Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand

G Adventures · 8 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand
8 Days
From AUD $1903 Was AUD $2719
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(11 reviews)

Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand

Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand

G Adventures · 8 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Delve into the wonders of northern Thailand on a trip packed with unforgettable experiences.

Includes

Activities

  • Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Traditional Thai Home Dinner, Chiang Mai Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Meet with Monks, Chiang Mai Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class, Chiang Mai
  • Arrival transfer
  • Entrance to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre war museum and train ride
  • Visit to Erawan National Park
  • Tour at Ayutthaya Historical Park
  • Dinner on a converted rice barge
  • Sunset visit to Doi Suthep monastery
  • Explore Bangkok and take a klong boat ride
  • Internal flights
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels – 7 nts.
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

Transport

  • Private bus/minivan, train, boat, plane, walking.

Group Leader

  • National Geographic Expedition Leader

Highlights

  • Swim in turquoise pools below a seven-tiered waterfall
  • Meet a resident monk and receive a Buddhist blessing at one of Thailand’s most revered temples
  • Explore Wat Pho to view a colossal gilded statue of the Reclining Buddha
  • Visit a village home outside and sit down to a traditional khantok dinner
Journeys: Explore Northern Thailand

Trip Details

Duration

8 days

Transportation

Private bus/minivan, train, boat, plane, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Thailand

Finishes

Bangkok, Thailand

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

National Geographic Journey, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Bangkok

Arrive at any time; your arrival transfer is included.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Upon arrival at the airport, head to the arrival hall and go to gate number 4 near the airport information counter. Look for a driver holding a G Adventures sign with your name, who'll take you to your hotel so you can check in and start exploring.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Grand China Bangkok
2

Day 2: Bangkok/Kanchanaburi

After breakfast, travel to the city of Kanchanaburi, situated at the convergence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers. Board a train for a winding journey into World War II history as you cross the bridge made famous by the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai. At the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, learn about the Burma Railway, constructed by imperial Japanese forces to connect Bangkok and Burma; then visit the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to see where the prisoners of war who worked on the railway were laid to rest.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take in a piece of World War II history on this visit. You've seen or at least heard of the famous movie, "Bridge on the River Kwai" -- tour the real thing and take a train ride over the bridge. It's massive, majestic, and imposing, and offers fabulous views of the river below. Activity - Visit the Thai-Burmese Railway Museum to learn about the Death Railway's dark history, and the Allied War Cemetery where more than 6,000 prisoners are buried.Accommodation - Royal River Kwai Resort
3

Day 3: Kanchanaburi/Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

This morning, hike into the lush landscapes of Erawan National Park, located high in the mist-shrouded Tenasserim Hills. Take a dip in the turquoise pools of the Erawan Falls—so called because its top tier of cascades resemble the three-headed, mythological elephant known as Erawan. This afternoon, transfer to the historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, a former capital of the medieval kingdom of Ayutthaya, also known as Siam. Sample traditional Thai dishes during dinner on a converted rice barge from the 1930s.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. Its seven tiers offer a unique experience at every climb, reaching up to 1,500m (4921 ft). Swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, and opt to hike in the jungle to spot monkeys.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Cruise down the river aboard a converted 1930s rice barge. Have a delicious Thai meal while taking in the incredible views of the city.Accommodation - Classic Kameo Hotel Ayutthaya
4

Day 4: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya/Chiang Mai

Set out to explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, centered on the old city which served as the Siamese capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it was one of the largest and most cosmopolitan regions in the world. Stroll down well-planned city streets to view magnificent palaces and Buddhist monasteries that set the standard for Thai architecture for generations to come. Later, return to Bangkok and transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Visit a traditional village in the countryside and enjoy a khantok-style dinner, served on low pedestal trays.
Khantok in the Northern dialect means wooden tray, used for carrying dishes, round in shape and made of teak wood. The host will invite guests to sit on the floor around the khantok. After dinner, enjoy tea time with the opportunity to talk with local people to learn their way of living.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ayuthaya served as Thailand’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it ranked as one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Late in the 17th century its population reached one million, and foreign visitors wrote awestruck accounts of its size and splendour.Transport - Hello again, Bangkok! Travel back to the city and to the airport by private vehicle.Transport - Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.Activity - Visit a village outside Chiang Mai and sit down to an authentic Khantoke dinner in the home of a local family. Dishes typically include sticky rice, hang-le curry, and crispy pork with chilli paste. Over tea, learn about life in rural Thailand and visit the family garden to learn about herbs and spices popular in local cooking.Accommodation - Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa
5

Day 5: Chiang Mai

Delve into the bustle of Chiang Mai's morning markets with a local chef, and learn about colourful fruits and fragrant herbs as you select ingredients for a Thai cooking class. Enjoy your creation for lunch, then set out to visit a historic temple. Gain insights into core Buddhist principles and daily life in the temple through a conversation with a Theravada monk, an alumnus of the International Buddhist University in Sri Lanka, and a respected teacher of Buddhism and meditation at a renowned international center in Chiang Mai. Later, clear your mind to the chanting of monks at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most spectacular gilded temples in Thailand.
Monk chats are a great cultural exchange, but also important in helping the young Monks improve their English.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Pick out the best ingredients at a local market and learn how to make delicious Thai dishes.Activity - Visit a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai's Suthep district. Engage in an informal conversation with a teaching monk at the international meditation center. Discuss Theravadha Buddhism and monastic life. These sessions offer a unique opportunity for personal reflection and a deeper connection to the ancient wisdom of Buddhism.Activity - Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks. Transport - Climb aboard, take your seat, and enjoy the ride.Accommodation - Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa
6

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Spend a full day exploring Chiang Mai's temples and forested hills on your own, or choose between a variety of optional activities. Opt to take a cycling tour through verdant rice paddies and the elegant historic district. In the evening, choose to visit Chiang Mai's vibrant night market.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Chiang Mai is a mecca for shopping and handicraft production, so take advantage of this opportunity to do some shopping if you wish.Accommodation - Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa
7

Day 7: Chiang Mai/Bangkok

This morning, fly to Bangkok and board a traditional klong boat for a ride along the winding canals that have earned the city the nickname the “Venice of the East.” Glide past colourful temples, modern skyscrapers, and houses perched above the water. Visit Wat Pho, Bangkok's largest and oldest temple complex, and often considered Thailand's first public university—its many inscriptions were intended to instruct visitors. Marvel at the magnificent statue of the Reclining Buddha, glittering with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Take a quick flight back to Bangkok. Activity - Travel by longtail boat on the busy Chao Phraya River and through the small canals of western Bangkok's Thonburi district. Observe colourful scenes of everyday life along the river banks.Activity - This temple is known for its reclining Buddha, its feet covered with mother-of-pearl engravings of Buddhist symbols. Explore the large grounds and other compounds to see other Buddha figures, murals and the chedis that contain the ashes of Buddha. This is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Grand China Bangkok
8

Day 8: Bangkok

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • 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.

From
AUD $2719

AUD $1,903
(Tour only)
Offer ends 23 Mar, 2026 Per Person Standard
30% Off

Duration: 8 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Delve into the wonders of northern Thailand on a trip packed with unforgettable experiences.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 22 Mar 2026

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
5.0
David
Traveled, November 2022

11/26/2022

Informative, varied and a great experience all round

4.5
Alan
Traveled, February 2020

02/25/2020

Great experience - all the details went off exactly as planned. Well done!

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990