Uncover the hidden gems of northern Thailand on an unforgettable journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
From the busy streets of Bangkok to the chilled-out city of Chiang Mai, there’s so much history, culture and delicious food to discover as you travel between these iconic Thai destinations. Foodie? Go on our Real Food Adventure to cruise down floating markets and learn ancient family recipes at a homestay. Culture seeker? Learn about Hmong hill tribe life and explore the stunning ruins of Ayutthaya. Wildlife lover? Spend your days hanging out with Asian elephants at a conservation park. Thailand is calling…
Bangkok to Chiang Mai trips
Bangkok to Chiang Mai highlights
Hang out with elephants
Support an important animal welfare initiative and get close to incredible creatures. Meaning ‘relaxed elephant’ in Thai, ChangChill is a place where former working elephants can relax – and just be elephants! Watch these gentle jungle giants graze in the forest, bathe in the river and splash around in muddy pools – watch out as you might get sprayed! You’ll also get to enjoy a tasty riverside lunch alongside your new friends.
Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya
Calling all history buffs. The UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya was once the capital city of the Kingdom of Siam. Walking around the spectacular ruins of 14th-century palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich and complex history. Look out for the displaced Buddha head suspended in the roots of a Banyan tree – it's one of the country’s most intriguing and photographed landmarks.
Enjoy a homestay
Experience village life (and some of the best of northern Thailand cuisine!) at a homestay with a local family. With a villager by your side, you’ll get the inside scoop on the culture, sample the local delicacy of fermented rice noodles, visit organic farms to pick your own ingredients and cook up a tantalizing 11-dish dinner known as khan tok – which has become a traditional way for locals to welcome guests in northern Thailand.
Ride a tuk tuk
You could just watch torrents of colorful tuk-tuks splutter by, but that would be no fun. Plus, it’s the easiest way to get from A to B. Tuk tuks are part of everyday life in Thailand and you'll see locals using them for grocery shopping, taking kids to school and just about everything else. Hopping into one of these three-wheeled rickshaws is an adventure in every sense. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Shop at a floating market
Bangkok is packed with markets selling just about everything you can think of, but for a unique experience, head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market on the outskirts of the city. These narrow canals are full of colorful, bobbing boats selling fresh tropical fruit, sweet snacks and delicious hot meals made to order. It's quite amazing when you see how the vendors can cook up mouthwatering dishes on these tiny wooden boats.
Whip up Thai recipes
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to try all the Thai dishes your stomach can handle, but there’s nothing better than learning a few killer recipes to impress loved ones back home. Join a passionate local cook and learn how to make classic dishes such as crowd-pleasing pad Thai, creamy massaman curry, fragrant tom yum goong (hot and sour soup) and tangy som tam (green papaya salad). Bon appetite!
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Bethan · Traveled April 2024
I would thoroughly recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys trips that are a mixture of activities, cultural experiences and getting to know more about the history, development and way of life of local people. The food is also a gourmet experience not to be missed.
Review submitted 18 Apr 2024
Doiya · Traveled April 2024
What awesome adventures were had. Each day brought new intros to the culture in Thailand. We had the best time. Great accommodation, delicious food and the people of Thailand are amazing. Thank you!
Review submitted 13 Apr 2024
Stephen · Traveled April 2024
The Thailand Intrepid tour was a fantastic
journey in a wonderful and diverse country.
The people are friendly and made our stay memorable.
Review submitted 14 Apr 2024
Sarah · Traveled March 2024
Ben made this trip the best ever, your aura and loving nature gave us so much inner peace.
I would explore the whole world with her as a leader. She introduced us to the culture and life in Thailand - we were able to see such great places and experience a lot. She played a huge part in keeping us all connected. Thanks Ben, I'll never forget this.
Review submitted 08 Apr 2024
Edward · Traveled March 2024
Was my first trip overseas. Highly recommend using Intrepid, well set out tour with hands on activities
Review submitted 07 Apr 2024