Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

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.

See Hotel
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.

See Hotel
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.

See Hotel
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.

Suggested Hotel For Day 1

Iyara Lake Hotel

Iyara Lake Hotel

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. Two on-site restaurants with sweeping views of the surrounding scenery offer Thai and international dishes, many of which are served à la carte. Additionally, a KTV bar is available along with more relaxing options such as a revitalizing spa, expansive swimming pool, pool bar, and fitness room. A number of ballrooms and meeting spaces are available and staff can help to arrange various activities from bicycling to jet ski excursions.

Suggested Hotels For Days 2–3

Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa
Preferred Hotel

Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa

Tucked away in the rich natural landscapes of northern Thailand, just a short distance from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sukhothai Historical Park, Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa is a tranquil, Lanna-style retreat inspired by rural Thai life. The property is comprised of 52 guest rooms and two suites, a spa, an infinity pool overlooking rice fields and rolling hills, as well as a romantic restaurant serving authentic Sukhothai cuisine.
Legendha Sukhothai

Legendha Sukhothai

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. Nham Khang restaurant offers classic Thai dishes in an authentic environment, and has a nightly traditional dance show. The resort also has an open-air saltwater swimming pool and spa.
Sukhothai Heritage Resort

Sukhothai Heritage Resort

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.

Suggested Hotels For Days 4–6

137 Pillars House
Preferred Hotel

137 Pillars House

Located in the heart of Wat Gate, an area in Chiang Mai that was formerly designated to foreigners by the government, 137 Pillars House sits idyllically along the Ping River, adjacent to Wat Gate Khar Rham Temple. Combining the regality of traditional Thai elegance with modern luxury, this boutique hotel offers amenities including high-speed wireless internet access, laundry service, a 24-hour on-call medical professional, babysitting services, a spa, outdoor swimming pool and a fitness facility. The Dining Room offers classic Thai cuisine, one of the many dining options offered at the hotel. 137 Pillars House is approximately 25 minutes by car from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX).

Four Seasons Chiang Mai
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Chiang Mai

The Four Seasons Chiang Mai blends with its natural surroundings seamlessly, with trees growing between and around the resort, overlooking terraced rice fields and the mountains of the Mae Rim Valley. The resort has 64 boutique pavilions, each with a private veranda, as well as 16 private luxury residences. The Sala Mae Rim serves Thai cuisine and offers sweeping views of the valley below, and the Terraces have international dishes with a view of the Doi Suthep mountain range. The hotel has a health club with state of the art equipment, including a sauna, herbal steam room, whirlpool, cold plunge pool, 20-meter infinity edge swimming pool, a business center and wi-fi access. There are also mountain bikes available for use, along with maps of trails through the surrounding forest. The Spa at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai has seven treatment suites with rain shower massage tables and private herbal steam rooms. Professional spa therapists can help you choose the best treatment package for your needs. The hotel is 25 minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport.

Similar Itineraries

Classic Thailand

Thailand has it all – from towering mountains, gilded temples, vibrant corals, ancient ruins and powdery white-sand beaches. Enjoy an 11-day journey through the diverse landscape of what’s known as the Land of Smiles. The hospitality along with the mouthwatering cuisine make this country a traveler’s favorite.

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,200
See Itinerary

The Grandest Tour 2025 | Aman Jet Expeditions

The Grandest Tour returns in 2025 offering guests seven Aman sanctuaries in seven different countries, in just one journey by private jet. 

Date
Apr 19–May 9, 2025
Price Per Person
$188,888
See Itinerary

A Jubilee Wanderlist Across Asia

Gather your closest loved ones and go on a 13-day adventure that celebrates the best of life, from bustling cities to postcard-perfect natural landscapes. Tap into the electric pulse of busy cosmopolitan cities whose frenetic energy is even more lively at night. Taste the fragrant cuisines that tell a story of the people’s past and present. Slow it down to soak it all in with moments of serenity in misty mountains and turquoise lagoons. Relish these good times with friends and family and create fond memories that will be unforgotten.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,900
See Itinerary

A Sense of Well-being: Sanctuaries & Cuisine in Southern Thailand

Escape from the stresses of back home and retreat to the tropical shores of southern Thailand for 6 days of sandy beach, tropical jungle, warm seas, fresh seafood, and guided personalized wellness activities. Bring peace and mindfulness back into your life with meditation, yoga, and fitness.  Pamper yourself with massage therapies and healing treatments. Nourish your body with southern Thailand’s freshest ingredients harvested from where the wild forest meets the sea. This immersive trip offers a balance of rejuvenating activities, delicious and fresh food experiences, and inspiring destination, helping you achieve a sense of well-being unique to southern Thailand.

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,250
See Itinerary

Active Chiang Mai

A quick but luxurious 2-day adventure in the Northern Thailand city of Chiang Mai, this itinerary is the perfect add-on to any Southeast Asia trip. Bike through vibrant green tea fields, explore the city’s revered temples and pay a visit to a Hmong Village. This is an active exploration of the ancient city.

Duration
2 days / 1 night
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary
See Itinerary

An Exploration of Temples and Ancient Relics in Northern Thailand

This nine-day itinerary will introduce you to the beauty and history of Northern Thailand. Visit authentic Lanna towns and traditional villages on the Sakae Krang River, explore a multitude of temples and ancient ruins, and spend a day interacting with elephants.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,000
See Itinerary

Ancient & Modern: Bangkok and Bhutan

See the contrast of two cultures as they’re juxtaposed before your eyes on this 16-day luxury journey through Thailand’s Bangkok and Bhutan. You’ll compare the glimmering Grand Palace and Wat Arun to the ancient architecture of Bhutan’s monasteries, raft the Mo Chu river, and spend nights at the luxurious Amankora.

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,500
See Itinerary

Bangkok and Beyond

Spend 4 luxurious days getting acquainted with Thailand’s busy capital and surrounding quieter areas. Kanchanaburi is only a 2-hour trip from the bustling city but feels a world away. The well-preserved ancient ruins of Ayutthaya are a must-see in addition to Bangkok’s fantastic cultural and historical sites.

Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary
See Itinerary

Bangkok: The Finer Things

This five-day trip around Bangkok sees you appreciate the finer things in life, with a focus on personalized shopping experiences, unique and indulgent wellness treatments, as well as exclusive wining and dining with some of the city’s top chefs.

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,300
See Itinerary

Cambodia & Soneva Kiri: Connecting Ancient Culture with Island Charm

Combine the magic of Cambodia and Thailand with this specialized eight-day trip to the prized destinations of Siem Reap and Soneva Kiri. Spend the first half of the trip immersed in history and culture amidst the Angkor ruins, and celebrate tropical heaven during the second half at the darling Thai resort.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,900
See Itinerary
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.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.