Example Itinerary

Temple Hopping And Elephant Excursions in Northern Thailand

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations
Thailand

Northern Thailand is famous for its dense forests populated by ethnic hilltribes, scenic mountains, native wildlife and glistening temples. Thailand is an incredibly diverse country with much to offer and the north makes a perfect haven for those with an appreciation of culture and a taste for adventure and authenticity. The people of the north are considered some of the most friendly and hospitable in Thailand, which will make your experience of rural village life all the more interesting and enjoyable. Stroll through vibrant markets, discover ancient ruins of bygone eras and learn commands for elephants in the native tongue of their trainers throughout your incredible journey in Northern Thailand.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Ethical Elephant Encounters: Thailand is home to the most captive elephants in the region; many are victims of the logging industry and cannot be released back into the wild. Meet the gentle giants with peace of mind, as Remote Lands recommends only the most responsible elephant sanctuaries.
  • Historic Ruins: Visits to Ayutthaya and Sukhothai whisk you back through the centuries, to a time before modern borders were drawn up between today's Southeast Asian countries, and ancient kingdoms were won and lost.
  • Living Heritage: Chiang Mai's famous temples are a feast for the senses, with orange-robed monks, burning incense, and echoes of chanted prayers.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Uthai Thani

Depart bustling Bangkok and drive to the historic city of Ayutthaya. Explore the stone stupas of Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet via the local mode of transport – tuk tuk. Continue to visit Wat Chai Wattanaram and then begin the journey up north to Uthai Thani, stopping in Angthong to see the impressive 50-metre-long reclining Buddha.

Hotel Options
About

The expansive Iyara Lake Hotel is surrounded by a picturesque landscape a short drive from the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary. The five types of its 362 beautifully decorated contemporary guestrooms feature Thai design aesthetics and luxurious amenities such as silk sheets, a private Jacuzzi tub, or even a sauna box.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Sukhothai

Explore Uthai Thani and enjoy a cruise on the Sakae Krang river. Visit Wat Chantaram (Wat Tha Sung) with its unique glass pillars, then stroll through the local market and get a feel for the rural village life. After lunch, drive to Kamphaeng Phet to visit the historical park and marvel at the beautiful stone elephant carvings. Visit the The Kamphaeng Phet National Museum and then continue your journey on to Sukhothai.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Prosperity, Serenity, Romance: Sriwilai Sukhothai is built around these three pillars. Prosperity is emulated through the Lanna-style architecture and cultural nods to the Sukhothai era, the most prosperous in Thai history. Serenity is embedded in the peaceful natural surroundings, while romance is expressed in room design, the spa and the swimming pool area, inviting guests to unwind and reconnect.

Location: Sriwilai is a perfect jumping off point for exploring Sukhothai Historical Park, yet far enough away from the tourist sites to feel like a secret countryside retreat - the best of both worlds.

Sustainability: Both environmental and community iniatives are in place at this green resort, including solar energy, a waste water system, zero chlorine and ECOsmarte systems for swimming pools, as well as sourcing ingredients, textiles and pottery from local producers.

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Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa Preferred Hotel
About

Modelled on a traditional Thai village, the Legendha Sukhothai is located near the heart of the old town and is adjacent to the beautiful Chedi Wat Chang Lom temple. This boutique resort boasts 62 fully-equipped rooms with classical teakwood furniture.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Scenically situated amidst organic ricefields midway between the airport and the city, Sukhothai Heritage Resort is designed to blend seamlessly with Sukhothai’s ancient architecture and consists of 68 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, including luxurious Jacuzzi Suites. Traditional Thai fare is available at the Lotus Restaurant and Sala Sukhothai, while the Vanda Bar is the perfect place for a relaxing drink beside one of the resort’s two swimming pools.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Sukhothai
Sukhothai

Day 3

Sukhothai

Roam Sukhothai Historical Park and visit the three famous temples there – Wat Mahathat is iconic for the stone Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Banyan tree, Wat Sri Chum for the striking Phra Achana Buddha statue it houses and Wat Sri Sawai for the remarkably well-preserved Khmer Prangs (tower-like spires). Peruse the excavated artefacts at the Ramkhamhaeng Museum then drive north to the Si Satchanalai Historical Park.

Day 4

Chiang Mai

Depart Sukhothai and drive north to Lampang – once a major city of the Lanna Kingdom – where a traditional horse and cart will collect you to explore the old town. Next, drive to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of the best examples of Lanna architecture. Make your way to Chiang Mai, stopping for a short visit to The Thai Elephant Conservation Centre.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Individuality: The 137 Pillars House is a recently opened, renovated, historically colonial boutique property of select suites.

Added Extras: Guests receive complimentary breakfasts, soft drinks and beer from the mini bar.

Location: Situated in one of Chiang Mai’s most stylish areas, by the Ping River and near unique art galleries, antique shops, coffee houses and just a stone’s throw from some of the cities most up-market nightlife venues.

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137 Pillars House Preferred Hotel
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The vast resort grounds comprise verdant rice terraces and lush landscaped rainforest gardens over looking a stunning Thai mountain range in the distance.

Dining: Four superb restaurants and a handful of bars in beautiful locations serving Thai, Italian and international cuisine, as well as afternoon tea, signature cocktails and fine wines.

Facilities: Guests may enjoy plenty of world-class facilities including an award winning spa, fitness center, infinity pool, tennis courts, cooking school, library and children’s clubs.

Privacy: The hideaway resort is situated away from the hustle of Chiang Mai city, yet within easy reach of the areas attractions. There are five daily shuttle services to the city center.

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Four Seasons Chiang Mai Preferred Hotel
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai

Day 5

Chiang Mai

In the morning take a traditional method of local transport – a samlor (three-wheeled rickshaw) – to see the city of Chiang Mai. Explore the stunning temples of Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man. In the evening enjoy the famous street food from the plethora of Chiang Mai’s night markets.

Day 6

Chiang Mai

Spend the entire day interacting with majestic Asian elephants. Enjoy interacting with these beautiful creatures by feeding them and participating in bathing with the elephants in the river; you’ll also learn Thai commands and dress in traditional mahout attire.

Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai

Day 7

Departure

After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to the airport where you can either carry on your Asian adventure, or depart Thailand, with some magical memories.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

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