With flights from £1835
Travel through the heart of Thailand to discover glorious ruins in the ancient capital cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai and the hill tribe villages of the far north.
Highlights:
Depart Bangkok and head north to the ancient capital city of Ayutthaya to see the interesting historical park which includes temples and ruins such as Wat Mahathat and Phanan Choeng. Afterwards, continue to Phitsanuloke for the evening.
Hotel: Pattara Resort, Phitsanulok or similar
Meals: Lunch
After breakfast, travel to Sukhothai Historical Park, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can admire beautiful standing Buddha statues as you explore the many ruined temples and monasteries. After lunch continue to Lampang where you will stay overnight.
Hotel: Lampang River Lodge, Lampang or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
This morning make a short visit to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang before heading for Chiang Rai. On arrival in the province of Chiang Rai, climb to the top of Doi Mae Salong mountain for the wonderful views.
Later, visit one of the Akha hill tribes who are less visited by tourists to learn about their lifestyle, before a visit to a green tea plantation with the option of tasting the produce. Then drive to your hotel in Chiang Rai.
Hotel: Legend, Chiang Rai or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Today there is the opportunity to visit some more villages of the Akha and Yao tribes in the area before heading to the fabled Golden Triangle. This region offers spectacular views of where the Ruak and Mekong Rivers meet, as well as the country borders of Burma (Myanmar), Laos and Thailand. Later, make a visit to the ancient capital of Chiang Saen before driving back to your hotel.
Hotel: Legend, Chiang Rai or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
On your way to Chiang Mai, stop at the colourful Wat Rong Seua Ten, also known as the Blue Temple. A relatively new temple, it is well known for its magnificent blue interior, colourful painted murals and white Buddha statue.
Then make a stop at striking and unconventional Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple. This contemporary, privately owned art exhibit is built in the style of a Buddhist temple where its white colour signifies the purity of the Buddha, while the glass, sparkling in the sun symbolises the Buddha’s wisdom and teachings.
On the way into Chiang Mai a visit will be made to the artisan village of Sankamphaeng where you can see the northern handicrafts including silk, silver, Saa paper and lacquerwares.
Hotel: Dusit D2, Chiang Mai or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
After breakfast, join a group tour to visit an elephant sanctuary around an hour and a half outside the city. The centre was established to provide care and education about the Asian Elephant. You will get a chance to learn, feed and watch them bathe in an ethically responsible way. Seeing these magnificent animals up close is always a highlight.
Then take the winding roads up to Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in Chiang Mai. Its location at the top of a mountain affords wonderful views over the city and surrounding countryside.
Whilst in Chiang Mai try to visit the famous night bazaar during your free time where there are stalls lining the road brimming full of souvenirs as well as street food to try.
Hotel: Dusit D2, Chiang Mai or similar
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
This morning after breakfast, enjoy some free time before your onward flight. Several airlines have direct flights down to the beach resorts of the south for some perfect post tour relaxation. Ask your consultant about adding these on.
Meals: Breakfast
All prices are per person, based on 2 sharing a twin or double room. Seasonal variations may apply, please call Freedom Destinations for more information and availability.
Touring at its very best with a private driver/guide and vehicle. Plus time to explore at your own pace.
Your private tour includes:
This tour departs daily.
