Best of Northern Thailand: Temples, Trails & Elephant Tales

Experience authentic Chiang Mai at Tamarind Village, cooking Thai classics and exploring temples by night.
Ride scenic rails to Lampang and hike to Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Thailand’s hidden “Little Bhutan.”
Observe elephants at The Bush Camp before cruising Bangkok’s canals and temples from Pullman G.
Taste Bangkok’s vibrant Chinatown street food and uncover World War II history along the River Kwai.
Unwind by the sea at Devasom Hua Hin and explore Sam Roi Yod’s limestone peaks and hidden royal cave.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

Trip Features

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Family Friendly

Fun, safe adventures to delight travellers of all ages.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Unique Accommodation

Incorporates distinctive stays that add personality and memorable flair.

Wildlife Encounters

Offers chances to observe animals responsibly in their natural habitats.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Family Friendly

Fun, safe adventures to delight travellers of all ages.

Iconic Landmarks

Features renowned sites that capture the essence of each destination.

Unique Accommodation

Incorporates distinctive stays that add personality and memorable flair.

Wildlife Encounters

Offers chances to observe animals responsibly in their natural habitats.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Chiang Mai

DAY

Half Day Grandma's Cooking Class and Market Visit & Chiang Mai Night Discovery with Dinner

DAY

Full Day Little Bhutan of Northern Thailand

DAY

Chiang Mai to The Bush Camp

DAY

Depart from The Bush Camp to Bangkok

DAY

Full Day Best of Bangkok: Temples & Klongs

DAY

Evening Chinatown Food Experience

DAY

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to River Kwai

DAY

River Kwai

DAY

Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin

DAY

Full Day Sam Roi Yod National Park

DAY

Hua Hin at Leisure

DAY

Depart from Hua Hin

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Chiang Mai

Transfer

Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Mai - Old City

Your Accommodation

Tamarind Village

Located at the heart of historic Chiang Mai is Tamarind Village which is a unique boutique property that serves as the perfect base for exploring the city's ancient temples and shopping districts. The name Tamarind comes from the 200-year-old tree that gives shade to the hotel, creating a cool and relaxing ambience.

Duration

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Show on Map

DAY

Half Day Grandma's Cooking Class and Market Visit & Chiang Mai Night Discovery with Dinner

Today you will uncover the secrets behind famous Thai dishes at Grandma's Home Cooking School. Get picked up this morning and travel south of the city center to a traditional Sala (open air) house to meet a local chef. After a short introduction on the day's activities, head out to a nearby fresh market to collect your ingredients. The chef will introduce the ingredients, exotic herbs and spices and their use, and explain Thailand's food culture. Armed with new knowledge of Thai cuisine and its ingredients, start cooking! Chop vegetables, create spicy sauces and fry up sizzling plates. Throughout the course the chef will share their personal story and offer tips and hints for preparing these same dishes in your own kitchen. When everything is ready, sit down and enjoy the delicious fresh dishes for lunch. Savour the delicate flavours of home-cooked Thai cuisine, enjoying the results of the day's activities. After lunch, return to the hotel with a full belly and a better understanding of Chiang Mai's foodie culture.

Day Tour

Half Day Grandma's Home Cooking Class and Market Visit

Day Tour

Chiang Mai Night Discovery with Dinner

DAY

Full Day Little Bhutan of Northern Thailand

This morning, be picked up and taken to Chiang Mai train station for a train departing at approx. 08:50 bound for the town of Lampang. The journey is about 2 hours and passes through some impressive scenery along the way. The countryside of northern Thailand is a site to behold and there is no better way to view it than from the comfort of a train. On arrival in Lampang, be met by the guide. Lampang is a small traditional Northern Thai town and in parts is like stepping back in time. It is common to see the locals travelling by horse drawn carriages. Lampang has quite a long history dating back to the 7th century when Queen Chammathewi the first ruler of the Lamphun area founded the town to give her son a place to govern after her death. After disembarking from the train, head down to the riverside for a walk around the main town center. See how the locals live their daily life, unchanged for centuries but still embracing aspects of the modern world. There are some beautiful spots to stop along the way, cafes and restaurants. Be sure to look up while strolling along Talad Gao Road in Lampang as the buildings have fantastic architecture. Stop at Wat Koh Walugaram and marvel at the preservation of this unique temple. After the morning walk, head to a vintage noodle shop along the road and sample the traditional Northern Thai style of cooking egg noodles. The café's posters and wall artwork are interesting and the food is delicious. After lunch, head by van for a 1 hour drive to an area known as Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat or little Bhutan. On arrival at the visitor center at the foot of the mountain, switch to a songtaew (a local open-air bus) to be taken to the starting point of the hike. Then embark on a hike up the mountain. All of the hard work of the climb is well worth it and truly rewarding when you discover this incredible part of Thailand that remain unknown to most visitors. The site at the top offers a breathtaking view and the temple is like nothing else in Thailand. The Stupas are seated on top of the rocks at the top of the mountain and it feels like a smaller and untouched version of Bagan in Myanmar. Embrace the spiritual atmosphere here and take some time to relax. With some luck, there may be some local monks on the walk. Having spent some time embracing the spectacular views over the Northern Thailand, head back down to the songtaew van and then relax in a transfer back to Chiang Mai for the evening.

Day Tour

Full Day Little Bhutan of Northern Thailand

DAY

Chiang Mai to The Bush Camp

This morning, transfer from Chiang Mai to The Bush Camp. Arrive in the late morning and enjoy a delicious Thai lunch. After lunch check in and prepare for the day's activities which are set around The Bush Camp's elephant and mahout experiences. Visit the free-roaming elephant park and prepare food for the elephants. A truly once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Thailand majestic giants in their natural home. Spend time in the Elephant Cafe as elephants roam peacefully in front of you. Explore the life of the mahouts by seeing how they live together with nature and their elephants. Experience the traditions of the mahout by watching their families pound rice, weave their own hand made clothes and go about their daily life. Sample some of their cooking. After the day's activities, enjoy a sundowner on one of the many mountain-top viewpoints which overlook the majestic Ping River, the lifeblood of northern Thailand. Experience barbequed delicacies and a drink or two while watching the northern-Thai sun set behind the mountains. After watching the sun set and having time to freshen up, enjoy a buffet dinner off freshly prepared Thai and western dishes.

Multi Day Tour

Arrive at The Bush Camp

Meal

Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Bush Camp Chiang Mai

The Bush Camp Chiang Mai is located on the Ping river with stunning views overlooking lush vegetation and misty mountains, typical of Northern Thailand. The Bush Camp consists of 10 tailormade, luxury tents, resembling African safari accommodation – all built by highly skilled local artisans prioritizing sustainability and supporting the local community.

Show on Map

DAY

Depart from The Bush Camp to Bangkok

Start the morning with a fresh buffet breakfast at your leisure. Afterwards head to the "Free Roaming Forest" and sample "Kafee Boran" and "Kanom Krok" a traditional coffee and breakfast snack enjoyed by the mahouts and observe how the elephants are cared for. Learn more about how mahouts work with elephants at The Bush Camp. Understand more about good animal husbandry techniques and how to administer veterinary care for the benefit of the pachyderms. Emjoy lunch overlooking the mountains and Ping River and then transfer to Chiang Mai.

Transfer

Bangkok Airport to Bangkok - Silom

Your Accommodation

Pullman Bangkok Hotel G

Pullman Bangkok Hotel G offers 469 modern, stylishly designed rooms that will make a stay extra special, by combining comfortable features alongside trendy vibes. With floor-to-ceiling windows, guests can take in a wide view of Bangkok from each room, without experiencing any interruptions from the busy city.

Duration

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Multi Day Tour

Depart from The Bush Camp

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

Show on Map

DAY

Full Day Best of Bangkok: Temples & Klongs

Start the morning with a trip to Wat Pho, arguably Bangkok's most enchanting temple. Arrive just as the resident monks gather for their morning chants. Witness this deeply spiritual ritual and gain a better sense of Thailand's Buddhist heritage. After the chants, take a walk around Wat Pho and see the vast collection of religious treasures on display. The tour then continues to the nearby Grand Palace, which has served as the seat of Thailand's revered Royal family for more than two centuries. Take a walk around the vast grounds, stopping in to explore the various temples, throne halls and museums within the compound. Visit the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddhist image in Thailand, and hear about its mysterious origins. Take a break for lunch in a riverside restaurant, enjoying delicious Thai food with fabulous views. Then continue onwards to visit Wat Trimitr, on the edge of Chinatown, which houses the world's largest solid gold Buddha. Afterwards take a long-tail boat and move away from the high rises of the city and venture through the quiet canals upon which the city was originally built. Catch glimpses of the olden days, passing by charming neighbourhoods built on the water's edge. Return to the main waterway, the Chao Phraya River, to visit Wat Arun and admire its incredible decoration with ceramic tiles depicting figures of Chinese soldiers and animals. After a full day of exploring Bangkok, you'll be returned to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day Tour

Full Day Best of Bangkok Temples and Klongs

DAY

Evening Chinatown Food Experience

From the savoury bites of traditional Chinese dumplings to the sweet treats of fried sugary donuts, taste the delicacies of Bangkok's famous Chinatown. Discover the Chinese culture of Bangkok through seeing, smelling and tasting. As the sun sets, Bangkok really comes alive and just about every street is filled with the great smell of delicious food that really ignites the taste buds. The neighborhood is internationally renowned for the city's longest street food stalls, and definitely there is no other way to explore the area's best kept food secrets than by foot. You'll explore the glittering and energetic Chinatown's Yaowarat Street and be introduced to the history of the area and some favorite street food artisans. Grab delicious bites of various kinds of food, from the famous Chinese dumplings, peppered pork noodles, Chinese donuts, and many more! Enjoy sweet Chinese desserts and visit a tea shop house. Following your tour, you'll be returned to your hotel.

Day Tour

Evening Chinatown Food Experience

DAY

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to River Kwai

Early this morning, drive south from Bangkok to the garden province of Samut Songkhram (80km) in the Mae Klong River delta area. Visit a unique country market along the railway tracks where local people gather to buy and sell a variety of goods. From here, the journey continues to the very famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Although quite touristy today, the market remains the best example to showcase what a floating market was like decades ago. Take a fascinating paddleboat journey through the waterways to visit a family that makes coconut sugar syrup at their teak house, and taste a glass of the sweet juice. Visit some beautiful local temples, see a 400 year-old banyan tree and interesting statues depicting the traditional art of Thai boxing. Then visit Rama II Park, which houses a local museum with traditional artifacts. The day continues with a drive to Kanchanaburi, where you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The restaurant is situated near the famous "Bridge on the River Kwai", which was built by Allied prisoners of war during World War II. Visit Thailand-Burma Railway Center Museum and stroll through the historical lanes in the Pak Preak community, lined with charming shop houses built during the reign of King Rama V. Dinner and Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Multi Day Tour

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to River Kwai

Meal

Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Float House River Kwai

Elegant in it's distinctive boutique style, The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort aims to be the world's best floating resort. The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort is a fancy boutique hideaway and can be found in very few places in the world. The only way to reach the resort is by boat as it actually floats on a flowing river surrounded by thick green jungle. Each luxurious and spacious floating villa is totally private and rich in custom tailored-made teakwood furniture with thatched roofing. The design is delightfully impressive with exotic decorations including natural materials and ropes. The design concept for the resort is known as "Contemporary Boutique Folk Style," for a smooth blend of local artistic traditions with the natural environment, yet different from anywhere else in its characteristic rope designs that convey an oriental air.

Show on Map

DAY

River Kwai

After a hearty breakfast, take a one-hour drive (80km) to the northwestern part of the city. Visit the Hellfire Pass Museum before embarking on a trek through the nearby canyon. The walk along the Memorial Walking Trail overlooks the hills of Myanmar. A free audio guide, narrated by former POWs, is provided to help guests understand the conditions endured by those working on the line during World War II. After lunch at a local restaurant, take a short train ride along the infamous 'death railway' through Kwai Noi gorge. After the ride, transfer back to Kanchanaburi for dinner at your resort.

Multi Day Tour

River Kwai

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

The Float House River Kwai

Show on Map

DAY

Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin

After breakfast, visit Prasat Muang Singh, a Khmer temple complex dating back to the Angkorian period. Walk around the peaceful historical ruins and explore the history and culture of the area before driving to beach town of Hua Hin.

Your Accommodation

Devasom Hua Hin Resort

Devasom Hua Hin Resort is a beautiful beachfront property offering a serene escape with stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. Surrounded by lush greenery and calm waters, the resort features elegant rooms and villas, each designed with traditional Thai architecture and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy upscale amenities like an infinity pool, spa, and fine dining, all while basking in the peaceful, romantic ambiance perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Duration

3 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Full Breakfast

Multi Day Tour

Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin

Meal

Breakfast

Show on Map

DAY

Full Day Sam Roi Yod National Park

Spend the day exploring the south's wild landscapes on this tour of Sam Roi Yot National Park. Meaning "Mountain of Three Hundred Peaks", Sam Roi Yot was Thailand's first coastal national park and covers an expansive stretch of wetlands, limestone mountains and beaches. Today's visit covers a mix of sights, giving a taste of the wonderful diversity of this part of the country. Set off from Hua Hin on a scenic drive to the south. After passing through the park's entrance, you'll visit a pineapple plantation and learn how these tasty fruits are grown and harvested. Continue onwards to Bang-Pu, a thriving fishing village for a glimpse into the lives of the fishermen. Then board a motorboat and cruise away from the shoreline to enjoy fabulous views of the ocean and coast. After 20 minutes, the boat will dock at a beautiful stretch of beach. Walk to the nearby entrance of Phraya Nakhon Cave where a longer, 430-metre walk awaits. Although called a "cave" Phraya Nakhon is actually a sunlit cavern formed by two sinkholes. Travel deeper into the earth, enjoying the surreal landscapes before reaching the centre of the cavern. Be amazed at the site of a royal pavilion, surrounded by dripping stalactites and illuminated by the sun filtering through. Return to the beach where a delicious lunch awaits. The afternoon is free to relax on the pristine sands and swim in the warm sea before returning to Hua Hin and being transferred back to your hotel.

Day Tour

Full Day Sam Roi Yod National Park

DAY

Hua Hin at Leisure

Enjoy the day as you wish. If you would like to arrange an activity, excursion, or other experience, please contact your Goway Destination Specialist.

DAY

Depart from Hua Hin

Transfer

Hua Hin to Bangkok - Suvarnabhumi Airport

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Walk amongst the elephants, feeding them, and experiencing the beauty of the gentle giants around you

Elephants in Chiang Mai

Sam Roi Yod National Park

Grand Palace in Bangkok

Floating markets of Samut Songkhram

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

Hua HinLight Rain

34°C / 94°F

79mm / 3.1"

City 582Light Rain

36°C / 96°F

64mm / 2.5"

City 627Occasional Showers

36°C / 96°F

55mm / 2.2"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,219 Reviews

Verified

The booking processs was really easy. Katie was very communicative and was very responsive. Every change we asked for, she quickly replied. The room arrangements had a small hiccupp but Katie fixed it within minutes! All the excursions were a blast and well planned. The trip was a bucket list trip and was everything we hoped for. Alison M

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Allan Birkett at Goway has been an absolute godsend! Over the past year, he has helped me plan numerous vacations—especially honeymoons—and has been an incredible partner every step of the way. He is always quick to respond, patient with my clients' frequent changes, and goes above and beyond to help whenever an issue comes up. His knowledge, professionalism, and dedication make my job as a travel advisor so much easier. I truly appreciate everything Allan does and highly recommend him to anyone looking for exceptional service. Thank you, Allan, for always being thereBrooke Echols

Verified

Our 2-week trip to Normandy, Switzerland and Italy after we disembarked from the Queen Mary 2 in Southampton in mid-May was superb. Michael Keon did an amazing job of putting together highlights for us to see and visit with the short time we had. All the train reservations, private and small group tours and transportations were very well coordinated, on time, and usually exceeded our expectations. Drivers were courteous and knowledgeable. Mike did a wonderful job getting everything coordinated, in spite of our almost “last minute” booking. I booked a month-long trip through GOWAY back in 1989 for Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, and they were superb then. So I tried them again, and found the entire organization to be even better. Mike was quick to respond to any questions that came up regarding booksings and times, regardless of the 6-hour time difference. Just superb! Although we had a nasty experience in Milan, GOWAY was very responsive and saw to our requests and our needs. Again, Michael Keon is the person who coordinated our travel. I will ask for Mike when I travel again with GOWAY. I recommend GOWAY highly. PJ Wheeler

Verified

A BIG THANK YOU to Goway Travel, Brooke Theron and all of the partners onsite. Our trip to Africa was incredible, memories that will last forever. Everything planned and more went perfectly. The guides, the excursions, the accommodations, everything, was just spectacular. Fortunately, everything ran on time, no delays, no problems. Thank you again!! Linda Irias

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I have been blessed to have an amazing rep, Farooq Qaisar! He has helped me find the best spots for my clients to experience and when I am looking for something and just can't figure it out, he is able to put together something better than I was thinking. He my go-to and I am thankful for all his help over the years!Sherri

Verified

Goway helped plan our two week trip to Peru and they (Virginia in particular) did a great job. The on-site logistics with Condor Travel went very smoothly, and the trip exceeded our expectations overall. They proactively suggested changes to our initial itinerary which were welcomed. I would recommend them and would work with them again in the future.Kate O'Neill

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We entrusted Goway with every detail of our trip from start to finish and they came through for us superbly! Every single detail was smooth sailing. It was a joy to plan our travels with Goway!! We had an amazing trip of a lifetime! E&D

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I recently went on an African Safari with my brother-in-law and sister and another couple who I knew. The entire experience was absolutely unbelievable. The complete details were flawlessly coordinated from the transfers to the breathtaking lodges. Our guides Peter showed us Kenya and Maulid Tanzania were very knowledgeable and very sharp eyes for finding the animals. We were able to see the animals up close, learn a lot about the people, birds , vegetation etc. We had several sundowners in the bush really added to a magical experience with beautiful sunsets. I would highly recommend Goway to all my friends, they will not be disappointed. Thank you to Bijal for the excellent African Safari that you put together for us. You were wonderful.Nancy Hay

Verified

We enjoyed our trip very much. I was very pleased by the hotel, tours, and itinerary selections that Alice Teramoto made for us. It was all well organized and easy to follow. Thank you very much for helping us have a great experience in Peru.IN

Verified

Everything was planned perfectly. The excursions were so small and personal. Ask for Mark! I have already planned another trip back to the Oregon wine country with Mark. Claire

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What do the experts say?

Leo Liu

Destination Specialist

Learn More About This Expert

Thailand is a friendly destination with fun & warm people, great food, and impressive cultural and beach experiences. Simply wandering neighbourhoods, visiting temples, shops & viewpoints, and eating at local restaurants are what I enjoy most when visiting Thailand. The south of Thailand is a special location with beautiful scenery and a seemingly laid back lifestyle, so visiting this area is always a special and memorable experience.

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Steve Hope

Team Lead

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The experience of travelling from island to island on longtail boats in the south of Thailand is something that still resonates with me after many years.

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Steve Hope

Team Lead

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For families, visiting a sustainable community in Koh Yao Yai can bring the trip to life with local interaction. For honeymooners, personalizing memorable experiences with special menus, in-room dining and more can really elevate the experience for Goway guests.

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Leo Liu

Destination Specialist

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All the people that I met at the hotel, restaurants, and parks were always smiling at me. I can feel that they are grateful to all international tourists. A Thai smile inspires me most and makes me want to revisit.

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Insider Benefits

Best of Northern Thailand: Temples, Trails & Elephant Tales

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

Arrive in Chiang Mai

Half Day Grandma's Cooking Class and Market Visit & Chiang Mai Night Discovery with Dinner

Full Day Little Bhutan of Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai to The Bush Camp

Depart from The Bush Camp to Bangkok

Full Day Best of Bangkok: Temples & Klongs

Evening Chinatown Food Experience

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to River Kwai

River Kwai

Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin

Full Day Sam Roi Yod National Park

Hua Hin at Leisure

Depart from Hua Hin

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Chiang Mai

Half Day Grandma's Cooking Class and Market Visit & Chiang Mai Night Discovery with Dinner

Full Day Little Bhutan of Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai to The Bush Camp

Depart from The Bush Camp to Bangkok

Full Day Best of Bangkok: Temples & Klongs

Evening Chinatown Food Experience

Bangkok to Samut Songkhram to River Kwai

River Kwai

Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin

Full Day Sam Roi Yod National Park

Hua Hin at Leisure

Depart from Hua Hin

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Most Popular Time to Travel

Know when to go.

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

What do the experts say?

Leo Liu

Steve Hope

Steve Hope

Leo Liu

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.