10-Day Northern-Thailand-Discovery Road Trip

10 DAYS
First-Timers PERFECT FOR
US$2,567 p/p
PRICE FROM

Journey Highlights
Day-by-day Itinerary
Other Experiences
What's included

From Modern to Medieval and Ethnic Thailand

This tour is crafted for travelers seeking a flexible road journey through the rich history and culture of northern Thailand.

From vibrant Bangkok to the far-northern Golden Triangle and hill-tribe villages in Chiang Rai, and from the medieval ruins of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai to a Thai cooking experience in Chiang Mai, you'll delve into the history of medieval kingdoms in northern Thailand, engage in real encounters with local communities and immerse yourself in the diverse heritage of this region during this private tour.

Yeliz Wang, Southeast Asia Specialist

"Go right when Sukhothai opens and grab a bike. When we went, the ancient ruins were completely empty. Pedaling past those giant stone Buddhas in the morning mist, with only the clicking sound of my bicycle chain... "

Journey Highlights

Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local fine-dining restaurant with a fantastic river view in Bangkok.

Wander through the historical ruins of the Siamese Kingdom at Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Wander through the historical ruins of the Siamese Kingdom (c. 1350–1767) at Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Cycle through the ruins of first independent Thai kingdom at Sukhothai Historical Park.

Cycle through the ruins of first independent Thai kingdom (1238–1438) at Sukhothai Historical Park.

Take a unique city tour by horse-drawn carriage through Lampang.

Discover the Golden Triangle and hill tribe villages of the far north.

Learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes in Chiang Mai.

Traveler Moments

An Itinerary for Inspiration

This day-by-day plan is a great starting point, crafted by our experts to showcase the best of Thailand at a pace that feels naturally comfortable.

Northern-Thailand-Discovery Road Trip Map

Day 1

Bangkok Arrival and Welcome Dinner

Your private guide will be waiting for you in the airport arrivals area. A comfortable vehicle with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel.
In the early evening, we'll take you to a local fine-dining restaurant with a fantastic river view, where you can taste delicious and top-of-the-range Thai cuisine.

Day 2

Bangkok City Highlights Tour

More-comfortably explore Bangkok's famous highlights in the morning when it is cooler. The landmarks of Bangkok include Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Temple of Dawn.
At the same time, try out Bangkok's different forms of public transport — long-tail boat, and the famous Thai tuk-tuk. This is a fun excursion that gives you a fantastic insight into the capital as well as the local people.
In the afternoon, discover the sophisticated flavors of Bangkok's 200-year-old Chinatown district, which brims with rich ethnic traditions and scrumptious cuisine.

Day 3

Bangkok to Ayutthaya — Visit Ayutthaya Historical Park and Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

Journey north from Bangkok, immersing yourself in the diverse cultures and landscapes of each passing province.
Start your medieval-kingdom exploration in Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Thailand's former Siamese capital from 1350 until 1767.
Witness the grandeur of Wat Mahathat, a serene temple adorned with Buddha heads, and marvel at the architectural splendor of Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch, once the King's Temple.
Conclude your day with a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a picturesque retreat used by Thai royalty.

Day 4

Ayutthaya to Sukhothai via Lopburi and Kamphaeng Phet

Depart Ayutthaya and delve deeper into Thailand's rich history in Lopburi.
Entertain yourselves with the playful monkeys roaming the ruins of Phra Prang Sam Yot, a 13th-century Khmer temple.
Continue to the city ruins of Kamphaeng Phet, another UNESCO site boasting the impressive Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park.
Explore the archaeological remains of ancient cities, including Mueang Chakangrao, with its laterite (reddish clay) structures, and Mueang Nakhon Chum, famed for its smaller brick temples.
End your day in charming Sukhothai, capital and name of Thailand's first kingdom.

The Phra Prang Sam Yot （Monkey Temple) in Lopburi

Day 5

Discover Sukhothai Historical Park by Bike; Sukhothai to Lampang

Cycle through Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO treasure trove of temples and ruins. You will visit the four representative sights in the park: Wat Si Chum, Wat Si Sawai, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Sa Si.
After the morning tour, savor a delicious local Sukothai-style lunch.
Proceed to Lampang, the province in the center of upper northern Thailand. See worshipers bow in reverence at Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, a magnificent wooden temple and one of the country's most complete.
Take a unique city tour by horse-drawn carriage before settling into your Lampang accommodation.

Day 6

Lampang Province to Chiang Rai; Chiang Rai Night Market

Prepare to be awestruck by the architectural marvel of Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat, perched atop a mountain. This "Unseen Thailand" gem on Doi Pu Yak mountain features a golden pagoda and breathtaking views. You will reach the peak by car and foot, where you'll find its sacred Buddha footprint.
Continue your journey to Chiang Rai, a vibrant city known for its laid-back atmosphere.
Savor the bustling atmosphere of the Chiang Rai night market and indulge in a steaming hot pot, a quintessential Thai experience.

The Wat Phra Phutthabat Sutthawat in Lampang

Day 7

Thailand's Golden Triangle, Mae Fah Luang Royal Retreats, and Hill Tribe Villages

Our adventure begins with a scenic 1-hour drive along the mountains to mount Doi Tung, where you could immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mae Fah Luang Garden. Then, step back in time and visit the Royal Villa there.
Continue your journey north to the Golden Triangle, the legendary conjunction of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, marked by the majestic Mekong River.
Gain insights into the region's history at the Hall of Opium. Then take a boat ride on the mighty Mekong River.
Delve into slightly older history at the Lanna Kingdom city of Chiang Saen, admire the grand double city walls and uncover fascinating antiquities that whisper tales of the Lanna era past (1558–1804).
Journey to Mae Chan and visit a traditional village inhabited by the Yao and Akha Hill Tribes.
As the day draws to a close, relax and enjoy a comfortable return transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai.

Day 8

Explore the Amazing Temples of Chiang Rai; Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai

Immerse yourself in the artistic wonders of Chiang Rai.
Explore the dazzling White Temple (also called Wat Rong Khun), the surreal Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and the intriguing Black House (Baan Dam Museum).
In the afternoon, transfer to Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand.

The Representative Temples of Chiang Rai

Day 9

A Thai Cooking Experience and Mount Doi Suthep

In the morning, you will have the opportunity to learn how to cook some of Thailand's most famous dishes at Asia Scenic, a top cooking school in Chiang Mai.
After selecting the menu you want to create, you'll embark on a local market tour. There, the chef will help you choose the freshest and highest-quality ingredients for your dishes. Then, the chef will guide you throughout the process as you prepare your own culinary masterpiece. Finally, you'll get to savor the dinner you've prepared.
In late afternoon, head to Chiang Mai's most iconic sight — Doi Suthep.
Most tourists visit Doi Suthep at normal times during the bustling day. However, we usually arrange our tours in the late afternoon after the crowds have departed and when dusk falls so that you can listen to the magical evening chanting of the monks as you gaze over the glittering lights of the city below.

Day 10

Chiang Mai Departure

As your northern Thailand exploration ends, your guide and driver will see you off at the airport.
Thank you for traveling with Thailand Highlights, and we hope to serve you again soon.

Expand All

Collapse All

10-Day Northern-Thailand-Discovery Road Trip map

Make It Uniquely Yours

This is where the magic happens. Add experiences that speak to you - whether it's a private cooking class, a jungle trek, or a special celebration.

For first-timers Have close encounter with elephants

For culture fans Explore Chiang Mai handicraft village

For adventures Discover Doi Inthanon National Park

For foodies Have close encounter with elephants

Your Stay is Part of the Story

Where you stay shapes your journey. We handpick hotels for their unique character, from city boutiques to beachfront escapes.

Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn Bangkok

Lanna Smile Hotel Chiang Mai

Sala Ayutthaya Hotel

River Lodge Lampang

Legendha Sukhothai Hotel

Mora Boutique Hotel Chiang Rai

Inquire

10-Day Northern-Thailand-Discovery Road Trip

From Modern to Medieval and Ethnic Thailand

Journey Highlights

Traveler Moments