Highlights of Thailand





An immersive adventure that ties together Thailand’s greatest hits
Journey through the Land of Smiles, where spicy delicacies, majestic elephants, golden Buddhas, colourful hilltribe villages, and fantastic markets all come together. Thailand's stunning beauty and charming culture are always present on this 10-day small group adventure. Witness traditional hilltribe life in a Hmong village, support the rehabilitation of the endangered Asian elephant in Chiang Mai, cruise down Bangkok’s famous khlongs, step back in time in the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai and try your hand at creating some delectable Thai dishes. This is your chance to capture the adventure and timeless essence of Thailand.
4.8
101 reviewsStart: Bangkok, Thailand
End: Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Duration
- 10 days
- Group size
- 1 to 12
- Minimum age
- 15 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Comfort
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Explorer
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- Experience an unforgettable day in the company of the giants of the jungle, Asian elephants, at a reserve that will teach you about conservation and animal protection in this region.
- Take in some of Thailand’s most iconic sights, including the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi, and the Doi Suthep temple in Chiang Mai.
- Whip up a culinary storm in Sukhothai, creating and tasting delicious traditional dishes at a cooking class with a local host.
- Immerse yourself in an ancient culture with a night in the Hmong lodge, where you’ll be treated to a barbecue dinner and Hmong cultural show.
- Uncover the ancient charms of Sukhothai on a leisurely bike tour through the ruin-filled Historical Park, followed by a delicious picnic lunch.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2026 - 31 December 2026
Itinerary
Sa-wat dee, welcome to Thailand! Your adventure begins in the country’s bustling capital, Bangkok, famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai food. A welcome meeting will take place at 6pm tonight where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive in Bangkok with time to spare, you may like to take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in some Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, perhaps get to know your group over dinner at one of the many restaurants surrounding your hotel.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.
Begin the day with a river cruise down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous ‘khlongs’ (canals). Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Pay a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The sprawling royal complex houses numerous ornate structures that highlight the grand architectural traditions of Thailand. Later in the day, travel south by private minibus to Kanchanaburi (approximately 2.5 hours). Located where the confluence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers, Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous 'Bridge on the River Kwai'.
- Resort (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
- Bangkok - Grand Palace
Today’s total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.
This morning, make tracks for the Erawan Falls. These terraced waterfalls, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, cascade into a series of emerald green pools – a beautiful place to swim, walk or sit back and relax. After your visit drive to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, built to honour the allied prisoners of war (POWs) and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway. You can head out to a teak observation deck and look across to Myanmar just kilometres away. You’ll also see the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, that got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Boarding at Nam Tok station, the main terminal of the Death Railway, take a ride along the historic tracks along the Kwai Noi River and travel over the original wooden viaduct (the Bridge on the River Kwai) constructed by the allied POWs. Pass through magnificent scenery and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. Tonight, you can explore the rows of street vendors in town and perhaps grab a drink overlooking the River Kwai.
- Resort (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
- Kanchanaburi - Historical train ride
- Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park & Falls
For safety reasons, there might be closures of Erawan NP and waterfalls during the rainy season. Our local representative will be able to inform you on the ground and make alternative arrangements.
Closure of the Hell Fire Pass:
1 Jan: New Year's Day; 13-15 Apr: Songkran Holiday; 5–25 May: Annual Maintenance Work; 5 Dec -National Day; 24-27 Dec: Christmas Holidays; 31 Dec: New Year’s Eve.
During these dates we will offer a visit to JEATH WWII Museum in Kanchanaburi City instead of the Pass.
Head away from Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya in a private minivan this morning. Once the capital in the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues can be found in Ayutthaya’s Historical Park, which you’ll explore this afternoon. Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, explore the photogenic 13th-century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat and discover rows of Buddhas beheaded by the Burmese. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree - one of the country’s most photographed images.
- Resort (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Ayutthaya - Historical Park
Today’s total travel time is approximately 4 hours.
Buckle up for a bit of travelling today. Take a traditional songthaew from your accommodation to the train station, then board a day train to Phitsanuloke. From there, take a minivan to Sukhothai, the historic capital of Siam, Be sure to have your music, podcasts or movies downloaded or a good book handy, as you’ll be sweeping through the countryside on a relaxing travel day. Once arrived at your resort, spend some time in the open air and perhaps have a swim in the onsite pool!
- Resort (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today’s train journey is approximately 5 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour drive.
Located on a fertile plain, Sukhothai was established in the 13th century as one of the first ancient capitals of Siam, 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. 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 striking Buddha images and four large ponds often filled with stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. Upon arrival at the park, hop on bicycles and enjoy a few leisurely hours learning about the history of this fascinating place, tucking into a tasty picnic lunch at the end of your ride. Have some free time this afternoon before heading to a local house for a Thai-style cooking class. You’ll learn some traditional recipes from the Sukhothai region like chilli pastes, fragrant curries, spicy soups, steamed fish cakes and Thai custard. Your host will help you prepare these dishes and will assist you in making a delicious spread to share at the end.
- Resort (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
- Sukhothai - Thai cooking class
- Sukhothai - Bike Tour Lunch
If you prefer not to cycle for today's activity, an electric tuk tuk can be arranged at an additional cost.
Take a minivan on a drive north to the Hmong Hilltribe Lodge in picturesque hilly countryside. Set in a peaceful valley of a scenic mountain range and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes of jungle and mountains, the Hmong lodge offers a unique and tranquil experience. It's a great escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist spots. The rooms are simple and rustic, fitting perfectly with the natural environment. Be sure to pack a warm jumper as the weather will be mild and cool year-round due to the lofty mountain location. The Hmong are an ethnic minority in Thailand who originated in central China, and today they make up the second largest hilltribe group in Thailand. After a barbecue dinner in the lodge's open-air dining area, the day concludes with a cultural performance by the Hmong people. You'll gain an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the tribe, with a wedding ceremony enactment, shamanic ritual and makong (cotton ball) throwing.
- Hmong Lodge (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Hmong Hilltribe Lodge - Traditional meal & cultural performance
Today’s total travel time is approximately 7 hours.
Transfer by private vehicle to Chiang Mai, the most vibrant city in northern Thailand and home to 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. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic, winding drive up a mountain to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes, Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic atmosphere of chanting Buddhist monks and sweeping views of the city make this a memorable experience. Your leader can help you to arrange optional activities for your free time today – you can get active with a bicycle tour to discover the city and surrounding countryside from a different perspective, indulge in a Thai massage or a spa treatment, or just relax with a book by the pool.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex
Today’s total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.
Today is set to be one to remember as you visit the ChangChill elephant reserve – a truly special experience. Drive out to the reserve and 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 give you a live lecture on the elephants as well as the reserve’s sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts in the area. Enjoy some refreshments near the elephant’s mud pit, then be treated to lunch in a riverside sala (pavilion) alongside your giant friends, who will be enjoying a meal too. On your way back to Chiang Mai, stop by Kaomai Estate 1955 cafe for a coffee – this eclectic tobacco factory-turned-cafe holds a Cultural Heritage Conservation for New Design accreditation from UNESCO. This evening, get together for a final group dinner in town and celebrate today’s unforgettable experience.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
- Chiang Mai - Coffee at Kaomai Estate 1955
Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours.
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time.
- Breakfast
Inclusions and activities
9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
Train, Private mini van, Longtail boat, Songtheaw, Bicycle
Hotel (3 nights), Lodge (1 night), Resort (5 nights)
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Bangkok - Khlong boat canal tour
- Bangkok - Grand Palace
- Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
- Kanchanaburi - Historical train ride
- Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park & Falls
- Ayutthaya - Historical Park
- Sukhothai - Historical Park bike tour
- Sukhothai - Thai cooking class
- Sukhothai - Bike Tour Lunch
- Hmong Hilltribe Lodge - Traditional meal & cultural performance
- Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Complex
- Chiang Mai - ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary
- Chiang Mai - Coffee at Kaomai Estate 1955
This trip generates 35 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- There is an included bicycle ride around Sukhothai Heritage Park on this trip. It’s a leisurely cycle along quiet and flat roads, and one of the best ways to see the park.
- Less time spent in a vehicle; more time to explore each destination. This trip has been carefully designed to give you the best experience of a region by reducing the number of one-night-only stops, giving you extra time in the places that matter. As a shorter trip that covers quite a lot of ground, there will be travelling every other day to the next destination. Please note travel times on the itinerary days carefully for travel estimates.
Pranakorn Heritage
167/4 Prachathipatai Road, Bang Khun Phrom, Pranakorn, Khao San, 10200 Bangkok
Bangkok
THAILAND
Description
167/4 Prachathipatai Road, Bang Khun Phrom, Pranakorn, Khao San, 10200 Bangkok
Tel : +66 22 824 515
Instructions
Suvanabhumi International Airport is 32.3 kms from the city center – approximately 40min – 1 hour driving depends on traffic. Don Muang International Airport is 28 kms from the city center – approximately 30min – 45min driving depend on traffic.
An airport arrival transfer is included. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure. If you plan to arrive earlier, this arrival transfer can only be offered in conjunction with pre trip accommodation booked through Intrepid.
If you have pre-booked a transfer for an arrival at Suvanabhumi International Airport, you will be met after exiting the Customs Hall. A transfer representative holding a sign with your name on will meet you at between Exit Door 3-4. If you cannot find your transfer representative, please go to the Information Counter at Exit Door 3. Ask them to call our transfer provider, Ms. Janet, on +66 64 649 0485. Please note that neither the driver nor any representative should ask you for additional payment.
For arrivals at Don Muang International Arrival, when you are at the arrival hall, our representative will be in front of you at Gate 5. Please find the Intrepid Logo and check your name on the signboard held by the representative on your lefthand side. If you have trouble locating our representative, please call our transfer provider Ms. Janet, at +66 64 649 0485.
If you cannot find your driver, or if you need to advise of flight delays, please call: +66 898 103 722.
If you have not pre-arranged a transfer, taxis can easily take you to the hotel.
Suvanabhumi International Airport
Metered taxis are available outside the airport entrance on the 1st floor. Exit the Customs Hall, go down to the 1st floor and leave the airport at Gate 3, 4, 7 or 8. You will find a table with a “metred taxis” sign. The taxi fare will be the metered fare plus a surcharge of THB50-THB75 (depending on the driver’s use of toll roads). The total fare will be approx. THB400. Pre-paid taxis are also available, where you will be given a docket to pay the driver a set price of THB700. Please avoid taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport.
Don Muang International Airport
Metered taxis are available outside the airport entrance on the 1st floor. Exit the Customs Hall, turn left and walk until the end of the building, turn left and a short walk along the sign of Taxi, there’ll be the room of ‘Metered Taxis”, press the machine for the queue. You will find a table with a “metered taxis” sign. The taxi fare will be the metered fare plus a surcharge of THB50 (depending on the driver’s use of toll roads). The total fare will be approx. THB400. Pre-paid taxis are also available, where you will be given a docket to pay the driver a set price of THB700. Please avoid taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested.
2. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included. Please let your booking agent know your flight details no later than 14 days before the trip.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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