Thailand, Temples & Tribes

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?

Please note: This itinerary applies to travel from 01 November 2026 onwards. If travelling before 01 November 2026, please contact us for the itinerary.

Bangkok - Ayutthaya. Your day begins with a journey north of Bangkok to Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the former summer retreat of the Thai monarchy. Explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and admire the palace's unique blend of Thai, Chinese and European architectural styles, with ornate pavilions, waterways and elegant buildings throughout.

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River from Bang Pa-In to Ayutthaya, with lunch served onboard. Take in views of picturesque villages and peaceful rural landscapes as you travel towards Thailand's former capital.

Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, home to one of the city's tallest chedis and rows of Buddha statues draped in saffron robes. Continue to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, where royal treasures, golden artefacts and sacred relics discovered among Ayutthaya's ancient temples offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's illustrious past.

Ayutthaya - Sukhothai. After breakfast, continue your journey north from one ancient capital to another. Explore Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767, which flourished as a major international trading centre. Discover the atmospheric ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries and statues spread across an island surrounded by three rivers. Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, once the royal temple of the ancient capital, followed by Wat Maha That, famed for its iconic Buddha head entwined within the roots of a tree.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue north to UNESCO-listed Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park. Explore its impressive Buddhist monuments, dating from the 14th century and showcasing a unique blend of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya architectural styles.

Continue to Sukhothai, arriving in the evening.

After breakfast, step into the glory of an ancient kingdom at Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Thai culture, language and art. Meaning ‘dawn of happiness’, Sukhothai was the capital of the first Thai kingdom from 1238 to 1438. Explore the atmospheric ruins of royal palaces, temples, city gates and ancient walls, scattered among ponds and rice paddies. A highlight is Wat Si Chum, home to a towering seated Buddha housed within an open-roofed structure.

After a traditional local lunch, enjoy an artistic interlude at the Ganesha Gallery, where exhibits celebrate Thailand's rich culture and heritage.

This evening, enjoy a special dinner at the hotel accompanied by a traditional Sukhothai classical dance performance, offering a graceful glimpse into Thailand's ancient traditions.

Sukhothai - Lampang. After breakfast, travel to Sri Satchanalai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former vassal city of Sukhothai. Explore this peaceful ancient city, set among forested surroundings along the Yom River and offering a quieter atmosphere than many of Thailand's other historic sites. Visit Wat Chang Lom, a prominent 14th-century temple, and Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo, renowned for its distinctive rows of 33 stupas.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to the charming riverside town of Lampang, nestled along the Wang River. This evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner at the Lampang River Lodge, a rustic retreat where you'll spend the night.

Lampang - Chiang Saen. After breakfast, drive to Ko Kah to visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of Thailand's most revered temples and home to one of the kingdom's two Emerald Buddha images. Continue to Phayao, a peaceful rural town and former princely state, where you'll visit Wat Sri Khom Kham, known for its impressive 17-metre seated Buddha and colourful sculpture garden depicting scenes of heaven and hell.

Continue north towards Chiang Rai, stopping for lunch en route and exploring Chiang Saen, the former capital of the first Lanna Kingdom. Set on the banks of the Mekong River near the borders of Thailand and Laos, this historic town offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's early history. Climb the 383 steps to Wat Phra That Jom Kitti, then visit nearby Wat Chedi Luang and a small local museum.

Conclude the day with a long-tail speedboat journey along the Mekong River towards the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar and Laos meet.

Chiang Rai - Doi Mae Salong - Mae Sai - Chiang Rai. After breakfast, drive from Chiang Saen to Ban Mae Khao Tom, home to a Lisu indigenous community, where you'll gain an insight into traditional hill tribe life. Continue through Mae Chan to visit Yao and Akha hill tribe villages, learning more about the diverse indigenous communities of northern Thailand.

Journey through spectacular mountain scenery to Doi Mae Salong, stopping at the summit to admire sweeping views across Thailand, Myanmar and the Mekong Valley. After lunch at Doi Mae Salong Villa, visit Ban Lorcha, a Phami Akha hill tribe community centre established to support and improve the lives of local villagers.

Continue to Mae Sai, Thailand's northernmost town on the border with Myanmar. Enjoy some free time to stroll through the local market and browse the shops before returning to Chiang Rai for your overnight stay.

Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you drive to the northern Chiang Rai district of Mae Chan.

Along the way, pause for a moment of relaxation at Mae Kachan Hot Springs, a revitalizing natural spot that is believed to have healing properties.

After lunch, you'll embark towards Chiang Mai, but not without visiting a series of handicraft villages along the way. Within these vibrant communities, skilled artisans preserve traditional arts, showcasing their expertise in diverse handcrafted creations.

There will also be a visit to a Thai wood-carving factory which specialises in a range of antique-style work that you can purchase.

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.

You will then head 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, 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 that showcase palace decor.

In the afternoon, visit the sacred temple of Wat Doi Suthep. Perched atop a forested mountain, enjoy splendid views of Chiang Mai city and the sprawling Ping Valley below.

Your journey draws to a close in Chiang Mai today, but depending on your onward flight times or further, you may have the opportunity to indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing.