12 Day Premium Northern Thailand

Fully Guided Adventure Small Group

Our Price From 3,163 Per Person

Exclusive Savings 872 Per Person

Check Availability

Trip Length

12 Days

Trip Starts

Bangkok

Trip Finishes

Chiang Mai

12 Day Premium Northern Thailand Itinerary (Intrepid)

Countries Explored: Thailand

Trip Operator

Intrepid Travel

151 Reviews

Trip Style

Premium

Departures

Sep 2025 to Dec 2027

Accommodation

4 Star

Max. Group Size

Pace

Leisurely

Guide Level

Fully Guided

Trip Code

TTPT

Overview

Read reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 12 Day Premium Northern Thailand. Discover a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, fascinating history and incredibly hospitable locals on a 12-day Premium journey through Northern Thailand. Get to know the innermost essence of Thai culture as you travel from city streets to mountain tops. Explore the ancient temples of Ayutthaya, spend time with Lisu hill tribes, meet the experts at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai and uncover the country’s past in Kanchanaburi. With a local leader by your...read more

Itinerary

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your journey begins in Bangkok, where you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, maybe explore Thailand’s capital at your own pace. By day, you can experience a city filled with history and tradition, but by night Bangkok is taken over by a flood of music and neon lights. Maybe visit one of the many temples or explore Chinatown. Watch tuk tuks zip by while traditional khlong boats slowly wind down the Chao Phraya River. After your meeting, join your small group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant where your leader will introduce you to the local flavours. (D)

Rise early for an optional Exclusive Experience away from Bangkok’s tourist track. Join the locals and visit a temple along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks. Later, your leader will take you for a day of sightseeing and activities around the city. Tour Wat Po – a larger-than-life temple complex in the city and home of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Visit the Grand Palace and learn about the site which has been the official residence of the kings since the 1700s, then head out on a boat tour of the city's canals as your leader shows you how Bangkok’s locals live today. The afternoon is free to do as you wish – maybe check out the art collection at the Jim Thompson house or relax with a Thai massage. (B)

Unleash your creativity and learn about the history of Benjarong – a traditional style of painted Thai porcelain – during today’s visit to a ceramics community. The name literally means ‘five colours’ (although it’s not unusual to see up to eight) and artists use enamel to create intricate floral and geometric designs. This morning, you’ll get to paint your own mug or teacup which will be fired and sent to you to take home as a unique souvenir. After, maybe grab some lunch before you continue to Kanchanaburi to visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. This prisoner of war cemetery was one of the first museumsto educate the public and keep the memory of the Asian and POW workers who died constructing the infamous Death Railway alive. (B)

Visit Erawan National Park to explore famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are said to be some of the most beautiful in the country, with glacial blue waters perfect for a dip. Many Allied prisoners of war and conscripted Asian labourers were engaged here to help build a rail route to Myanmar (Burma), including the passage infamously known as Hellfire Pass. Visit the memorial museum of the pass where your leader will provide more information about this chapter in history. Take a historical train journey across a portion of this 'Death Railway' along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct, known as the Krasae Bridge, constructed by the allied POWs. The evening is yours to explore the town. (B)

This morning, head to Ayutthaya – one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. On the way, visit Baan Nong Khao CBT Village – an agricultural village famous for its Pha Khao Mah hand-weaving. Visit the community’s museum, a palm sugar field and a local house to see how desserts featuring this famous Thai ingredient are made. Of course, you’ll get to sample these sweet treats. Then watch the weavers at work as they use more than 100 colours of yarn to create traditional Thai clothing. When you get to Ayutthaya, explore the photogenic 13th-century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat and discover rows of Buddhas beheaded by the Burmese. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree (one of the country’s most photographed images). Tonight, you’ll board a traditional rice barge and tuck into a delicious Thai dinner. (B/D)

Leave Ayutthaya and travel to the town of Phitsanulok by train. Sit back, relax and watch the scenery roll by. When you arrive, change to a private vehicle and continue this comfortable journey until you arrive in Sukhothai. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries. You may like to relax by the pool or unwind with a Thai massage. For dinner tonight, maybe ask your leader where you can get a bowl of Sukhothai’s famously tasty noodles. (B/L)

Sukhothai, established in the 13th century, was one of the first ancient capitals of Siam. Start your day with an optional alms offering before visiting its famed World Heritage-listed historical park, which captures the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. You’ll rent a bicycle for a cycling tour through the park and as you ride, your leader will teach you more about the history of this former metropolis and its fascinating structures. Have a picnic lunch then the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the town at your own pace, or relax by the pool back at your accommodation. This evening, regroup and head to the home of one of our local friends where you’ll sit down for a homecooked dinner and a unique insight into life in this part of the country. (B/L/D)

Travel from Sukhothai to the Mae Taeng region. Draped between rice fields and fruit orchards, you’ll find the Lisu Lodge – your Feature Stay for the night. The lodge is a community-based project that trains and employs Lisu villagers from the nearby hill tribe and aims to preserve their cultural heritage. The Lisu people are a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group and one of the six main hill tribes of Northern Thailand. Meet the colourfully dressed villagers and learn more about the Lisu way of life – this is a truly special experience that’s sure to be one of your enduring memories of Thailand. The lodge offers guestrooms decorated in the traditional Lisu style with modern comforts. Savour unforgettable views of the surrounding hillside and valley and enjoy tonight’s dinner of fresh, local Thai food. (B/D)

After breakfast at Lisu Lodge, it’s a quick trip to Muang Kued Village where you’ll meet with a local villager and enjoy a private guided tour. Learn about village life, the reforestation of the surrounding area and how produce is grown in the village orchards. Explore the organic farm and choose the ingredients for a cooking class where you’ll learn how to cook traditional Thai food. After lunch, join the villagers and learn how to weave palm leaves to create ornaments and accessories. You’ll also join them for a tasty barbeque dinner at the nearby Mae Tamaan Base Camp. (B/L/D)

Travel to the Elephant Nature Park – a unique project that provides sanctuary for elephants and other animals. Be greeted by an expert local guide and learn the stories of the rescued elephants and the issues they face in South East Asia. Watch the elephants from a viewing platform with the expert staff as they bathe and play and tuck into a vegetarian buffet lunch. Back in Chiang Mai, visit the Yimsoo Café, which supports workers living with disabilities. Then, the evening is yours to enjoy your own way. Maybe visit the vibrant Night Bazaar or take a stroll around the Old Town, which is bounded by moats. Your leader can give you recommendations on where to go for dinner. (B/L)

This morning, drive to the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. Take in the views along the scenic and winding mountain road, which brings you to an impressive 300-step Naga-guarded stairway. The rewards justify the ascent to the top, with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand, not to mention the fantastic panoramic views of the city. Return to Chiang Mai where you’ll have time to relax before your farewell dinner, cooked by a local chef! Dine on Thai fusion food made with local ingredients as you reminisce about the wonderful adventures you’ve had in Northern Thailand. (B/D)

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Chiang Mai we can help arrange extra accommodation (subject to availability). (B)

Trip Inclusions

Experience a different side of bustling Bangkok during an Exclusive Experience – rise early and visit a local temple where you’ll ‘make merit’ by bringing an offering to the temple’s monks
Stay in the beautiful Lisu lodge for your Feature Stay. This community-based project employs Lisu villagers and allows you to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying creature comforts.
Cruise the waterways on board a traditional rice barge as you watch local life pass by and enjoy a delicious meal during an Exclusive Experience.
Support an important animal welfare initiative, speak with local experts and get close to incredible creatures at the Elephant Nature Park.
Unleash your creativity and learn about the history of Benjarong, a traditional style of painted Thai porcelain, with a visit to a Benjarong ceramics community.
By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Animal Protection. Donations support them to promote better living conditions for elephants in captivity and help rescue elephants from inhumane conditions. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Hotel (4 nights)
Resort (5 nights)
Lodge (2 nights)

11 Breakfasts included
4 Lunches included
6 Dinners included

Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.

Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'Premium Northern Thailand' Reviews

4.0

Average Rating 4.0 / 5

1 Review

5 Star

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Premium Northern Thailand 1 YC, VIC, Australia, Dec 2023

I would highly recommend the Premium Northern Thailand tour - the accomodation was great. Our tour leader, Katie (Thai Name: Lalada) was very knowledgeable with a great sense of humour! I was originally hesitant, as I was travelling alone, but it was pretty safe and fun to travel with the small group of up to a maximum 12 people. Overall, I thoroughly ...read more

Brochure

Intrepid Asia (2024-25)

Whether you’re feeling history reverberate while walking the Great Wall of China, savouring local flavours in the backstreets of Chiang Mai, exploring the Mekong Delta by boat, conquering the climb to Everest Base Camp, watching the sun rise at the majestic Taj Mahal or set over Cambodia’s Angkor complex, this captivating continent has endless possibilities...more

Download Brochure

Availability USD

Flexible Deposit

Cancel up to 56 days before departure and your deposit becomes a credit for future travel.

Guaranteed Departures

Your Intrepid trip is guaranteed to depart as soon as one full paying traveler is booked!

Tuesday 30 Sep 2025

Saturday 11 Oct 2025

Status

From: $4,035 $3,954

Save $81 Inquire

Tuesday 07 Oct 2025

Saturday 18 Oct 2025

Status

From: $4,035 $3,163

Save $872 Inquire

Tuesday 14 Oct 2025

Saturday 25 Oct 2025

Status

From: $4,035 $3,954

Save $81 Inquire

Thursday 23 Oct 2025

Monday 03 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,115 $4,033

Save $82 Inquire

Tuesday 28 Oct 2025

Saturday 08 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,065 $3,984

Save $81 Inquire

Thursday 30 Oct 2025

Monday 10 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,120 $4,038

Save $82 Inquire

Tuesday 04 Nov 2025

Saturday 15 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,825

Sold Out

Tuesday 11 Nov 2025

Saturday 22 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,315

Sold Out

Tuesday 18 Nov 2025

Saturday 29 Nov 2025

Status

From: $4,275 $4,189

Save $86 Inquire

Thursday 20 Nov 2025

Monday 01 Dec 2025

Status

From: $4,275 $4,189

Save $86 Inquire

Tuesday 25 Nov 2025

Saturday 06 Dec 2025

Status

From: $3,980 $3,900

Save $80 Inquire

Thursday 27 Nov 2025

Monday 08 Dec 2025

Status

From: $4,190 $4,106

Save $84 Inquire

Tuesday 09 Dec 2025

Saturday 20 Dec 2025

Status

From: $3,980 $3,900

Save $80 Inquire

Tuesday 16 Dec 2025

Saturday 27 Dec 2025

Status

From: $3,980 $3,900

Save $80 Inquire

Tuesday 23 Dec 2025

Saturday 03 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,520 $4,430

Save $90 Inquire

Tuesday 30 Dec 2025

Saturday 10 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,520 $4,430

Save $90 Inquire

Thursday 01 Jan 2026

Monday 12 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,445 $4,356

Save $89 Inquire

Saturday 03 Jan 2026

Wednesday 14 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,315 $4,229

Save $86 Inquire

Tuesday 06 Jan 2026

Saturday 17 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,315 $4,229

Save $86 Inquire

Thursday 08 Jan 2026

Monday 19 Jan 2026

Status

From: $4,590 $4,498

Save $92 Inquire

Show more dates...

Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.

Premium Northern Thailand

Overview

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok

Day 2: Bangkok

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

Day 4: Kanchanaburi

Day 5: Ayutthaya

Day 6: Ayutthaya to Sukhothai

Day 7: Sukhothai

Day 8: Mae Taeng

Day 9: Mae Taeng

Day 10: Chiang Mai

Day 11: Chiang Mai

Day 12: Chiang Mai

Trip Inclusions Expand All

Sightseeing Highlights

Accommodation

Included Meals

Trip Notes

Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'Premium Northern Thailand' Reviews

Brochure

Intrepid Asia (2024-25)

Availability USD Twin Share (Per Person)Solo Share (Per Person)Solo (Own Room)

Flexible Deposit

Guaranteed Departures

Similar Tours

Itinerary

Trip Inclusions

Availability USD