From Wikitravel

Thaton is a small village with a number of hotels and guesthouses of variying prices. 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.

Thaton is located between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. From Thaton you can also go to Mae Salong, and on to the Burmese 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.