If you've ever had visions of Jungle Book adventures in a holiday packed with more than just hours on a beach, leave Thailand's sandy beaches to the sun worshippers and head to the Golden Triangle. Here, away from the island-hopping gap year students that populate the beaches in the south, great tradition and gracious hospitality awaits.

From the luxury resorts to the ancient towns and the gilded temples that rise up against the lush forests - it's worth tearing yourself away from your lounger.

Northern Thailand, and more specifically Chiang Rai, is where the wilderness comes alive, with Thailand's highest peak watching over valleys of rice fields. Days are spent meditating in the tranquillity of it all, visiting hill tribe villages to test your Thai phrases, or out with the gentle giants of the forest - Thailand's Asian elephants - trekking through the forests or spending an afternoon on the Ruak River scrubbing down one of these great beasts.

A trip into the old city of Chiang Mai itself is a colourful expedition, revealing over 300 temples, with the Three Kings Monument - in honour of the fathers of Chiang Mai's Lanna Kingdom, being a must. Also worth visiting is Chiang Ria, where you'll see views of the point where Laos, Burma and Thailand meet from the one mountain top.

While you're there...
For something a bit different
Polo players and camel polo enthusiasts alike will want to plan their trip for April, when the annual King's Cup Elephant Polo team squares off on the pitch at Anantara Resort. Watch skilled horse polo players from around the world expertly manoeuvre their sticks from the heights of massive (and yes, very slow) elephants!

Where to stay
Stay in luxury amidst the treetops at The Golden Triangle's Anantara Resort, Chiang Rai. You won't be bored with elephant driving classes on offer, Thai cooking classes, or the infinity pool to relax in after a morning working up a sweat swimming with elephants.

Chiang Mai
Rest at Lotus Pang Suan Kaew Hotel, Chiang Mai, after picking up some bargain silver jewellery and hand-crafted goods at the city's many markets. Still hungry for culture? Stop-off at The National Museum by day, or take in a cultural dance show over dinner in the evening.

Just relax
For complete relaxation, treat yourself to a heavenly Thai massage. While the Spa at Anantara offers an unrivalled blissful experience with its private soaking tubs looking out over the Mekong Valley, we'd recommend also trying out the two-hour spice massage at The Lanna Oasis in Chiang Mai.