Northern Thai Highlights
Northern Thai Highlights
$1395
Northern Thai Highlights
8 Days Starting in Bangkok, Thailand and ending in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Visiting: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Pai, Chiang Mai
Tour operator:
Tour code:
THNO2415
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
The North of Thailand is a haven for travellers, and it's easy to see why. Venturing into this part of the world sees you explore bustling cities and picturesque highlands. Expect to see a side to Thailand that most of people miss, like staying overnight in a floating jungle raft, learning to cook the local cuisine like a pro, basking in the gilded Grand Palace, and eating your way around the Pai night markets. And that's just a sprinkling of what we have in store for you.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Bangkok
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.
Day 2: Bangkok To Kanchanaburi
Location: 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. From shopping, grabbing a massage to indulging in delicious local eats, this afternoon is gearing up to be brilliant. 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. 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
Location: Kanchanaburi
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
Location: 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
Location: 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
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
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
Various accommodations throughout the tour, including hotels like Nouvo City Hotel, unique stays like River Kwai Jungle Rafts, and an overnight train experience.
-
Meals
Several meals are included, offering a taste of local specialties.
-
Transportation
Local transport experiences including boat rides along the River Kwai and travel by train to Chiang Mai.
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours of Bangkok's Royal Palace, the historic city of Ayutthaya, and more, with insights from local guides.
-
Special Experiences
Visits to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for elephants, and the opportunity for optional activities like a Muay Thai class or a Vespa tour in Chiang Mai.
-
Dining Summary
Includes 6 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner, and 2 Lunches.
-
Included Experience
Experiences such as exploring the Royal Palace in Bangkok, staying in candle-lit rooms in Kanchanaburi, and visiting 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 not included but is highly recommended for all travelers.
-
Some Meals
Not all meals are covered, providing the opportunity to explore local cuisine on your own.
-
Optional Activities
Costs for optional activities, such as the Muay Thai class or Vespa tour, are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.
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: 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
Enjoy local transport experiences such as boat rides along the River Kwai and a scenic train journey to Chiang Mai, providing an authentic taste of Thailand's diverse landscapes.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations including the Nouvo City Hotel, the unique River Kwai Jungle Rafts, and an overnight train journey, offering a blend of comfort and adventure throughout your tour.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodations can I expect on the Northern Thai Highlights tour?
The tour includes a variety of accommodations such as hotels like the Nouvo City Hotel, unique stays like the River Kwai Jungle Rafts, and an overnight train experience.
-
Are meals included in the Northern Thai Highlights tour?
Several meals are included in the tour, offering a taste of local specialties. However, not all meals are covered, allowing you the opportunity to explore local cuisine on your own.
-
What transportation methods are used during the tour?
The tour includes local transport experiences such as boat rides along the River Kwai and travel by train to Chiang Mai.
-
What special experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for elephants, and offers optional activities like a Muay Thai class or a Vespa tour in Chiang Mai.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
Travel insurance is not included in the tour package, but it is highly recommended for all travelers.
-
What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include a Muay Thai class and a Vespa tour in Chiang Mai, though these are not included in the tour price.
-
What is the highlight of the visit to Kanchanaburi?
In Kanchanaburi, you can enjoy candle-lit rooms in the jungle, delicious local food, and the unique experience of jumping into the river directly from your room.
-
What can I expect during the visit to the Elephant Nature Park?
The Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center where you can get up close to elephants and learn about their care and conservation.
-
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
1 Select your preferred date
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Jan
2026 Feb
2026 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026 Jan
2027 Feb
2027 Mar
2027
Monday - Monday
Mar 03, 2025 - Mar 10, 2025Monday - Monday
Mar 17, 2025 - Mar 24, 2025Monday - Monday
Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025Monday - Monday
May 12, 2025 - May 19, 2025Monday - Monday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025Monday - Monday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 14, 2025Monday - Monday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025Monday - Monday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025Monday - Monday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025Monday - Monday
Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025Monday - Monday
Oct 27, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025Monday - Monday
Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025Monday - Monday
Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025Monday - Monday
Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025Monday - Monday
Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025Monday - Monday
Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 08, 2025Tuesday - Tuesday
Dec 23, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025Tuesday - Tuesday
Dec 30, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026Monday - Monday
Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 12, 2026Monday - Monday
Jan 12, 2026 - Jan 19, 2026Monday - Monday
Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 02, 2026Monday - Monday
Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 09, 2026Monday - Monday
Feb 16, 2026 - Feb 23, 2026Monday - Monday
Mar 02, 2026 - Mar 09, 2026Monday - Monday
Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 06, 2026Monday - Monday
Apr 13, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026Monday - Monday
Apr 27, 2026 - May 04, 2026Monday - Monday
May 11, 2026 - May 18, 2026Monday - Monday
May 25, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026Monday - Monday
Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026Monday - Monday
Jun 22, 2026 - Jun 29, 2026Monday - Monday
Jul 06, 2026 - Jul 13, 2026Monday - Monday
Jul 20, 2026 - Jul 27, 2026Monday - Monday
Aug 03, 2026 - Aug 10, 2026Monday - Monday
Aug 17, 2026 - Aug 24, 2026Monday - Monday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026Monday - Monday
Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026Monday - Monday
Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026Monday - Monday
Oct 12, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026Monday - Monday
Oct 26, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026Monday - Monday
Nov 02, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026Monday - Monday
Nov 09, 2026 - Nov 16, 2026Monday - Monday
Nov 16, 2026 - Nov 23, 2026Monday - Monday
Nov 23, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026Monday - Monday
Nov 30, 2026 - Dec 07, 2026Monday - Monday
Dec 07, 2026 - Dec 14, 2026Tuesday - Tuesday
Dec 22, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026Monday - Monday
Dec 28, 2026 - Jan 04, 2027Monday - Monday
Jan 04, 2027 - Jan 11, 2027Monday - Monday
Jan 11, 2027 - Jan 18, 2027Monday - Monday
Jan 18, 2027 - Jan 25, 2027Monday - Monday
Jan 25, 2027 - Feb 01, 2027Monday - Monday
Feb 01, 2027 - Feb 08, 2027Monday - Monday
Feb 15, 2027 - Feb 22, 2027Monday - Monday
Mar 01, 2027 - Mar 08, 2027Monday - Monday
Mar 15, 2027 - Mar 22, 2027Monday - Monday
Mar 29, 2027 - Apr 05, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions