Premium Northern Thailand

Intrepid Travel · 12 days

4.6

20 Reviews

View Map

Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and incredibly hospitable locals on a 12-day Premium journey through Northern Thailand.

Highlights

Experience a different side of bustling Bangkok during an Exclusive Experience – rise early and visit a local temple where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks
Stay in the beautiful Lisu lodge for your Feature Stay. This community-based project employs Lisu villagers and allows you to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying creature comforts.
Cruise the waterways on board a traditional rice barge as you watch local life pass by and enjoy a delicious meal during an Exclusive Experience.
Support an important animal welfare initiative, speak with local experts and get close to incredible creatures at the Elephant Nature Park.
Unleash your creativity and learn about the history of Benjarong, a traditional style of painted Thai porcelain, with a visit to a Benjarong ceramics community.
By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Animal Protection. Donations support them to promote better living conditions for elephants in captivity and help rescue elephants from inhumane conditions. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Trip Details

Duration

12 days

Transportation

Train,Private mini van,Longtail boat,Songtheaw,Bicycle

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bangkok, Thailand

Finishes

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your journey begins in Bangkok, where you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe explore Thailand’s capital at your own pace. By day, you can experience a city filled with history and tradition, but by night Bangkok is taken over by a flood of music and neon lights. Maybe visit one of the many temples or explore Chinatown. Watch tuk tuks zip by while traditional khlong boats slowly wind down the Chao Phraya River. After your meeting, join your small group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant where your leader will introduce you to the local flavours.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Bangkok - Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

The Theatre Residence or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Bangkok

Rise early for an optional Exclusive Experience away from Bangkok’s tourist track. Join the locals and visit a temple along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks. Later, your leader will take you for a day of sightseeing and activities around the city. Tour Wat Po – a larger-than-life temple complex in the city and home of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Visit the Grand Palace and learn about the site which has been the official residence of the kings since the 1700s, then head out on a boat tour of the city's canals as your leader shows you how Bangkok’s locals live today. The afternoon is free to do as you wish – maybe check out the art collection at the Jim Thompson house or relax with a Thai massage.

Included Activities:

Bangkok - Grand Palace
Bangkok - Wat Pho
Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
Bangkok - Temple Merit Making

Optional Activities:

Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (200 THB)
Bangkok - Thai Massage (300 THB)

Accommodation:

The Theatre Residence or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

Unleash your creativity and learn about the history of Benjarong – a traditional style of painted Thai porcelain – during today’s visit to a ceramics community. The name literally means ‘five colours’ (although it’s not unusual to see up to eight) and artists use enamel to create intricate floral and geometric designs. This morning, you’ll get to paint your own mug or teacup which will be fired and sent to you to take home as a unique souvenir. After, maybe grab some lunch before you continue to Kanchanaburi to visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. This prisoner of war cemetery was one of the first museumsto educate the public and keep the memory of the Asian and POW workers who died constructing the infamous Death Railway alive.

Included Activities:

Benjarong - Ceramics Workshop
Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
Kanchanaburi - Bridge over the River Kwai

Accommodation:

U Inchantree or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Kanchanaburi

Visit Erawan National Park to explore famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are said to be some of the most beautiful in the country, with glacial blue waters perfect for a dip. Many Allied prisoners of war and conscripted Asian labourers were engaged here to help build a rail route to Myanmar (Burma), including the passage infamously known as Hellfire Pass. Visit the memorial museum of the pass where your leader will provide more information about this chapter in history. Take a historical train journey across a portion of this 'Death Railway' along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct, known as the Krasae Bridge, constructed by the allied POWs. The evening is yours to explore the town.

Included Activities:

Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit
Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

Accommodation:

U Inchantree or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Ayutthaya

This morning, head to Ayutthaya – one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. On the way, visit Baan Nong Khao CBT Village – an agricultural village famous for its Pha Khao Mah hand-weaving. Visit the community’s museum, a palm sugar field and a local house to see how desserts featuring this famous Thai ingredient are made. Of course, you’ll get to sample these sweet treats. Then watch the weavers at work as they use more than 100 colours of yarn to create traditional Thai clothing. When you get to Ayutthaya, explore the photogenic 13th-century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat and discover rows of Buddhas beheaded by the Burmese. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree (one of the country’s most photographed images). Tonight, you’ll board a traditional rice barge and tuck into a delicious Thai dinner.

Included Activities:

Baan Nong Khao - Weaving Community Visit
Ayutthaya - Temple Visit
Ayutthaya - Traditional Rice Barge Dinner Cruise

Accommodation:

Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ayutthaya to Sukhothai

Leave Ayutthaya and travel to the town of Phitsanulok by train. Sit back, relax and watch the scenery roll by. When you arrive, change to a private vehicle and continue this comfortable journey until you arrive in Sukhothai. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries. You may like to relax by the pool or unwind with a Thai massage. For dinner tonight, maybe ask your leader where you can get a bowl of Sukhothai’s famously tasty noodles.

Included Activities:

Ayutthaya - Train to Phitsanuloke

Accommodation:

Legendha Sukhothai Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Sukhothai

Sukhothai, established in the 13th century, was one of the first ancient capitals of Siam. Start your day with an optional alms offering before visiting its famed World Heritage-listed historical park, which captures the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. You’ll rent a bicycle for a cycling tour through the park and as you ride, your leader will teach you more about the history of this former metropolis and its fascinating structures. Have a picnic lunch then the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the town at your own pace, or relax by the pool back at your accommodation. This evening, regroup and head to the home of one of our local friends where you’ll sit down for a homecooked dinner and a unique insight into life in this part of the country.

Included Activities:

Sukhothai - Morning Alms Offering
Sukhothai - Historical Park Visit and Bike Ride
Sukhothai - Dinner in a local home

Accommodation:

Legendha Sukhothai Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Mae Taeng

Travel from Sukhothai to the Mae Taeng region. Draped between rice fields and fruit orchards, you’ll find the Lisu Lodge – your Feature Stay for the night. The lodge is a community-based project that trains and employs Lisu villagers from the nearby hill tribe and aims to preserve their cultural heritage. The Lisu people are a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group and one of the six main hill tribes of Northern Thailand. Meet the colourfully dressed villagers and learn more about the Lisu way of life – this is a truly special experience that’s sure to be one of your enduring memories of Thailand. The lodge offers guestrooms decorated in the traditional Lisu style with modern comforts. Savour unforgettable views of the surrounding hillside and valley and enjoy tonight’s dinner of fresh, local Thai food.

Accommodation:

Lisu Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Mae Taeng

After breakfast at Lisu Lodge, it’s a quick trip to Muang Kued Village where you’ll meet with a local villager and enjoy a private guided tour. Learn about village life, the reforestation of the surrounding area and how produce is grown in the village orchards. Explore the organic farm and choose the ingredients for a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Thai food. After lunch, join the villagers and learn how to weave palm leaves to create ornaments and accessories. You’ll also join them for a tasty barbeque dinner at the nearby Mae Tamaan Base Camp.

Included Activities:

Muang Kued - Village Visit, Cooking Class, and Handicraft Workshop
Mae Taeng - Mae Tamaan Base Camp BBQ Dinner

Accommodation:

Lisu Lodge or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Chiang Mai

Travel to the Elephant Nature Park – a unique project that provides sanctuary for elephants and other animals. Be greeted by an expert local guide and learn the stories of the rescued elephants and the issues they face in South East Asia. Watch the elephants from a viewing platform with the expert staff as they bathe and play and tuck into a vegetarian buffet lunch. Back in Chiang Mai, visit the Yimsoo Café, which supports workers living with disabilities. Then, the evening is yours to enjoy your own way. Maybe visit the vibrant Night Bazaar or take a stroll around the Old Town, which is bounded by moats. Your leader can give you recommendations on where to go for dinner.

Included Activities:

Chiang Mai - Elephant Nature Park Half Day Trip
Chiang Mai - Yim Soo Cafe

Accommodation:

Smile Lanna Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Chiang Mai

This morning, drive to the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. Take in the views along the scenic and winding mountain road, which brings you to an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards justify the ascent to the top, with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, not to mention the fantastic panoramic views of the city. Return to Chiang Mai where you’ll have time to relax before your farewell dinner, cooked by a local chef! Dine on Thai fusion food made with local ingredients as you reminisce about the wonderful adventures you’ve had in Northern Thailand.

Included Activities:

Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Visit
Chiang Mai - Farewell Dinner

Accommodation:

Smile Lanna Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Chiang Mai

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Chiang Mai we can help arrange extra accommodation (subject to availability).

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 willdo 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. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

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 $5,930

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 12 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Discover a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and incredibly hospitable locals on a 12-day Premium journey through Northern Thailand.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Jan 2027

View Map

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

Stephen

Traveled, April 2024

04/14/2024

The Thailand Intrepid tour was a fantastic journey in a wonderful and diverse country. The people are friendly and made our stay memorable.

5.0

Doiya

Traveled, April 2024

04/13/2024

What awesome adventures were had. Each day brought new intros to the culture in Thailand. We had the best time. Great accommodation, delicious food and the people of Thailand are amazing. Thank you!

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

Book Now