Discover the essence of Thailand on this 11‑day journey combining vibrant cities, ancient kingdoms, lush landscapes and authentic local encounters. From the energy of Bangkok and its iconic temples, the tour travels through floating markets and the historic River Kwai, before heading north to the former capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In northern Thailand, explore Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle, admire the striking White Temple, visit tea plantations and experience ethnic minority cultures. Chiang Mai offers hands‑on experiences, including a Thai cooking class, sacred mountain temples and a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary focused on animal welfare. The journey ends back in Bangkok with in‑depth sightseeing and free time to enjoy the city at your own pace. A perfect balance of culture, history and memorable experiences, this tour provides a comprehensive and authentic introduction to Thailand.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Bangkok: Thailand’s vibrant capital blends tradition and modernity, from the splendour of the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha to lively river life along the Chao Phraya and the bustling streets of Chinatown.
Mae Klong Railway Market: A truly unique local market set directly on an active railway line, where vendors swiftly clear their stalls as trains pass through, offering an unforgettable glimpse into everyday Thai life.
River Kwai – Kanchanaburi: A region rich in history and natural beauty, featuring the famous Death Railway, the JEATH War Museum and peaceful river scenery that reflects an important chapter of World War II history.
Ayutthaya: The former royal capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing impressive temple ruins, grand Buddha statues and the architectural legacy of Thailand’s golden age.
Sukhothai: Known as the birthplace of Thai civilisation, this UNESCO‑listed historical park features elegant 13th‑century temples and serene landscapes that mark the dawn of the Thai kingdom.
Chiang Rai: Gateway to the Golden Triangle, famous for the striking White Temple, scenic tea plantations and cultural insights into northern Thailand and its diverse influences.
Thaton & Ethnic Villages: A peaceful northern town offering authentic encounters with local communities, traditional weaving, regional cuisine and colourful hill‑tribe cultural performances.
Chiang Mai: Northern Thailand’s cultural capital, renowned for sacred mountain temples, a hands‑on Thai cooking experience, creative neighbourhoods and an ethical elephant sanctuary focused on animal welfare.
Day 1: ARRIVAL BANGKOK
Upon arrival in Bangkok, proceed to the meeting point at Gate 6 on the 2nd floor of the international arrivals terminal, where you will be greeted and assisted by our representative before being transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is free at leisure, so you can take time to relax and enjoy a traditional Thai massage at one of the nearby massage shops or visit Asiatique The Riverfront, a vibrant market filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, located along the Chao Phraya River beside the Ferris wheel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 2: BANGKOK – MAE KLONG MARKET – KANCHANABURI (250kms - 3hrs)
Early morning departure to visit the Mae Klong Market, uniquely set along an active railway track. Several times a day, vendors swiftly clear the tracks as the train passes through, before returning to business as usual. Continue to a floating market and board small canoes to navigate the canals. Disembark and enjoy free time to explore the market. Stop at a coconut sugar farm before continuing to Kanchanaburi, known as the “City of Gold.” Lunch is served on a floating raft on the River Kwai. Visit the Jeath War Museum, followed by a train ride on the historic Death Railway running alongside the river. Dinner is served on a floating raft.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Day 3: KANCHANABURI – AYUTTHAYA – PHITSANULOK (560kms - 7hrs)
Early departure to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam. Visit Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit, home to one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand (or Wat Panan Chaoeng if closed). Continue to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple, and Wat Lokaya Sutharam with its impressive reclining Buddha. Lunch features Thai specialties, including a tasting of mu sap bai kraphao, stir-fried minced pork with basil. Continue north to Phitsanulok, which served as the capital of Thailand for 25 years.
Overnight in Phitsanulok.
Day 4: PHITSANULOK – SUKHOTHAI - CHIANG RAI (485kms - 7.5hrs)
After breakfast visit Wat Phra Buddha Chinnaraj, housing a revered 13th-century Buddha image considered among the most beautiful in Thailand. Depart for Sukhothai, meaning “Dawn of Bliss,” the ancient capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit key monuments from the 13th century, including Wat Mahathat and Wat Sra Sri, as well as the local museum. Lunch with Thai specialties. Continue north through scenic landscapes toward Chiang Rai. Stop in the late afternoon at Phayao Lake before arriving in Chiang Rai.
Overnight in Chiang Rai.
Day 5: CHIANG RAI – WHITE TEMPLE – THATON (220kms – 4hrs)
Visit the White Temple, a contemporary Buddhist masterpiece adorned with mirrored details and striking symbolic architecture created by a modern Thai artist. Continue to the Golden Triangle region, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River, historically associated with the opium trade. Visit the House of Opium Museum, illustrating the history and impact of the drug trade. Drive through lush countryside to Choui Fong Tea Plantation, where tea fields cascade across the hillsides. After lunch featuring local specialties, continue to Thaton. Visit a local village to observe traditional weaving techniques and participate in a demonstration of local craftsmanship. In the evening, enjoy a demonstration of traditional cuisine, followed by a Hmong dance performance and dinner.
Overnight in Thaton.
Day 6: THATON – DOI POO MEUN VILLAGE – CHIANG MAI (175kms - 3hrs)
Depart for Doi Poo Meun village, home to the Lahu Red minority. Access the village by local pick up vehicle. Discover traditional village life and enjoy a special lunch prepared using bamboo and banana leaves. In the afternoon, continue to Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second largest city.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 7: CHIANG MAI – DOI SUTHEP – CHIANG MAI (34 kms - 1hr)
This morning, enjoy an introduction to Thai cuisine at Mama Noi Thai Cooking School. Visit the organic garden to select fresh ingredients before preparing traditional dishes. Lunch consists of the meals you have prepared, and you will receive a small recipe book. In the afernoon, drive through forested mountain roads to Doi Suthep. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most sacred temple in northern Thailand. Learn about its history and admire the chedi and murals. Return to Chiang Mai and stroll through Nimmanhaemin, a trendy district known for its creative atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a traditional kantoke dinner accompanied by an ethnic dance performance.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 8: CHIANG MAI – BANGKOK (55kms - 1.3hrs)
This morning, visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Learn about the elephants’ lifestyle and ethical conservation practices. You may observe and feed the elephants, with interactions kept limited out of respect for their well-being. Return to Chiang Mai and transfer to the train station for an overnight air-conditioned sleeper train to Bangkok. Dinner box will be provided.
Remark: If the train service is unavailable for any unforeseen reason, the transfer will be replaced by the most comfortable coach available.
Overnight on the train.
Day 9: BANGKOK
Arrival at the Bangkok train station and transfer to the hotel for breakfast. Depart by sky train and local boat for a full day sightseeing tour. Visit the Royal Palace, founded in 1782, and Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha. Continue to Wat Pho to see the impressive reclining Buddha, measuring 46 meters long and covered in gold leaf. Lunch includes a tasting of pad Thai. In the afternoon, explore Chinatown, including Yaowarat Road and its lively local market. Dinner at a riverside restaurant with a tasting of moo satay.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 10: BANGKOK
After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure to discover the city on your own or choose to join an optional excursion.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 11: BANGKOK DEPARTURE
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your scheduled transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Thailand. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
