International Retreats
Multi-Adventure Wellness Retreat in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, Thailand
Option 1: January 17-25, 2026 (9 days) - Chiang Mai
Option 2: January 17-29, 2026 (13 days) -Chiang Mai + 4 day add on to Chiang Rai
Overview of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
Chiang Mai, known as the "Rose of the North," is a premier destination for wellness and adventure, offering breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, world-class spas, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. With a nearly perfect climate for outdoor activities—ranging from 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in January—it’s the ideal place to rejuvenate and connect with nature.
The historic Old City, encircled by ancient walls and a moat, brims with centuries-old traditions that seamlessly meet modern vibrancy. We’ll explore remarkable temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh and venture along jungle trails leading to hidden waterfalls just a short journey out of town.
The historic Old City, encircled by ancient walls and a moat, brims with centuries-old traditions that seamlessly meet modern vibrancy. We’ll explore remarkable temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh and venture along jungle trails leading to hidden waterfalls just a short journey out of town. The buzz of scooters, the sight of saffron-robed monks collecting alms, and the enticing smells of street vendors ladling out fragrant bowls of khao soi (coconut curry noodle soup) create a vibrant charm that makes Chiang Mai unforgettable.
Bordering on the “Golden Triangle” where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, at the confluence of the Ruak River and the Mekong River, Chian Rai offers a unique blend of ancient traditions seamlessly woven into modern life. Thailand’s northernmost province offers a more tranquil alternative to Chiang Mai while retaining its own rich cultural allure. Founded in 1262 by King Mengrai as the Lanna Kingdom’s first capital, the city’s heritage shines through iconic landmarks like the White Temple, the Blue Temple and the Doi Tung Gardens. Surrounded by lush hills, sprawling tea plantations, and the Mekong River, the region also delights the palate with culinary offerings like nam ngiao and sai ua paired with a refreshing cold coconut or fresh fruit juice after a day of exploration. Chiang Rai’s unhurried pace and breathtaking landscapes make it the perfect location to end our trip.
Whether you choose to join the Chiang Mai option or the combined trip with an excursion to Chiang Rai, you’ll leave with memories of yoga sessions among the songbirds, interactions with majestic elephants, strolls among stately teak forests and ancient stupas, street food samples under a canopy of colorful lanterns and the legendary warmth of Thai hospitality. It’s a journey that will nourish your soul, inspire your spirit, and leave you longing to return to one of the happiest places on earth, the “Land of Smiles.”
Day 1 – Sat, Jan 17
Fly to Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX)
You should book a flight that allows you to arrive in Chiang Mai on January 18th. The recommended group flight is listed below. However, if you will be coming earlier or spending time in Asia before or after the trip, Chiang Mai is well connected to many popular regional destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, etc. Please consult with the trip leader for the best option depending on your preferences.
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Jan 17th-Jan 18th (Delta/ Korea Air)
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Jan 17: 7:48am-10:00am IND-JFK
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Jan 17: 12:00pm-5:45pm (+1) JFK-ICN
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Jan 18: 7:05pm-11:05pm ICN-CNX
Recommended Group Flight IND-CNX-IND (Option 1):
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Jan 25th (Korea Air/Delta)
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Jan 25: 12:15am-7:05am CNX-ICN
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Jan 25: 9:35am-8:40am ICN-DTW
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Jan 25: 10:00am-11:22am DTW-IND
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Jan 17th-Jan 18th (Delta/ Korea Air)
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Jan 17: 7:48am-10:00am IND-JFK
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Jan 17: 12:00pm-5:45pm (+1) JFK-ICN
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Jan 18: 7:05pm-11:05pm ICN-CNX
Recommended Group Flight IND-CNX-IND (Option 2):
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Jan 29th (Korea Air/Delta)
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Jan 29: 12:15am-7:05am CNX-ICN
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Jan 29: 9:35am-8:40am ICN-DTW
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Jan 29: 10:00am-11:22am DTW-IND
Day 2 – Sun, Jan 18
Transfer to Horizon Village & Resort in Chiang Mai
If you are on the group flight, you will arrive in Chiang Mai at 11:05pm on Jan 18th. From Chiang Mai airport, it is a 50 minute taxi to Horizon Village & Resort (included).
If you arrive earlier than the group flight, you can organize private transportation to the resort and check into the hotel any time after 2:00pm. You can relax on the beautiful hotel grounds and have dinner at the on-site restaurant (not included).
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Horizon Village & Resort is a luxurious haven nestled within a magnificent 115-acre Botanic Garden. Renowned for its wellness retreats, the resort emphasizes health and mindfulness. The culinary team prepares Thai and Western fusion menus featuring organic, nutritious dishes that sustainably support the local community at several restaurants on the property. There is a coffee shop, several pools, and a fitness center to enjoy. You can also book rejuvenating treatments at the spa and hot air balloon rides (additional charge).
Meal Timings at Horizon Village & Resort are as follows:
Breakfast 6:30am-10:00am
Lunch: 11:30am-2:00pm
Dinner: 5:00pm-7:30pm
Day 3 – Mon, Jan 19
Yoga; Traditional Thai Massage; Tour of Historic Center (B/L/D)
Buffet breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30am-10:00am. At 10:00am, we will meet for poolside yoga and a short briefing of the week’s activities. Getting natural morning light in your eyes helps ease the jetlag!
In the afternoon we will head to the Women’s Prison Massage Center which is a social enterprise providing vocational training for ex-prisoners in authentic Thai massage services. This initiative equips the women with valuable skills, enabling them to earn a livelihood after their release. We will relax for a one-hour traditional Thai foot massage with the assurance that we’re contributing to the rehabilitation and empowerment of the inmates. More information is available at: https://dignitynetwork.org/womens-massage-center/
We will follow up the massage with stops at some of Chiang Mai’s most notable landmarks such as Wat Phra Singh (a temple known for its Buddha statue and stunning Lanna architecture which combines intricately carved teak, multi-tiered roofs and bell shaped stupas), Wat Chedi Luang (famous for its massive stupa) and Three Kings Monument (a historical monument honoring the three founders of Chiang Mai, surrounded by lovely gardens). We will end the day with a group dinner.
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Day 4 – Tues, Jan 20
Cooking School including Market Tour; Waterfall Adventure; (B/L)
Buffet breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30am-10:00am. If you are joining cooking school, it is suggested to skip breakfast at the hotel because we will have breakfast in the market.
Our excursion will last from about 8:30am-4:30pm, beginning with transport in a songthaew (a converted pick-up truck with parallel benches that fit 8-10 passengers) to a local open air market where we’ll be introduced to fragrant herbs, colorful tropical fruits and other essential ingredients that will feature in the Thai dishes we prepare. The guide will purchase some prepared foods which we can enjoy for breakfast with coffee or tea in the market. After breakfast we’ll proceed to cooking school where we’ll each have a chance to make and enjoy a 6 course lunch including our choice of salad, soup, curry, stir-fry, noodles, and dessert. We’ll receive recipes to recreate the dishes at home.
On our way back to the resort, we’ll stop at the Bua Thong Waterfall, famous for its limestone-rich rocks that create a "sticky" surface, allowing a surprisingly easy climb up the waterfall without slipping. After the excursion, you’ll have the rest of the evening free to relax and enjoy the beautiful botanic gardens. Dinner will be on your own. (The cooking school will send us home with plenty of leftovers after our lunch feast or you can dine at the hotel restaurant.)
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Day 5 – Wed, Jan 21
Morning Meditation at Forest Temple; Reservoir Walk; Yoga; Excursion to Nimman; (B/L/D)
Buffet breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30am-10:00am. Please plan to finish your breakfast by 7:30am if you wish to join the morning activities.
At 7:30am we will drive to Wat Umong, an inviting forest temple known for its ancient tunnels, and meditative atmosphere. We will explore the grounds and participate in guided meditation. Please wear modest clothing for this activity (covering knees and shoulders). Then we will drive a few minutes to Angkaew Reservoir to walk on a quiet pedestrian path with a chance to do yoga on the banks of the reservoir. If you didn’t eat an early breakfast at the hotel, you can buy coffee and breakfast at a cafe overlooking the reservoir.
We will return to the resort for lunch and time to rest, swim or stroll in the botanic gardens. In the late afternoon, we’ll leave for the trendy Nimman district, known for its vibrant, creative atmosphere. We will stop by a “cat café,” where you can enjoy a beverage of your choice while interacting with adorable resident cats. You’ll then have time to browse the numerous boutiques and art galleries at One Nimman, a cultural mall blending traditional Lanna-inspired architecture with modern design. We’ll have dinner in the area and return to the resort.
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Day 6 – Thurs, Jan 22
Nature Trail and Cloud Forest Hike in Doi Inthanon National Park; King and Queen Pagoda; (B/L/D)
We will depart for a full day tour of Doi Inthanon National Park at 7:30am. Please finish your breakfast by 7:30am or request a packed breakfast to carry with you if you prefer to eat along the way. There will also be numerous chances to buy coffee and snacks throughout the day. You should pack a warm jacket, long pants and a hat for today’s activities as it can be chilly (around 40 degrees F or cooler) as we gain elevation.
After a scenic drive, we will end at Doi Inthanon, the highest point in Thailand at 8415 feet. We will walk a short distance in the cloud forest trail at Ang Ka Luang and then drive to Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail where we will hike 2 undulating miles through verdant jungle and past giant Rhododendrons and streams and end at a breathtaking cliffside with panoramic mountain views on a clear day. We will head to the King and Queen padogas to admire vibrant flower gardens and spectacular views before moving on to a Hmong market featuring fresh strawberries and apples, various dried fruits and nuts, honey, traditionally produced plum wine and infused whiskey. We will have lunch in a Karen village followed by a chance to taste their locally grown Arabica coffee and herbal teas. The day will conclude with a visit to the cascading Wachirathan Waterfall before returning to the resort by 6pm. Dinner will be at the resort.
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Day 7 – Fri, Jan 23
Sunrise at Doi Suthep Temple and Meditation at Wat Pha Lat; Hike Monk’s Trail; Yoga; (B/L/D)
Packed breakfast will be provided to those who wish to participate in this morning’s activities. We will depart at 6:00am for a 45 minute drive to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a spectacular gilded temple perched atop Chian Mai’s tallest mountain. This sacred site offers spiritual significance and remarkable sunrise views of the city below. According to legend, the site was chosen by a Buddha relic placed on the back of a white elephant, which wandered until it died on the mountain, signaling the temple’s location. Please wear modest clothing to the temple (covering knees and shoulders).
After ascending and descending Doi Suthep Temple’s 300 stairs, we will drive to nearby Wat Pha Lat (“Monastery at the Sloping Rock”), which offers a peaceful experience surrounded by jungle. It was originally used as a resting place for monks and pilgrims walking up Doi Suthep Mountain. We’ll participate in guided meditation to clear our minds followed by breakfast near the waterfall. Then we’ll hike down the Monk’s Trail, a dirt track through the jungle that eventually turns into a quiet paved road (~2 miles), ending at a café where we can enjoy coffee or tea.
We will return to the resort for lunch followed by a free afternoon to rest, swim or indulge in therapies at the onsite spa. Sunset yoga will be offered poolside or in the botanic gardens, followed by dinner.
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Day 8 – Sat, Jan 24
Elephant Sanctuary and Bamboo Rafting (B/L/D)
Buffet breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30-10:00. Please plan to finish your breakfast by 7:30am if you wish to join the full-day excursion to the elephant sanctuary.
We will visit an elephant nature park that is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants from abusive conditions. The sanctuary promotes ethical tourism by enforcing a strict "no riding" policy and providing a safe home for rescued elephants. Through this experience, we will learn about elephant conservation and contribute to the park’s efforts in providing lifelong care for these majestic creatures. We will have a chance to feed, bathe, and walk with the elephants in a natural, safe environment. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll conclude the day with a bamboo rafting adventure along Mae Wang Stream. We will return to the resort by early evening.
We will meet for a farewell group dinner. For those on the flight at 12:15am on January 25th, you should depart for the airport around 9:00pm (50 minute taxi). You can stay in your room until departure for the airport.
Overnight: Horizon Village & Resort****
Day 9 – Sun, Jan 25
End of the Option 1 tour
Start of the Option 2 tour-Yoga; Blue Temple; Night Market; (B,L)
Anyone who signed up for the Option 1 tour that did not depart on the group flight at 12:15am this morning, can enjoy breakfast and morning yoga. The Option 1 trip will end after yoga.
Those who signed up for Option 2 will proceed with the below itinerary:
Please pack your bags for checkout by 11:00am. We will begin our scenic 3-hour journey north to Chiang Rai, driving through lush mountains and forests, passing by tea and coffee plantations. We'll pause for lunch in the quaint town of Mae Kampong and briefly explore its forested surroundings, cascading streams, and charming traditional wooden houses. It’s the perfect break from the buzz of Chiang Mai.
After completing our journey to Chiang Rai and checking into our hotel, we will visit Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) around sunset, a breathtaking contemporary temple with vivid blue and gold interiors. We will have dinner together in the bustling Night Bazaar, where you can select any number of dishes that strike your fancy such as Pad Thai, green chicken curry, grilled meat skewers, and mango sticky rice. If you’re feeling adventurous you can opt for stinky durian, BBQ scorpion and snake whiskey. In Thailand, everything is possible! Since we will choose from different vendors, each person will pay for his/her own dinner.
Overnight: Le Meriden*****
Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort is a luxurious 5-star hotel located along the calm banks of the Kok River, offering a serene retreat surrounded by picturesque gardens and expansive views. The resort tastefully blends contemporary design with traditional Thai elements, providing a refined and culturally immersive experience. Its spacious and elegantly designed rooms and suites offer either river or garden views, while guests can enjoy an infinity-edge swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and a spa offering relaxing treatments for a rejuvenating stay.
Day 10 – Mon, Jan 26
Visit White Temple, Black House, and Big Buddha Temple; (B/L/D)
Breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30am-10:00am. Please finish your breakfast by 7:30am if you plan to join the morning temple visit.
We will begin our day with an early visit to Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) to avoid crowds and marvel at its intricate white design and symbolic artwork, which makes it one of Thailand’s most unique and revered sites. Next, we’ll head to Baan Dam Museum (Black House) to experience its thought-provoking art and traditional Lanna architecture. Afterward, we'll enjoy lunch at an inviting riverside cafe.
We’ll return to the hotel to rest for the afternoon. For sunset, we’ll visit Wat Huay Pla Kang (Big Buddha), a magnificent temple complex featuring a giant white Guan Yin statue. We will climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, before heading back to the hotel for dinner.
Overnight: Le Meriden*****
Day 11 – Tues, Jan 27
Hill Tribe Trekking; Hot Springs; (B/L/D)
Breakfast is available at the hotel from 6:30am-10:00am. Please finish your breakfast by 8:30am if you plan to join the hilltribe trek.
We will embark on a guided, moderate hike (~4 hours total daily trekking time) through stunning mountains, bamboo forests, and terraced farming areas, visiting a Lisu hill tribe village and a tea plantation along the way. For lunch, we will participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration using a bamboo tube. Then we’ll continue to a waterfall for a refreshing swim and continue trekking further through the jungle to the Akha and Lahu hill tribe villages. We’ll conclude at the Pasoet Hot Spring, where we can relax in the natural pool before returning to the hotel by late afternoon / early evening.
We will meet for dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Le Meriden*****
Day 12 – Wed, Jan 28
Yoga; Singha Park Excursion; Transfer back to Airport (B/L/D)
We will start the day with breakfast and an energizing yoga session. Please pack your bags for checkout by 12:00pm.
We will spend the afternoon at Singha Park to unwind amidst its scenic tea plantations, working farm with orchards, flower gardens, and rolling hills. After a group lunch, you’ll have options to rent a bike to ride around the trails, board the hop-on-hop-off bus, tea-taste at the café or zipline (additional charge).
We will depart for Chiang Mai airport (3.5 hours) at 5:00pm with a stop along the way for dinner. We will arrive at the airport by 9:30pm, in time for the 12:15am recommended group flight on January 29th. For those not on the group flight or who would like to depart at an alternative time, private transportation from Chiang Rai can be arranged at an additional cost according to your travel schedule.
Day 13 – Thurs, Jan 29
Tour End
If you fly back on the group flight in the early morning (12:15am) of January 29th you will reach USA by midday on the same date.
If you have more time to spend in Southeast Asia, it is highly recommended to travel from Chiang Khong, Thailand to Luang Prabang, Laos by slow boat on the Mekong River.
PRICE PER PERSON:
OPTION 1 (9 DAY TRIP) PRICE PER PERSON:
$2299 DOUBLE OCCUPANCY +$700 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (Limited)
OPTION 2 (13 DAY TRIP) PRICE PER PERSON:
$3099 DOUBLE OCCUPANCY +$900 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (Limited)
Payment
Schedule:
To register for this trip, please submit the online Booking Request below, then call or email our Reservations Manager,
Susie Morwick, to submit the initial deposit. (317) 544-8391 or susie@peacethroughyoga.org.
A $500 non-refundable deposit is due per person upon booking. The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
Checks made payable to Peace through Yoga Foundation. 3.5% is added for credit card fees.
Send checks to:
Peace through Yoga Foundation
Attention: Susie Morwick
7904 Pine Lake Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Cancellation policy: $500 is charged for cancelling up to 90 days prior to departure;
100% cancellation fee is charged after 90 days prior to departure
Trip Protection is recommended. Call Travel Guard at 800-454-7107.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
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Pre-departure briefing to orient you and answer any questions
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Airport transfers (if on the recommended group flights)
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Accommodations at a four star resort (Option 1) plus a five star resort (Option 2)
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Daily activities as described
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Meals as described
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Meditation and yoga classes as described
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Trip leaders
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
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Airfare from your hometown
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Airport transfers (if not on the recommended group flights)
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Beverages
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Personal expenses
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Tipping to guide
Notes:
This itinerary may change slightly due to accommodation availability, weather, festivals, and spontaneous side trips.
Christine Klotz
TRIP LEADER
Christine Klotz, MPH, has lived as a nomad for more than 15 years, balancing a career working as an international public health professional in refugee camps around the world with long distance walking for thousands of miles in more than 100 countries. She has lived in various locations in Thailand including Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phagnan and Koh Lanta and is currently based in Chiang Mai, participating in the thriving digital nomad scene, and sampling an array of yoga retreats, hiking excursions and cooking schools. On her first day in Chiang Mai she was immediately reminded of the hospitality of Thai people when she got disoriented on a forest trail in an area without mobile phone coverage. As sunset was approaching and her phone battery was dying, she hitchhiked with a local family back to their village where they charged her phone with their solar battery, fed her, dressed her in the largest Santa sweater they could rustle from the closet to stem the post run chills, and drove her to a nearby main road to catch a taxi, finally bequeathing her with a bag of freshly boiled eggs from their free range chickens and all the while staunchly refusing any kind of material compensation with broad smiles. They did, however, reluctantly accept the return of the prized Christmas sweater. Christine is always dreaming about the next adventure. “It's a beautiful world, and I'll be thrilled to explore it with you one step at a time.”
Chris Yovanovich
Chris Yovanovich, B.A., E-RYT 500, YACEP, R.M., is a songwriter/singer who has been teaching yoga full time since 2006. In addition to creating and leading several nationally accredited yoga teacher training courses over the past 12 years, Chris shares her workshop on Working with Trauma through Yoga at women's shelters, hospitals, and businesses throughout Indiana. She teaches several weekly meditative and intuitive, restorative/yin and flow yoga classes at various studios in Indiana. Chris worked in the medical industry for 15 years as QMA & medical social worker. After escaping 3 years of domestic violence, she had a health crisis. After seeking help through allopathic medicine, she found little to no relief. She finally gave yoga a try where she finally found relief. She has since dedicated her life to sharing the sacred healing art and science of yoga with others. She specializes focusing on those needing relief from symptoms associated with stress and trauma.
Chris has helped lead several trips to India and Costa Rica for Peace through Yoga Foundation and recently to beautiful Belize. Like all of the retreats offered by Peace through Yoga Foundation, this retreat is more than just a getaway—it's an immersive experience designed to reconnect you with your true self. Under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher, each day unfolds with intention and serenity, allowing you to dive deep into your practice and rediscover balance. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a beginner, the sessions are crafted to meet you exactly where you are, with a gentle yet powerful flow that cultivates mindfulness, strength, and flexibility.
Yoga & Meditation
Yoga, at its core, is about union—connecting the body, mind, and spirit. Throughout the retreat, you'll explore a blend of Hatha and Vinyasa yoga, with morning and evening practices designed to awaken your body and soothe your mind. With each stretch and breath, you'll release tension and open up to new possibilities. Meditation will guide you on a journey inward, helping you cultivate presence and peace amidst the natural beauty surrounding you. Whether it's seated meditation, walking meditation, or guided mindfulness sessions, you’ll find yourself learning to quiet the mind, letting go of stress, and discovering the stillness that resides within.
Thailand: A Source of Inspiration
The retreat’s location allows you to not only practice yoga in a serene and beautiful space but also immerse yourself in Thailand’s culture and history. Take a mindful walk through vibrant local markets, where the scents of incense and fresh fruit fill the air. Explore peaceful Buddhist temples, where centuries-old teachings inspire moments of quiet contemplation. The magic of Thailand is woven into every corner of your retreat, offering endless opportunities to connect with the land and its people.
Inspiration through Music and Sound
Music is an essential part of this retreat experience. Whether it's the soft sounds of traditional Thai instruments, the rhythmic beats of local drummers, or the soothing tones of crystal bowls during sound healing sessions, music will be used to elevate your yoga and meditation practice. The resonance of sound brings harmony to the mind and body, offering an additional layer of depth to the retreat. You’ll find that the music becomes a bridge, connecting you to the present moment and to the deep wisdom within you.
Finding Peace and Inspiration
As the retreat progresses, you will not only reconnect with your yoga practice but also reconnect with your inner peace. Away from the distractions of everyday life, you will have the space to reflect, to release old patterns, and to cultivate new intentions. You’ll be encouraged to find stillness in the midst of beauty, to find gratitude in the small things, and to discover inspiration in the rhythms of nature and culture that surround you.
By the end of this retreat, you will leave not just with a deeper understanding of yoga and meditation, but with a renewed sense of clarity and purpose. You will leave having found a place of peace within yourself that you can carry with you, no matter where life takes you.
This is more than a retreat—it’s a transformative journey to reconnect, rejuvenate, and be inspired by the vibrant beauty of Thailand. A journey where you’ll nourish your mind, body, and soul, and return home with a fresh perspective on life and the peace that comes with it.
To register for this trip, please fill our the Booking Request then call the Reservations Manager, Susie Morwick at 317-544-8391 or email her at susie@peacethroughyoga.org
