Experience Overview
Northern Thailand is a treasure trove filled with glittering temples, ancient ruins, exotic markets and sumptuous foods. Explore the capital of Siam's golden age at Sukhothai, visit the bustling markets of Chiang Mai, stay at a special homestay with local friends and enjoy a traditional khantok dinner - there's so much to discover on this tour through Thailand's northern kingdoms.
Highlights
- Experience the best of Northern Thailand with ample time in the charming Chiang Mai in a whirlwind 8-days and enjoy the local hospitality and understand why the nation is the Land of Smile.
- Support an important animal welfare initiative and get close to incredible creatures at Chang Chill Elephant Park
- Work up an appetite with a leisurely cycle through the ancient Buddhas and ruined temples of World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Park, then feast on a home-cooked picnic lunch.
- See how the locals live on a bicycle ride through your homestay village. Ride past the rice fields and breathe in the fresh country air, with beautiful mountains in the distance.
- 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.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2787
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private minibus,Public bus,Songthaew,Taxi,Train,Tuk tuk,Bicycle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TTSK
Starts: Bangkok, Thailand
Finishes: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (3), Lunch (3), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Resort (2 nights),Multi-share Homestay (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1454 (CAD 182 /day)
Itinerary
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital. Bangkok is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. With no planned activities until your important welcome meeting at 6 pm, why not head out and explore. You could take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, perhaps gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some into world famous street food.
Optional Activities:
- Bangkok - Grand Palace (500 THB)
- Bangkok - Thai Massage (250 THB)
- Bangkok - Tuk Tuk Experience Urban Adventure (2500 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, leave the current capital of Thailand and head north by train (approx 6 hours) and private mini van (approx 1 hour) to one of the first ancient capitals of Siam, Sukhothai. Located on a fertile plain, Sukhothai was established in the 13th century, and the name means the 'Dawn of Happiness'. It’s now famous for its World Heritage-listed historic park that celebrates the Golden Age of Thai civilisation. Tonight, be sure to head to the fascinating local night market and try the local dishes, like Sukhothai noodles.
Included Activities:
- Sukhothai - Night Market
Accommodation:
- Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Head out to the historical ruins of Old Sukhothai, set amid beautiful lakes and gardens. The religious art and architecture of the Sukhothai era are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles, and the Sukhothai Historical Park contains the remains of 21 historic sites, with awe-inspiring Buddha images and four large ponds often filled with stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. Upon arrival at the park, hire bicycles and enjoy a few leisurely hours feeling the breeze in your hair and learning about the history of this fascinating place. Enjoy a home-cooked picnic lunch somewhere along the way, and if you have enough free time, visit a local ceramics factory.
Included Activities:
- Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
- Sukhothai - Home-cooked picnic lunch
Accommodation:
- Resort (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by private minivan from Sukothai (approx 4 hours) to the warm and welcoming home of Intrepid's long-time friends in a small Thai village where you’ll spend the night. Accommodation at the homestay is multishare and basic (there will be fold-out mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms), but there is no better way to better understand a country and its people. In the evening, you’ll be treated to a traditional northern Thai khantok dinner, accompanied by live music and dancing.
Included Activities:
- Village Homestay - Cultural performance
- Village Homestay - Khantok dinner
Accommodation:
- Homestay (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, jump on some bikes and cruise around the homestay village. This is a great opportunity to see how the locals live, and you’ll make a few stops along the way to see small country industries in the area. Cycling past the rice fields and breathing in the fresh country air, with beautiful mountains in the distance, makes this morning a picture-postcard experience. Say goodbye to your new friends and travel on to Chiang Mai (approximately 45 minutes). The most vibrant city in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Renowned for dazzling beauty and extremely welcoming locals, the ‘Rose of the North’ will leave you spellbound. Chances are, you won’t want to leave. Follow your leader on an orientation walk to get your bearings and enjoy a free evening tonight.
Included Activities:
- Village Homestay - Home-Cooked Lunch
- Village Homestay - Cycling tour
Optional Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Night Market - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, follow your leader to the largest fresh produce market in Chiang Mai for a visit. You'll be able to learn about these fresh ingredients and where the beautiful flavors of Thai cooking comes from. Then the rest of the day is free.Perhaps explore the famous temple complex of Doi Suthep. Drive along a scenic, winding mountain road that ends at an impressive 300-step naga-guarded stairway (approximately 45 mins). The rewards justify the climb with one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand on display, not to mention fantastic panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to listen to hypnotic evening chanting by resident Buddhist monks. Or maybe wander markets, meet monks, cruise the river, and slurp noodles on a Mae Ping River Experience. Don't miss out on trying lunch at the Chuan Chom vocational training center where you'll learn about the work that they do to train the women from the correctional institution with skills to go back to society. Or maybe join a Thai cooking class to discover some of the secrets of Thai cuisine. Your tour leader will be able to help you make the best of your day with plenty suggestions.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Fresh Produce Market Visit
Optional Activities:
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex (Entrance) (50 THB)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll have a pretty special time visiting the ChangChill elephant experience. Take a 1.5-hour drive out of Chiang Mai to ChangChill, where you’ll begin to learn how this organisation supports the protection, conservation and lifestyle of free roaming elephants in the region. You’ll observe the daily patterns of these jungle giants from a safe distance, seeing how they graze and socialise with their other friends. The expert local guides will be able to give you a ‘live lecture’ on the elephants themselves, its sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments nearby the elephant’s mud pit but be careful not to get a spray! Be treated to some lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside your giant friends, who will be enjoying a meal too. Return to Chiang Mai where the rest of the time is at leisure.
Included Activities:
- Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you are staying on in Chiang Mai why not join an Urban Adventure and allow yourself to be spirited away on an early morning Chiang Mai tour that puts you at the epicentre of Buddhist rituals. Learn to meditate, offer alms to monks, and make an offering at a temple. If you’re feeling active then you might want to saddle up for a half day cycling trip. Enjoy a pleasant ride along the green banks of the Ping River and stop at a former leper colony turned rehabilitation centre. Continue along various fruit orchards, cycling down small country roads and meandering around the villages on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Here you’ll discover the real rural Thailand and encounter the Thai way of life. Explore the temple ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, the former capital of Lanna, before you cycle back to Chiang Mai.
Similar Experiences
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Bethan - Traveled, April 2024
I would thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys trips that are a mixture of activities, cultural experiences and getting to know more about the history, development and way of life of local people. The food is also a gourmet experience not to be missed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/18/2024
Sarah - Traveled, March 2024
Ben made this trip the best ever, your aura and loving nature gave us so much inner peace. I would explore the whole world with her as a leader. She introduced us to the culture and life in Thailand - we were able to see such great places and experience a lot. She played a huge part in keeping us all connected. Thanks Ben, I'll never forget this.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Edward - Traveled, March 2024
Was my first trip overseas. Highly recommend using Intrepid, well set out tour with hands on activities
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2024
Christine - Traveled, February 2024
This trip is great and far exceeds expectations. Our guide, Cherry, is the best. Nothing was too much trouble for her. Very lovely lady.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/31/2024
Robert - Traveled, March 2024
A great tour with excellent itinerary and fantastic guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/31/2024
Mark - Traveled, March 2024
Had a great time on this short trip of Northern Thailand. Everything was great but some of the accommodation could have been a little better. A pool & breakfast at every hotel should be included for the price. Other than that, a great bunch of people to travel with & the tour leader Rabbit was excellent. Overall very happy with the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/27/2024
Peter - Traveled, March 2024
This tour was well organised and the tour guide was very friendly and informative.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/31/2024
David - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent holiday for a solo traveller who enjoys being with a group. Don’t expect luxury throughout. You’ll experience immersion in the real Thai lifestyle.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Isabella - Traveled, March 2024
The Northern Tour is amazing we are very lucky to have such a great guide Nok. Very knowledgeable and looked after us the whole way. We always have excellent food from great places. All the accommodation was very clean and in a great location. The homestay was so much better than I thought. The family was so welcoming and taught us about their ways. We went in the very hot dry season and all rooms were cool never to hot. Definitely the right amount of time in every place. Seeing the elephants was such a highlight of the trip. Definitely book!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Ryan - Traveled, March 2024
Great variation of activities, free time and optional activities. All of the locations were convenient & gave you a really great idea about local living. The hotels & homestay locations were very clean and we always felt comfortable even though we went in the hot dry season. Would highly recommend this tour as it gives you so many experiences that you will remember and not just another "city holiday." Seeing the Elephants free-range setting instead of the cruel non-scene you usually see was a highlight. Riding bikes through the rice paddocks, seeing ancient ruins & having a drink with some awesome people were all a highlight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Anna - Traveled, March 2024
Highly recommend this trip. It’s active and fun. Lots of diverse and unique experiences. Sukhothai is amazing and it seems most travelers don’t know to go there. Our guide Nok was amazing and made the trip easy and fun. It was efficient and well organized. You get your moneys worth.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Amelia - Traveled, March 2024
An amazing trip, you get to immerse yourself in Thai culture which is really special. I loved the cycling tours, the elephants were just amazing and we really loved the optional cooking class in Chiang Mai! Nok was an amazing guide as well, thoroughly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/18/2024
Anna - Traveled, March 2024
Highly recommend this trip. It’s active and fun. Lots of diverse and unique experiences. Sukhothai is amazing and it seems most travelers don’t know to go there. Our guide Nok was amazing and made the trip easy and fun. It was efficient and well organized. You get your moneys worth.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Gary - Traveled, March 2024
A wonderful and authentic way to experience a country and it's people, with a group of fellow travellers up for doing the same.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Tania - Traveled, March 2024
This was a fabulous trip. My husband and I wanted an ethical travel company, wanted someone else to be responsible for decisions and wanted some adventure. We got that plus so much more. Our local guide had so much info, tips and support. Our little group of 7 bonded and came away with new friends. Thank you intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Kate - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip, superb guide, Ben was caring, considerate and knowledgeable, with fun spirit. Homestay and cycling were such a highlight, everyone, drivers, homestay all wonderful, highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2024
Sarah - Traveled, February 2024
Just finished a trip to Northern Thailand with Intrepid. It was a great holiday - visiting lots of interesting places with a nice group and a lovely knowledgeable guide. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Kim - Traveled, February 2024
I had an amazing time, so many amazing memories, would highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Ovidiu - Traveled, February 2024
I had an unforgettable journey in Northern Thailand with Naowarat Janchay as my fantastic tour guide. I feel appreciative for the opportunity to have experienced such a stunning location rich in culture, cuisine, and history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Helen - Traveled, February 2024
A well organised, interesting and fun trip providing an excellent insight into Thailand. The homestay allowed us to see how people lived in this area and I really enjoyed our cooking classes both at the homestay and in Chaing Mai
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/04/2024
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