
Experience the very best of Thailand on this immersive 18-day journey, taking you from the vibrant capital of Bangkok to the country’s most historic, cultural, and naturally stunning destinations. Explore the poignant wartime sites of Kanchanaburi or the ancient wonders of Ayutthaya, then continue north through the heritage-rich cities of Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Travel deeper into the mountains to discover the charm of Pai and the serene beauty of Mae Hong Son, where local traditions and breathtaking landscapes blend seamlessly. Conclude your adventure in Phuket, where pristine beaches and turquoise waters offer the perfect setting to relax and unwind after an unforgettable exploration of Thailand’s diverse treasures.
Upon arrival in Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide, who will assist you with all arrival procedures. Enjoy a private transfer to your hotel for check-in and leisure time.
(Standard check-in time: 14:00.)
Overnight in Bangkok.
Meals: N/A
Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok.
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Stroll past the historic Amulet Market, one of the most iconic traditional markets on Rattanakosin Island. Continue to explore Wat Phra Kaew, regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.
Next, visit the Grand Palace, the former royal residence and the ceremonial heart of the Thai Kingdom. Proceed to Tha Thien Market, a lively cultural food market, before arriving at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), Thailand’s earliest center for public medical education and a UNESCO-recognized site under the Memory of the World Program. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the temple’s history.
Continue to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), one of Bangkok’s most celebrated landmarks, renowned for its striking 70-meter prang rising above the Chao Phraya River.
Take a break and enjoy authentic Thai street food at Bangkok Cooking Studio, where you will sample local flavors and learn about Thailand’s rich culinary traditions.
In the afternoon, embark on a 2-hour teak boat journey through the canals of Thonburi, the former capital of Thailand. Experience the tranquil charm of this lesser-developed riverside district, where many traditional waterways (khlongs) still remain.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok.
At 7:00 AM, begin your journey with a convenient pick-up from your Bangkok hotel. Travel 95 km to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak district in Ratchaburi Province to experience the renowned floating market. Here, farmers and vendors skillfully maneuver their colorful sampan boats, creating a lively and picturesque scene of traditional canal-side commerce.
Continue approximately 100 km to the historic province of Kanchanaburi. Visit the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai, a significant World War II landmark constructed in 1942. The bridge stands as a solemn reminder of the more than 16,000 Allied POWs and 90,000 Asian laborers who lost their lives during its construction.
Pay your respects at the Don Rak War Cemetery, the final resting place of 6,982 POWs. Then, expand your understanding of this chapter of history at the Thailand–Burma Railway Centre, an informative museum featuring detailed exhibits on the construction and human cost of the Death Railway.
Next, embark on a memorable train ride along the historic Death Railway itself. This scenic route carries you over dramatic wooden viaducts, past the mysterious Krasae Cave, and along sections offering stunning views of the Kwai Noi River.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Kanchanaburi
After breakfast and check-out, depart for Erawan National Park, located approximately 70 kilometers away. Spend the morning exploring the stunning Erawan Waterfalls, a seven-tiered cascade set amid lush tropical forest. Enjoy time to walk the trails, admire the natural beauty, or take a refreshing swim in the emerald pools.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your journey to Ayutthaya to visit the ancient capital, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya served as the longest-standing capital of the Siamese Kingdom. The city was renowned for its openness to foreign traders – including Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, Japanese, Persian, Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and French communities – who were permitted to establish settlements outside the city walls.
By the 16th century, Ayutthaya had grown into one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the East, frequently described by visitors as a major center of culture, commerce, and diplomacy.
Overnight in Ayutthaya.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ayutthaya
After breakfast, depart for Uthai Thani Old Town and begin your visit at Wat Tha Sung, renowned for its magnificent Crystal Hall, a glittering chamber adorned entirely with mirrored surfaces. This impressive temple complex also serves as an important Buddhist meditation center.
Continue by boarding a converted rice barge for a scenic cruise along the Sakaekrang River. Observe the tranquil rhythms of local life as you pass traditional raft houses still inhabited much as they were in the past.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Hub Patad Valley. Enclosed by ancient limestone mountains, this hidden valley is home to a rare forest of giant palm trees, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a prehistoric landscape – often compared to “Jurassic Park.” Spend time exploring this unique natural sanctuary before driving onward to Nakhon Sawan.
Check in to your hotel and overnight in Nakhon Sawan.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Nakhon Sawan.
After breakfast at the hotel, continue your journey to Phitsanulok Province, the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great – the revered monarch who declared Ayutthaya’s independence from Burma in 1584. En route, visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to admire Phra Phutthachinnarat, regarded as one of the most beautiful Buddha images in Thailand. Cast in bronze in 1357 by King Maha Thammaracha I of Sukhothai, this exquisite statue is deeply venerated throughout the country.
Proceed to Sukhothai Province, whose name translates to “Dawn of Happiness.” Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai was the first truly independent Thai kingdom. Its golden age came under King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, a wise ruler celebrated for his contributions to politics, culture, religion, and most notably, for creating the Thai alphabet, which evolved into the modern Thai script used today.
Visit Sukhothai Historical Park, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the beautifully restored temples and ancient monuments that reflect the kingdom’s former grandeur. Sukhothai is also recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts, known for its traditional gold jewelry, textile weaving, earthenware, and wood carving.
Overnight in Sukhothai.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Sukhothai.
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Phrae and visit Wat Phra That Suthon, known for its striking blend of Burmese and Northern Thai architectural styles. The temple grounds also feature a folk museum showcasing a collection of rare and valuable antiques.
Continue your journey to Chiang Rai via Phayao, stopping briefly at Kwan Phayao Lake – the largest freshwater lake in northern Thailand and an important source of livelihood for the local community.
Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, visit Wat Rong Khun, widely known as the White Temple. Designed and constructed by renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this temple stands out for its brilliant white façade, intricate carvings, and shimmering glass mosaics. Inside, you will find imaginative murals that uniquely blend Buddhist teachings with contemporary imagery.
Proceed to Wat Rong Suea Ten, or the Blue Temple, celebrated for its vivid blue tones and distinctive artistic style. Completed in 2016 by a local artist, the temple features detailed interior murals illustrating the life of the Buddha alongside modern cultural elements, reflecting the evolving creativity of Thai art.
Later in the afternoon, explore Chiang Rai’s vibrant local market, where you can experience the region’s daily life and sample a variety of northern Thai street food known for its rich flavors and culinary heritage.
Overnight in Chiang Rai.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Rai.
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to Chiang Saen, an ancient city situated along the banks of the Mekong River. Founded in the 7th century, Chiang Saen later became the capital of the Lanna Kingdom in the 12th century – a powerful and prosperous realm that once governed much of Northern Thailand as well as parts of Myanmar and Laos. The city is rich in historical significance, featuring ancient defensive walls, archaeological sites, and notable temples such as Wat Chedi Luang, a 14th-century monument distinguished by its prominent chedi.
Continue to the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Enjoy the scenic views along the Mekong River before visiting the Opium Museum, which provides an insightful look into the region’s complex history of opium cultivation, trade, and its lasting cultural impact.
After lunch at a local restaurant, travel to Chiang Mai along a picturesque mountainous route. Upon arrival, check in your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore the cultural charm of Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai.
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to Chiang Mai’s local market, where you can observe the daily rhythm of local life and enjoy tasting authentic northern Thai dishes and seasonal fruits.
Continue to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most revered temple. Ascend the iconic 306 steps to reach the temple grounds, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the city and a serene spiritual atmosphere. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is also renowned as a center for Buddhist meditation, including programs conducted in English.
Chiang Mai is recognized as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Crafts and Folk Art. With more than 720 years of history, the city is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and its harmonious blend of traditional artistry and contemporary design.
After lunch, explore the renowned craft village of Bo Sang, famous for its handmade paper products and painted umbrellas. You will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on creative activity to paint your own umbrella or fan (optional), which you may take home as a unique souvenir.
In the late afternoon, visit Wat Phra Singh Worawihan, one of Chiang Mai’s most significant and beautifully preserved temples in classic Lanna architectural style. The temple houses the sacred Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha image, highly revered in the Lanna Kingdom. According to local tradition, those born in the Year of the Dragon come here to pay homage.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai.
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters above sea level. The Park features lush evergreen forests, impressive waterfalls, and exceptional biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can explore scenic walking trails, visit hill tribe communities, and enjoy the refreshing cool climate found here year-round.
Begin with a walk along the Ang Ka Nature Trail near the summit, where you can admire rare ferns, moss-covered landscapes, and seasonal blooms of white and red rhododendrons (typically flowering from January to February). Continue to the largest Hmong community on Doi Inthanon and visit the Royal Project, an initiative established by His Majesty the King to support sustainable agriculture and replace opium cultivation with high-altitude crops.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Wachirathan Waterfall, one of the park’s most spectacular falls. Spend time relaxing by its refreshing spray and taking in the serene natural surroundings after a full day of exploration.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive from Chiang Mai to Pai, a journey that highlights the natural beauty and cultural richness of northern Thailand. Travel along Highway 107, enjoying picturesque views of lush mountains and valleys before turning onto the winding Highway 1095 toward Pai.
Along the route, you may stop to explore several notable attractions, including Mok Fah Waterfall for a refreshing break, the steaming Pong Dueat Geyser, and the panoramic viewpoints of Huai Nam Dang National Park.
Upon arrival in Pai, discover its charming attractions – from serene temples and hill tribe villages to natural hot springs – each offering insight into the region’s relaxed lifestyle and diverse heritage. Enjoy the town’s peaceful ambiance as you settle into your cozy guesthouse or resort.
Overnight in Pai.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Pai.
A journey from Pai to Mae Hong Son offers breathtaking scenery and a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures of northern Thailand. Depart from Pai and travel approximately 45 kilometers to Pang Mapha, where you can take in the sweeping views from Doi Kiew Lom Viewpoint. Continue to Tham Lod Cave, an impressive natural attraction featuring dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, as well as prehistoric cave paintings.
Proceed another 65 kilometers toward Mae Hong Son, the provincial capital. Along the way, visit Lahu and Lisu hill tribe villages to learn about their distinctive traditions, customs, and ways of life. You may also stop at Fish Cave National Park, where crystal-clear waters teem with schools of fish.
Upon arrival in Mae Hong Son, explore the town’s notable temples, including Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, Wat Chong Kham, and Wat Chong Klang – each reflecting unique architectural styles and artistic heritage. Conclude your day by settling into one of Mae Hong Son’s charming hotels or guesthouses and enjoying the area’s peaceful ambiance.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Mae Hongson.
Embark on a scenic journey through the winding mountain roads leading to the picturesque border regions of Thailand and Myanmar. Your first stop is Rak Thai Village, a charming settlement founded by Yunnan migrants who sought refuge during China’s revolutionary era. Here, immerse yourself in their distinct cultural heritage while enjoying rich, aromatic teas and authentic Yunnan-style cuisine.
Continue to Ruam Thai Village, also known as Pang Aung, a tranquil valley famed for its cool climate and stunning landscapes. Admire the vibrant winter flowers and towering pine trees that blanket the hillsides, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a serene alpine retreat.
Next, enjoy a leisurely walk across the iconic Su Tong Pe Bridge, a bamboo bridge gracefully spanning lush rice fields. As you stroll, observe the peaceful daily life of local farmers and rural communities, gaining insight into their traditions and harmonious connection with nature.
Throughout this journey, you will encounter a remarkable variety of plant species and breathtaking natural scenery. What makes this region truly special is not only its beauty but also the warmth, simplicity, and cultural richness of the local communities.
Prepare for an enriching experience as you explore these hidden gems – where nature, culture, and hospitality come together to create unforgettable memories.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel in Mae Hongson.
After breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey from Mae Hong Son toward Khun Yuam District. As you continue traveling back to Chiang Mai, enjoy several scenic and cultural stops along the way. Highlights include Mae Klang Waterfall, Wachirathan Waterfall, hill tribe villages, Royal Project sites, and the revered Royal Pagodas – each offering insight into the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Upon reaching Chom Thong District, continue along Highway 108 through San Pa Tong and Hang Dong districts until you arrive in Chiang Mai.
Arrive in Chiang Mai, check in to your hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai.
Today, you will take a flight to Phuket. Arrive in Phuket, pick up and check in hotel. Free and relax.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Phuket.
Today is free at your leisure to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Phuket offers a wide variety of attractions and activities, should you wish to explore further. Popular options include visiting the Phuket Aquarium, the Butterfly and Orchid Garden, or the Thai Village cultural attractions (all at your own expense). Enjoy the day at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Phuket.
Free and relax.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel in Phuket.
Your driver will take you to the airport for your departure flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A


