850 ReviewsRiverside pool, Stylish, Rooms with river or city views
Depart your home country on your flight to Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Most suited for
Families, Couples
Ideal time to visit
November – April
Explore Thailand focusing on the countryside of the north and central regions. This trip covers a contrasting mix of must-see historical sights, interaction with local communities, exploring jungles (including an urban one!), and discovering some hidden beaches.
Making the most of the train network where possible makes the holiday feel less frantic, allowing time to relax and soak up the countryside as you roll through different provinces on your way to your next destination. And, naturally, it’s a more fun and comfortable way to travel.
Countryside, Rivers & Reef by Train
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
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Day 1
Your adventure begins
Days 2 - 4
Chiang Mai
On arrival, you’ll meet your driver and be whisked to your first hotel, a lovely boutique retreat in the heart of the city.
Set off to explore Chiang Mai’s most interesting temples. Your guide will explain the history and significance as you admire the intricate decorations and ancient Buddhist imagery as the local people go about their daily prayers. Wandering between the temples will give you a feel for the city’s atmosphere and layout, so you’ll feel comfortable and connected.
Next, take an excursion out of the city and into the surrounding hills to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary and meet some of its resident elephants, as well as the people who take care of them (known as mahouts). Elephants have historically had a tough time in Thailand, often being used as work animals or for entertainment, but the tide is shifting, and there are many sanctuaries like this one that rescue the animals and give them a safe and natural environment. During this strictly hands-off experience, you’ll learn about the animals’ individual personalities and their complex social structures.
Days 5 - 7
Phrae
From Chiang Mai, you’ll take the train south into Phrae province to experience a truly off-the-beaten-track region of Thailand (pun intended). You’ll be welcomed into a traditional Thai homestay and get to know your hosts over a home-cooked dinner.
It’s time to explore Phrae on Day 6. You’ll visit the morning market and the local village of Ban Nun for an insight into daily life in rural Thailand. Observe the art of rice farming and, if you’re lucky, witness a spiritual Bai Sri ceremony.
The next day you’ll explore the unique terrain of Phrae Muang Pi Forest Park, and learn how the natural erosion of sandstone has created a mysterious landscape, as well as the local folklore surrounding the area. You’ll also visit the local Moh Hom (Thai denim) handicraft village and see how this traditional craft is still practised and its effect on the local economy and community. In the afternoon, you’ll board the 6-hour day train to Bangkok: the journey will give you time to rest and reflect on your Northern Thailand experiences as you snake south through the central provinces.
In the evening, check in to your Bangkok hotel.
Day 8
Bangkok
Today, you’ll take a guided walking tour through a maze of side streets and shophouses, before boarding a tuk-tuk to explore some of Bangkok’s ancient temples and bustling markets.
Cross the river to experience the charm of Kudijeen, a small Portuguese area with a quaint Catholic church and centuries-old teak houses.
From here, you’ll take a boat down small canals to a hidden restaurant where you’ll be served lunch from their own organic garden before trying your hand at making delicious Thai desserts.
Days 9 - 10
Kanchanaburi
After exploring the capital, head back into the countryside with a leisurely train journey to Kanchanaburi province, east of Bangkok.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and the Hellfire Pass Interpretive Centre, where you’ll learn about the area’s history and significance during World War 2 and be able to walk the old tracks, now a short, scenic trek.
At the end of an interesting and informative day, you’ll take a longtail boat up the River Kwai to check into your luxury floating bungalow.
After waking up to the sound of the river flowing past your door, the adventure will continue with a walk to Sai Yok Waterfall, a visit to a traditional village and an exploration of the Lawa Caves.
Days 12 - 15
Koh Kood
Today, you’ll be picked up for the drive down to the island of Koh Kood, close to the Cambodian border, to a gorgeous beachfront resort.
Your final couple of days are meant for good old-fashioned beach time on this beautiful jungle island.
Koh Kood has a more adventurous feel than some of the more popular Thai islands, and there’s plenty to explore: from hidden away beaches to off-road adventures to snorkelling trips. During your stay, we can arrange a Scuba diving course to explore the diverse marine life around the reefs if you like.
Day 16
Fly home
Today, it’s sadly time to wave goodbye to the island and set off on your journey home.
Epic Trip in Thailand
From the moment we started conversations... we knew we would be in safe hands. ETG's first hand knowledge of all the destinations and experiences mean that they can bespoke the perfect trip for you. We experienced Thailand from a different perspective... with great guides. I work in hospitality and it’s all about the small details and surprise and delight moments which [they] get. Book with ETG you won’t regret it!
Simon
21 August 2024Excellent
850 Reviews
What’s included:
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout
Pricing:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp
Meet Our Thailand Experts
Ella’s first trip to ‘The Land of Smiles’ sealed the deal. She fell instantly for the effortlessly friendly people and the banging food. Now, she spends her time helping travellers experience the Thailand she loves – from Bangkok’s hidden gardens with secret restaurants to quiet islands where you won’t be part of a pack of tourists. Phew.
“This trip slows Thailand right down – rolling through rural provinces by train, meeting lovely locals, and ending on a jungle island. I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do.”
Ella
Regional Expert
Explore Our Hotels & Villas
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.
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Kanchanaburi, Thailand
The FloatHouse River Kwai Resort
Quality thatched-roof villas and outdoor adventures on a peaceful bend of the River Kwai.
Highlights
Highlights
River villas,
Pristine nature
Best for
Families
Couples
Gallery
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Bangkok, Thailand
Riva Surya Bangkok
Ideally located right on the Chao Phraya River, this hidden gem of a hotel is great value.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Families
Couples
Friends
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Bangkok
Ariyasom Villa
Highlights
Highlights
Gorgeous pool,
Boutique feel
Best for
Families
Couples
Friends
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Shantaa Resort Koh Kood
Highlights
Highlights
Beach villas,
Idyllic island setting
Best for
Solo
Couples
Friends
Gallery
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Chiang Mai, Thailand
Tamarind Village
A charming small hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city with lovely facilities.
Highlights
Highlights
Lovely location,
Candlelit dinners,
Gorgeous pool
Best for
Couples,
Families
Gallery
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Red Brick Homestay
Highlights
Highlights
Lovely homely atmosphere,
No tourist gimmicks
Best for
Solo
Couples
Family
The ETG Guarantee
We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had.
The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.
Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?
We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.
And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.
Experiences in Thailand
Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.
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Bangkok
Evening Street Food Tour in Chinatown, Bangkok
ETG’s Chinatown Night Walking tour is a fascinating culinary journey through one of Bangkok’s liveliest and most diverse districts.
Guided by a local expert, the tour takes you to seven eateries, ranging from air-conditioned restaurants to simple street food stands, where you will sample a range of this 200-year-old area’s heritage dishes. With a minimum of 11 well-considered dishes to sample, you will likely be quite full by the time you get to the end!
The menu will likely include steamed Dim Sum, Chinese herbal drinks, Chinese Bun, “Guau Jab” (a unique, peppery noodle soup), Lychee Ice Cream, Grilled King Prawns, Succulent Duck Cheek and Black Sesame Dumplings with Ginger Tea.
Bustling with activity, Chinatown is one of Bangkok’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. The tour lasts for approximately three hours, starting at 6pm, when this 24-hour district is just getting into full swing.
Between each tasting location, you will go on behind-the-scenes adventures to get a closer look at this unique neighbourhood: you will meet the food bazaar’s lively characters, hear memorable stories, and visit religious and cultural landmarks.
The tour can be taken privately, with a guide meeting you at your hotel, or as part of a group (if you would prefer to share the experience with other food lovers). The tour has been superbly researched to ensure you get the chance to taste some of the city’s best and safest street food from vendors with decades of experience and repeat customers.
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Bangkok
Discover Bangkok's Hidden Garden
Set on the banks of a small canal, Poomjai Garden is a welcome oasis right in the heart of the city.
What sets Poomjai apart is its commitment to sustainable practices and its unique collection of flora and fauna not typically found elsewhere in Bangkok. It is a fantastic environmental project that also functions as an organic farm and restaurant.
On your visit, you’ll join a guided tour of the grounds, learning about the diverse plant life and the range of animal species supported here. As part of the experience, you’ll also participate in a Thai dessert workshop. You’ll be provided with all the necessary ingredients and instructions to create a selection of delicious Thai desserts, such as Khanom Bua Loi (Small rice dumplings in a sweet coconut cream) and Khanom Tako (Thai pudding with a coconut topping).
An immersive experience where you can support a fantastic little project while enjoying a delicious lunch in a lovely garden setting.
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Chiang Mai
After Dark Vespa Tour in Chiang Mai
Get ready to explore Chiang Mai nightlife like a true local. This evening tour is designed to give you an immersive experience of the city’s rich culture and hidden gems for food and drinks.
Hop on the back of a Vespa for a journey through the winding backstreets and residential neighbourhoods of Chiang Mai. Your guide will lead you to a local restaurant that is tucked away from the tourist trail, where you can dig into some delicious treats and mingle with the locals.
Next, you’ll stop at a small shop where you’ll learn how to make a beloved northern Thai dish. Roll your sleeves up for a hands-on food experience that will tantalise your taste buds.
As the night progresses, you’ll make your way to the banks of the Ping River, where you’ll be greeted with a lively atmosphere of bars and restaurants
The tour wraps up with a nightcap at a live music bar. You’ll experience Chiang Mai’s best local talent in action as you join the crowd. All in all, this will be a memorable evening with flowing music, food, and drinks.
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Bangkok
Overnight Sleeper Train in Thailand
Travelling by train in Thailand is a unique and memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the country’s cinematic landscapes and rich culture. The Thai railway system is extensive, covering most of the country, and has a range of train types to suit different budgets and preferences.
From the bustling city of Bangkok, you can board a train and journey through the lush countryside, passing by rice paddies, rolling hills, and charming villages. The slower pace of train travel allows you to take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings and to connect with local people and cultures along the way.
One of Thailand’s most popular train routes is the Northern Line, which runs from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. This journey takes 11-12 hours, but sleeper trains make it an overnight option, with private cabins and beds.
Another popular train route is the Southern Line, which runs from Bangkok to the South with jumping-off points at Chumphon, Surat Thani (for Ko Samui or Khao Sok National Park), Trang and Hat Yai.
Here at ETG, we really recommend travelling by train at least once in your Thailand trip. Not only is a practical way to get around but it’s also often an adventure in itself: a great chance to see everyday life unfold and different landscapes in a unique way.
(It’s worth noting that it can often be tricky to obtain first-class tickets, as they are few and far between and sell out instantly. Second-class tickets are easier to obtain, and the carriage is still comfortable with air conditioning and seats that convert into sleeper beds).
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Bangkok
Cycle in Bangkok's 'Green Lung'
Take a short boat trip across the Chao Phraya River to Bangkrachao (or Bang Kra Jao), a jungly area nicknamed the ‘Bangkok’s Green Lung’. Sleepy Bang Kra Jao feels worlds away from the city’s energetic streets and is the perfect place for a peaceful two-hour bike ride.
Tropical plants and lush trees surround the roads in Bang Kra Jao, creating an urban sanctuary in the city centre. Cross over canals and admire the mangrove forests that line the waterways and pass traditional Thai houses and golden temples rarely visited by tourists. Stop to chit chat with people as you go, visit markets selling an array of fresh produce and refuel with snacks at one of the many street stalls en route.
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Chiang Mai
ChangChill Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
ChangChill is an ethical elephant sanctuary in the hills, roughly 90-minutes west of Chiang Mai. We love this sanctuary as it has a strictly hands-off policy, meaning you can observe the elephants in their natural element, relaxing, eating, playing and interacting exactly as they would in the wild.
Many visitors to Thailand want to experience elephants on their trip but don’t know how to do so in an ethical way. Although there has been progress in prioritising elephant welfare in Thailand over the past decade, there are still parks with questionable practices, such as riding the elephants or chaining them up when not in public. ChangChill’s philosophy is that “elephants can simply be elephants”, so they are free to roam around their eight acres of land without being disturbed by humans.
ChangChill (meaning ‘relaxed elephants’) offers half-day or full-day packages, including plenty of chances to see the sanctuary’s elephants in their natural environment. After a quick introduction to the organisation and a safety briefing, you are led into the forest to search for the elephants. This trekking can be challenging, so isn’t suitable for anyone with mobility issues. The expert guides will teach you about elephant behaviour and conservation as you trek through the jungle, before reaching a mud pit where elephants like to roll around and cool down on hot days.
The day continues with more chances to see the elephants going about their business and getting to know the mahouts and the Karen tribe they originate from. In between observing the elephants, your guides will show you how to prepare some healthy snacks for them and give you a crash course in Thai herbs picked straight from their organic garden.
We thoroughly recommend ChangChill to anyone who wants an educational elephant experience with the confidence of knowing that both the elephants and their carers are treated well.
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Bangkok
Multi-Transport Adventure in Bangkok
Travelling by public transport in Bangkok is fun, immersive and often much quicker than sitting in a car. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on an exciting journey through the city’s bustling streets using a variety of local transport, each offering a unique experience.
You’ll zip through the traffic on a nimble three-wheeled tuk-tuk, glide above it all on the BTS Skytrain, or stroll along at your own pace and take in the sights and sounds of various atmospheric neighbourhoods.
You’ll have the chance to see some famous sights and some lesser-known gems, and your guide will take you deep into the city to places that are unreachable by taxi. It’s a great opportunity to get a glimpse of real life here and delve into Bangkok’s vibrant culture.
Leave some room in your belly because you’re in one of the world’s best foodie cities! With so many delicious street food options, you’ll want to try as many as possible.
Important FAQs about Thailand
At Experience Travel Group, we’ve been crafting immersive holidays in Thailand for around 20 years and some of our team live there. Our in-depth local knowledge, long-standing partnerships and network of specialist local guides, we can really help you under the skin of the country and discover her secret sides.
Over the years, we’ve developed enriching experiences that bring together cultural depth and give you the freedom to explore. Think hands-on food adventures in Bangkok’s backstreets, access to peaceful beaches, countryside stays where local life still ticks to its own rhythm, or journeys into the mountainous north to meet the hill tribes – all bespoke to you.
With our expert planning and on-the-ground support, you can get into holiday mode knowing everything’s covered – while still having the freedom to discover Thailand your way. We don’t do cookie-cutter trips. Every holiday is personal, every route considered, and every detail designed to show you a side of Thailand that most visitors miss.
So come with us, to the Thailand we know and love.
In general, November to April is the most popular time, with warm, dry weather across most of the country – ideal for both exploring and beach time. But Thailand’s seasons aren’t as simple as they look, and with a little know-how, there’s somewhere worth visiting year-round.
The Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta) is at its sunniest between November and April, while the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) comes into its own from February to August when the west coast monsoon winds bring in rain to the west coast. With its mountains and cooler breezes, Northern Thailand is best for trekking and outdoor adventures from November to February.
Travelling during the “green season” (roughly May to October) can be rewarding: fewer crowds, greener landscapes, and lower hotel rates. Rain tends to arrive in short, heavy bursts rather than all day, leaving plenty of sunshine in between. National parks are glorious at this time, with waterfalls in full flow. During late August and September, Thailand often experiences flooding, so this time is usually best avoided, though even then, you can still visit many of the beach destinations very happily.
The months of April and October are the turning points worth considering for great-value travel, with fairly reliable weather. In April, the Songkran New Year festival is a joy to be part of, if you don’t mind getting a soaking from a water pistol (or water blaster!). The rates fall dramatically compared with March. While Songkran marks the start of the rainy season, it has not fully kicked in. It can be a good time to travel throughout the country for those who can put up with some serious heat and humidity. In October, the rains tend to fall away as Thailand returns towards the settled November weather.
So while November to March might be the sweet spot for most of Thailand, there’s always a way to plan a Thailand holiday that fits your timing – and often, going slightly against the grain can mean quieter beaches, great value and a richer experience.
Every ETG holiday is designed to feel seamless, immersive and stress free. We’ll arrange international flights (if you’d like us to), your drivers and guides, and stays in characterful hotels we know and trust.
You’ll experience the country in a way that’s completely bespoke to you – from quiet moments to big adventures – all planned by our specialists. And while you’re away, our local team is on hand 24/7, so you’ll always feel well looked after.
The Curious Traveller’s Guide to Thailand
Tempted to discover the very best of Thailand, far from the tourist traps?
Our experts spill their secrets in The Curious Traveller’s Guide to Thailand.
Download your complimentary copy for an insight into the country’s highlights, hot hotels and unusual experiences to inspire your next great adventure.
