Between countless glittering temples, food markets that whir into life after dark, and an assortment of ancient traditions and communities, Northern Thailand is ideal for the culture-hungry traveller. Join this immersive, varied adventure to experience it for yourself, with an expert local guide revealing their culture, history and traditions as we go. Better yet, a string of handpicked hotels means we can enjoy the Land of Smiles in comfort, allowing us to truly unlock this extraordinary destination.
  • Discover the highlights of Bangkok by foot and on a longtail canal boat trip
  • Hop off the tourist trail and dive into Thai culture in the little-visited town of Phrae
  • Meet the animals of the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai
  • See the majestic waterfalls at Erawan National Park
  • Ride the Death Railway and visit the Hellfire Pass
  • Enjoy dinner on a floating raft house on the River Kwai Noi

We spend eight nights in handpicked hotels and resorts (mostly four-star) and one night on a sleeper train. Below are the standard hotels we use:



Bangkok: Centra by Centara Hotel Bangkok Phra Nakhon (nights 1 and 9)







Discover the best of Bangkok with a stay at this modern, stylish hotel. There’s easy access to a string of landmarks, while the lounger-lined outdoor pool provides the perfect place to chill before or after your explorations.



Journey to Chiang Mai: Overnight sleeper train (night 2)



Take a traveller’s favourite: the overnight sleeper from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, an experience likely to bring out the adventurer in you. We stay in shared air-conditioned carriages; each sleeping berth has a privacy curtain, while sleeping sheets, a blanket and pillow are provided. Snacks are often offered on board, including in the dining car (at an additional cost).



Chiang Mai: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel (nights 3 and 4)







Movenpick has built a global reputation for reliably stylish, upscale hotels, and this Chiang Mai outlet is no different. The highlight may well be the selection of classy spots to eat and drink, which includes a poolside bar serving chilled coconuts and scrumptious smoothies and a Thai restaurant with views over the night bazaar from the terrace.



Phrae: Huern Nana Resort (night 5)







Stay at the only four-star hotel in Phrae, where a modern design is inspired by traditional local architecture. The rooms are modern and unfussy, while downtime is best spent lounging by the pool.



Sukhothai: Sukhothai Treasure (night 6)







Wrapped by rice fields and mountains, this upscale retreat blends the natural beauty of Sukhothai with a standout selection of amenities. There’s a palm-lined swimming pool, wine bar and fitness room, while the Pink Lotus Restaurant serves a contemporary take on Thai and Western dishes.



Kanchanaburi: River Kwai Bridge Resort (nights 7 and 8)







With riverside spots to eat and drink plus a tranquil swimming pool, this peaceful resort is the ideal place to relax. Wander through the gardens or simply chill post-exploration in your air-conditioned room.



Worth knowing



Single supplements are available (on request) for eight nights of the trip (not available on the overnight train). Please advise your sales representative at the time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement.