North Thailand - Touring Highlights

North Thailand

0
Price
From£999
Per Person (excluding flights)
Full Name*
Email Address*
Phone Number*
* I agree with Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step
Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

2369

Experience Northern Thailand to its fullest with this action-packed tour taking you from the bustling streets of Bangkok, to the historic town of Kanchanaburi, right up to the rolling hills of Chiang Mai, carefully curated for you by our own team of Thailand experts. 

The best bit? Unlike other tour packages, there’s no tour group you have to spend a week with and you can customise your experience. Enjoy the new, flexible way to see your dream destinations.

For all latest Covid-19 travel advice and updates, please click here.

What to Expect

  • Guided tour of the Royal Grand Palace & Temple of the Emerald Buddha
  • Visit infamous Death Railway & the Bridge on the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
  • Exclusive Visit to Hellfire Pass Museum
  • Floating Raft Stay, Wang Po
  • Visit to Sai Yok Noi Waterfall
  • Guided tour exploring the old ruins of Ayutthaya
  • Overnight sleeper train from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai
  • Visit an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary, Chiang Mai
  • 10 Nights Accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Bangkok

Sawasdee! Welcome to Thailand’s capital full of bustling streets and colourful markets. 

You’ll feel the heat and hustle the moment you arrive, so grab an iced coffee to help see you through the jet lag and get out there to do some DIY exploring. Get lost in the endless street markets, taste some authentic Pad Thai, or treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage.

Free time option: Sit back and relax on the city’s river cruise – a chilled way to see most of Bangkok’s iconic landmarks in under an hour for 120 Baht (£3/$4) pp. 

Stay: Bangkok City Hotel (or Similar)

Day 2 - Explore Bangkok's Iconic Temples

Grab some breakfast and get ready for your first taste of Bangkok’s culture, as today you’ll be visiting three of the capital’s most iconic attractions.

You’ll spend the morning walking through the world-famous Grand Palace complex (the official place of residence of the Kings of Siam until 1925) and Wat Phra Kaew  (Temple of the Emerald Buddha).

Self explore Wat Pho (home of the incredible 46-metre long reclining buddha) followed by the mesmerising Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). 

This afternoon you’ll have some free time to explore, so chat to our destination expert to curate your ideal evening. 

Free time option: Visit the Golden Mount for some unbeatable views of the city, then take a canal boat to the Jim Thompson Museum. Here you can explore the home of the late architect and entrepreneur who transformed the Thai silk industry. End your night on a rooftop bar overlooking the city’s skyline. 

Stay: City Hotel (or Similar)

Day 3 - Damnoen Saduak Market - Maeklong Railway Market

Damnoen Saduak Market, located in Ratchaburi province, is a floating market where vendors sell their goods from boats. Tourists can take a long-tail boat to explore the market and shop for souvenirs, fruits, and local snacks.

Maeklong Railway Market, also located in Ratchaburi, is known for its unique feature of a train track running through the middle of the market. Visitors can watch as vendors quickly pack up their goods when the train approaches. Both markets offer a unique shopping and cultural experience. Hotel pickup can be arranged for convenient transportation to and from these markets.

Stay: 

Day 4 – Train to Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

This morning we’re swapping the big city of Bangkok for the historic town of Kanchanaburi. You’ll take a 3-hour train journey up the infamous Death Railway; a 415km train line built by WWII Prisoners Of War, resulting in the loss of over 100,000 lives. 

Once you’ve arrived, grab some lunch and head over to the Death Railway Museum to learn more about the town’s darker times, finishing with a visit to the War Cemetery directly outside to pay respects to the 6,982 POW buried here. 

Free time option: Enjoy a stroll over the River Kwai Bridge and an evening meal on the riverside, where you can see a train pass over. 

Stay: Hut hotel (Or similar)

Day 5 – Train Kanchanaburi - Nam Tok

The Train Kanchanaburi – Nam Tok is a scenic train journey that takes passengers through the picturesque landscapes of western Thailand. The train departs from Kanchanaburi and travels to Nam Tok station, passing by lush jungles, rice paddies, and small villages.

Along the way, passengers can take in the beautiful views of the Kwai Noi River and the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. The journey is a unique way to explore the region and experience the local culture. The trip from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The train service is operated by the State Railway of Thailand and tickets can be purchased at the station.

Stay: City Hotel (or similar)

 Hellfire pass memorial museum & Namtok Say Yok Noi falls

The Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, is a museum dedicated to the memory of the prisoners of war who suffered and died during the construction of the Thailand-Burma Railway during WWII. Visitors can learn about the history and see exhibits such as tools and equipment used by the prisoners. Namtok Say Yok Noi falls, located near the museum, is a beautiful waterfall that offers a peaceful and refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Both the museum and the waterfall make for an interesting and educational day trip.

Day 6 – Erawan Falls

Erawan Falls, located in the Erawan National Park in northern Thailand, is a must-see destination for nature lovers. The falls are made up of seven tiers, each with its own unique beauty. The crystal clear water cascading down the limestone cliffs creates a picturesque setting that is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and taking in the natural beauty of the park.

The park also offers many activities such as jungle trekking, bird-watching, and elephant riding. Visitors should note that the park can be quite crowded during peak season, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Overall, Erawan Falls is an ideal destination for those looking for a taste of natural beauty in Thailand.

Day 7 – Train Nam Tok - Bangkok

The train from Nam Tok to Bangkok is a great way to experience the picturesque countryside of Thailand. The journey takes around 3 hours and offers stunning views of rice paddies, mountains, and small villages along the way.

Stay: Jadiee Bamboo Huts (or similar)

Day 8 – Ayutthaya Tour & Overnight Train to Chiang Mai

Prepare to be amazed at a visit to the ancient city of Ayutthaya – the former capital of Thailand before it was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th Century. On this full-day guided tour, you’ll visit the 5 UNESCO-listed temples and the National Museum which contains key artifacts from the kingdom’s 417-year history. 

Tonight, you’ll be swapping out the hotel for an overnight sleeper train experience from Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai.

Day 9 - Arrive in Chiang Mai & Elephant Sanctuary

After arriving through the rolling hills of Chiang Mai for sunrise, check into your hotel and enjoy a chilled morning exploring the town’s laid-back streets and minimalist coffee shops. Or if you fancy it, you’ll have enough time to discover the old city temples (Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh and Wat Phan Tao are our favourites).

At midday, you’ll be picked up from your hotel to take a 1.5-hour ride into the mountains to one of Chiang Mai’s first ethical elephant sanctuaries; Elephant Retirement Park. Founded by Adulwit Khamya (better known as Noi) who’s passion for elephant care and rescue will be sure to pull on your heartstrings – you may even be lucky enough to meet him! You’ll learn about elephant body language and how to play with them – swapping elephant rides for mud baths and feeding time. 

After a heartfelt goodbye, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel for your last evening in Chiang Mai. Whether you want to make the most of your time left with a Muay Thai Boxing game, Thai cooking class, or relaxing Thai massage – the choice is yours!

Stay: Jadiee Bamboo Huts (or similar)

Day 10 - Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting Thailand. The park is located in the Chiang Mai province and is home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon mountain, which stands at 2,565 meters. The park is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching.

Visitors can also explore the two chedis (stupas) that were built on the summit of the mountain in honor of the King and Queen of Thailand. The park also offers several beautiful waterfalls, including the Mae Ya waterfall, which is one of the most spectacular in the country. Visitors should note that the park can be quite chilly, so it’s best to bring warm clothing. Overall, Doi Inthanon National Park is an ideal destination for those looking for a taste of natural beauty in Thailand.

Day 11 - Last day in Chiang Mai

After an epic week exploring Thailand’s highlights, it’s time to say goodbye to the land of smiles and head back home. 

It doesn’t have to end here though – why not add on an additional day from just £69 and discover those hidden gems on your bucket list? Check out our additional days or chat to our destination experts to find out more.

Why book with us?

Friends & Family Only

Holiday with friends & family. No week long tour with 20+ strangers

Central Hotels

Stay in the heart of a city. Not an hour outside

More Excursions

As many activities & excursions as can be fitted in to your trip

Flexibility

Go any day of the week and most times of the year

Why book with us?

Friends & Family Only

No week-long tour with 20+ strangers

Central Hotels

Stay in the heart of a city. Not an hour outside

More Excursions

As many activities & excursions as can be fitted in to your trip

Flexibility

Go any day of the week and most times of the year

Map

Photos

Additional Days

Want more? Add on these additional days which include one nights accommodation. Prices start from £69...

Bangkok - Hidden Gems

If you prefer to take things at more of a chilled pace, add on this additional day that explores some of Bangkok’s hidden gems. 

Marvel in the luminous light of the first-class Marble Temple, see the largest gold Buddha in the world at Wat Traimit, and float in the endless flower markets before heading downtown to explore the cluttered streets of Chinatown. Don’t forget to wander through Lumphini Park for sunset before heading back to your hotel.

Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai Day Visit

You may be feeling a little bit templed-out, but save some juice in the tank for 3 unique temples in Chiang Mai’s quirky sister town; Chiang Rai. First though, you’ll start your morning with a relaxing dip in the hot springs of Mae Khachan before heading to the White Temple. 

Refreshingly modern, the White Temple is far from the ornate ruins you’ve seen so far. This pure-white architectural masterpiece was designed, built, and completely self-funded by a local artist. His aim was to create an art exhibition and tranquil space for people to learn about buddist teachings, in return granting him immortal life.

Prepare to be beathtaken by the bold yet peaceful hues of the Blue Temple. Locally known as Wat Rong Seua Ten, which translates to “dancing tiger temple”, because it was built on a site where tigers were said to jump over the river.  

A complete 360 to the White Temple, the Black House has been called a “dark, mysterious, and almost sadistic” place. Built by national artist Thawan Duchanee, the Black House is a collection of bones, preserved animals, and a cluster of shadowy structures exhibiting art dating back to the Ayutthaya period.After exploring three very different temples, you’ll be taken back to your hotel in Chiang Mai with some free time to explore or chill.

Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep (& Optional Cooking Class)

Visit Chiang Mai’s most-visited and breathtaking temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, on a 4-hour morning tour where you’ll follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who climb up 309 steps to reach the 600-year-old golden ‘chedi’ and stupa on the hilltop for panoramic views of the city. The journey up the winding mountain road is an experience in itself!

You’ll also visit the Baan Doi Pui village to learn more about the life of the ethnic Hmong hill tribe, known for their colorful costumes and handicraft traditions.

Return to Chiang Mai and get dropped off at your hotel.

Free Time option: Learn how to cook popular Thai dishes surrounded by a beautiful organic farm in a  fun, small-group cooking class from just £40/$50pp. The perfect way to end your day! 3.30pm – 9.30pm.

Chiang Mai - Pai Day Visit 

Prepare to fall in love with the picturesque mountain town of Pai. This charming and quirky city in Mae Hong Son Province is well known amongst tourists for it’s hippie-centric and laid back vibe, bliss surroundings, and charming locals. 

On this full-day tour from Chiang Mai, you’ll explore all the must-see attractions including the Wat Num Hoo and Wat Phra That Mae Yen (White Buddha) temples for amazing views of Pai village.

You’ll take a stroll over the Tha Pai WWII Memorial Bridge, explore a strawberry-everything menu at the Love Pai Strawberry Farm, and have lunch in Santichon Village (one of just three Yunnan Chinese tribe villages in Northern Thailand). 

You’ll then stop for a quick caffeine fix surrounded by lush greenery at Coffee In Love before taking a stroll through the Pai Canyon (Thailand’s very own answer to the Grand Canyon) before heading back to Chiang Mai.

Photos

Our Promises

100% Financial Cover

Your money is 100% protected in a trust bank account

Covid Cover

Free amendments due to covid with our travel insurance

Flexible Bookings

Amend your booking up to 1 month before travel

Quality Promise

Find the same quality of holiday for less & we’ll match the price

Our Promises

100% Financial Cover

Your money is 100% protected in a trust bank account

Covid Cover

Free amendments due to covid with our travel insurance

Flexible Bookings

Amend your booking up to 1 month before travel

Quality Promise

Find the same quality of holiday for less & we’ll match the price

Proceed Booking