Northern Thai Highlights

Northern Thai Highlights

Bangkok

Wat Arun Buddhist temple, Bangkok

Days 1-2
Wat Tham Khao Noi in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Kanchanaburi

Wat Tham Khao Noi in Kanchanaburi, Thailand

Day 2
Chiang Mai

Elephants in Chiang Mai's Elephant Nature Park, Thailand

Days 3-4
Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand

Day 3
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai

Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

Days 6-8

Map
44 Views
8 Days From

$1395

$1186

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Thailand with the "Northern Thai Highlights" tour. Begin your adventure in the bustling city of Bangkok, exploring the majestic Royal Palace and cruising the rivers like a local. Discover the serene beauty of Kanchanaburi, where you can swim in emerald pools and stay in candle-lit jungle rafts. Experience the historical wonders of Ayutthaya, cycling past golden temples and a giant reclining Buddha. In Chiang Mai, visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Pai, a picturesque mountain town. With seamless transportation, including an overnight train, and a variety of accommodations, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy local experiences and expert guidance as you immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of Thailand. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Explore the gilded Royal Palace and float down the rivers in Bangkok.

  • Cool off in emerald pools and shower under a waterfall in Kanchanaburi.

  • Discover golden temples and a giant reclining Buddha in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.

  • Visit the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants in Chiang Mai.

  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and explore the picturesque mountain town of Pai.

  • Swim in the emerald-hued ponds of Erawan Falls, a famous national park.

Places You'll See

 Lumphini Park, Bangkok

Lumphini Park, Bangkok

eath Railway, Kwai Noi, Kanchanaburi

eath Railway, Kwai Noi, Kanchanaburi

Bridge over River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

Bridge over River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok

Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Lumphini Park, Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand
Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Garden and Phra Maha Prasat complex in The Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Bangkok
Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand
Garden and Phra Maha Prasat complex in The Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
The White marble temple in the Grand palace area, Bangkok, Thailand, Asia
Reclining Buddha
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Reclining Buddha
Lumphini Park, Bangkok
The White marble temple in the Grand palace area, Bangkok, Thailand, Asia

Location: Bangkok

Accommodation Name: Nouvo City Hotel (or similar)

Touch down in Thailand's capital. After checking into our hotel there'll be time for DIY exploring, a massage or lying by the pool to catch the first of that sweet tropical sunshine. Later we'll rendezvous back at base so you can hear what's in store for the trip, then the night is yours to enjoy authentic Pad thai & the Khao San road nightlife.
...more ...less

Day 2: Bangkok to Kanchanaburi

Bangkok
eath Railway, Kwai Noi, Kanchanaburi
Garden and Phra Maha Prasat complex in The Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
The White marble temple in the Grand palace area, Bangkok, Thailand, Asia
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand
Wat Tham Khao Noi in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
eath Railway, Kwai Noi, Kanchanaburi
Reclining Buddha
Wat Tham Khao Noi in Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Bangkok
Huay Mae Khamin waterfalls in Srinakarin National Park, Kanchanaburi
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Lumphini Park, Bangkok
Jim Thompson House, Bangkok
Bridge over River Kwai, Kanchanaburi
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Lumphini Park, Bangkok
Huay Mae Khamin waterfalls in Srinakarin National Park, Kanchanaburi
Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Garden and Phra Maha Prasat complex in The Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Bangkok, Thailand
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua), Kanchanaburi, Thailand
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand
Reclining Buddha
The White marble temple in the Grand palace area, Bangkok, Thailand, Asia
Bridge over River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

Location: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi

Accommodation Name: River Kwai Jungle Rafts (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The Royal Palace and its 61 acres of incredible buildings will be number one on today's to do list. We'll start the day early, with so much to see there's no time to waste. Just listing today's sites gives us the butterflies, and we'll take it all in with our Local Guide leading the charge. Armed with more Local knowledge than we know what to do with, get ready to explore. Bangkok, you've been a dream, but the show must go on! Fast becoming a must-visit in this part of the world, we make tracks to our next destination, the sleepy town of Kanchanaburi to really get local. Next up, we'll visit the WWII Cemetery and the Bridge on River Kwai. There's nothing like getting some local transport to keep things interesting, so we'll pop into a boat along the River Kwai where we'll reach our home for the night, the The Jungle Raft Hotel, Kanchanaburi. Rooms lit by candle light are what you'll be greeted with, followed by a delicious included dinner of local specialities at dusk. You can even jump in the river directly from your room. Amazing! Because of course here at Contiki we like to keep things a bit special. Tonight as we watch the sunset over the landscape we'll no doubt be toasting our first full day on the trip and contemplating just how good life is.

Day 3: Kanchanaburi to Chiang Mai

Wat Chaiwattanaram, Thailand grand palace. Ayutthaya Thailand.
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Ayutthaya⁩, ⁨Thailand⁩
Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet, ⁨Ayutthaya⁩, ⁨Thailand⁩
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai

Location: Erawan Falls, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai

Accommodation Name: Overnight Train

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

We’ll start our day with a visit to the breathtaking Erawan Falls, one of the most famous National Parks of Thailand, made up from seven levels of incredible waterfalls. Take a quick dip in the emerald-hued ponds, dive into the clear waters & get an unreal FOMO Insta shot before we head off to our next stop Ayutthaya. We’ll make a stop in the UNESCO listed city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of Kingdom of Siam before being destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th Century. We'll grab bikes & ride past ornate temples, towering spires and beautiful palaces. Later, we board our overnight train to Chiang Mai. Lay back and relax this evening, as we journey towards Chiang Mai.

Day 4: Chiang Mai to Pai

Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Location: Chiang Mai, Pai

Accommodation Name: Baan Krating Pai Resort (or similar)

We'll pull into Thailand's northern capital of Chiang Mai bright and early, but we're going to keep this adventure going as we roll on into Pai this morning. Prepare to fall in love with this picturesque mountain town. The rest of the day is yours to explore this traveller's paradise your way. Head out on foot or by bike, and adventure down Pai's little streets that pack some punch.  Be sure to head out to experience Pai by night - an experience to rival that of its big sister Khao San Road in Bangkok.

Day 5: Pai

Location: Pai

Accommodation Name: Baan Krating Pai Resort (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

With another full day in this charming town, be sure to have a strong shot of Thai espresso from one of the local cafes to get up and get going again. Just try to save some juice in the tank for an optional afternoon Muay Thai skills class with an expert, before we head out for our final night in Pai.

Day 6: Pai to Chiang Mai

Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

Location: Pai, Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai

Accommodation Name: The Empress Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning we're Chiang Mai bound, but we're treating ourselves on the way with a visit to the Elephant Nature Park. This park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre that not only provides a sanctuary for the elephants, but gives us the once in a lifetime chance to get up close to these gentle giants.  Tonight, there's a chance for you to spend the evening zipping around on a Vespa as we explore the small streets and alleyways of Chiang Mai. We’ll see some iconic street art and monuments in between food stops at family restaurants and street vendors. Taste the amazing flavours of Tom Kha Gai and BBQ skewers before topping it all off with some live music in the market district. Just ask your Trip Manager for the best tips on where to head and what to do.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Mai

Accommodation Name: The Empress Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to make the most of the laid-back city of Chiang Mai. Maybe head out into the city's heart on foot and explore the old town, or treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage. Later this evening, you have the chance to dabble in the art of authentic Thai cooking so you can wow everyone back home with a mean Pad Thai.

Day 8: End Chiang Mai

Landscape views in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Mount Inthanon, Inthanon national park, Chiang Mai
Inthanon national park at Chiang mai, Thailand.
Doi Ang Khang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Golden Pagoda at Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Pha Dok Siew Waterfall at Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.

Location: Chiang Mai

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we say fond farewells before going our separate ways. Dry those tears, because no doubt we'll make big plans to reunite somewhere special soon. Want to see more of Thailand? Check out Total Thailand for the full trip.

What's Included

  • Accommodations

    Stay in a variety of accommodations throughout the tour, including hotels and an overnight train.

  • Local Experiences

    Enjoy unique local experiences such as a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for elephants.

  • Transportation

    All transportation during the tour is provided, including boat rides and an overnight train journey.

  • Expert Guides

    Benefit from the knowledge and insights of local guides during your tour.

  • Included Experience

    Experience highlights such as the Royal Palace in Bangkok, candle-lit rooms in Kanchanaburi, and the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from the start and end points are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory but not included. You must arrange your own.

  • Some Meals

    Not all meals are covered.

  • Optional Activities

    Costs for optional activities are not included and must be paid separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, and additional snacks or drinks are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers are not included and are at your discretion.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Dinner (D)
  • 2 Lunch (L)

Included Experience

  • Bangkok: Nose around the gilded Royal Palace, then travel like a local: floating down the Rivers.
  • Kanchanaburi: A sombre slice of history. See the Death Railway Museum, WWII Cemetery and the famous Bridge itself.
  • Kanchanaburi: Candle-lit rooms.In the middle of the jungle. And lots of delicious local food to devour. It's really a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Oh, and you can even jump in the river directly from your room! IKR.
  • Kanchanaburi: Cool off in emerald pools, shower under a waterfall and get your step count up. All in a day's work.
  • Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: Golden temples, a giant reclining Buddha and so many incredible sights to see. Try not to fall off your bike in shock!
  • Chiang Mai: Meet these gentle giants (plus rescued rabbits, cats and water buffalo) at this Elephant Nature Park – a kind-hearted elephant sanctuary.

Mode of Transport

All transportation during the tour is provided, including boat rides and an overnight train journey, ensuring a seamless travel experience across Thailand's stunning landscapes.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of accommodations throughout the tour, including hotels, an overnight train, and the unique River Kwai Jungle Rafts with candle-lit rooms and direct river access.

FAQs

  • Bangkok: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    During the tour, you will stay in a variety of accommodations including hotels, an overnight train, and the unique River Kwai Jungle Rafts with candle-lit rooms and direct river access.

  • Is transportation included throughout the tour?

    Yes, all transportation during the tour is provided, including boat rides and an overnight train journey, ensuring a seamless travel experience across Thailand's stunning landscapes.

  • What kind of local experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique local experiences such as a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants, and exploring the vibrant nightlife in Pai.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Several meals throughout the tour are included, as detailed in the itinerary. This includes 6 breakfasts, 1 dinner, and 2 lunches.

  • What activities are available in Pai?

    In Pai, you can explore the picturesque mountain town on foot or by bike, experience the vibrant nightlife, and participate in an optional Muay Thai skills class with an expert.

  • What can I expect at the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai?

    At the Elephant Nature Park, you will have the opportunity to get up close to rescued elephants in a sanctuary that also provides a home for other animals like rabbits, cats, and water buffalo.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future ...more ...less

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Monday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
$1395 $1186 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$209 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
$1395 $1186 (USD)

Barrhead discount: -$209 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Northern Thai Highlights

8 Days Starting in Bangkok, Thailand and ending in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Visiting: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Erawan Falls, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Pai, Elephant Nature Park

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

THNO25

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

History, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Cycling, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1395 $1186 (USD) Barrhead discount: -$209 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 16-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

Range

Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.


We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.


Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

award icon

Expert Knowledge

We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

atal icon

Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


Similar Tours