heading north from chiang mai is a rewarding as you come upon the unmistakeable peak of Chiang dao. don't miss the remarkable complex of caves buried beneath it. Continuing north, you can turn off the main route and meander though mountain passes to seek out Doi Angkhang-one of the last wildernesses in Thailand before the shan state hill of Myanmar roll out before you. However, a popular option is to continue on to Tha Ton and catch an overnight raft trip to Chiang Rai. Others prefer to seek out the intriguing tea growing Chinese immigrant communities clustered on the hilltops aroun Mae Salong. Ten years ago this area was under the influence of drug barons and off-limits to the public.