Uncover the hidden gems of northern Thailand on an unforgettable journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
From the busy streets of Bangkok to the chilled-out city of Chiang Mai, there’s so much history, culture and delicious food to discover as you travel between these iconic Thai destinations. Foodie? Go on our Real Food Adventure to cruise down floating markets and learn ancient family recipes at a homestay. Culture seeker? Learn about Hmong hill tribe life and explore the stunning ruins of Ayutthaya. Wildlife lover? Spend your days hanging out with Asian elephants at a conservation park. Thailand is calling…
Bangkok to Chiang Mai trips
Bangkok to Chiang Mai highlights
Hang out with elephants
Support an important animal welfare initiative and get close to incredible creatures. Meaning ‘relaxed elephant’ in Thai, ChangChill is a place where former working elephants can relax – and just be elephants! Watch these gentle jungle giants graze in the forest, bathe in the river and splash around in muddy pools – watch out as you might get sprayed! You’ll also get to enjoy a tasty riverside lunch alongside your new friends.
Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya
Calling all history buffs. The UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya was once the capital city of the Kingdom of Siam. Walking around the spectacular ruins of 14th-century palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich and complex history. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree – it's one of the country’s most intriguing and photographed landmarks.
Enjoy a homestay
Experience village life (and some of the best of northern Thailand cuisine!) at a homestay with a local family. With a villager by your side, you’ll get the inside scoop on the culture, sample the local delicacy of fermented rice noodles, visit organic farms to pick your own ingredients and cook up a tantalising 11-dish dinner known as khan tok – which has become a traditional way for locals to welcome guests in northern Thailand.
Ride a tuk tuk
You could just watch torrents of colourful tuk-tuks splutter by, but that would be no fun. Plus, it’s the easiest way to get from A to B. Tuk tuks are part of everyday life in Thailand and you'll see locals using them for grocery shopping, taking kids to school and just about everything else. Hopping into one of these three-wheeled rickshaws is an adventure in every sense. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Shop at a floating market
Bangkok is packed with markets selling just about everything you can think of, but for a unique experience, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on the outskirts of the city. These narrow canals are full of colourful, bobbing boats selling fresh tropical fruit, sweet snacks and delicious hot meals made to order. It's quite amazing when you see how the vendors can cook up mouthwatering dishes on these tiny wooden boats.
Whip up Thai recipes
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to try all the Thai dishes your stomach can handle, but there’s nothing better than learning a few killer recipes to impress loved ones back home. Join a passionate local cook and learn how to make classic dishes such as crowd-pleasing pad Thai, creamy massaman curry, fragrant tom yum goong (hot and sour soup) and tangy som tam (green papaya salad). Bon appetite!
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Thailand Real Food Adventure
Brittnee · Traveled November 2024
Review submitted 16 Nov 2024Highlights of Thailand
Amanda · Traveled November 2024
Review submitted 18 Nov 2024Highlights of Thailand
Stewart · Traveled November 2024
Review submitted 18 Nov 2024Highlights of Thailand
Helen · Traveled November 2024
Review submitted 18 Nov 2024Highlights of Thailand
Lauren · Traveled November 2024
Review submitted 19 Nov 2024