5 days AROUND NORTHERN THAILAND

Depart Bangkok in the morning for northern Thailand. Our first stop is at Bang Pa In, the former summer residence of the kings of Ayutthaya built in the 18th century. There we’ll visit the Royal Palace, the Thai pavilion, the Chinese-style Palace Vihat Chamrun with their trimmed bushes in elephant shapes. Continue to Ayutthaya, which used to be the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 and visit the most interesting temples. Proceed to Lopburi, visiting Phra Prang Sam Yod, a temple with three towers and impressive ornaments as well as the shrine of the Hindu Goddess Kali at the Sarn Prakarn Temple. Lunch at a local restaurant then continue on to Phitsanuloke.

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed to Sukhothai, the first capital (13th century) of the Thai Kingdom. Old Sukhothai is one of Asia’s most important historical sites and therefore under the supervision of UNESCO. After a visit of the temples Wat Sra Sri and Wat Sri Chum, we continue to Sri Satchanalai, the former sister town of Sukhothai for lunch and a visit to some of its most interesting temples and ruins. We drive further North to Chiang Rai and check in at your hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. North Thailand is well known for its exotic hill tribes and this morning we will visit some of their villages. The drive takes us on narrow hilly roads through beautiful landscape with spectacular views to the villages of the Akha and Yao hill tribes. Then drive to Mae Sai, which is the most northern town of Thailand on the border of Burma. Take lunch then continue to the center of the famous Golden Triangle, the meeting point of the borders of Burma, Laos and Thailand. For those who would like to come even closer to the border of Burma and Laos, an optional trip by boat on the Mekong River will be on offer. Visit to the old Opium House before continuing to the provincial town of Chiang Saen, which is located at the scenic borders of the Mekong River. Return to the hotel. Stay overnight at hotel in Chiang Rai.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mae Ka Chan, which is famous for its hot springs. Then we continue our trip through scenic hillsides and jungles to Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North". Lunch at a local restaurant before arrival into Chiang Mai. Drive to Wat Phra Dhat Doi Suthep mountain temple then continue to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kantoke traditional dinner is on the program. Typical Thai dishes from the northern region are served while elegant Thai dancers are performing. Stay overnight at hote in Chiang Mai.

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning we visit an elephant camp to see how elephants work and maybe take an optional elephant ride. Visit to the Orchid & Butterfly Farm before taking a local lunch. Visit the handicraft villages at San Kampaeng The various traditional handicrafts are fascinating to watch and there are chances to purchase the pieces also. Stay overnight at hotel in Chiang Mai.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer from the hotel to Chiang Mai Airport for your departure flight.