This 12 or 16-day journey is an intriguing exploration of the culture, landscapes and history of Thailand. From bustling Bangkok we head out to the beautiful River Kwai area, where we will soak up the stunning natural surrounds and learn more about the region’s turbulent past. The atmospheric ruins of Ayuthaya and Sukhothai will give you an insight into the origins of Thai culture before you head to the mountains, markets and colourful hilltribes of Chiang Mai and the Golden Triangle. If you have the time, we recommend our 4-day extension that will take you deeper into the hills of the north, to Mae Hong Son and the village of Pai.
We are committed to responsible travel and ensuring a sustainable future for the destinations we visit.
The Lisu hilltribe people run your ecolodge in Northern Thailand, and in addition to being an environmentally and socially responsible property you will benefit from their warm hospitality. Visit Himmapaan, a community-based reforestation and biodiversity project to contribute by buying a seeding to be planted.
Make this your holiday:
Exclusive Tour: your own private multilingual guide throughout the trip
Price Guarantee: costing 25-30% less than similar tours of the same flexibility and quality
Tailor Made: customised itinerary to create your dream holiday
Duration: shorten or lengthen the tour to suit your wishes
Dates: depart and return whenever you choose
Hotels: change hotel grade to suit your budget
Group Discounts: call 0845 310 2929.
BANGKOK | RIVER KWAI | AYUTHAYA | SUKHOTHAI | GOLDEN TRIANGLE | LISU LODGE | CHIANG MAI
DAYS 1–2 BANGKOK
Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your hotel. This evening, meet your tour leader and group for a tour briefing and welcome drinks. While in Bangkok we will visit the Grand Palace, cruise the Chao Phraya River on a longtail boat, and explore one of Southeast Asia’s biggest and most impressive museums, the Thai national Museum. There will, of course, be time to savour some of the world’s best Thai cuisine and enjoy some of Asia’s best shopping.
CLASSIC HOTEL Bel-Aire Princess
DAYS 3–4 RIVER KWAI & KANCHANABURI
We depart Bangkok for the beautiful River Kwai region, enjoying an interactive cooking demonstration before boarding boats which will take us to our accommodation for the night – unique jungle rafts surrounded by towering mountains. The following day, we will discover some of the rich and turbulent history of the region, as we head to Hellfire Pass and the Bridge over the River Kwai.
CLASSIC HOTELS Jungle Rafts, Felix River Kwai Resort
DAYS 5–6 AYUTHAYA & SUKHOTHAI
Today we travel east to the former Thai capital, Ayuthaya, stopping en route at Bang Pa-In, the former Royal summer residence. In Ayuthaya, we marvel at the impressive ruins, including the World Heritage-listed Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and Wat Mahathat. Visit the former Khmer outpost of Lopburi and the fascinating Folk Museum in Phitsanulok before arriving in Sukhothai, considered the birthplace of Thai culture.
CLASSIC HOTELS Krungsri River Hotel, The Legendha Sukhothai
DAYS 7–10 LISU LODGE & CHIANG MAI
This morningn we explore Sukhothai with the option to cycle, before heading on to Lisu Lodge, where the friendly Lisu people are your hosts for the night. Enjoy a guided walk to some nearby villages and a delightful dance performance put on by the children of the village. An elephant ride and some gentle bamboo rafting give you the chance to soak up the peaceful atmosphere. In Chiang Mai, admire the stunning views from the hilltop doi Suthep temple, see the city’s sights on a fun samlor tour and meet one of the local monks. There will be time to pamper yourself with a Thai massage before your journey ends with an airport transfer on day 10.
CLASSIC HOTELS Lisu Lodge, Rimping Village
OPTIONAL DAYS 10–14 MAE HONG SON & PAI
A short flight takes us to beautiful Mae Hong Son, near the Burmese border. Visit the local market and some of the many beautiful temples in the town then head to your atmospheric eco-resort. Ride a longtail boat along a picturesque river to some fascinating caves then travel to Pai, a small village with a bohemian feel. From here we trek into some of the nearby Lahu and Chinese Kuomintang villages before returning to Chiang Mai, where your adventure ends with an aiport transfer on day 16. CLASSIC HOTELS Fern Resort, The Quarter, Rimping Village
TRIP GRADING – MODERATE
Suitable for travellers with an average level of fitness and independent mobility. Expect lots of walking and you may need to carry your bags from time to time. Prepare for some long road journeys and basic facilities at ecolodges.
SINGLE TRAVELLERS
Our Small Group Journeys are ideal for the solo traveller. Check out our ‘Willing to Share’ option, which enables you to travel at a twin share price.
NOTE: We make no extra charge for minor changes to hotels or hotel add-ons to the beginning or the end of the existing itinerary. No surcharges will be imposed within 30 days of departure. Wherever possible any downward revision in the price of trips if shown in our website will be refunded to you.