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.

Pattara Resort, Phitsanulok or similar

Lunch

After breakfast visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, one of the most revered temples in Thailand housing impressive Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Chinnarat. Continue 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.

WiengLakor Hotel, Lampang or similar

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.

Legend, Chiang Rai or similar

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.

Legend, Chiang Rai or similar

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.

After lunch at a local restaurant, stop at the 600-year-old Wat Doi Suthep. Reached by a winding mountain road, the final climb to the site is via a magnificent dragon-headed serpent staircase of 306 steps. On a clear day, there are incomparable views over the city of Chiang Mai. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel in the city.

Melia Chiang Mai or similar

Breakfast and lunch

Today is at leisure to to explore the city at your own pace. You may wish to walk around the ancient walled city with its numerous temples or visit an elephant sanctuary in the countryside.

This evening there is a guided street food tour to provide an insight into the culinary heritage of the north. Sample delights such as Khao Soi – a delicious coconut curry noodle dish along with other street food. Afterwards you may wish to visit the night market to barter for some souvenirs before returning to the hotel.

Melia Chiang Mai or similar

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.

Breakfast