pha Tang - Phayao (220 kms.)
• Day 5 Phayao - Chiang Mai (162 kms.)
• Accommodation