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Experience Overview
Discover a land of mouthwatering food, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and incredibly hospitable locals on this 12-day Premium journey through Northern Thailand. Get to know Thai culture as you travel from city streets to mountain tops. Explore the ancient temples of Ayutthaya, spend time with Lisu hill tribes, meet the experts at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, uncover the country’s past in Kanchanaburi and find hidden temples on a barge ride along the Chao Phraya River. With a local leader by your side, you’ll soon see there’s more to Thailand than what meets the eye.
Highlights
- 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.
- Experience a different side of bustling Bangkok during a Signature Experience – rise early and visit a local temple where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks
- Savour a royal Thai lunch during a Signature Experience, then sail along the Chao Phraya on a traditional rice barge, stopping at quiet riverside temples rarely visited by tourists.
- Support an important animal welfare initiative, speak with local experts and get close to incredible creatures at the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai.
- Enjoy a day of Signature Experiences – visit Muang Kued Village to learn about local organic farming, try your hand at traditional Thai cooking, take part in the Lanna sword dance and float down the Mae Taeng River before dinner and a show.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2780
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Train, Private mini van, Longtail boat, Songtheaw, Bicycle
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TTPT
Starts: Bangkok, Thailand
Finishes: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 12 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (11), Lunch (5), Dinner (5)Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights), Resort (5 nights), Lodge (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6150 ($512 /day)
Itinerary
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)
Rise early for an optional Signature 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 an electric 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 - Temple Merit Making
- Bangkok - Khlong Electric Boat Canal Tour
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Jim Thompson's House (250 THB)
- Bangkok - Thai Massage (300 THB)
Accommodation:
- The Theatre Residence or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
On the way to Kanchanaburi today, you’ll visit Baan Nong Khao CBT Village – an agricultural village famous for its Pha Khao Mah handweaving. Visit the community’s museum, a palm sugar field and a local house to see how local desserts are made with this famous Thai ingredient. Of course, you’ll get to sample the sweet treats, too! Then, watch the weavers at work as they use more than 100 colours of yarn to create traditional Thai clothing. 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 museums to educate the public and keep the memory of the Asian and POW workers who died constructing the infamous Death Railway alive.
Included Activities:
- Kanchanaburi - Kanchanaburi War Cemetery
- Kanchanaburi - Bridge over the River Kwai
- Baan Nong Khao - Weaving Community Visit
Accommodation:
- U Inchantree or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Visit Erawan National Park to explore a 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 pass interpretive centre, 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
- Kanchanaburi - Train trip on Death Railway
Accommodation:
- U Inchantree or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, head to Ayutthaya – one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sit down for a royal culinary experience at a Michelin-recommended restaurant, trying dishes like Toong Thong and the flower-shaped Chor Muang, once enjoyed in noble households. Then, head out for a Signature Experience on a century-old Thai rice barge in the style of the King Rama V period. Drift along the Chao Phraya River as Thai high society once did, stopping at two seldom-visited temples. Observe elders praying and villages ‘making merit’ at the riverside Wat Bang Nom Kho temple and step into a local neighbourhood at the Wat Bang Pa Mhor temple. Back on land, it’s on to more temples in Ayutthaya. Visit 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). Enjoy a free evening tonight – your leader will have lots of great recommendations for dinner.
Included Activities:
- Ayutthaya - Temple Visit
- Ayutthaya – River Cruise and Temple Visit
Accommodation:
- Sala Bang Pa-In or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
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:
- Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your day in Sukhothai with an optional alms offering. Sukhothai was established in the 13th century and is one of the first ancient capitals of Siam You’ll visit its famed UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical park, which captures the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Hop on 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. This evening, regroup and head to a local home, 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:
- Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll 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 (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast at Lisu Lodge, get ready for a day of Signature Experiences. First, it’s a quick trip to Muang Kued Village, where you’ll meet with a local villager for 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 demonstration where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Thai food from the locals. Then, learn the art of the graceful Lanna sword dance, led by a local expert. After, you’ll board a bamboo raft for a calm, scenic float down the Mae Taeng River. Return to Lisu Lodge for a short break before your Northern Thai culinary experience. Enjoy vibrant performances like the Klong Sabadchai (a traditional sacred drum) and the women-led Candle Dance from the CBT Baan Muang Kued community.
Included Activities:
- Muang Kued – Village Visit and Cooking Demo
- Muang Kued – River Rafting
- Muang Kued – Sword Dancing Show and Masterclass
- Muang Kued - Festive Dinner and Temple Fair
Accommodation:
- Lisu Lodge (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll meet the residents of the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai – a wildlife project that provides sanctuary for elephants and other animals. Your expert local guide will share stories of the rescued elephants and the issues they face in South East Asia. Watch the elephants from a viewing platform as they bathe and play. After, tuck into a vegetarian buffet lunch before heading back into Chiang Mai. Visit Kalm Village – an art, craft and culture centre in the Old Town that supports local artists. Then, the evening is yours to enjoy your own way. Maybe visit the vibrant Night Bazaar or spend more time exploring the Old Town, 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 - Kalm Village
Accommodation:
- Smile Lanna Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
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 at Tutu’s home-style restaurant. There’s no menu here – just seasonal dishes served to share, one plate at a time. You might try her signature mangosteen and crab salad or classic Thai dishes like panang and massaman, all prepared with care and tradition. It’s a warm, personal setting to swap stories with your group and close out the journey.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Visit
- Chiang Mai – Chef’s Table Farewell Dinner
Accommodation:
- Smile Lanna Resort or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
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).
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
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
Reviews
Stephen - Traveled, April 2024
The Thailand Intrepid tour was a fantastic journey in a wonderful and diverse country. The people are friendly and made our stay memorable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Doiya - Traveled, April 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!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2024
Betty - Traveled, April 2024
Elephant park, temples, and food were amazing! You will not ride an elephant. Considered mistreatment. So ignore what you read in magazines, but they are so majestic and docile up close. Beautiful
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Michele - Traveled, March 2024
Our Fabulous guide Ant , went above and beyond to make our Premium Northern Thailand a trip to remember.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Mario Augusto - Traveled, March 2024
Our trip to Northern Thailand was a blast. This was our 11th trip with Intrepid, the second Premium, and the first to SE Asia. We loved the well-balanced mix of rich cultural experiences and activities under the leadership of Raht, our top-notch tour guide. Accommodations and meals were also very good. We are already planning our next trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2024
Paula - Traveled, February 2024
Most amazing experience and best tour guide ever. Loved this trip and would highly recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
Bob - Traveled, February 2024
I recommend this trip. Tour operator was excellent and accommodation was good. I left the trip with some very memorable moments and some good friends
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, February 2024
Traveling with Intrepid allowed me to fully immerse myself and learn the most I ever have about a destination.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Melissa - Traveled, February 2024
This trip was phenomenal, my first time in Asia but definitely not my last! The immersion I experienced into the local culture was unparalleled. That combined with our ever upbeat and helpful tour guide, Nok made this an experience of a lifetime. She really brought the trip together for me, helping us understand locals foods, traditions and even the language. If you are hesitant about booking just do it, you will have no regrets!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Daniel - Traveled, February 2024
Excellent itinerary and Nok was a great leader. I learned a lot about Thai history and culture. The food was fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, February 2024
Traveling with Intrepid allowed me to fully immerse myself and learn the most I ever have about a destination.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Melissa - Traveled, February 2024
This trip was phenomenal, my first time in Asia but definitely not my last! The immersion I experienced into the local culture was unparalleled. That combined with our ever upbeat and helpful tour guide, Nok made this an experience of a lifetime. She really brought the trip together for me, helping us understand locals foods, traditions and even the language. If you are hesitant about booking just do it, you will have no regrets!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Alice - Traveled, January 2024
Intrepid travel are completprofessional on all levels in their choice of accommodation/ activities/ consideration of the client. They have superb guides / drivers and all aspects of activities for all abilities. While this is not a relaxed laid back holiday-- we enjoyed every second of each day. This is our second time using them and we will again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/03/2024
Alan - Traveled, February 2024
A well organised tour with an excellent leader and fellow travellers which make single travellers welcome.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
Jonathan - Traveled, January 2024
Fantastic trip well organized by a fabulous energetic tour guide Raht. Learnt so much about Thailand, and had such fun doing it. As always the other people on the tour also really helped.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
John - Traveled, January 2024
Northern Thailand Premium was a fantastic experience It exceeded all my expectations.Our tour leader Ning was terrific and explained the ways of Thailand living and explainind about thai culture,the activities of this trip were excellent,accomodation and food was excellent throughout,our transport and drivers were first class and safe....The whole experience in Thailand was fantasic experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Caroline - Traveled, January 2024
A wonderful trip which we thoroughly enjoyed. Many varied activities, lovely accommodation and Ning was a great guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Karen - Traveled, January 2024
This is a very varied trip in a truly wonderful country. The sights, activities and food were all excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Robyn - Traveled, January 2024
Our tour was fantastic, we covered a lot of different experiences and became knowledgeable in the Thai history and culture. Our guide was excellent and made the tour a stress free experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2024
Stephen - Traveled, January 2024
Thailand is a lovely country, and this trip was an excellent way to see it. The itinerary was very full and varied, and didn't require too much travelling. Accommodation was of a high standard. A great holiday!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
