Countryside, Rivers & Reef by Train

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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.