Thaton is located between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. A journey by road from Chiang Mai is about 180km and takes about 3 hours, but with some excellent scenery along the way.
You can take the boat from here to Chiang Rai, which takes about 3 hours. From Chiang Rai to Thaton is an upriver trip, and takes about 5 hours. The village has a relaxed atmosphere, and some people hang out for a few days before moving on.
The bus station is near bridge. Buses depart from/to Chang Phuak Bus Station in Chiang Mai several times a day with the journey takeing about 3/4 hours (prices are around 90 Baht). The buses are usually easily identifiable with English information on them. Buses to Chiang Rai and Bangkok also run albeit less frequently, a journey to Chiang Rai takes a couple of hours and to Bangkok about 12 hours (890km).
From Thaton you can also go to Mae Salong, and on to the Myanmar border at Mae Sai (where you can extend your visa).
Bordering the village is Wat Thaton, a large monastery with nine levels or hills. Each hill has something on it to visit, like a big Buddha image or a stupa. Level 4 has a meditation center, where they teach vipassana meditation, also in English. For information on the meditation course in Wat Thaton, see [http://www.wat-thaton.org]
'''Apple Villa'''Overlooking a bridge across the Kok river in the heart of town, has 6 bungalows, all with air-con. The attached restaurant serves decent quality Thai food and passable Farang food. Rooms go from 800Baht in the high season. Discounts should be available from May to October.