Bangkok to Chiang Rai - 8 days
8 Days Starting in Bangkok and ending in Chiang Rai
Visiting: Bangkok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Tha Ton, Chiang Rai
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 24
Age range:
no minimum age when accompanied by an adult
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience the ultimate Thailand adventure with our 8-day tour, encompassing its ancient wonders and vibrant street markets. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the ancient wonders of Ayutthaya's Buddha head and Wat Maha Dhat, explore Lopburi's palaces and offer merit to monks. Admire the emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang, savour street food, and be enchanted by the White Temple. Journey to the Golden Triangle, meandering through markets, palaces, and picturesque landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Saturday. Welcome to Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand! A world-renowned tourist destination, this vibrant city offers an eclectic mix of lively street life, cultural landmarks, and busy shopping areas.
Arriving at Suvarnabhumi or Donmuang Airport, you'll be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore Bangkok. Why not try some tasty street food or take a thrilling tuk tuk ride?
Day 2: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Bangkok - Phitsanulok. Time to leave behind bustling Bangkok and head towards the historic city of Phitsanulok.
First stop along the way is Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and UNESCO-listed heritage site. We'll explore the site by tuk tuk and discover the famed Buddha head cradled within the roots of a banyan tree and the magnificent Wat Maha Dhat.
Continuing to Lopburi, we'll enjoy lunch followed by a visit to the Narai Raja Nives Palace, Prang Sam Yod - also known as the Sacred Three-Spired Pagoda, and the monkey temple.
Arriving in Phitsanulok in the evening, we will enjoy a trishaw ride through the city's vibrant night markets. Be sure to branch out and try tasty street food or shop for souvenir bargains.
Day 3: Phitsanulok
Location: Phitsanulok, Sukhothai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Phitsanulok - Sukhothai. Today's adventure begins with an exploration of ancient temples and heritage sites, starting with a visit to Wat Pra Si Rattana Mahat - home to Thailand's most beautiful Buddha image.
Our adventure continues to the renowned Sukhothai Historical Park, aptly named the 'dawn of happiness.' Prepare to be mesmerized by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 45 sq km and boasting 193 artifacts, including palaces, temples, city gates, walls, and villages.
Next, we head to Ganesha Pottery Village, a haven of local artisans preserving the ancient sangkhalok craftsmanship through hand-painted creations.
After lunch, head to our final destination of Sri Satchanalai, the northern outpost of the Kingdom of Sukhothai. Here, we visit Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Jet Thaew.
Day 4: Sukhothai
Location: Sukhothai, Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Sukhothai - Chiang Mai. Today we set our sights for Chiang Mai, starting with a hands-on experience at the Sukhothai Organic Agriculture Farm. Depending on the season, you will help plant, harvest or mill rice and plough paddies with a water buffalo.
Afterwards, enjoy a well-deserved organic lunch in an open sala overlooking the picturesque rice fields.
We'll continue our journey via Lampang, where we visit Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang, home to an enchanting emerald Buddha Statue.
In the afternoon, sample rice crackers during a trip to a domestic factory. Then, relish local flavours during our stop for tasty street food at the vibrant Kad Ban Ta Market.
Day 5: Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Rise and shine with an early morning visit to a nearby temple. The temple visit provides an opportunity to engage in an act of 'merit' by offering food donations to the monks. This sacred experience also creates a harmonious start to our day!
After breakfast, our journey leads us up the Serpentine Road to Wat Pra Dhat Doi Suthep. Perched 1,676 meters above sea level, this mountaintop temple offers stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai City.
We then head to Chiang Mai’s biggest market, Talat Warorod and continue by rickshaw to the city’s oldest temple, Wat Chedi Luang. After lunch, we visit a handicraft village. Here, you'll witness the skillful creation of traditional products such as Thai Silk and paper umbrellas.
As the evening approaches, get ready for a truly unique Chiang Mai tradition—a khantoke dinner. This captivating experience combines delicious food, traditional dance, and musical performances. Served in charming small bowls known as khan, the meal is enjoyed while seated at low tables called toke.
Day 6: Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai, Tha Ton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Chiang Mai - Thaton. Start the day off fresh, with a visit to an orchid farm. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and varied species of flowers that thrive in Thailand.
We will then drive to the Elephant Poopoo Paper Park, an eco-friendly attraction that offers a unique experience. Discover the fascinating process of making paper products from elephant waste - a creative and sustainable endeavor.
Next, we head to the Dara Pirom Palace Museum, an elegant property that once belonged to one of King Rama V's royal consorts. The building has been transformed into a museum containing a wide range of exhibits showcasing palace decor.
After lunch, our journey leads us into the depths of Chiang Dao Cave at Wat Tham Chiang Dao. The day concludes in Thaton, a quaint village nestled just a stone's throw from the Myanmar border.
Day 7: Thaton
Location: Tha Ton, Chiang Rai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Thaton - Chiang Rai. Today begins with a long-tail boat ride up the scenic Kok River. Along the way, we'll pass tiny hill tribe villages, traditional bamboo huts and dense jungles.
We jump ashore at Ban Pha Tai and continue by road to Doi Mae Salong. Nestled just 6 kilometers from the Thai-Myanmar border, this mountain holds a storied past as a former home to a Chinese military division back in 1961.
Chinese influences still echo throughout this region, and you'll find several tea plantations and charming tea houses dotting the landscape. The area also boasts open-air bazaars and shops that offer an array of Chinese specialties. Browse through these offerings and immerse yourself in the local culture before we leave.
Following lunch, our adventure continues as we head to Mae Sai, the northernmost Thai town, situated on the Myanmar border. We'll stop here to browse the local market.
Our last stop of the day is the renowned Wat Rong Khun, also known as the 'White Temple.' Crafted by national artist Chalermchai Kositipiat, this mesmerizing creation combines contemporary artistry with kanok architecture.
Day 8: Chiang Rai
Location: Chiang Rai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Saturday. Our morning kicks off with a visit to the renowned Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Afterwards, enjoy a short cruise along the mighty Mekong River, soaking up its surrounding landscapes and rugged mountains.
After lunch we'll be dropped at Chiang Rai airport where our tour will conclude. Why not consider staying in Chiang Rai a bit longer with post tour accommodation?
What's Included
-
Accommodation
4 star -
7 breakfasts & 7 lunches
-
7 nights 4 star hotel
-
Airport arrival transfer on day 1
-
Escorted by an English-speaking Thai tour guide
-
Guided sightseeing - Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Lampang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Dao, Thaton, Doi Mae Salong, Mae Sai
-
All transportation and transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles
-
Entrance fees for all included sites
-
All applicable taxes and service charges
-
Note: Touring is operated in conjunction with other tourist groups, not solely On The Go. Note: Touring is operated in conjunction with other tourist groups, not solely On The Go. Guiding may be in an additional language to English
What's Not Included
-
International flights and visas
-
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
-
Departure airport transfer
Accommodation
Mandarin Hotel Bangkok
The Mandarin Hotel Bangkok is recognized by its iconic white Mandarin building and has evolved into a renowned luxury destination for global travelers seeking both leisure and business comforts. Boasting two wings—the original Mandarin wing and the Princess wing added after refurbishments in 1981—the hotel's 367 modern and tastefully furnished rooms and suites, including Deluxe, Premier, Executive, and Grand Suite options, offer a comfortable and contemporary experience. There is an outdoor pool, fitness center, spa and restaurant on site.
Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom
Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom (formerly the Novotel Bangkok Silom Road Hotel) is a well-situated and versatile hotel in the heart of Silom, Bangkok. The hotel boasts an array of amenities, including an outdoor pool, two dining options, 24-hour room service, and complimentary WiFi. Its proximity to key attractions like the Jewelry Trade Center and Patpong Night Market, along with business facilities and a fitness center, makes it suitable for both leisure and business guests. With spacious, well-equipped rooms and various services, Hilton Garden Inn caters to a diverse range of traveler needs.
The Imperial Hotel
The Imperial Hotel & Convention Centre Phitsanulok offers a tranquil retreat with an outdoor pool and spa facilities. The air-conditioned rooms feature large windows and a sitting area, along with amenities like cable TV and a minibar. Attached bathrooms offer hot showers and toiletries. Dining choices include a variety of Thai and international dishes at Laguna Café, Cantonese seafood delicacies at The Dragon Garden, and Italian cuisine at Risotto Pizza Corner. The Rendezvous Lobby Bar offers drinks and live music. Guests can maintain their fitness routine at the on-site fitness center or unwind in the sauna.
Legendha Sukhothai Hotel
Legendha Sukhothai Resort offers a captivating Thai village-inspired retreat with teakwood-furnished guestrooms and a saltwater swimming pool. Immerse in authentic experiences such as almsgiving and Thai cooking classes, enjoy Namkhang Sukhothai restaurant's delights, and witness Thai classical dance shows in the evening. Just minutes away lies the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park, featuring iconic sites like Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum.
The Empress
The Empress Hotel boasts 375 guest rooms and suites in a city tower. Positioned at the heart of Chiang Mai, it provides convenient access to the renowned Night Market, the airport, and the train station. With a commitment to "Empress Impressive Service," the hotel offers two specialty restaurants catering to various dietary preferences, a spacious swimming pool on the third floor accompanied by a fitness center and pool bar. While modern amenities grace every floor, the hotel's Northern Thai cultural charm remains intact.
Maekok River Village Resort
Nestled on the banks of the Mae Kok River, the Maekok River Village Resort offers a comfortable escape with picturesque views of the valley and distant mountains. Spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private patios are set amidst tropical gardens, equipped with modern amenities. The outdoor pool and restaurant add to the convenience and allure of the resort, offering stunning river views. Activities range from trekking to cooking classes, and the Spice Garden Restaurant serves local and European cuisine made with organic farm produce.
The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort
The Legend Chiang Rai is a captivating riverside resort that offers delightful dining venues, a refreshing pool, a herbal spa for rejuvenation, and a fitness center. Wander through serene pathways, encounter lotus-filled ponds, and explore the vibrant gardens. The hotel offers spacious studios and villas which are thoughtfully designed, showcasing luxurious furnishings and distinctive tropical-inspired bathrooms. The opulence extends to outstanding facilities, including an infinity pool that overlooks the river, an outdoor Spa, and the Sala Rim Nam Thai restaurant, where you can savor Thai and Western cuisine.
Check out our Q&As
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Saturday
Jul 06, 2024 - Jul 13, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Jul 13, 2024 - Jul 20, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Jul 20, 2024 - Jul 27, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Jul 27, 2024 - Aug 03, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Aug 03, 2024 - Aug 10, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Aug 10, 2024 - Aug 17, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Aug 17, 2024 - Aug 24, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Aug 24, 2024 - Aug 31, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2024 - Sep 07, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Sep 07, 2024 - Sep 14, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Sep 14, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 28, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 05, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2024 - Oct 12, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 19, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Oct 19, 2024 - Oct 26, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Oct 26, 2024 - Nov 02, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 16, 2024Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 300 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.