Beautiful Northern Thailand
From CAD $2295
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
There’s a reason this trip was the one that started it all and remains one of the most popular. On this 13-day adventure, you'll discover Northern Thailand, experience the metropolis of bustling Bangkok, trek among the hillside villages, drift down the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, see the historic temples of the Siam Kingdom and venture into Golden Triangle. With unbeatable hospitality, bustling local markets, serene mountains and rivers and plenty chance to make your own discoveries, come along and see why this trip was, and still is, a benchmark for all our adventures.
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
Product Code: 2791
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private minvan,Public bus,Overnight sleeper train,Songthaew,Taxi,Longtail Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: TTSN
Starts: Bangkok, Thailand
Finishes: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (3), Lunch (4), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Guesthouse (5 nights),Hilltribe village homestay (2 nights),Overnight sleeper train (1 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2295 ($177 /day)
Itinerary
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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.
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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
Carmen - Traveled, March 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!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
maxine - Traveled, March 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!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Scott - Traveled, March 2024
What a great overview of Northern Thailand. Our leader Rong could not have been better. The trek was amazing but challenging and really enjoyed the raft house. Well paced and full of delightful moments
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/16/2024
Rosalind - Traveled, February 2024
Beautiful Northern Thailand trip encompasses a great range of culture, religion, some political history, and embraces the wonderful surrounds. The Hilltribe trek is exceptional and well worth the physical effort. The Rafthouse stay is a wonderful experience. Follow the guide around each site and you will learn lots. The Chiang mai optional cooking class is outstanding. Our food experiences were also outstanding.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Norma-Jean - Traveled, February 2024
An experience of a lifetime with a wonderful, kind and thoughtful guide. Maled took such great care of our group and is well respected by his peers and contacts. Everything was so well organized I felt safe and cared for. The Erawan waterfalls and the River raft were the highlights for me. Thank you so much!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Gebrela - Traveled, February 2024
First time traveling with intrepid I had a wonderful experience and I would consider intrepid for my future travels
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2024
Paul - Traveled, January 2024
I am in my mid 70s and fairly fit but was a little concerned about making the full trek. It is quite hard and I and others did choose to use a vehicle for the second half of day 2 without impacting those who stayed with it. Footwear advice: good gripping soled trainers are fine - trekking boots unnecessary. Thanks to our great guide Rong. The best!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2024
Elaine - Traveled, January 2024
Intrepid provided yet another excellent, well organised and well informed leader in Damrong. It's lovely to have local leaders.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/16/2024
Anja - Traveled, January 2024
I can highly recommend this varied itinerary of Northern Thailand. Our leader Maled and the group made this an unforgettable experience with great food, both active days with the hill tribes as well as chill time on the raft house. We hired a truck to carry luggage on our 3-day trek, which made it more flexible.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Tessa - Traveled, January 2024
Fantastic trip - exceeded my expectations. Well thought through itinerary to cover a lot of ground with variety of culture, nature, activity and relaxation, felt we got away from the tourist traps and got to understand a bit about Thai culture. Amazing food. Loved the sleeper trains. Helped that we had a great group!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/01/2024
Meg - Traveled, January 2024
Fabulous trip! Well-chosen, varied itinerary. Delicious food. I loved our experiences and learned a lot about the Thai culture
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/24/2024
Thomas - Traveled, December 2024
All in all a great all round trip, I loved Thailand, the immersion you get from doing northern Thailand and going off the tourist trail is wonderful. Try the hill tribe walk it’s a really great experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Margaret - Traveled, December 2023
Beautiful Northern Thailand is a must for anyone who wishes to experience the diversity that Thailand has to offer. The wonderful hospitality shown by the hilltribes is something that is unique and unspoilt. The colourful temples of Chaing Mai and Chaing Rai,the train journey,and physically challenging activities are just some highlights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
FIONA - Traveled, December 2023
I've just returned from my fourth Intrepid trip ( northern Thailand this time). Again, a wonderful experience that will stay in my heart and mind forever. Oat was an excellent Tour Leader, so calm, organised and inclusive. We are already planning our next Intrepid trip... Africa
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Reico Ramon - Traveled, December 2023
I highly recommend this trip to everyone, who wants to get a very broad impression of Thailand. You will experience every aspect of this amazing country, it's people, history and food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/02/2024
Brian - Traveled, December 2023
The Northern Thailand trip was paced very well, with decent start times and ample space in the vehicles. The trip took me to places I wouldn't have set out on my own to explore, including some unique temples and towns. The overnight raft, hiking to the hilltribes and the White Temple were highlights along with meeting some lovely like-minded travelers from around the world. Our guide, Phatsada, was super accommodating to try and make everyone happy and got us to all of our locations safely and on time. Like all group tours, a level of compromise is needed from all members to ensure a cohesive experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/08/2024
Madison - Traveled, December 2023
This tour ensured that many aspects of Thailand were able to be shown and experienced, I felt like I was really able experience the ‘true’ Thailand. Highlights included the Rafthouse and the village trek. We were especially lucky to have Damrong as our tour leader. His personality and enthusiasm was infectious!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2023
Jemma - Traveled, December 2023
This trip was a great mix of culture and adventure. Our guide Damrong made everything very easy and he was good fun. Made some great friends and had an incredible trip. Will definitely travel again with Intrepid Travel.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2023
Julia - Traveled, December 2023
The first and most important shoutout has to go to our tour leader, Damrong. The unbelievable beauty and culture of northern Thailand was exemplified through Damrong’s expert guidance, beautiful nature and patience. This trip had a little bit of everything - urban, country, culture and shopping. I am wholly satisfied with this itinerary, the company and of course, Damrong
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/23/2023
Julie - Traveled, December 2023
I would definitely recommend Beautiful Northern Thailand. The trip was comprehensive and well organised. We stayed in many different locations and used all modes of transport. Our guide Phatsada was warm friendly and fun. He managed the different needs of the group very well.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/26/2023
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