9D Experience Thailand

Price from $4915 per person on Twin sharing basis

Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Phitsanulok – Sukhothai – Lampang – Phayao –  Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai

 

Discover the Heart of Thailand: Bangkok to Chiang Mai Adventure

Embark on a captivating journey through Thailand’s cultural core and northern highlands. Begin in vibrant Bangkok, where glittering temples and bustling markets set the tone. Step back in time in Ayutthaya and Phitsanulok, home to ancient ruins and revered Buddha images, before exploring the UNESCO-listed historical park of Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital. Continue through the scenic towns of Lampang and Phayao, rich with Lanna heritage and serene lakeside views. Soak in the artistic flair of Chiang Rai and the charm of mountainous Chiang Mai. From royal relics to rural beauty, this overland tour is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural splendour.

Itinerary

Day 1

Bangkok

Arrive in Bangkok, you will be met and transferred to your Hotel.

Day 2

Bangkok (B)

Today's half day tour includes three of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Wat Trimit also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha houses a 3 meter tall statue made from solid gold and weighing 5.5 tons. You will then pass through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha and home to the Chedis of the Kings. At 46 meters in length and 15 meters high the Buddha is the largest in Bangkok and illustrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The Grand Palace is one of the most beautiful samples of an ancient Siamese court. It used to be the residence of the Kings of Bangkok. Here you will see palaces which were used for different occasions: the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Keo, the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple.

Day 3

Bangkok (B)

Depart Bangkok early this morning and head to a local railway station, where you will board a traditional third-class train for a short but memorable journey through salt fields, rice paddies and rural villages. Arrive directly at the remarkable Mae Klong Railway Market, where vendors swiftly retract their stalls as the train passes through the heart of the market before resuming business moments later. Despite its worldwide fame, the market remains an important trading hub for local residents. 

Continue to the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. One of Thailand's best-known floating markets, it continues to preserve the centuries-old tradition of canal-based commerce that once defined everyday life across Central Thailand. Along the way, visit a local producer of Khao Lam, a traditional delicacy of sticky rice and coconut milk slowly roasted inside bamboo. Arrive at the floating market,   included ride on traditional longtail boat through a network of canals lined with fruit orchards, coconut plantations and wooden houses. Return to Bangkok in the early afternoon. 

Day 4

Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Phitsanulok (B/L/D)

Pick up from your hotel. You will drive to Bang Pa-In to visit Summer Palace. Continue to Ayutthaya and visit ancient temples of Wat Yai Chaimongkhon, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Phanan Choeng. Later proceed to Phitsanulok and take a short orientation tour.
 

Day 5

Phitsanulok – Sukhothai – Lampang (B/L/D)

Today you will visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and later leave for Sukhothai. Visit the ruined temples and palaces as well as the Buddha statues. Continue your drive to Lampang for overnight.

Day 6

Lampang – Phayao – Chiang Rai (B/L)

Explore the wonderful Wat Phra That Lampang-Luang in the morning and then a short drive from Lampang to visit a pineapple plantation (depend on availability in the season in Lampang or on the way Chiang Rai) Overnight in Chiang Rai.

Day 7

Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai (B/L)

Visit Chiang Rai market and Wat Phra Kaew Temple. Take a river cruise on traditional long trail boat to Pha Tai to visit a hill tribe village. Continue by road to Chiang Mai and visit Sankampang, famous for Thai Lanna handicraft centre. Stop at Color Factor, showcasing some full-size Elephant Parade statues from cities around the world.

Day 8

Chiang Mai (B/L)

The morning is at leisure. In the afternoon visit Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, one of the most revered temples, located on mountain top offering stunning panoramic views of the city.

Day 9

Chiang Mai (B)

Transfer to airport for your flight to Bangkok or extend your stay in Thailand by choosing a beach extension

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customized

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown , transfers & local tours using private car, local guides, entrance fees 

Prices quoted are valid till 31 October 2027. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.