Northern Thailand Facts
Ayutthaya
Founded in the 14th century, Ayutthaya was the nation’s capital for more than 400 years until its destruction in 1767. During the height of its power it ranked as the largest, most magnificent city in the Orient, as witnessed in the extensive ruins of numerous temples and palaces that are today preserved in what is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sukhothai
Sukhothai was the cradle of the Thai Nation; the first capital city was founded in the 13th century. Today, the extensive ruins of Sukhothai, as well as those of its nearby satellite town, Si Satchanalai, are preserved in well-kept historical parks that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Si Satchanalai
Si Satchanalai, 56 kilometers to the north, is a smaller, though nonetheless impressive site, where a cluster of ruined temples are attractively backed by wooded hills.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai located 700 kilometers North of Bangkok. Here you will discover a landscape of high forested hills and idyllic river valleys, while the cities, towns and villages of the region display a distinct culture arising from a long and separate history. The city is a treasure trove of ancient temples, fascinating for their distinctive Northern Thai architectural style and rich decorative detail. Chiang Mai is equally famous for its wealth of traditional handicrafts-in silk, wood, silver, ceramics and more.
Beyond, the countryside beckons, offering adventure travel by trekking, elephant-back river rafting where the traditional villages of colorful hill-tribe people are a unique feature in the landscape.
Chiang Rai
This is Thailand’s northern province of rugged mountains and fertile valleys, where the relaxed provincial capital of Chiang Rai offers excellent accommodation to serve as the perfect centre for exploring the Far North.
Northeast of Chiang Rai is Chiang Saen, on the banks of the Mekong River. The site of an ancient and once powerful settlement, it is full of historical interest as well as brings the nearest town to the famous “Golden Triangle”, where the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers forms the border between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos-a famous and spellbinding spot.
Around North 8 days
From Chiang Rai over Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya to Bangkok leads the trail of ancient Thai history.
Itinerary
Day 1 Transfer from Bangkok International Airport to hotel
Day 2 Half day tour of The Grand Palace & city tour, rest of the day is free
Day 3 Start Around journey by visit Bang Pa-in Summer Palace and Ayutthaya then drive up country and over night at Sukhothai
Day 4 After Breakfast visit Sukhothai Historical Park, Sri Satchanalai then direct to Chiang Mai
Day 5 Visit Doi Suthep Temple, Meo hill tribe and Home Industries
Day 6 Full day tour of Chiang-Rai
Day 7 Full day tour of Elephant Safari and Bamboo Rafting
Day 8 Return to Bangkok by domestic flight
