Thailand from North to South - Nomadays

Thailand

Thailand from North to South

This 3-week tour will take you from the northernmost borders of Thailand and the Golden Triangle region to the islands of the Gulf of Thailand.

During your journey, you will meet the mountain tribes of the north and wander the streets of the beautiful northern city, Chiang Mai.

From there, you will take the night train to reach Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom, and explore the natural region of Kanchanaburi.

A second train will take you to the south of the country for 5 days o...

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Day 1Welcome and free visit of Bangkok

Day 1Welcome and free visit of Bangkok

  • Welcome by our team, then transfer to your hotel. Rooms are available from 2:00 PM.

    The rest of the day is free.

    If you arrive in the morning, you can leave your luggage at the hotel reception and relax by the pool. If you wish to have your room available upon arrival, an "early check-in" supplement will be required.
    
  • 2 nights at Casa Vimaya in a Deluxe Canal View room.

Meal and accommodations

Accommodation: Casa Vimaya

Day 2"The Green Lung" of Bangkok

Day 2"The Green Lung" of Bangkok

  • This morning, we're going on a bike tour in the lung of the capital. Accompanied by a local private guide for the island part, we're heading to the extraordinary Bang Krachao district - a true jungle in the heart of the city. We'll also make some side visits along the way (subject to availability):

    • Mushroom farm;
    • Incense stick making workshop;
    • Small temples and old houses in the neighborhood.
  • We then head to the historic center and visit Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, to see its reclining Buddha.

  • We then cross the river by a small boat to visit Wat Arun, the "Temple of Dawn," located on the right bank.

  • Private traditional long-tail boat taxi ride on the Chao Phraya River, one of the most important rivers in the country. Discover the Venice of the East and the traditional life of the city's inhabitants, half of whom still live by the water.

    Day accompanied by a local English-speaking guide

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Casa Vimaya

Accommodation: Casa Vimaya

1h 30m-800km

Day 3Flight to Chiang Rai

Day 3Flight to Chiang Rai

  • Your driver will take you to the airport for your domestic flight.

  • We fly to Chiang Rai, our first stop in the north of the country. Upon arrival at the airport, we are greeted by our guide and driver. Transfer to the hotel.

  • We start our stay with a visit to the extraordinary Wat Rong Khun "White Temple," a contemporary creation by one of the country's most famous artists, Chalermchai Kositpipat.

    In reality, while the site imitates the appearance of a religious complex, its purpose is quite different: the nine buildings house extraordinary works of art, from statues of Buddha in meditation to idols of pop culture such as Michael Jackson, as well as murals that celebrate the doctrines of Theravada Buddhism. Its immaculate white color gives the building a unique and surprising charm.

  • Continuing to Wat Rong Sua Ten, also known as the "Blue Temple," in Chiang Rai. This temple is the work of a disciple of the architect Chalermchai.

    There, you'll observe sculptures of Buddha in lotus position, as well as figures of demons and legendary nagas, half human and half serpent, along with paintings illustrating the events of Gautama's earthly life.

  • Our day ends with a visit to Wat Huay Pla Kung, often mistakenly called the Grand Buddha of Chiang Rai for its large white statue, which is actually a representation of the goddess of Mercy. The temple is also nicknamed the "9-tier temple" for its 9-tiered pagoda that can be climbed to the top for a view of the surrounding rice fields.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
  • Night at Laluna Hotel & Resort in a Garden Bungalow

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Casa Vimaya

Accommodation: Laluna Hotel & Resort

1h-55km
1h 30m-80km

Day 4The Golden Triangle

Day 4The Golden Triangle

  • In the early morning, we meet our accompanying team, then depart for the Mekong River and the Golden Triangle, the point where the Thai, Burmese, and Laotian borders converge, driving along the banks of the Mekong.

  • At the port, we board a taxi boat and cruise for about an hour on the waters of the Mekong.

    Continuing along the Mekong banks to a viewpoint overlooking the Mekong and the huge "decadent Sino-Roman style" casino on the Laotian bank of the river.

  • Visit to the superb Hall of Opium Museum, built into the hillside overlooking the Mekong Valley.

  • On the way back, we stop in small villages of the Yao and Akha communities. If time and inclination allow, we can also stop in a Padaung community, a hill tribe branch of the Karenni people from neighboring Myanmar who have found refuge in Thailand. The Padaung women are known for wearing the famous golden spiral necklaces that give the impression they have long necks.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
1h 15m-55km
1h 30m-60km
Thaton
3h-80km

Day 5The tea plantations of Mae Salong

Day 5The tea plantations of Mae Salong

  • Departure for Mae Salong (25 to 30 km of mountain road), region of the villages of Chinese refugees from the last century and large tea plantations.

    Visit to the 101 Tea Plantation - stroll in the small village of Santikiri to discover the history of the KMT refugees - refugees from the former KuoMingTang army fleeing the end of the civil war in China.

  • We continue our journey into the mountains to Tha Ton, a charming village located not far from the Burmese border. With its hill tribes, picturesque guesthouses, and unique setting on the banks of the Kok River, Tha Ton has all the charms to enchant you. The road to get there is also magnificent, with valleys, hills, and green rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see.

  • From Thaton, we board our long-tail boat and begin our cruise on the Kok River, which will take us back to Chiang Rai. Along the way, you will appreciate the magnificent landscapes of the region, the life of the villagers, and observe herds of water buffaloes cooling off in the muddy waters, as well as a rich and varied birdlife.

    Halfway through, we stop at a tribal village to rest and buy some cold drinks.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
    
2h 55m-175km

Day 6First steps into the beauty of the North

Day 6First steps into the beauty of the North

  • Early departure for Chiang Mai, the beauty of the North and former capital of the Lanna kingdom, enchanting us with its way of life, hundreds of temples, gastronomy, smiles, and traditions.

  • A few kilometers before arriving in town, we turn off to take a stroll in Mae Khampong, a charming mountain village that exudes serenity.

    Enjoy the morning to walk around this lovely century-old village of 500 inhabitants. Admire the tea gardens, rice fields on the surrounding hills, and the farms where buffaloes graze peacefully.

  • On our way to Chiang Mai, if time allows, we can visit the village of Bo Sang, renowned throughout Thailand for its handmade Sa paper umbrellas. This art, originating from Burma, was imported here over a century ago by a monk.

    We begin our visit at the Umbrella Making Center, where several artisans work at each stage of umbrella making (frame construction, painting motifs, etc.).

    We will then explore other small workshops in the narrow streets, whether for umbrella making, the production of the famous Sa paper, or other crafts (silver and woodwork).

    A few kilometers further, we stop at the Silk Village, a beautiful workshop where the entire silk production process, from the silkworm to weaving, will be explained.

  • Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, we take a first stroll in the center of the old town, including a visit to the superb Wat Sri Suphan temple, located in the silversmiths' street of Wualai. This temple is entirely covered with silver plates and other metals; you can see the artisans working with metal on-site.

  • We'll be staying at the De Lanna Hotel for 2 nights in Deluxe rooms.

Day 7Bike ride & Cooking class

Day 7Bike ride & Cooking class

  • This morning, we'll explore the "Rose of the North" by bike.

    Starting from the famous Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai, with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, we'll venture into the city's traditional small streets and alleys. You'll discover numerous ancient temples, monks going about their daily routines, lively markets, and the daily lives of the locals, including artisans from mountain communities who will be busy with their tasks as we cycle through their neighborhoods, under their curious eyes.

    This activity will be in a small group accompanied by a local English-speaking guide.
    
  • In the late afternoon, we head to a traditional cooking class conducted in French in the countryside, outside the city, in an old Lanna-style house.

    Note: Vegetarian or vegan dishes available.
    

    On the menu:

    • Tom Kha Gai (lemongrass chicken coconut soup)
    • Pad Thai (Thai-style fried rice noodles)
    • Nam Prik Ong (spicy pork and tomato relish: a typical dish from Northern Thailand)
    • Khao Soi Gai (curry noodle soup with chicken: a typical dish from Northern Thailand)

    For dessert, we enjoy Khao Niao Mamuang (sticky rice with coconut milk and mango).

1h 15m-60km

Day 8Among the Karen People in Doi Inthanon National Park

Day 8Among the Karen People in Doi Inthanon National Park

  • This morning, we hit the road for the mountains overlooking the city of Chiang Mai, in the Doi Inthanon National Park, where we will embark on a guided hike in the mountains, as well as exploring the Karen populations of northern Thailand.

    We start our Doi Inthanon Hilltribe Trail trek. We walk along a mountain stream before reaching the lush green rice fields of the region at higher altitudes. We have lunch near a waterfall where we can also cool off.

    In the afternoon, our hike continues uphill. We reach a Karen village where we stop before venturing into the rice fields where our guesthouse is located.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. Excursion duration approximately 5h30 including about 3h30 of effective walking
    
  • Tonight, we are welcomed for dinner and the night by a Karen family in a stunning setting.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: De Lanna Hotel

Lunch: Included

Dinner: Homestay

Accommodation: Homestay

Day 9In the company of elephants

Day 9In the company of elephants

  • After breakfast at our hosts' home and a morning stroll in the village, we drive to Chi's camp, a young Karen who will show us his elephants and way of life. Upon arrival, we prepare fruits to feed the elephants. We then walk together in the jungle, where the elephants continue to feed and we can interact with them in a natural environment. Our guide provides more information about their behavior. Finally, we witness the elephants bathing in the river.

    The activity is private and in the company of Chi.
    
  • In the afternoon, to cool off, we will take a short bamboo rafting trip down the Mae Wang River.

    The activity is a peaceful ride of about 40 minutes.
    
  • Overnight at Chiang Mai Elephant Friends, a charming lodge on the banks of the Mae Wang River.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Homestay

Lunch: Included

1h-50km
12h 50m-700km

Day 10Final moments in the beauty of the north

Day 10Final moments in the beauty of the north

  • This morning, we meet our guide and driver for a final visit to Chiang Mai.

    First, we make a detour to the Warorot Central Market, where you can find all kinds of northern Thai specialties, such as Sai ua (northern Thai sausage), Moo yo (traditional Vietnamese pork sausage), Nam phrik num (green chili paste from northern Thailand), dried fruits, etc. In addition to local food, you can also find clothing, ceramics, fabrics, embroidery supplies, flowers, etc.

  • We then head to the outskirts of the city to discover the magnificent Doi Suthep Temple, located on the mountain at an altitude of 1200m.

    This beautiful Buddhist temple invites you to a pious meditation in an atmosphere imbued with silence and mysticism, where every stone, every statue, every step reveals an aspect of Buddhism.

    On the way, we stop at the Wat Pha Lat Temple.

  • Stop at a hotel near the airport so you can shower before boarding your train.
    

    6:00 PM - We board our night train to Ayutthaya.

    Overnight in a second-class sleeper compartment.

1h-25km
Bang Pa-In
30m-25km

Day 11Ayutthaya, the former capital of the kingdom

Day 11Ayutthaya, the former capital of the kingdom

  • Morning arrival at the station where we meet our new team. We make a detour to the hotel where you can drop off your belongings.

    Note: Rooms are usually available from 2:00 PM. You can drop off your luggage before starting the city tour and then come back later in the day to check into your rooms.
    

    Day dedicated to visiting Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam.

    We begin exploring the historic center of the city, including the Wat Mahathat temple, dating from the late 14th century. We continue to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet temple, which once served as the royal temple and is therefore the largest in the city. Finally, we visit Wat Chai Watthanaram, from where we can enjoy the sunset over its ruins.

  • We then embark on a boat excursion to Bang Pa-in. As we cruise along the water, we discover the Thai way of life, with wooden houses on stilts, convoys of rice barges towed to Bangkok's warehouses, and temple spires pointing skyward everywhere.

  • We meet our driver at the pier and visit Bang Pa-in Palace, built in the 17th century and abandoned after the destruction of Ayutthaya. The palace was restored and expanded in the mid-19th century by the king, who used to spend the summer months there.

    Return to Ayutthaya.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
    
  • Overnight stay at the Iudia on the River

12h 35m-80km
1h 45m-95km

Day 12Maha Sawat and its lotus farm

Day 12Maha Sawat and its lotus farm

  • This morning, we begin the day with a visit to the Baan Saladin Floating Market, where you will discover the process of making the famous rice crackers before indulging in a tasting session.

    Next, we explore the grand canal of mahasawat , which historically supplied Bangkok's markets. By boat, we embark on a journey along its waters to enjoy the local wildlife and feed the fish.

    Upon returning to dry land, you will visit the Baby Jackfruit Garden, where you'll appreciate the plantations of the famous jackfruit (the largest fruit on a tree) and the production of various products made from this fruit.

    Finally, we head to the lake where red lotuses bloom all year round, offering a unique landscape to behold.

  • After lunch, we hit the road for Kanchanaburi, where we will take the time to visit the grand temple of Wat Tham Sua, accessible by a short cable car ride (local standards!!).

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
  • Settle in at the Royal Riverkwai Resort Spa, in a Deluxe room.

    Hotel by the river with a pool - Located about ten kilometers after the town and the train bridge.

Day 13Exploring Kanchanaburi and its surroundings

Day 13Exploring Kanchanaburi and its surroundings

  • Departure for the station and boarding around 10:40 am on the famous "Death Railway". made famous by the story of the movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai," for about 1 hour by train to the west and the Sai Yok region, located 70 km west at the end of the train line.

  • After lunch, we venture into Sai Yok National Park for an afternoon of kayaking on the River Kwai.

1h 15m-70km
2h 30m-140km
8h-600km

Day 14Erawan National Park

Day 14Erawan National Park

  • Departure in the morning for the Erawan National Park and Waterfalls (60 km drive). This national park is home to a superb waterfall spanning 7 levels, forming natural pools with emerald blue water inhabited by Mahseer barbs. While you can choose to stay around the first 3 levels, which are the easiest to access and where you can swim, an ascent to the 7th level, although not difficult, is rewarding: La Phu Pha Erawan, the final cascade, is the most majestic of all.

  • We then head to Nakhon Pathom, home to the Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest stupa in Thailand.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
  • In the evening, we board our night train to Surat Thani. Overnight in an air-conditioned 2nd class sleeper compartment.

Meal and accommodations

Accommodation: Night on board the train

Day 15Relaxation in Koh Phangan

Day 15Relaxation in Koh Phangan

  • Early morning arrival at Surat Thani train station (05:35). We are greeted by our driver, who will take us to the pier where we can board our boat to the islands. At the station or on the way, we will have our breakfast (not included).

    We then board the ferry to cross to the island of Koh Phangan.

    Known for its famous Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan has many other attractions to offer its visitors. Still authentic, Koh Phangan has managed to develop without altering its natural landscapes and its beautiful sandy beaches. Mostly made up of the Than Sadet National Park, Koh Phangan protects and respects its lush nature, which is home to incredible fauna and flora. Here, we enjoy the southern parties, but we especially appreciate the calm and beauty of the west and north coasts.

    Upon arrival on the island, we are transferred to our resort.

  • We spend 5 nights at the Salad Beach Resort in a Superior Pool View Bungalow.

Day 16-17Beach stay in Koh Phangan

Day 16-17Beach stay in Koh Phangan

  • Free day in Koh Phangan to relax and enjoy the activities on site (not included).

    Let's indulge in a traditional Thai massage, or why not plan some water activities: kite surfing, jet skiing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking…

    And if we want to explore the surroundings, we can go for day hikes or take a boat trip around the island.

Day 18Excursion to Ang Thong National Marine Park

Day 18Excursion to Ang Thong National Marine Park

  • Today we are going on an excursion to Ang Thong National Marine Park, a protected archipelago of 42 wild and uninhabited islands. Famous for its natural beauty with its islets covered in lush vegetation and beautiful white sandy beaches, its landscape is often compared to that of Halong Bay in Vietnam.

    The boat leaves from Thong Sala pier around 9:00 am and heads towards the national park, which we will reach after about 1.5 hours of navigation. Arriving at the first islands of Koh Wao and Koh Tai, we can swim and especially explore the marine life while snorkeling.

    After lunch, we arrive at Koh Wua Ta Lap, and its white sandy beach, Ao Ka. From there, relax in the crystal-clear waters of the area, or take a hike that will offer you a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

    The last stop of our day is the island of Mae Ko, or Mother Island, which has a superb beach and an inland lagoon with emerald green waters aptly named Emerald Lake (Thale Nai).

    Return around 6:00 pm to Koh Phangan.

    Group activity with an English-speaking guide.
    
Meal and accommodations

Lunch: Buffet on the Boat

Accommodation: Salad beach resort

Day 19Last day of relaxation

Day 19Last day of relaxation

  • Take some more time to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the place to gently recover from your trip before your return.

45m-25km
1h 15m-750km

Day 20Return to the City of Angels

Day 20Return to the City of Angels

  • Departure in the morning from the hotel to the pier and boat crossing to Mae Nam pier on Koh Samui.

    Our driver will be waiting for us upon arrival at the pier. Transfer to Koh Samui airport (30 minutes)

  • We board our return flight to Bangkok. Arrival at Bangkok airport where your driver will be waiting for you. Transfer to your hotel and the rest of the day is free.

  • Settling in at the Shanghai Mansion, a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of the capital's Chinatown.

Departure

Day 21See you soon in Thailand!

Day 21See you soon in Thailand!

  • Breakfast at the hotel. Free day and transfer to the airport at your chosen time.