Chiang Rai is home to some of Thailand's most beautiful cherry blossoms, and the best time to catch them in full bloom is during the Doi Mae Salong Tea & Sakura Festival this Dec 28-Jan 2.

Situated around an hour-and-half outside the provincial center, Doi Mae Salong has been dubbed a minuature Yunnanese Shangri-La and is famous for its lush green valleys, tea plantations and strong ties to the Southern Chinese culture.

Apart from rows upon mountainous rows of budding sakura flowers, you'll also get to watch cultural performances led by the district's various ethnic groups, taste some of the country's best teas and buy special OTOP products made by the hilltribes.

Just be sure to pack warm clothes though, as temperatures in December are predicted to be between 10-12 degrees Celsius.