This exclusive 14-day Thailand journey combines culture, history, and diverse landscapes. In Bangkok, visit iconic temples such as Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, and explore lively markets and neighborhoods that reveal the city’s everyday rhythm. Meet a local walking artist for a private exchange of ideas. In Chiang Rai, take a hot air balloon ride, browse vibrant night markets, and see the striking White Temple. In Chiang Mai, explore ancient ruins, bustling morning markets, and a scenic river cruise. In Lampang, discover floating pagodas, silk weaving traditions, and elephant conservation initiatives. Cycle through Sukhothai’s UNESCO-listed temples framed by rice fields and mountain views. On Koh Lanta, enjoy beaches and coastal scenery. This itinerary blends well-known sites with authentic encounters to capture the breadth of Thailand’s beauty and heritage.
Highlights
Explore Bangkok’s iconic temples and vibrant local neighborhoods
Fly Chiang Rai hot air balloon over scenic landscapes
Meet Bangkok walking artist for a creative city exploration
See Lampang floating pagodas with panoramic mountaintop views
Cycle Sukhothai UNESCO temples and historic rural landscapes
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
Arrive at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, where a representative greets you at the arrival gate inside Immigration, holding a sign with your name. Receive assistance with carry-on luggage and move quickly through exclusive fast-track immigration counters, aiding with immigration document details to prevent any delays. After retrieving your luggage from the Bangkok Airport baggage claim area, you are escorted through customs to a vehicle located in front of the Arrival Hall of the Airport for your hotel transfer.
After breakfast, set out to navigate Bangkok’s bustling streets by public transportation and explore its most celebrated landmarks. Begin at Wat Pho to observe serene temple grounds and, when available, the monks’ morning chanting. Visit the City Pillar Shrine to learn about its deep cultural significance before stepping inside the ornate Grand Palace, once home to Thailand’s kings. Cross the Chao Phraya River by ferry to admire Wat Arun’s striking spires. Wander through the historic Kudi Jeen neighborhood, tasting its signature Portuguese-inspired baked treat. End the day at Bangkok’s lively flower market, surrounded by vibrant colors and fragrant blooms.
Important: Proper attire is required for entry; shorts are not permitted, shoulders must be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering.
Day 3: Bangkok Walking Tour | Transfer to Chiang Rai
After breakfast, join Dutch artist Koen Olie for a guided walk through Bangkok’s lively streets, using local transportation to reach hidden corners and vibrant neighborhoods. Hear personal stories from his 35 years in the city, from creating cartoons for Thai magazines to exhibiting his art. Gain insight into Bangkok’s evolving character while experiencing it through an artist’s eyes.
Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Rai. Travel time to the airport is approximately 45 minutes to just over an hour, depending on traffic. Upon arrival, meet your private guide for the transfer to your hotel.
Day 4: Chiang Rai Sunrise Hot Air Balloon | Evening Tuk Tuk Tour
Float Gently in a Hot Air Balloon – Chiang Rai Sunrise (Join-in)
After an early meeting at Singha Park’s ticket center, transfer to the launch site for a sunrise hot air balloon flight. Soar about 1,500 feet above Chiang Rai’s landscapes during a 45-minute ride, taking in sweeping views of mountains, fields, and villages. Upon landing, celebrate with a champagne toast and receive a signed flight certificate. Relax at the coffee shop, then enjoy a complimentary 2-hour tram tour through Singha Park, visiting the flower farm, tea plantation, swan lake, and fish farm.
In the evening, explore Chiang Rai’s highlights aboard a private tuk-tuk. Pass the King Mengrai Monument before visiting the golden clock tower, designed by the artist behind the White Temple, to witness its light-and-sound display. Browse the fresh market, then sample Northern snacks at the lively night market, such as local sausages, fried insects, and seasonal fruits. Your guide shares insights into the city’s history and its role as the gateway to the Golden Triangle before returning to your hotel.
Day 5: Doi Mae Salong and White Temple | Chaing Mai
After breakfast, travel with your private guide and driver along a scenic route to Chiang Mai, stopping to explore cultural and natural highlights. Visit the hilltop town of Santikhiri on Doi Mae Salong, a Chinese community founded by immigrants in the 1950s, and stop at Akha and Yao villages. Enjoy sweeping mountain views and the sight of lush tea plantations before continuing to a local restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, tour Wat Rong Khun, the iconic White Temple, admired for its intricate white design accented with glass, symbolizing purity and wisdom.
This morning, travel beyond the city to Wiang Kum Kam, an archaeological site dating back to the 8th century. Ride a tram through the historic grounds to view Mon-inscribed stone tablets, intricate pottery, earthenware, and Buddhist sculptures. After exploring the ruins, settle into a quiet spot beside the site for a picnic lunch featuring Northern Thai specialties, offering an authentic taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
Start early with a visit to Chiang Mai Gate Market, a bustling fresh-food market alive with morning activity. Witness the alms-giving ceremony as local monks collect offerings, a tradition that offers a rare glimpse into the city’s spiritual life. Return to the hotel for breakfast before boarding a songtaew to Worarot Market, where stalls overflow with fresh produce, fabrics, and local goods. Continue to Thapae Gate, then ride a samlor (rickshaw) through the city streets, stopping at notable temples including Wat Chiang Man, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh. Meet with an English-speaking monk to gain personal insight into local traditions before returning to your hotel late in the morning.
Sunset Twilight Cruise in Mae Ping River (Join-in)
In the evening, board a boat for a tranquil sunset cruise along the Mae Ping River. Sail north past city bridges, riverside temples, and lush green banks as the sky shifts from gold to soft pink. Enjoy free-flowing sparkling wine and canapés as the peaceful atmosphere of twilight sets the tone for a relaxing close to the day.
Begin with an early pick-up from your hotel for the drive along scenic Route 1252 to Lampang, passing panoramic countryside views. Pause for a coffee break at Baan Mae Jaem before continuing to Wat Chaloem Phrakiat, famous for its “floating” pagodas perched high on a mountain ridge. Ride a songtaew partway up, then walk to the summit for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. After a local lunch, visit cultural highlights including the historic Louis Leonowens House (open weekends) and the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum (closed Mondays). Stop at Wat Sri Chum to admire its intricate architecture before ending the day at Lampang River Lodge, a tranquil riverside retreat.
After breakfast at the lodge, depart Lampang for a day rich in cultural discovery. Your first stop is the FAE Elephant Hospital, where you will gain insight into the remarkable work of rescuing and rehabilitating elephants. Continue to Lamphun to visit Wat Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan, an ancient temple steeped in history and revered for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
Pause for a traditional Northern Thai lunch, featuring the iconic Khao Soi—a fragrant yellow curry noodle soup served with your choice of chicken, beef, or pork. In the afternoon, visit a Silk Factory to observe the meticulous art of silk weaving and admire the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Your journey concludes with a scenic transfer to Sukhothai, arriving in the late afternoon, where you will check in to your hotel and unwind after two days of exploring the hidden gems of Northern Thailand.
Cycle from Ban Khuai, a traditional village on Sukhothai’s outskirts, through quiet dirt roads bordered by rice paddies and the backdrop of Kao Laung Mountain. Visit a local wood furniture workshop and follow irrigation canals past rural homes. Enter Sukhothai Historical Park via the Eastern Gate to explore Wat Chang Lom, Wat Si Chum, Wat Mahathat, and other significant temples, admiring detailed Buddhist and Hindu architecture from Thailand’s Golden Era. Enjoy a local lunch before continuing your ride to the park’s southern section.
Travel from your hotel to Sukhothai Airport with a private transfer for a smooth departure. Upon arrival at Krabi Airport, meet your representative in the designated meeting area for a direct private transfer to your hotel in Koh Lanta.
Spend two full days at leisure, enjoying Koh Lanta’s beaches, exploring local attractions, or relaxing with the resort’s amenities at your own pace.
Day 14: Return Home
1 Breakfast
Depart early from Koh Lanta with a private transfer to Krabi Airport. Your pick-up time will be scheduled to align with your flight, ensuring a smooth connection for your onward journey.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,5372-3 travelers
Notes
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Rates based on current exchange rate THB/US dollars. Please contact us for exact quote in US dollars.
Initial deposit is 30% ($400 minimum) + Internal flight cost, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.