BANGKOK, CHIANG RAI & CHIANG MAI
The Kingdom of Thailand is a veritable feast for the senses, and you’ll savor its fascinating culture, extraordinary art and architecture, and flavorful cuisine with gusto. Our escorted Thailand tour package takes you to places both remote and well-known, starting with bustling Bangkok, the capital and the most visited city in the world. After the visual splendor and vibrant energy of Bangkok, you’ll be ready to breathe in Northern Thailand’s zen beauty and cultural delights. Intersect with Thailand, Myanmar and Laos at the Golden Triangle before visiting laid-back Chiang Rai and temple-rich Chiang Mai, where an elephant experience and a Thai cooking class add spice to this amazing destination! In 2024, travelers will also enjoy a special stay at the Hmong Village Lodge near Chiang Mai where we’ll learn more about their traditions and way of life. 5/5 stars on Tripadvisor!
Shorten Your Trip! Enjoy our 9-day Spirit of Thailand tour visiting Thailand’s highlights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Extend Your Trip! Enjoy our Amazing Thailand & Angkor Wat tour visiting Cambodia or our Amazing Thailand & Phuket Island tour which includes leisure time in one of Thailand’s most beautiful beach destinations.
Itinerary at a Glance
2024 Tour Itinerary:
- 3 nights in Bangkok
- 1 night in Phitsanulok
- 1 night in Lampang
- 3 nights in Chiang Mai
- 1 night at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
- 2 nights in Chiang Rai
Tour Highlights
- Buddhist Temples (Bangkok)
- Floating Market (Bangkok)
- Railway Market
- Wat Mongkol Borpith Statue (Ayutthaya)
- Tha Lo Saa Paper Community Project (Lampang)
- Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai)
- Wat Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai)
- Thai Cooking Class
- Karen Hill Tribe Village Visit
- White Marble Temple (Chiang Rai)
Your Tour Includes
- Optional round-trip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) including taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
- All intra-tour flights and transfers
- Ground transportation in an air-conditioned motorcoach
- Accommodations at superior first-class hotels
- 19 meals: 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 3 dinners
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours and entry fees as per itinerary
- Experienced, English-speaking Tour Director
Passengers who purchase flights will depart 2 days before the tour starts and return the day the tour ends.
You can find more details on the Before You Depart page.
Welcome to Thailand, the “Land of Smiles”. Travelers who purchased our air-inclusive program will be met and transferred to our upscale hotel on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This evening our tour director hosts a welcome dinner.
Accommodations: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside or similar
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast our tour director hosts an orientation meeting and then we'll embark on a tour to some of Bangkok's most outstanding Buddhist temples. Buddhism is practiced by more than 94% of the country and is central to understanding Thai culture. We'll see the White Marble Temple, one of the finest example of Thai architecture; and Wat Po with its colossal 150-foot long "Reclining Buddha." Next, we'll visit the former residence of the Kings, the Grand Palace. The mile-square palace grounds feature some of the most beautiful examples of ancient Siamese architecture including the Temple of the "Emerald Buddha". The rest of our day is free to rest and relax, or consider joining an optional tour!
Meals: Breakfast
Early this morning we'll leave for the Mae Klong Railway Market. As the name suggests, this market sits on a railway and whenever a train approaches, we can expect to see a flurry of activity as baskets of wares are moved and awnings come down so the train can travel right through the heart of the market. Next, we'll drive to the colorful floating market of Damneon Saduak where we'll watch merchants sell food, produce, baskets and more from their boats. Before we return to Bangkok, we'll stop at a sugar palm farm where we can sample the local area's delights. We'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant as we make our way back to Bangkok. This evening, consider a optional Pearl Dinner Cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we'll explore the ancient temple ruins and crumbling pagodas of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. We'll see some of the city's former glory in the giant bronze statue of Wat Mongkol Borpith and the three ancient pagodas of Wat Phra Sri. Next, is Wat Mahathat, "the Temple of the Great Relic" which was once one of the kingdom's most important temples. Here we'll see the sandstone Buddha that has become entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree. After our visit, our journey continues past beautiful rice paddies as we drive to Phitsanulok, the gateway to northern Thailand. After check in, we are free to relax for the rest of the day or might consider joining an optional tour to a local market.
Accommodations: Grand Riverside Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Before leaving Phitsanulok this morning, we'll stop at the famous Buddha Foundry where bronze Buddha images are cast in the increasingly rare traditional way with wax molds and molten bronze. The highlight of our day awaits us in Sukhothai. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the capital of the first Kingdom of Siam in the 13th and 14th centuries. Next, we'll visit its sister city, Sri Satchanalai where we'll stop at a privately-owned textile Museum. The private collection featured here includes antique and handwoven textiles including a gold sarong (or pha-sin) from the royal court of Keng Tung. Afterward, we'll continue to our Lampang hotel.
Accommodations: Tree Tara Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, we'll visit the Saa Paper Community Project. We'll have the chance to create our own souvenirs and our visit supports this local project dedicated to preserving traditional methods used make mulberry bark paper that have been passed down from generation to generation. Our next visit takes us to Dhanabaadee Ceramic Museum, where we'll discover the evolution of ceramic-making and watch local artisans craft the traditional "chicken bowl." We'll continue to Chiang Mai where the rest of the day is free to relax or explore. We might consider joining an optional Khantoke dinner this evening.
Accommodations: The Empress Premier Chiang Mai Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Today we'll meet Thailand's beloved national animal, the elephant, with a full-day visit to the Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary isn't just for elephants—it's home to buffalo, dogs, cats, birds, and many other rescued animals. We'll hear the personal stories of the rescued elephants, learn how they've come together to create a new herd free from abuse, often for the first time in their lives, and enjoy the sight of the free roaming elephants and other rescued animals in the natural surroundings of this sanctuary. Our visit supports elephant conservation in the region and allows us to slow down and learn from these majestic creatures.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today takes us to the revered mountainside temple of Doi Suthep. Each year, Buddhist pilgrims journey to the temple on foot which can take six to eight hours! We'll skip the challenging trek and drive up the winding road instead. From our drop off point, we can choose to scale the 300 steps of the beautifully carved Naga Serpent Staircase, or ride the cable car to the summit. We'll explore the temple's beautiful architecture, statues, murals, and shrines—all of which are nothing short of breathtaking. Tonight, we'll enjoy a cooking class and delicious dinner experience together. After our cooking experience, we'll enjoy an authentic meal together followed by a traditional herb drink!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast at our hotel, we'll drive north to the Mae Rim area. On the way, we'll stop to explore the lush Araksa Tea Garden where we'll learn about the age-old traditions and tea growing processes. We'll enjoy a home-style lunch made from locally sourced and organic produce before we continue to the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge. This resort offers us a unique opportunity to experience Hmong culture in the scenic valley of the Suthep-Pui mountain range. This afternoon, we might consider an optional hike to visit villages further afield with experienced guides.
Accommodations: Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we'll drive north to Chiang Rai via the Wiang Pa Pao. En route, we'll stop at Mae Krachan Hotspring where we can relax and soak our feet in one of the steamy pools and boil an egg in the natural springs! Our drive continues to Wat Rongkun, or the White Temple, one of Thailand's most recognizable temples, and then to Wat Huay Plakang. We'll have an unforgettable visit with the Karen Hilltribe at Baan Ruam Mid. Here, this minority group maintains their distinct culture, religion, and language by passing them down from generation to generation. After out visit, we'll board a longtail boat for a ride up the Mae Kok River to Chiang Rai where we'll check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Note: If temperatures are too warm to visit the hotspring, the group will visit a café at Wiang Pa Pao.
Accommodations: Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we'll drive through the narrow and scenic roads to Doi Tung Mountain, home to many local hilltribe communities. We'll visit the Doi Tung Royal Project which continues to transform this area which was once used to cultivate opium. Today, the communities here cultivate a number of products including coffee! In fact, Doi Tung coffee is one of Thailand's most famous coffee brands. Next, we'll visit the Doi Tung Palace, Mae Fah Luang Garden, and then the Hall of Opium which is dedicated to portraying every angle of the opium story from its origin, the wars, the drug smugglers, the battle against growing, and the rehabilitation of the people in this former worldwide drug trading zone. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Chiang Rai.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Our tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Travelers who purchased our air-inclusive package will transfer to the airport for our return flight to the U.S.
Meals: Breakfast
Plan ahead to maximize your savings!
Prices listed as “with flights” below include round-trip
airfare from one or more airports in the USA.
Travelers may choose to purchase the tour only,
and arrange their own arrival in destination.
Please note this may change your tour start date.
Rates are per person based on double occupancy.
Single supplement applies when not sharing a room. Select a
date above to see the rates for that specific departure.
For more information on this tour, please
contact us here
or call us during business hours (Monday-Friday from 9:00 am - 5:30 pm Eastern)
at 1.800.337.7773.
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made online or by phone
(1.800.337.7773)
and will be confirmed upon receipt of your non-refundable,
non-transferable deposit, which must be received at the
time of reservation.
Deposits are $300 per person.
Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Space and prices subject to availability.
Please see the
smarTours Terms and Conditions for complete
booking information.
Featured Accommodations
Set on the Chao Phraya River, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Bangkok Menam Riverside features luxury rooms, free shuttle boat, spa and pool.
2074 Charoenkrung Road, Bangkorlaem, Bangkok, 10120, Thailand
Website
Conveniently located with spa and outdoor pool.
68/33 Akathodsarod Road, A. Muang, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
Website
Chomphu, Mueang Lampang District, Lampang 52100, Thailand
Website
Located in the heart of Chiang Mai, the Empress Premier Chiang Mai Hotel features a spa, pool, and fitness center.
199/42 Chang Klan Rd., Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
Website
Experience Hmong culture at this eco lodge in the Chiang Mai Valley. In addition to the unique opportunities to meet with and learn from the local hilltribes, this lodge features an outdoor swimming pool overlooking an organic rice paddy.
111 Moo 4, Tambon Mae Raem, Amphur Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, 50180
Website
This serene hotel is located just a few minutes drive from Chiang Rai's center and features an herbal spa, fitness center, and infinity pool overlooking the Mae Kok River.
124/15 Moo21 Kohloy Road, Amphur Muang, Chiang Rai 57000
Website
Optional Tours
Enhance your trip with these optional tours.
Indicated optional tours are available to pre-book
when you reserve your trip and can be added to your
reservation up to final payment. This is the best option
to guarantee your spot on your preferred optional tour!
Optional tours require a minimum number of participants.
Optional tours are non-refundable unless they do not operate.
Some optional tours can be purchased in-destination and
may cost extra. The payment methods and currency
information to purchase tours in-destination will be
provided on final documentation.
Day 2 Afternoon Tour
Discover why Bangkok has been nicknamed the “Venice of the East!” We'll travel from our hotel to Thornburi, situated on the right bank of the river, where we'll board a private motorboat and ride along the canals to get a firsthand impression of the scenic life along the city’s waterways. A stop will also be made at the Royal Barge Museum.
AVAILABLE TO PRE-BOOK!
Day 3 Evening Tour
Experience a different side of Bangkok with our dinner cruise down the Chao Phraya River. From the River City Pier, we'll embark on the luxurious Grand Pearl. We'll set sail, sipping on a welcome cocktail as we take in the spectacular views of Bangkok's skyline including the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. Once the sun has set, we can indulge in a delicious Thai and international cuisine buffet, dining under the moonlight with live music. Our incredible entertainment this evening also includes a classical Thai dance with the bright lights of the city making the perfect backdrop.
AVAILABLE TO PRE-BOOK!
Day 4 Afternoon Tour
Hop on a local tuk-tuk to explore a vibrant market, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere on foot, gaining insights into local delicacies. Our guide will introduce us to local foods or snacks, providing us a chance to sample some treats. After our tour of the local market, we'll return to our hotel by tuk-tuk.
AVAILABLE TO PRE-BOOK!
-
$32–39, transfers included
Day 6 Evening Tour
Enjoy a dinner featuring local specialties, followed by a breathtaking performance of songs and dance by members of local hilltribes dressed in traditional garb.
AVAILABLE TO PRE-BOOK!
What to Expect
Max Group Size: 30 travelers
Activity Level: Level 2
Expect most included touring to require walking and standing periods up to 4 hours at a time (up to 2 times per day). Included touring may feature light hiking, and/or stairs on some hilly and/or uneven terrain. Learn More
Pacing Level: Moderate
Expect full-day tours most days with some limited free time at specific sites, for meals, and/or in the evenings. You can expect several early mornings and/or long travel days by bus (don’t worry—there are always comfort stops!), and you may expect to stay in most accommodations for 2+ nights (with limited 1-night stays). Learn More
No Additional Entry Requirements for U.S. Passport Holders
A valid passport is required for international tours. Currently, there are no additional entry requirements for U.S. passport holders, but this can change at any time. Before travel, both U.S. and non-U.S. passport holders should visit our Passports & Visas page to reconfirm entry requirements.
There are a few early mornings on the days of the visit to the Floating Markets and the travel days.
For more detailed information about this tour and destination, visit
our Before You Depart section.
Reviews
Dave C
1 month ago
Great tour with good balance of activities. Very friendly people and always felt safe. Not speaking Thai was not an issue and most people we came across could speak some English and those that could not were so friendly and patient that we worked it out. Was a great way to see all of Thailand. Great tour guides that are not just good tour guides but great people.
Lauren C
1 month ago
Phenomenal adventure!
Culture, fantastical temples and ruins, outstanding food and interactive experiences puts this trip over the top!
Our guide is incomparable in her knowledge, compassion, interpersonal astuteness and professional energy.
Highly recommend!
Barbara C
1 month ago
I loved the tour and the tour director. She took care of the people with their interests and comfort
Dennis J
2 months ago
A very solid itinerary made much more enjoyable by the duo of tour directors.
Andrea K
2 months ago
Beauty. History ,art ,culture ,food ,adventures all rolled into a trip of a lifetime I enjoyed every moment
Renee
3 months ago
Informative
Nurturing guides
Hands on at times
Very organized
Carol
3 months ago
Very interesting
Tara L
3 months ago
This was our third SmarTours and all have been good, but this was by far the best! This was due to the combination of our team of Tour Directors and Drivers, as well as being able to be immersed in the Thai Culture. We were able to see, do, and be part of so many experiences that would not have been possible had we tried to plan a trip without someone native to the country who spoke the language and was aware of the memorable opportunities. We were exposed to a variety of new foods, got to learn about Thai history, and see so many important parts of the Thai culture. Many thanks!
Patricia A
3 months ago
Amazing Thailand trip was an excellent tour. I enjoyed seeing all the temples and markets.
Maggie A
3 months ago
The Amazing Thailand & Angkor Wat tour was incredible. We thoroughly enjoyed the temple visits, the boat rides, monument ruins visits, and all the other activities. Our tour guides were all wonderful (Ketsara/Nok/Bun). A special shout out for Ketsara/Nok for going above and beyond the call of duty; for making our trip memorable. Most of the hotels were great. I think the flights were poorly planned which made for longer layover wait times and unnecessary stress. All in all, Thailand/Cambodia are great destinations. Do not over pack; there's plenty of retail opportunities at very inexpensive prices. Take an extra bag, you will most likely need it. For temple visits, just be sure to pack wardrobe that covers shoulders and knees. You only need one pair of pants that covers the ankles for the palace tour…otherwise, leave your pants at home as it is super hot and humid. If shopping is not your thing, there’s plenty of sightseeing till your hearts content.