Nestled within a bamboo jungle-cloaked landscape, the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle in Northern Thailand offers a serene escape for urban travelers seeking an “off the grid” adventure. Situated at the meeting point of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, the Camp embodies renowned architect and designer Bill Bensley’s vision of creating a haven of relaxation.
“With just 15 tents that offer breathtaking views of the picturesque river and lush bamboo jungles, our campsite champions sustainable tourism in several aspects,” notes Camp Manager Paweena Waraha. Designed to preserve the natural landscape, each tent showcases the local craftsmanship and culture of the region. “Families can make the most of this experience at our Two Bedroom Explorer’s Lodge, with its own private deck and swimming pool overlooking the mesmerizing bamboo jungles,” she adds.
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Embrace Slow Living
Mindfulness and healing come naturally in this setting as guests connect with nature in its truest form. The Camp offers unique experiences like Bamboo Rattan Making, where guests can hand-pick bamboo trees and rattan, then craft them into oil lamps, cups, cutleries, steps, handrails, cooking pots, and more. “We use Bambusa nutans bamboo, also called Weeping Bamboo or Weeping Clumping Bamboo, native to Southeast Asia,” explains Assistant Camp Manager Ajit Nandakumar.
Guests can also learn about the rich history and ecological significance of bamboo and other local plants during the tree planting activity, guided by the Camp’s skilled gardeners.
Epicurean Experiences
The Camp’s chef offers culinary lessons that make for memorable souvenirs. “Khao Tom Mud is a popular Thai dessert made of bananas, glutinous rice, and peanuts wrapped in banana leaves,” shares Camp Chef Sirintip Sianglert. “This dish is part of Thai ancestors’ local wisdom and is often offered to monks during merit making.” Guests can participate in cooking classes, gathering fresh ingredients from the Camp Garden for an authentic jungle-to-table experience.
Wellness Reloads
Set among fruiting trees, the open-air jungle spa redefines the connection with nature. Whether it’s a signature spa experience or a simple soak in the hot tub, the spa provides a unique form of healing. “Inspired by bamboo, the Ruak Bamboo is a full-body massage using local herbal oils and smooth bamboo sticks to target deep-seated muscle tension,” suggests Ajit. The Mahout Recovery massage uses large poultices filled with camphor, lime, and lemongrass to relax sore muscles, while the Mekong Meditation massage soothes with ylang ylang and lavender. Guests can also learn to make a natural face scrub using ingredients like coffee, yogurt, and tamarind paste.
Two Wheels and Endless Fun
Explore Chiang Rai’s rural landscape on a guided bike tour that follows a scenic trail through lush green paddy fields, pineapple and rubber plantations, and a splendid teak forest. “The best way to explore the Golden Triangle is by bike,” confirms Ajit. The Camp’s Hillside Bicycle Tour is a customizable experience suitable for individuals, families, and small groups, offering the chance to spot local farmers and take breaks at picturesque spots like Bau Luang Lake.
Thrill Seekers
Led by skilled Camp Guides, guests can embark on hikes and trails that offer adventure and a glimpse into the region’s history and culture. The two-hour Wang Lao Hike showcases ancient weaving techniques brought down by Chinese settlers. The half-day Huay Mark Liam Trail takes guests through the Huay Mark Liam National Park, past rugged bamboo forests and tea plantations, ending with a picnic lunch at a Lahu hill-tribe village.
The challenging Likhai Trail offers stunning vistas as it cuts through terraced fields and steep forested hills, while the Doi Mae Salong Chinese Village and Tea Plantation tour reveals the unique way of life in a traditional Chinese village and the region’s political history.
The Golden Triangle’s rich cultural tapestry is underscored by diverse local communities and tribes. Spending quality time with family in this meaningful adventure not only provides a fulfilling vacation but also an opportunity to immerse in a mindful way of life. “Join us this festive season for an immersive experience as we make a commitment to our community and look forward to an even more significant year ahead,” smiles Paweena.
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