Thailand off the beaten path

Central and northern Thailand away from tourists

Uncover the quieter, more authentic side of Thailand’s central and northern regions. From historic cities steeped in cultural richness to tranquil countryside landscapes, this journey promises a deeper, more intimate exploration of Thailand’s hidden treasures.

Day 2: Bangkok – Uthai Thani (M,) distance: 240 km

Today we will pick you up from your hotel in Bangkok at around 8:00 a.m. and drive to the city of Ayuthaya, around 70 kilometers north.

Ayuthaya was the last capital of the Kingdom of Siam. In 1767 it was almost destroyed by the Burmese. Here, we visit some historic temple complexes that are worth seeing, such as Wat Phanan Choen, Wat Chai Yai Mongkol, Wat Mongkolbopitr, and Wat Si Sanpeht.

At lunchtime, we stop at a small food market about 5 kilometers north of Ayuthaya. For example, at the so-called Talad Gung Nam Chued, you can enjoy freshly grilled shrimp or other typical Thai specialties.

Now we drive a scenic route through the rice plain via the city of Singburi to Uthai Thani, about 200 kilometers from Bangkok. Here we will visit the province’s main attraction, the stunning glass temple, Wat Tha Sung.

At the end of the day, we take a 40-minute boat trip on the Skaekrang River. You can enjoy the wonderful landscape and nature as you cruise past the many colorful houseboats.

You’ll spend the night on the river near Uthai Thani.

Overnight: Uthai River Lake Resort

Day 3: Uthai Thani – Tak (B,L) 250 km

After breakfast, the journey continues to the Buengburaphet swamp area, about 40 kilometers away. Here you will take a relaxing trip by motorboat. For about an hour you can enjoy the beautiful nature, let the wind blow around your nose and watch various exotic water birds.

Day 4: Tak – Mae Sariang (B,L) 350 km.

Our next stop today is the beautiful little town of Thoen, around 90 kilometers north of Tak. From here we drive along a small, quiet mountain road, passing many beautiful viewpoints.

We then reach the idyllically situated Bhumipol reservoir and Doi Tao with its pretty and colorful houseboats on the edge of the reservoir. Here you can take a short boat trip and enjoy the beautiful landscape in a relaxed manner.

Next, we drive via Hot to the unique Obulang Gorge. Here we will take a long walk through the beautiful area before we take you to your accommodation for today near Mae Sariang, a small town on the border with Burma/Myanmar.

You will spend the night near Mae Sariang.

Overnight: Above The Sea Mae Sariang

Day 5: Mae Sariang – Mae Hong Sorn (B,L) 170 km

Today we first drive north from Mae Sariang along the border with Myanmar. After around 40 kilometers we visit the beautiful Tham Kaew Komol cave. It is a former mine where you can admire magical calcite crystals.

And then we head through the beautiful mountain landscape. We drive through Khun Yuam at a high elevation of 1,400 to 1,700 meters. Along the way, you’ll enjoy amazing views of Mae Hong Son. This road is famously known as the “Road of 1,867 Bends.” Here you will experience numerous beautiful photo opportunities.

In the afternoon, we reach Mae Hong Son, where you can settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax.

Before dusk, there is a short city tour of Mae Hong Sorn.Afterward, we visit a beautiful mountain temple from which you have a breathtaking view of the city, the city lake, and two other temples.

You will spend the night near the city of Mae Hong Sorn.

Overnight: Fern Resort

Day 6: Mae Hong Sorn (B,L) 70 km

After breakfast, you can choose between a one-and-a-half-hour hike through the beautiful surroundings or a relaxing morning by the hotel pool.

At around 10 a.m. we will pick you up and drive to the Kuomintang village of Ban Rak Thai. Chinese refugees from the Second World War live here. They make their living by growing tea. We will then learn interesting things about the old tradition of the so-called giraffe-neck women in Na Soi Village, about 30 kilometers outside of Mae Hong Sorn.

In the late afternoon, we will return to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day at your leisure. You will again spend the rest of the night near Mae Hong Sorn.

Overnight: Fern Resort

Day 7: Mae Hong Sorn – Pai (B,L) 120 km

Today we leave Mae Hong Sorn and first visit an impressive fish cave, which is located around 30 kilometers north of the city.

Next, we drive through the mountains again. Shortly before Pai, a small town in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. And we will stop at the beautiful Tam Lodh cave, where we will visit some of the fascinating rooms.

Afterward, you’ll glide on a bamboo raft through a river inside the cave until reaching the cave’s exit. Then finally, we’ll take you to your hotel accommodation in the city of Pai.

Overnight: The Quarter

Day 8: Pai – Chiang Mai (B,L) 130 km

After breakfast, we’ll start by exploring the bustling fresh market in Pai town. Wander through the lively atmosphere and delight in the vibrant array of fresh produce.

Next, we’ll head towards the Bong Duat Pa Phae hot springs, set within a picturesque national park about 60 kilometers from here. Remember to bring your bathing suit, as you’ll have the chance to relax and bathe in the warm stream water below the springs.

Then the journey continues to Chiangdao to the mighty Doi Chiangdao. At 2,150 meters, it is the third-highest mountain in Thailand. We will also visit the famous Chiangdao caves. Here the locals sell a wide variety of medicinal herbs and natural roots.

And before we finally arrive at your hotel in Chiang Mai, we will visit the beautifully landscaped botanical garden of the Thai Queen Sirikit.

Overnight: De Lanna Boutique Hotel

At the end of your tour, you will visit the impressive Wat Doi Suthep, which stands majestically on the mountain of the same name. From here you have a magnificent view of Chiang Mai and the beautiful surroundings. You now have a little time to take a few souvenir photos.

Transfer to Chiang Mai airport.

Not Included

Important Notice 

The chauffeur is only a driver and speaks little or no English. The driver’s job is to take customers from A to B, but he knows a few phrases, for example to arrange the departure time.

During the tour, the driver will stay with the vehicle during the sightseeing and must look after the car and luggage.