Beautiful Northern Thailand

Intrepid Travel · 13 days

4.6

20 Reviews

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Duration

13 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

There’s a reason this trip was the one that started it all, and still remains one of the most popular.

Highlights

Experience rural Thai life with multi-day trek through scenic hilltribe villages in the remote Thai countryside, meeting welcoming locals and sharing laughs along the way. You'll see why this is the Land of Smiles.
Indulge in an organic farm to plate cooking demonstration and take the chance to learn a few cooking tips from the village chef in the Akha Hilltribe, for an unforgettable meal full of heat, spice and fresh food. You won’t go hungry!
Discover the dark history behind the infamous ‘Bridge over the River Kwai', take a refreshing dip in the Erwan Waterfall, drift down the river in a traditional rafthouse and enjoy a dinner onboard.
Explore the crafts market and enjoy tea at Doi Mae Salong, a tea-growing mountainous region. Venture into Golden Triangle, where the Thailand, Myanmar and Laos borders meet, then cruise down Mekong River.
Embrace the journey! Discover the joys of travelling on overnight sleeper trains, longtail boats, songthaew and rafthouses.

Trip Details

Duration

13 days

Transportation

Private minvan, Public bus, Overnight sleeper train, Songthaew, Taxi, Longtail Boat

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Thailand

Finishes

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Bangkok has so much to offer those with time to explore, so perhaps arrive a day or so early and take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, why not get some of your newfound travel pals together for a street food crawl.

Optional Activities:

Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
Bangkok - Chatuchak Market visit (Entrance) - Free
Bangkok - Bangkok by Bike Urban Adventure (1980 THB)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Kanchanaburi

Start the day with a one-hour river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’, or canals. Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to Wat Pho, one of the ‘trinities’ of Bangkok temples, with a 46-metre-long gold-plated Buddha reclining inside. Even the feet of this statue are incredible, three metres long and intricately decorated with mother of pearl. The temple grounds are equally fascinating, filled with beautifully decorated stupas, halls and shrines. Afterwards, hop on a local bus and travel northwest to Kanchanaburi. Located where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers converge, Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'. Enjoy a rafthouse experience down the river Kwai. The rafthouse is towed by a boat and is an ideal and relaxing way to travel down the river – definitely setting the scene for pure relaxation. Enjoy a dinner onboard.

Included Activities:

Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
Bangkok - Wat Pho
Kanchanaburi - Rafthouse experience with dinner

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

This morning, you’ll get an insight into the darker side of Kanchanaburi’s history with a visit to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetary (POW Cemetary). This was one of the first museums to attempt to educate the public and keep alive the memory of the Asian and POW workers who died constructing the infamous ‘Death Railway’. Then, travel to Erawan National Park. Explore the famous seven-level waterfall and take a dip, if you’d like! The falls are considered the most beautiful in the whole country, with turquoise blue waters rushing through the forest into bamboo-shaded pools. If you want to make the climb all the way from level one to level seven it’s about a 90-minute hike, with the uppermost level usually quiet and with a stunning view over the jungle below. Be sure to pack your swimming gear, but also appropriate footwear if you’re going to make the walk. Level seven features a triple cascade that gives the falls their name – Erawan is the mythological three-headed white elephant that carries the Hindu god Indra.

Included Activities:

Kanchanaburi - Erawan Waterfalls
Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Ayutthaya

Travel by private minivan to Ayutthaya today. Ayutthaya was the second capital of Siam after Sukhothai, and it became one of the most powerful in Asia with over a million residents by the 18th century. Trading brought great riches to the city, and merchant tales tell of golden palaces, elaborate ceremonies, and breathtaking temples. You’ll see the remains and reminders of its golden age with a guided tour of the historic ruins and temples spread across the town. The rows of headless Buddhas at Wat Phra Mahathat, sacked by the Burmese in the 18th century, are very atmospheric, and a Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in all of Ayutthaya. This evening, head north to Chiang Mai on an overnight train journey, accommodated in air-conditioned sleeping berths.

Included Activities:

Ayutthaya - Temple Ruins entrance & guided tour

Accommodation:

Overnight sleeper train (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Chiang Mai

When you arrive in Chiang Mai, your day is free. This most vibrant city in northern Thailand is most renowned for its temples and an interesting old city area. There are a number of optional activities for you to choose from, so you can do as much or as little as you like. It’ll be a great chance to take it easy and get ready for your trekking for the next 2 days. If you want any recommendations, your leader can point you in the right direction.

Optional Activities:

Chiang Mai - Thai massage (300 THB)
Chiang Mai - Bicycle tour (1100 THB)
Chiang Mai - Thai cooking course (1000 THB)
Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (50 THB)
Chiang Mai - Night Market - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Mae Taeng

Today, gear up for your hike into the remote surrounding regions. Your first destination is the Karen village of Ban Pong Noi, with a lunch stop at the magnificent Mok Fah Waterfall. On the way, take a detour to Mae Malai local market to pick up fresh food for your trip. Then, make your way to the starting point of your hike in Baan Mae Sae. Your route is relatively simple, and you'll arrive in the village in the late afternoon for tonight’s homestay experience, which will give you unique insight into life in this rural part of Thailand.

Included Activities:

Hilltribe Village - Home-cooked Dinner
Hilltribe Trek – Mok Fah Waterfall
Hilltribe Trek - Mae Malai Market Visit
Mae Taeng - 3-day hilltribe trekking

Accommodation:

Hilltribe village homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Mae Taeng

Rise early this morning to take a tour of the village before sitting down to breakfast. Then, begin today’s hike along a trail through jungle, rice paddies, rotation dry farms, streams, rivers and waterfalls, passing by more Karen villages as you go. The first leg is steep, up and downhill through bamboo forest. Make a stop to rest your legs and tuck into your picnic lunch, then carry on until you arrive at a Lahu Village – your base for the night.

Included Activities:

Mae Taeng - 3-day hilltribe trekking

Accommodation:

Hilltribe village homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Doi Mae Salong

Start the day with breakfast, then take a walk around the village to see the locals going about their morning routines. You’ll have the chance to buy some local handicrafts – spending your money on community enterprises directly helps to support community development. After, you’ll begin today’s hike through a picturesque landscape of farmland and jungle to a Thai village for lunch, where you’ll link up with your transport and travel to Doi Mae Salong, a hillside town with a large Chinese population. Famous for its Chinese tea traders, the region is the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of tea while admiring the surrounding mountains.

Included Activities:

Mae Taeng - 3-day hilltribe trekking

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Chiang Rai

This morning, check out the interesting crafts markets, where you may see produce and crafts made by hilltribe people like the Akha, and enjoy a cuppa of locally grown tea before hopping back on your private transfer to continue your journey. Drive for about 1 hour into the Mae Chan District to reach a local organic farm owned by Akha hilltribe. Here, take part in a farm to table cooking experience, where you’ll wander the property in search for organic eggs, fruits and vegetables. Then, continue back to the kitchen and begin whipping up a culinary storm – you’ll learn the secrets of a punchy chilli paste, hot and sour soups, a Thai-style stir fry and a traditional dessert. You’ll learn how to make these dishes from a local chef from the village and then enjoy the fruits of your labour over a relaxed lunch. After your hunger is tamed, continue to Chiang Rai city, where you’ll arrive at your guesthouse for the evening. Chiang Mai's 'little sister', Chiang Rai boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a great night market and a variety of good restaurants. This charming city has a small-town feel and is a great place to explore on foot.

Included Activities:

Akha Hilltribe - Farm To Plate Demonstration & Lunch
Do Mae Salong - Local market

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Chiang Rai

After breakfast, drive to the Golden Triangle, where the Thailand, Myanmar and Laos borders meet. Take a relaxed cruise down the Mekong River as you discover the fascinating and complicated history of the region. Then, visit the Opium House to learn about the opium trade and the troubled past of the region. Return to Chiang Rai in the afternoon for some free time and a relaxed evening.

Included Activities:

Golden Triangle - Mekong River cruise
Golden Triangle - Opium House

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Chiang Mai

Hop on a local bus and head back to Chaing Mai. On the way, stop to visit privately owned Wat Rong Khun, more commonly known as the White Temple – a must visit in Chiang Rai. This contemporary temple is constantly being updated, and its strange design features references to Buddhist mythology, human sin and pop culture icons such as Michael Jackson, Harry Potter and Superman. Afterwards, continue to Chiang Mai. The rest of the day is free to explore, so perhaps take a scenic, winding drive up a mountain to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a most memorable experience.

Included Activities:

Chiang Rai - Wat Rong Kun (White Temple)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Chiang Mai

Today is your chance to make your own discoveries in this charming city, with many options to choose from. Maybe choose from the many Thai cooking schools here offering courses for budding chefs, sure to help you impress your friends when you return home. Or get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective. An optional tour to Changchill Elephant Sanctuary is a great opportunity to learn about these gentle giants. Tonight, you might like to get together with your leader and crew to tackle the famous night markets and celebrate the end of this great adventure in northern Thailand.

Optional Activities:

Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary (1900 THB)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Chiang Mai

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end. If you would like to extend your stay in Chiang Mai, we can help arrange extra accommodation (subject to availability) – just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $2,545

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 13 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

There’s a reason this trip was the one that started it all, and still remains one of the most popular.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Carmen

Traveled, March 2024

04/03/2024

Exactly what I was expecting from an Intrepid tour - packed with great experiences including some things I probably wouldn't have been able to organise myself. A great overview of the country. FYI the first day of the hill tribe trek is actually 7km/5 hours with steep hills - this info needs to be updated as it came as a surprise to us and was a lot harder than expected!

4.5

maxine

Traveled, March 2024

04/02/2024

The tour guides at intrepid are so knowledgeable and helpful. I didn't want the trip to end. I felt like my safety and well-being were always a top priority!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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