What are the ETLK tours, and why would you be interested?

• Enter The “Lanna Kingdom”, was an historic region in northern Thailand that encompassed the second largest city in present day Thailand. The kingdom was also called “Lannathai” which meant “land of a million rice paddies”. (rice fields)
• The Lanna Kingdom was founded in 1296 by King Mangrai who was very strong and ruthless leader. Lannathai eventually became part of the famous Kingdom of Siam.
• The culture, cuisine, beliefs and influences of India are still seen in this Lanna region.
• ETLK Tours are not part of a large tour company’s offering. These tours are for mature people who consider themselves to be nature lovers that also have an interest in the culture and scenic splendour of tropical places that are “off the beaten track”.
• These tours are not for everybody, GibbonSong cannot take under 18-year-olds, and our guests must be reasonably healthy as we don’t take travellers that cannot climb a few steps or walk/stroll 500 metres. A sense of adventure and humour are essential.
• If you are looking for an affordable, safe adventure with a very small group of like-minded people, a GibbonSong ETLK Tour might be exactly what you need.
• These tours are generally of two weeks duration. Everything from pre-departure from Sydney airport and throughout the whole tour are addressed by the tour leader. Discussions directly with the travellers to fine-tune the itinerary including special interests.

What about the money?

• The total cost of these tours varies between $4000 and $4500 per person.
• There are discounts available for twin share and double room accommodation.
• Personal travel money during an adventure is very much an individual thing. Food and drinks are very affordable. Although alcohol is nearly as expensive is it is at home.
• The tour fee covers much more than is normally expected – read on.
• HERE’S THE GREAT NEWS – All funds in excess of the tour’s raw costs go towards GibbonSong’s charitable initiatives. This benefits the Karen Hilltribe community in a very remote, mountain village including Primary School Educational Natural History Excursions and Scholarships for the children living in the village of Baan Khuntae.

What is included with a GibbonSong ETLK Tour?

• A highly experienced Tour Leader based in rural NSW is available to answer all questions before, and during every day of the tour.
• A local guide who is a “Karen” person based in the Lanna Kingdom region with perfect English, an extensive knowledge of Buddhist teachings, and over 35 years of guiding experience and registration with “TAT” – Tourist Authority of Thailand.
• Translator of Thai and hill tribe languages, and cultural interpreter at your disposal
• A safe driver and modern minibus.
• Air-conditioned, 3/4-star accommodation throughout the tour.
• Personal service from your Guide and Tour Leader with a maximum of eight travellers.
• GibbonSong’s personal contacts in northern Thailand including the accommodation managers are on first name terms and will make the tour an adventure of a lifetime.