This 15‑day journey through Thailand combines iconic highlights with authentic cultural experiences. From Bangkok, discover floating markets, the River Kwai, and the ancient capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai (UNESCO World Heritage Sites). Travel through Thailand’s rural northeast and northern regions, exploring archaeological sites, mountain landscapes, tea plantations, and revered temples. Enjoy immersive experiences, including an ethical elephant sanctuary visit, a hands‑on Thai cooking class, traditional performances, and regional food tastings. The journey concludes with an overnight sleeper train back to Bangkok, offering a well‑paced and enriching introduction to Thailand’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Bangkok: Thailand’s vibrant capital, featuring the Grand Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho with its iconic reclining Buddha, lively markets, and free time for shopping and local experiences.
Mae Klong & Floating Market: A unique local experience at the Mae Klong Railway Market, where stalls clear for passing trains, followed by a traditional boat ride through canals to a colourful floating market.
Kanchanaburi – River Kwai: Historic town marked by World War II heritage, including the Allied War Cemetery, the Bridge over the River Kwai, and a scenic train excursion along the river.
Ayutthaya: Former capital of Siam and UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing remarkable temple ruins such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the giant reclining Buddha at Wat Lokaya Sutharam.
Khao Yai National Park: One of Thailand’s oldest national parks, offering lush jungle scenery, trekking trails, and the famous Heo Suwat Waterfall featured in the film The Beach.
Phimai Historical Park: Thailand’s most significant Khmer temple complex, dating back to the 11th century, reflecting the architectural legacy of the Angkor civilisation.
Ban Chiang: UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site and one of Southeast Asia’s most important prehistoric settlements, known for its ancient pottery and cultural remains.
Suan Hin Pha Ngam: A natural park with striking limestone formations, often compared to China’s stone forests, explored via scenic walking paths.
Sukhothai: The cradle of Thai civilisation and UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring elegant ruins such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Sra Sri set among lotus ponds.
Chiang Mai: Cultural heart of Northern Thailand, home to the sacred Doi Suthep Temple, ethical elephant sanctuary, traditional cooking class, and vibrant local culture.
Thaton: Peaceful riverside town along the Kok River, known for hill‑tribe culture, scenic viewpoints, traditional cooking demonstrations, and Hmong dance performances.
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 – FLOATING MARKET – RIVER KWAI (250km – 3.5hrs)
Depart early in the morning to visit the Mae Klong Railway Market, one of Thailand’s most unique local markets. The stalls are set directly along an active railway track, and several times a day vendors swiftly clear their goods as a train passes through the market, creating a fascinating and memorable scene. Continue to the nearby floating market, where you will enjoy a boat ride along the canals to reach the market area. Upon arrival, disembark and enjoy free time to explore the lively atmosphere, browse local products, and observe traditional riverside life. Stop at a coconut sugar farm to learn about traditional production methods before continuing to Kanchanaburi, known as the “City of Gold.” Enjoy a Thai lunch before visiting the Allied War Cemetery and the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, significant historical sites dating back to World War II. The day concludes with a scenic excursion on a local train before arriving in Kanchanaburi.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Day 3: RIVER KWAI – BANG PA IN – AYUTTHAYA (250km – 4hrs)
Depart in the morning for Bang Pa‑In Summer Palace, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and once frequented by the last Kings of Siam. Explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and its collection of buildings, which showcase a fascinating blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles. Enjoy lunch featuring local specialties, including Tom Kha Kai, a traditional chicken soup with coconut milk and lemongrass. In the afternoon, continue to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam and an impressive archaeological site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit, home to one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand (if closed, the visit will be replaced by Wat Phanan Choeng). Continue to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the royal temple built in the 15th century, and Wat Lokaya Sutharam, famous for its impressive 42‑metre reclining Buddha.
Overnight in Ayutthaya.
Day 4: AYUTTHAYA – KHAO YAI (140km – 2.2hrs)
Depart to Khao Yai, stopping along the way at the vibrant Klang Dong's colorful fruit and vegetable market. Lunch and tasting of "som tam" green papaya salad. Discover the natural beauty of Khao Yai National Park with an exciting trekking experience through lush forests. Visit the stunning Heo Suwat Waterfall, made famous by its appearance in the movie "The Beach."
Overnight in Khao Yai.
Day 5: KHAO YAI – PHIMAI – KHON KAEN (326km – 4.4hrs)
Depart for Khon Kaen, stopping en route at Sai Ngam, a small island set within a pond that is home to what is believed to be one of the largest and oldest banyan trees in Asia. Wander through this remarkable natural site and admire the impressive network of roots and branches. Continue to Hin Phimai Historical Park, the most important Khmer temple complex in Thailand, dating back to the 11th century. Explore the sandstone sanctuary, renowned for its Khmer architecture and its association with the last great Khmer kings. Lunch features a tasting of Pad Thai, one of Thailand’s most famous dishes. Afterward, drive onward to Khon Kaen. In the evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a tasting of Thailand’s national spirit, Mekhong whisky.
Overnight in Khon Kaen.
Day 6: KHON KEAN – BAN CHIANG - LOEI (336km – 5.30hrs)
Depart for Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Explore this important site before continuing to Nong Khai, located on the border with Laos, with views of the Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge. Visit Wat Pho Chai, an important local temple housing revered Buddha images in gold, bronze, and ruby. Continue toward Loei, stopping en route for lunch with a tasting of traditional Isaan sauces. Along the way, visit the Thai‑Chinese Cultural Centre in Udon Thani, opened to preserve the art, culture, and traditions of the Thai‑Chinese community, featuring a beautifully designed Chinese‑style garden.
Overnight in Loei.
Day 7: LOEI – SUAN HIN PHA NGAM – PHITSANULOK (308km – 5hrs)
Depart for Suan Hin Pha Ngam Park. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk of approximately one hour along scenic mountain paths to discover the park’s striking limestone formations, often compared to the famous stone forest of Kunming. Lunch includes a tasting of Pho Pia Thot, traditional Thai spring rolls. In the afternoon, continue by road to Phitsanulok and visit Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat, home to the highly revered Phra Buddha Chinaraj, considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha statues.
Overnight in Phitsanulok.
Day 8: PHITSANULOK – SUKHOTHAI – CHIANG MAI (374km – 5.5hrs)
Depart for Sukhothai, the ancient kingdom of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered one of the most important historical sites in Southeast Asia. Visit key 13th‑century monuments within the historical park, including Wat Mahathat, famous for its elegant lotus‑bud‑shaped stupa, and Wat Sra Sri with its museum and atmospheric ruins reflected in serene lotus ponds. Lunch includes a tasting of Tom Kha Kai, a traditional chicken soup with coconut milk and lemongrass. In the afternoon, continue to Chiang Mai, traveling through scenic landscapes. Ascend Doi Suthep Mountain via a picturesque road winding through dense tropical forest and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most sacred temple in northern Thailand. Learn about its history, including the legend of the White Elephant, and admire the impressive chedi and intricate murals.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 9: CHIANG MAI – COOKING CLASS – CHIANG MAI (60km – 1.3hrs)
This morning, meet Thailand’s most iconic animal with a visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, a refuge for elephants rescued from exploitation. Learn about their natural behavior and daily life, and enjoy a respectful interaction by feeding them bananas and leaves while observing them up close. For the well‑being of the animals, interactions are limited — there are no rides or bathing activities. Continue to Mama Noi Thai Cooking School for an authentic, hands‑on culinary experience. Explore the organic garden to select fresh ingredients before preparing classic Thai dishes with expert guidance. Lunch features the meals you have prepared, and you will receive a small recipe book in French. The late afternoon is free at leisure, with time to relax or enjoy the swimming pool. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kantoke dinner, accompanied by an ethnic dance performance, offering a festive introduction to Northern Thai culture.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 10: CHIANG MAI – CHIANG DAO – THA TON (185km – 3.2hrs)
Depart for Tha Ton, stopping along the way at an orchid farm to admire Thailand’s diverse and colorful blooms. Continue to Chiang Dao Cave, exploring its impressive limestone chambers before enjoying lunch. Proceed onward to Tha Ton, a charming town set along both banks of the Kok River. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town and visit Tha Ton Temple, home to the striking White Buddha statue, offering beautiful views over the river and surrounding countryside. Later, take part in a traditional cooking demonstration, followed by a Hmong cultural dance performance and dinner.
Overnight in Tha Ton.
Day 11: THA TON – CHIANG RAI (195km – 3.3hrs)
Continue to Choui Fong Tea Plantation, located in the Mae Chan district near Ban Therd Thai. The plantation covers an expansive area of rolling hills, where tea bushes cascade across the landscape, creating a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors. (Please note: when traveling by bus, a change of vehicle is required at this point.) Drive through the Golden Triangle area and visit the 212 House of Opium Museum, offering insight into the region’s historical role in the opium trade. Continue on to Chiang Rai. In the evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a tasting of fresh fruits from the local market, followed by free time to stroll through the night market, where you can browse local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Overnight in Chiang Rai.
Day 12: CHIANG RAI – LAMPANG (240km – 4hrs)
Enjoy a free morning at leisure before departing for Lampang. En route, visit the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), renowned for its striking all‑white design adorned with thousands of mirrored details. Created by a contemporary artist, this unique Buddhist temple features bold, intricate architecture and unexpected pop‑culture references that leave a lasting impression. Continue with a stop at a pineapple plantation for a tasting experience, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Later, pause at Phayao Lake, one of Thailand’s largest natural lakes, before visiting the impressive Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of the country’s finest examples of traditional Lanna architecture. At the end of the day, transfer to Lampang train station and board an air‑conditioned overnight sleeper train to Bangkok. Dinner box served onboard, with overnight accommodation on the train.
Remark: In the event that the train service cannot operate due to unforeseen circumstances, the transfer will be replaced by a coach transfer in the highest available comfort category.
Overnight on the train.
Day 13: BANGKOK
Upon arrival at Bangkok railway station, transfer to the hotel for breakfast. Set out to explore the highlights of Bangkok, starting with the magnificent Royal Grand Palace. Visit nearby Wat Phra Kaew, home of the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in Thailand. Continue to Wat Pho, famous for its impressive 46‑metre‑long reclining Buddha and its serene temple grounds. Enjoy free time for shopping and personal exploration in the city.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 14: 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 15: 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.
