9 days
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son
This nine-day journey is a top pick for adventure enthusiasts heading to Thailand, also known as the Land of Smiles, and is ideal for those eager to explore both iconic landmarks and hidden gems in the northern region. From the bustling capital of Bangkok to the renowned Chiang Mai and the serene Mae Hong Son, you'll immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture, visit sacred temples, and witness breathtaking landscapes. Each day offers the perfect blend of cultural discovery, delightful cuisine, and tranquil moments.
By Day | Transfer | Destinations | Activities | Meals |
---|---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Bangkok | Arrival Bangkok, Leisure time | ||
Day 2 | Bangkok | One day in the city & Nightlife Experience | B, D | |
Day 3 | Bangkok | One day in the countryside | B | |
Day 4 | Bangkok | One day visit Ayutthaya and Aranyik Sword Village | B, L | |
Day 5 | Bangkok, Chiang Mai | Fly to Chiang Mai, Half day city tour, Dinner with Lana show (Dance and sword performance) | B, D | |
Day 6 | Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son | Private transfer to Mae Hong Son, Leisure time | B | |
Day 7 | Mae Hong Son | Visit to Su Tong Pae Bamboo Bridge, Pha Suea waterfall and Pang Tong Palace | B | |
Day 8 | Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai | Return to Chiang Mai, Stop to visit Doi Inthanon | B | |
Day 9 | Chiang Mai | Departure | B |
Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you will be greeted by your private guide from Asia Tours, who will escort you on a 30-minute drive to your chosen hotel in the heart of the city. They will also assist you with the check-in process.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, relaxing and settling in. Overnight in Bangkok.
09:00. Start your day early to witness the serene monks’ morning chanting ritual at Wat Pho. After this peaceful and intimate experience, explore the temple grounds and marvel at the iconic 45-meter-long reclining Buddha. Continue to the Grand Palace, Thailand’s most revered landmark, where you’ll be in awe of the grandeur of the buildings and throne halls. Don’t miss the chance to see the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred image.
12:30. Break for lunch (at your own expense).
14:00. In the afternoon, head to the Chao Phraya River for a private long-tail boat ride along the peaceful canals of Thonburi. Begin your journey with a stop at Baan Silapin, also known as The Artist’s House. This 200-year-old wooden house, beautifully restored, sits in a charming community of rustic shophouses connected by a wooden walkway along the canal, offering a glimpse into life before Bangkok’s modern sprawl.
Continue your canal tour, passing by Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a temple built during the Ayutthaya period. Here, your boat driver will pause for a photo opportunity of the massive Buddha statue, standing nearly 70 meters tall, making it the tallest Buddha in Bangkok.
Return to shore and head back to your hotel for a brief rest.
19:00. Your evening begins with a scenic drive through Bangkok’s historic quarters, offering illuminated views of the Grand Palace, the Royal Grounds, temples, and Ratchadamnoen Avenue. Enjoy a lavish Thai dinner and cocktails at “The Deck,” a riverside restaurant with stunning views of the Rattanakosin skyline.
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market, where you’ll be surrounded by exotic orchids and fragrant blooms. The market is especially lively at night, as vendors bustle about on mopeds. Don’t miss the adjacent local night market by the Memorial Bridge, where you can browse for unique handicrafts and souvenirs to take home.
Return to your hotel for check-in. Overnight in Bangkok.
08:00. This morning, we head south of Bangkok, traveling 80 km to Samut Songkhram, where you’ll get a true taste of life in the Thai countryside.
09:00. Our day begins with a visit to a local train station, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to experience a short regional train ride that takes us to an extraordinary market built right along the railway tracks. Please note that train delays are common in Thailand, which may result in slight adjustments to the itinerary.
At the market, you’ll be amazed by the skill and speed of the vendors, who swiftly pack up their stalls whenever a train approaches, creating a brief pause in the bustling shopping activity. This is a well-practiced routine, and the vendors have mastered the art of quickly assembling and reassembling their goods at a moment’s notice.
Next, we’ll head to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of the most iconic in the region. Here, you’ll witness the authenticity of local trading as you journey through the canals by paddleboat, passing lush plantations and Buddhist temples. Stop for a refreshing glass of palm sugar syrup and enjoy a chat with a welcoming local family.
Please note: The paddleboat ride can be experienced at your own expense.
13:00. After lunch at a local restaurant (at your own expense), we will visit the King Rama II Memorial Park. This park features a Thai-style pavilion museum, where you can explore artifacts from the early Rattanakosin era, as well as a beautifully landscaped garden filled with native flowers.
14:00. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the orchards, which adds to the charm of the village experience. Visit local artisans who craft exquisite hand-painted Benjarong porcelain and pottery before we return to Bangkok in the late afternoon.
Check in at your hotel. Overnight in Bangkok.
08:00. Meet your tour guide in the morning for your journey to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam and a bustling international trade hub from 1350 until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767, located about 84 kilometers from Bangkok.
Upon arrival, hop aboard a unique "Kermit" Tuk Tuk — a distinctive motorized vehicle found only in Ayutthaya and Trang Province — to explore the magnificent ruins and ancient temples within the historical park. Visit Wat Lokayasutharam and Wat Mahathat, where you’ll learn about the fascinating history and architectural uniqueness of each temple.
Next, head to the local market for a leisurely lunch, where you’ll have the freedom to explore and try local delicacies. Our guide will be happy to offer recommendations on the must-try dishes.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Aranyik Sword Village, a small settlement known for its skilled blacksmiths who have been forging steel swords for centuries, once used in combat and historical battles. Today, the village specializes in creating sword replicas, as well as innovative cutlery designs and tableware.
Return to Bangkok in your private car and check in at your hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok.
07:30. Meet your private driver in the hotel lobby and head to the airport for your morning flight to Chiang Mai (Flight VZ 102, 10:00-11:15, operated by Thai Vietjet).
Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Airport, your private guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Check in, and enjoy a short rest.
**Please note: Although we will do our best to have your room ready upon arrival, the official check-in time is 14:00, and your room may not be available before that time.
14:00. In the afternoon, visit Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in Northern Thailand, which houses a revered relic of Lord Buddha. Reach the temple by ascending over 300 steps flanked by large, mythological Nagas. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the city and witness the monks’ chanting during sunset.
Next, visit Wat U-Mong, a 600-year-old temple known for its grand painted pagoda and underground tunnels. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere, and if you wish, have a conversation with the abbot to learn more about Buddhism.
Afterward, head to the Old Chiangmai Cultural Center for a Khantoke dinner accompanied by a traditional Lana dance and sword performance.
Check in at your hotel. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
09:00. Meet your private tour guide in the hotel lobby and begin your scenic drive from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son (Distance: 240 kilometers, approximately 5 hours).
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to relax.
Overnight in Mae Hong Son.
06:30. Start your day early with a visit to the Su Tong Pae bamboo bridge to witness the serene morning alms-giving ceremony. Monks, leaving the monasteries at dawn, cross the bridge with bowls in hand to receive offerings. While food is the most common donation, locals also contribute flowers and incense.
Next, head to the village of Ban Gung Mai Sak and explore the tranquil Wat Phu Sama temple, a perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the picturesque village scenery.
Return to your hotel for a short refreshment break.
In the afternoon, meet your private guide for a visit to Pha Suea Waterfall, a majestic 10-meter high, 15-meter wide cascade. Take a leisurely walk through the lush mixed forest, breathing in the fresh, clean air.
Continue your journey to Pang Tong Palace, a royal family project surrounded by beautiful gardens, including a variety of flowers like orchids. Stroll through the grounds or take a drive, enjoying the blooming flowers, feeding the local sheep, and observing a diverse range of birds, including peacocks.
Return to your hotel by private vehicle and check in.
Overnight in Mae Hong Son.
This morning, meet your private tour guide and driver for your return journey to Chiang Mai. On the way, make a stop at Doi Inthanon, one of Thailand's most beloved national parks, renowned for its stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, remote villages, breathtaking viewpoints, and the cool climate at higher elevations year-round.
Reach the summit of Doi Inthanon, the park's most popular spot, offering panoramic views. Then, take a 30-minute walk along the Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, where you’ll immerse yourself in the dense, moss-covered forest, a truly magical experience.
Continue your drive back to Chiang Mai and check in to your hotel for some relaxation.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Enjoy a hotel breakfast before checking out at 11:00 AM. You’ll have some free time until your private driver arrives to transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. End of services.
Meals
8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners
Accommodation
Hotel (8 nights)
Transport
Car, Cruise, Train, Plane
Flight
1. Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Included Services
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Private tours give you more flexibility in your movements
Convenience and saving time are huge reasons people choose private tours
Add more exciting or reduce the less attractive destinations.