Simply Northern Thailand
Spend seven-days on an adventure in northern Thailand. Hit the cities of Chiang Mai and Bangkok, plus spend two days in Sukhothai unearthing the history that lies in this ancient, UNESCO World Heritage-listed former capital. Meet gentle giants at the ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary and go on walking tours of Bangkok’s Chinatown and historic Sam Yot district, and cycle through Sukhothai's Historical Park. With a flexible schedule that covers the highlights and a handy local leader to guide the way, the rest of this adventure is yours to customise. Keen to get active? Maybe a climb up the 300-or-so steps to Doi Suthep. Feel for some exciting flavors? Then take the adventure into the kitchen with a cooking class – the choice is yours.
Why you'll love this trip
Meet Asian elephants — Spend an unforgettable day with the giants of the jungle at ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary and learn about animal conservation.
Explore ancient Sukhothai — Cycle through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historical Park and uncover the landmarks of Thailand's former capital.
Discover Bangkok — Explore bustling Chinatown, sample street food and take in the colours and scents of Pak Khlong Talat flower market.
Freedom to customise — Enjoy plenty of free time for optional activities, with a knowledgeable local leader on hand to help with logistics.
Taste northern Thailand — Try Thailand’s renowned cuisine, from Bangkok street food classics to Chiang Mai’s trendy cafes and local cooking experiences.
Itinerary
DAY 01
Chiang Mai
Arrive in Chiang Mai and begin your northern Thailand adventure. Meet your local leader and get your bearings in this lively city, with plenty of free time to explore the cafes, markets and temples at your own pace.
DAY 02
Chiang Mai
Spend an unforgettable day at ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary, learning about Asian elephants and conservation in northern Thailand. Later, enjoy free time to discover more of Chiang Mai, perhaps with a Thai massage or cooking class.
DAY 03
Sukhothai
Travel to serene Sukhothai, Thailand’s ancient former capital. Explore the historic surroundings and settle into the slower pace of this UNESCO-listed destination.
DAY 04
Sukhothai
Discover Sukhothai Historical Park by bike, passing ancient temples and monuments among the peaceful ruins of the former capital. Use your free time to explore more of the area or join an optional activity.
DAY 05
Bangkok
Travel south to Bangkok and experience the energy of Thailand’s capital. Get oriented with your leader and begin exploring the city’s famous neighbourhoods and food scene.
DAY 06
Bangkok
Explore Bangkok’s historic Sam Yot district and visit Pak Khlong Talat, Thailand’s largest flower market. Enjoy free time to discover more of the city and sample its famous street food.
DAY 07
Bangkok
Your northern Thailand adventure comes to an end in Bangkok. With no further activities included, you're free to continue exploring the city or make your onward travel arrangements.
Inclusions and activities
Destinations
Thailand
Meals
2 breakfasts
1 lunch
Transport
Public coach bus
Metro
Accommodation
Basic Hotel (6 nights)
Included activities
- Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
- Chiang Mai - Leader-led orientation walk
- Sukhothai - Leader-led orientation walk
- Sukhothai - Historical Park
- Sukhothai - Bike rental
- Bangkok - China town leader-led orientation walk
- Bangkok - Sam Yod walking tour & Pak Khlong Talat flower market
Optional activities
- Chiang Mai - Cooking classTHB 900
- Chiang Mai - Thai massageTHB 300
- Sukhothai - Sunset cycling tourTHB 1,200
- Sukhothai - Khao Tok Phra Ruang MakingTHB 500
- Sukhothai - Amulet center visit & workshopTHB 500
- Bangkok - Wat PhoTHB 300
- Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tourTHB 900
- Bangkok - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)THB 200
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Before you book
Is this trip right for you?
This trip is designed for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group to share the experience with. The itinerary has plenty of free time where your leader will suggest optional activities. Please budget spending money for these activities and transport to and from them.
The transport used on this trip is public transport. You'll need to be able to handle your own luggage in busy transport hubs. We highly recommend you pack light.
Important notes
Visas
Accommodation
Joining point
Dates and prices
| Departs | Returns | Availability | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 3 Jan 2027 | Sat 9 Jan 2027 | Spots available | $650 |
| Sun 17 Jan 2027 | Sat 23 Jan 2027 | Spots available | $650 |
| Sun 7 Feb 2027 | Sat 13 Feb 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 21 Feb 2027 | Sat 27 Feb 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 7 Mar 2027 | Sat 13 Mar 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 18 Apr 2027 | Sat 24 Apr 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 20 Jun 2027 | Sat 26 Jun 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 12 Sep 2027 | Sat 18 Sep 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 10 Oct 2027 | Sat 16 Oct 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
| Sun 21 Nov 2027 | Sat 27 Nov 2027 | Spots available | $630 |
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