Treasures of Northern Thailand

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10 Days from

12 Days from

USD 2,349

Culture

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group, Private Group Adventures

Activity :

Culture

Activity Level :

2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate

Group Size :

4 - 15

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

AOM

Bangkok and beyond: Discover a cultural heavyweight of Southeast Asia

Between countless glittering temples, food markets that whir into life after dark, and an assortment of ancient traditions and communities, Northern Thailand is ideal for the culture-hungry traveller. Join this immersive, varied adventure to experience it for yourself, with an expert local guide revealing their culture, history and traditions as we go. Better yet, a string of handpicked hotels means we can enjoy the Land of Smiles in comfort, allowing us to truly unlock this extraordinary destination.

Highlights

Discover the highlights of Bangkok by foot and on a longtail canal boat trip
Meet the animals of the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai
Hop off the tourist trail and dive into Thai culture in the little-visited town of Phrae
See the majestic waterfalls at Erawan National Park
Ride the Death Railway and visit the Hellfire Pass
Enjoy dinner on a floating raft house on the River Kwai Noi

Key Information

Eight nights in comfortable hotels and resorts
One overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai in soft sleepers
Travel by private air-conditioned minibus and sleeper train
Group normally 4 to 15, plus local leader

Countries visited: Thailand

What's Included

Nine breakfasts and one lunch
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Free arrival and departure transfers for everyone

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations

People, Places & Planet

We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.

Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:

People

How this trip helps improve life for local communities.

The use of a local guide means our customers will be well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels and restaurants, the emphasis on eating locally produced food, and by supporting other local enterprises.
In Phrae, we stop by the Aunty Sa-Ngiem House, a workshop to learn about the mo hom (indigo) dyeing process that originated in the Phrae province. Here, we watch the artisan women at work and have the chance to support the local industry.
Read more about our other initiatives here.

Places

How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.

By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves, such as Erawan National Park and archaeological sites including the Sukhothai National Park, generates income used to upkeep and develop these important sites.
We visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants near Chiang Mai. Our visit helps to improve the lives and conditions of elephants living at the sanctuary.
We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.

Planet

How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.

Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
We choose to travel by overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and not use domestic flights throughout the itinerary.
Vegetarian options are available at most accommodation and restaurants.

Tips for sustainable travel on this trip

Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, we’d ask you to consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; filtered water will be provided where tap water is not drinkable.
Cultural respect:
- You are expected to cover your legs and arms (to the elbow) during visits to temples and sacred sites so packing a sarong or other suitable clothing is recommended. Also remember to remove hats when visiting a sacred site.
- Do not rest your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as this symbolises the burning of incense, which is usually reserved for times of mourning.
- One should not show the soles of their feet or touch someone’s head, both are considered disrespectful.

TRIP

AOM - Treasures of Northern Thailand

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Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

Itinerary

Bangkok Bangkok

This adventure, like so many before it, starts in the enthralling capital of Thailand, Bangkok. There is a welcome meeting this evening with your leader, followed by an optional group dinner. But if you have time after your arrival, you may want to walk (15 minutes) to Phra Sumen Fort, an all-white hexagonal construction with a privileged riverside spot.

Accommodation: Centra by Centara Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon (or similar)

We embark on a city tour of the incredible Thai capital. Our first stop is the Grand Palace complex (home of the Thai royal family) followed by Wat Phra Kaew, where the Emerald Buddha resides, one of the most venerated images in Thailand. Another highlight we encounter is Wat Pho, the largest temple in Bangkok, housing a 151ft (46m) long, 49ft (15m) high gold-plated reclining Buddha.

Please note, when visiting the Grand Palace, clothes covering your shoulders and knees are a requirement for entry.

We then board a longtail boat for a tour of the canals; Bangkok was once known as the Venice of the East because of its intricate canal network. Please note, there may be a possibility of larger groups being accommodated in a bigger boat.

This evening, we transfer to Bangkok Hua Lamphong station where we board our overnight sleeper train bound for Chiang Mai.

Accommodation: Overnight train

Meals included: Breakfast

Our overnight train arrives early morning into Chiang Mai, the Rose of the North, known for its temples, markets and for the many indigenous communities that live in the hills.

Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel for the next two nights for an early check-in. The rest of the morning is free for you to relax and freshen up after our overnight journey.

Later, meet your group for lunch and enjoy the specialties of Chiang Mai. This afternoon, we head on an orientation walk of the Old Quarter followed by a visit to the hilltop temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, the most revered Buddhist shrine in the Chiang Mai region. The climb up to the temple (reached via a 306-step staircase) is well worth the effort – on a clear day, we get excellent views over Chiang Mai and the striking temple-studded landscape.

Tonight, we check out the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, full of local handicrafts and fabulous northern street food dishes, which we can enjoy for dinner. Alternatively, there may be the option to enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner, which is typically a selection of dishes on a ceremonial red pedestal tray.

Accommodation: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we transfer to the Chiang Mai countryside (approximately one hour) to the Elephant Nature Park for a half-day visit. This unique project provides a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants. We are greeted by an expert guide, tour the park and learn about the problems these animals face in Southeast Asia.

In the afternoon, we transfer back to Chiang Mai where the rest of the day is free for you to explore and . You may want to visit Talat Warorot market, the oldest public market in Chiang Mai and an excellent place to integrate with the local people. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the many comforts of our hotel.

Accommodation: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Following breakfast, we say farewell to Chiang Mai and transfer (approximately three hours) to the tranquil riverside town of Phrae, a treasure of the north yet to be truly discovered by the tourist masses.

On the way, we stop at the Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang, one of the most highly revered temples in Thailand, which displays the Lanna style of architecture.

Arriving in Phrae in time for lunch, we have the chance to try authentic eastern Lanna cuisine, which is quite different from the dishes in Chiang Mai. This compact town can easily be explored on foot and features many well-preserved, traditional teak houses within the old city.

In the afternoon, we visit the Aunty Sa-Ngiem House workshop to learn about the mo hom (indigo) dyeing process that originated in the Phrae province. Here, we watch the artisan women at work and have the chance to support the local industry.

Accommodation: Huern Nana Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, we depart Phrae and travel south to the town of Si Satchanalai (approximately three hours) where we stop for lunch and have the option to try Sukhothai-style noodles.

We then transfer to the town of Sukhothai (approximately one hour), where we spend the night.

This afternoon, we visit the Sukhothai Historical Park, one of the best preserved Unesco-listed sites in Thailand. It contains the relics of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom and partially restored 13^th– and 14th-century palaces and temples. We explore the park by electric tram and stay to enjoy sunset.

Accommodation: Sukhothai Treasure (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

We depart Sukhothai early for a transfer to Kanchanaburi (approximately seven hours) where we spend the next two nights. The Kanchanaburi province is an area of natural beauty popular with travellers for its caves, waterfalls, river trips and Second World War history.

This evening, we visit Kanchanaburi night market where you can explore and dine like the local people.

Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, our first stop is Erawan National Park. The picturesque waterfalls here are named after Erawan, the multi-headed white elephant from the Hindu religion, which the seven-tiered cascades are said to resemble. Your time is free to enjoy the falls area and there is a chance to swim or walk to the top of the falls (1.24mi/2km, approximately a two-hour return trip).

After, we visit the sobering Hellfire Pass. During the Second World War, Allied prisoners were made to chisel through solid rock here by Japanese forces building a railway line from Thailand to Myanmar. Working by firelight on this particularly difficult section, dozens of prisoners died under brutal circumstances.

We then take a ride on that same railway, once known as the Burma Railway but now more commonly known as the Death Railway. It was constructed to allow Japanese forces to supply their army without the dangers of sending supplies by sea. However, thousands of POWs died under horrific conditions during the construction and so the line earned its nickname.

Our ride finishes at the bridge on the River Kwai Noi, which was reconstructed after the war and recreated in the Oscar-winning war film The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957).

This evening, we dine aboard a floating raft restaurant on the River Kwai Noi, an ideal opportunity to take in our tranquil surroundings and reflect on the day.

Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Following breakfast, we visit the Kanchanaburi war museum and war cemetery, where we have the chance to pay our respects to the thousands killed constructing the Death Railway before transferring back to Bangkok (approximately 2hr 30min).

The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to do last-minute shopping, sightseeing or simply to relax by the pool before our final evening together.

Accommodation: Centra by Centara Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

The tour ends this morning after breakfast. Catch your free transfer to the airport to begin your journey home. Alternatively, speak to your sales representative to extend your stay in this thrilling city.

Meals included: Breakfast

Essential Info

Visa

Thailand

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and often change. It is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/thailand
Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/thailand
United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/entry-requirements
USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Thailand.html

Vaccination

Thailand

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tuberculosis and typhoid. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please confirm all the above with your doctor or travel clinic.

Dengue and zika, both viral diseases spread by mosquitoes, are a known risk in places visited. There are currently no vaccines or prophylaxes available, so take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Eating and Drinking

There are nine breakfasts and one lunch included.

The food on this trip is a real highlight for many. Thai cuisine is known for its abundance of freshly prepared dishes with strong aromatic flavours. There is a focus on herbs and citrus, ensuring each dish packs a punch; chilli features highly too, but is easily avoided if you prefer.

In most towns, there are a wide variety of restaurants, both Thai and Western. Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests.

Weather

Northern Thailand has a tropical climate with fairly high humidity. The rainy season in the north is between May and October. November to April has cooler temperatures.

Bangkok and the surrounding region are hot year-round. The rainy season is between May and October when rainfall is abundant but not excessive. This time of year is characterised by more cloudy days and slightly higher humidity. Downpours are usually short and sharp and can be dramatic to watch! November to April is the dry season with rainfall only on a few days per month. April and May tend to be the hottest months before the monsoon.

Is this trip for you?

This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).

It is an active-paced itinerary encompassing the highlights of Northern Thailand. We travel by private minibus and take one overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which allows us to experience the must-see spots in a short amount of time. Travel time is kept to a minimum on most days, although there are a few longer drives.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

TRIP

AOM - Treasures of Northern Thailand

Departure Date

Number Of Passengers*

Message*

To enquire about an existing booking click here

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone

Keep me up to date with news and offers from Exodus by email.

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Find out more about how we use your data

Request a Brochure

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

Hotels, resorts and sleeper train

We spend eight nights in handpicked hotels and resorts (mostly four-star) and one night on a sleeper train. Below are the standard hotels we use:

Bangkok: Centra by Centara Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon (two nights)

Discover the best of Bangkok with a stay at this modern, stylish hotel. There’s easy access to a string of landmarks, while the lounger-lined outdoor pool provides the perfect place to chill before or after your explorations.

Journey to Chiang Mai: Overnight sleeper train (one night)

Take a traveller’s favourite: the overnight sleeper from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, an experience likely to bring out the adventurer in you. We stay in shared air-conditioned carriages; each sleeping berth has a privacy curtain, while sleeping sheets, a blanket and pillow are provided. Snacks are often offered on board, including in the dining car (at an additional cost).

Chiang Mai: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel (two nights)

Movenpick has built a global reputation for reliably stylish, upscale hotels, and this Chiang Mai outlet is no different. The highlight may well be the selection of classy spots to eat and drink, which includes a poolside bar serving chilled coconuts and scrumptious smoothies and a Thai restaurant with views over the night bazaar from the terrace.

Phrae: Huern Nana Resort (one night)

Stay at the only four-star hotel in Phrae, where a modern design is inspired by traditional local architecture. The rooms are modern and unfussy, while downtime is best spent lounging by the pool.

Sukhothai: Sukhothai Treasure (one night)

Wrapped by rice fields and mountains, this upscale retreat blends the natural beauty of Sukhothai with a standout selection of amenities. There’s a palm-lined swimming pool, wine bar and fitness room, while the Pink Lotus Restaurant serves a contemporary take on Thai and Western dishes.

Kanchanaburi: River Kwai Bridge Resort (two nights)

With riverside spots to eat and drink plus a tranquil swimming pool, this peaceful resort is the ideal place to relax. Wander through the gardens or simply chill post-exploration in your air-conditioned room.

Worth knowing

The accommodation listed on the itinerary are the standard properties used. However, there may be some departures where groups stay at similar properties of the same standard and quality.
Single supplements are available (on request) for eight nights of the trip (not available on the overnight train). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement.

TRIP

AOM - Treasures of Northern Thailand

Departure Date

Number Of Passengers*

Message*

To enquire about an existing booking click here

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone

Keep me up to date with news and offers from Exodus by email.

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Find out more about how we use your data

Request a Brochure

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

15 Jan 2024 14 Jan 2024

Wednesday Thursday

24 Jan 2024 25 Jan 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

29 Jan 2024 28 Jan 2024

Wednesday Thursday

07 Feb 2024 08 Feb 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

19 Feb 2024 18 Feb 2024

Wednesday Thursday

28 Feb 2024 29 Feb 2024

Availability Guaranteed (Available) Only 5 spaces left!

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

25 Mar 2024 24 Mar 2024

Wednesday Thursday

03 Apr 2024 04 Apr 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

08 Apr 2024 07 Apr 2024

Wednesday Thursday

17 Apr 2024 18 Apr 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

19 Aug 2024 18 Aug 2024

Wednesday Thursday

28 Aug 2024 29 Aug 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

21 Oct 2024 20 Oct 2024

Wednesday Thursday

30 Oct 2024 31 Oct 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

04 Nov 2024 03 Nov 2024

Wednesday Thursday

13 Nov 2024 14 Nov 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

25 Nov 2024 24 Nov 2024

Wednesday Thursday

04 Dec 2024 05 Dec 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

16 Dec 2024 15 Dec 2024

Wednesday Thursday

25 Dec 2024 26 Dec 2024

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,349

Optional Single Supplement +USD 504

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

13 Jan 2025 12 Jan 2025

Wednesday Thursday

22 Jan 2025 23 Jan 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,599

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

27 Jan 2025 26 Jan 2025

Wednesday Thursday

05 Feb 2025 06 Feb 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

17 Feb 2025 16 Feb 2025

Wednesday Thursday

26 Feb 2025 27 Feb 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

24 Mar 2025 23 Mar 2025

Wednesday Thursday

02 Apr 2025 03 Apr 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

14 Apr 2025 13 Apr 2025

Wednesday Thursday

23 Apr 2025 24 Apr 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

18 Aug 2025 17 Aug 2025

Wednesday Thursday

27 Aug 2025 28 Aug 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,599

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

20 Oct 2025 19 Oct 2025

Wednesday Thursday

29 Oct 2025 30 Oct 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

03 Nov 2025 02 Nov 2025

Wednesday Thursday

12 Nov 2025 13 Nov 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Monday Sunday

24 Nov 2025 23 Nov 2025

Wednesday Thursday

03 Dec 2025 04 Dec 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

Wednesday Tuesday

17 Dec 2025 16 Dec 2025

Friday Saturday

26 Dec 2025 27 Dec 2025

Availability Available

Adult Price From USD 2,649

Optional Single Supplement +USD 560

Availability

View Trip Notes

The Adventure Begins Here

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Treasures of Northern Thailand

10 Days from

12 Days from

USD 2,349

Treasures of Northern Thailand

Bangkok and beyond: Discover a cultural heavyweight of Southeast Asia

People, Places & Planet

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Itinerary

Bangkok Bangkok

Essential Info

Visa

Thailand

Vaccination

Thailand

Eating and Drinking

Weather

Is this trip for you?

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Hotels, resorts and sleeper train

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Looking to set your own pace on your next adventure?

You may also like

Southeast Asia Express

Vietnam Uncovered

Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights

Treasures of Northern Thailand

Treasures of Northern Thailand

Bangkok and beyond: Discover a cultural heavyweight of Southeast Asia

People, Places & Planet

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Itinerary

Bangkok Bangkok

Essential Info

Visa

Thailand

Vaccination

Thailand

Eating and Drinking

Weather

Is this trip for you?

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Hotels, resorts and sleeper train

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Would you like to include flights with your booking?

Looking to set your own pace on your next adventure?

You may also like

Southeast Asia Express

Vietnam Uncovered

Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights

The Adventure Begins Here

Treasures of Northern Thailand