Bangkok to Chiang Rai

Saturday. Welcome to Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand! A world-renowned tourist destination, this vibrant city offers an eclectic mix of lively street life, cultural landmarks, and busy shopping areas.

Arriving at Suvarnabhumi or Donmuang Airport, you'll be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore Bangkok. Why not try some tasty street food or take a thrilling tuk tuk ride?

Bangkok - Phitsanulok. Time to leave behind bustling Bangkok and head towards the historic city of Phitsanulok.

First stop along the way is Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and UNESCO-listed heritage site. We'll explore the site by tuk tuk and discover the famed Buddha head cradled within the roots of a banyan tree and the magnificent Wat Maha Dhat.

Continuing to Lopburi, we'll enjoy lunch followed by a visit to the Narai Raja Nives Palace, Prang Sam Yod - also known as the Sacred Three-Spired Pagoda, and the monkey temple.

Arriving in Phitsanulok in the evening, we will enjoy a trishaw ride through the city's vibrant night markets. Be sure to branch out and try tasty street food or shop for souvenir bargains.

Phitsanulok - Sukhothai. Today's adventure begins with an exploration of ancient temples and heritage sites, starting with a visit to Wat Pra Si Rattana Mahat - home to Thailand's most beautiful Buddha image.

Our adventure continues to the renowned Sukhothai Historical Park, aptly named the 'dawn of happiness.' Prepare to be mesmerized by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 45 sq km and boasting 193 artifacts, including palaces, temples, city gates, walls, and villages.

Next, we head to Ganesha Pottery Village, a haven of local artisans preserving the ancient sangkhalok craftsmanship through hand-painted creations.

After lunch, head to our final destination of Sri Satchanalai, the northern outpost of the Kingdom of Sukhothai. Here, we visit Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Jet Thaew.

Sukhothai - Chiang Mai. Today we set our sights for Chiang Mai, starting with a hands-on experience at the Sukhothai Organic Agriculture Farm. Depending on the season, you will help plant, harvest or mill rice and plough paddies with a water buffalo.

Afterwards, enjoy a well-deserved organic lunch in an open sala overlooking the picturesque rice fields.

We'll continue our journey via Lampang, where we visit Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang, home to an enchanting emerald Buddha Statue.

In the afternoon, sample rice crackers during a trip to a domestic factory. Then, relish local flavours during our stop for tasty street food at the vibrant Kad Ban Ta Market.

Rise and shine with an early morning visit to a nearby temple. The temple visit provides an opportunity to engage in an act of 'merit' by offering food donations to the monks. This sacred experience also creates a harmonious start to our day!

After breakfast, our journey leads us up the Serpentine Road to Wat Pra Dhat Doi Suthep. Perched 1,676 meters above sea level, this mountaintop temple offers stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai City.

We then head to Chiang Mai’s biggest market, Talat Warorod and continue by rickshaw to the city’s oldest temple, Wat Chedi Luang. After lunch, we visit a handicraft village. Here, you'll witness the skillful creation of traditional products such as Thai Silk and paper umbrellas.

As the evening approaches, get ready for a truly unique Chiang Mai tradition—a khantoke dinner. This captivating experience combines delicious food, traditional dance, and musical performances. Served in charming small bowls known as khan, the meal is enjoyed while seated at low tables called toke.

Chiang Mai - Thaton. Start the day off fresh, with a visit to an orchid farm. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and varied species of flowers that thrive in Thailand.

We will then drive to the Elephant Poopoo Paper Park, an eco-friendly attraction that offers a unique experience. Discover the fascinating process of making paper products from elephant waste - a creative and sustainable endeavor.

Next, we head to the Dara Pirom Palace Museum, an elegant property that once belonged to one of King Rama V's royal consorts. The building has been transformed into a museum containing a wide range of exhibits showcasing palace decor.

After lunch, our journey leads us into the depths of Chiang Dao Cave at Wat Tham Chiang Dao. The day concludes in Thaton, a quaint village nestled just a stone's throw from the Myanmar border.

Thaton - Chiang Rai. Today begins with a long-tail boat ride up the scenic Kok River. Along the way, we'll pass tiny hill tribe villages, traditional bamboo huts and dense jungles.

We jump ashore at Ban Pha Tai and continue by road to Doi Mae Salong. Nestled just 6 kilometers from the Thai-Myanmar border, this mountain holds a storied past as a former home to a Chinese military division back in 1961.

Chinese influences still echo throughout this region, and you'll find several tea plantations and charming tea houses dotting the landscape. The area also boasts open-air bazaars and shops that offer an array of Chinese specialties. Browse through these offerings and immerse yourself in the local culture before we leave.

Following lunch, our adventure continues as we head to Mae Sai, the northernmost Thai town, situated on the Myanmar border. We'll stop here to browse the local market.

Our last stop of the day is the renowned Wat Rong Khun, also known as the 'White Temple.' Crafted by national artist Chalermchai Kositipiat, this mesmerizing creation combines contemporary artistry with kanok architecture.

Saturday. Our morning kicks off with a visit to the renowned Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Afterwards, enjoy a short cruise along the mighty Mekong River, soaking up its surrounding landscapes and rugged mountains.

After lunch we'll be dropped at Chiang Rai airport where our tour will conclude. Why not consider staying in Chiang Rai a bit longer with post tour accommodation?