en
- Adventure
- 15-day trip
- From €3,685 p.p.
Thailand trip | The hidden paths of Thailand
This amazing 16-day tour of Thailand takes you from the bustling metropolis of Bangkok to the country's serene north. As well as some well-known highlights, the trip also visits many unknown places, where you will get to know the authentic Thailand. You will start with a few days in the vibrant capital, Bangkok, where you will discover temples, markets and modern city life. Then you will travel to the verdant Khao Yai National Park, known for its waterfalls, vineyards and wildlife. Via the cultural city of Khon Kaen, you trek further to Udon Thani and Dansai regions, where ancient traditions and mystical festivals come to life. You then travel to historic Sukhothai, Thailand's first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of impressive ruins and Buddha statues. The journey ends again in Bangkok, but not before visiting the fascinating Ayutthaya. This itinerary combines nature, culture and history in an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Thailand.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Thailand
- Day 2 Arrival in Bangkok
- Day 3 Bangkok City Tour
- Day 4 Muay Thai training & Food Tuk Tuk Tour
- Day 5 Journey to Khao Yai National Park
- Day 6 Khao Yai National Park
- Day 7 Journey to Khon Kaen
- Day 8 Phu Wiang National Park
- Day 9 Journey to Udon Thani province via Ban Chiang
- Day 10 Journey to Chiang Khan with stops
- Day 11 Dan Sai culture & nature
- Day 12 Journey to Sukhothai
- Day 13 Historic Sukhothai
- Day 14 Wat Mahathat & Ayutthaya
- Day 15 Departure from Thailand
- Day 16 Arrival
Arrival Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand, the Land of Smiles! Upon arrival at Bangkok Airport, you will be met by our local representative. You will then be taken to your hotel by private transfer.
Bangkok is a cosmopolitan city and a quintessentially Asian metropolis where modern architecture and lifestyles blend with traditional customs, ancient temples and delicious food. Thailand’s capital is the economic heart of the country and offers a whole host of attractions. Naturally, shopping and fashion form an important part of the city’s character. The city centre, with Siam Square and Pratunam, is therefore full of clothing markets and luxury shopping centres. Meanwhile, Chinatown is the place to enjoy good food and soak up local life whilst strolling through its narrow streets. Check in and rest before setting off to explore this metropolis.
Inclusief:
- Meet & greet with your local English-speaking guide
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
City tour Bangkok
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you’ll start the day with a visit to two of Bangkok’s most impressive sights. You’ll admire the gigantic, gold-leaf-covered reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and explore the magnificent Grand Palace, the historic heart of the city. This is also home to the famous Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Thailand’s most revered Buddha.
After a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll board a boat for a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River and through the narrow klongs (canals) of Thonburi. You’ll see traditional life along the water’s edge and visit Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most photographed temples. The impressive pagoda, adorned with glittering ceramic mosaics, catches the sunlight beautifully and lives up to its nickname, the ‘Temple of the Dawn’.
Tips from the Travel Specialist
Casual summer clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For religious reasons, both men and women must wear long trousers or knee-length skirts, and shoulders must be covered at all times. Shoes must be removed before entering a temple.
Inclusief:
- City tour Bangkok in private service with English-speaking guide
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Boat trip on the Chao Phraya River
- Breakfast included
Muay Thai training & Food Tuk Tuk Tour
Today you’ll be introduced to Thailand’s national sport: Muay Thai. At an authentic training school, you’ll learn the basics of this dynamic martial art from former professional fighters. Don’t worry, you’ll just be training – you won’t be stepping into the ring! After an intensive session of shadow boxing, punching and kicking techniques, and a workout with punching bags, you can freshen up before returning to your hotel.
After an active morning, it’s time to relax. In the comfort of your own hotel room, you’ll enjoy a traditional Thai massage or a relaxing oil massage. The perfect way to loosen up your muscles after training.
Before dinner, immerse yourself in the culinary world of Bangkok with an adventurous street food tour by tuk-tuk. You’ll sample iconic dishes in the lively districts of Thonburi, Rattanakosin and Chinatown, whilst your guide tells you all about the variety within Thai cuisine. This is an unforgettable dining experience where you’ll discover authentic flavours and hidden gems.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Optionally, you can start the day early with a visit to Lumpini Park, the green heart of Bangkok. As the city awakens, you’ll see locals practising Tai Chi, jogging and dancing. You might even spot an impressive monitor lizard by the lake. At exactly 08:00, everything comes to a brief halt as the Thai national anthem rings out across the park.
Inclusief:
- Group Muay Thai training with English-speaking guide
- In-room Thai massage
- Evening Bangkok Food Tuk Tuk Tour in private service with English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Khao Yai National Park
After breakfast, you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of Bangkok behind and travel to Khao Yai National Park, one of Thailand’s most beautiful nature reserves. This park, the country’s first national park, covers a vast area and is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including elephants, gibbons and wild boar. The cooler temperatures on this plateau make it a pleasant destination, far removed from the tropical heat of the lowlands. You’ll be staying here in lovely accommodation where you’ll be glamping.
On the way to Khao Yai, you’ll stop off at PB Valley Khao Yai Winery, one of Thailand’s first and most professional wineries. Here, you’ll learn more about the wine-making process in the tropics and take a guided tour of the vineyards, where, alongside grapes, exotic fruits such as dragon fruit and passion fruit are also grown.
Set off from your accommodation in the late afternoon to visit a unique attraction: the Bat Cave. As the sun sets, swarms of millions of bats emerge en masse from their cave in search of food. This spectacular natural phenomenon, occasionally interrupted by birds of prey hunting the bats, creates an impressive spectacle that can last for over an hour.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
For children and young people under the age of 20, 100% fresh grape juice is served, a product from PB Valley Estate!
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Wine tasting and lunch at PB Valley
- Visit to Bat Cave
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Khao Yai National Park
Today you will be exploring Khao Yai National Park. Your first stop is the impressive Haew Narok Waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the park. After a short walk, you will reach a viewpoint where you can watch the water plunge down amidst a breathtaking landscape. You’ll then continue on to Haew Suwat Waterfall, made famous by the film *The Beach* starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Although swimming isn’t permitted here, you can relax under the shady trees or on the large rock formations.
You’ll visit the peaceful Sai Sorn Reservoir, a picturesque reservoir renowned as a fantastic spot for wildlife spotting. Here, you can see deer, monkeys and various bird species drinking at the water’s edge.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll visit the Khao Yai National Park Visitor Centre and then be taken to Thanarat Road, a panoramic viewpoint offering spectacular views over the park. Time permitting, you’ll make a further stop at the Nong Pak Chi Wildlife Watching Tower, an observation tower where you can see wild animals gathering around a water source.
After a stop for dinner (meal not included), the highlight of the evening begins: the Night Safari. In the dark, many animals come to life, such as sambar deer, civet cats, porcupines, owls and perhaps even wild elephants. An unforgettable experience!
Inclusief:
- Khao Yai National Park Tour in private service with English-speaking guide
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Night safari in private service with English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- Dinner during dinner break
Travel to Khon Kaen
After breakfast, you’ll check out and set off for Nakorn Ratchasima. On the way, you’ll stop for a cosy coffee break at the unique Ban Mai Chay Nam Museum & Restaurant. This special spot is not just a restaurant, but also a nostalgic museum full of antique collectables that take many people back to their childhood. A special experience whilst you enjoy a cup of coffee! You’ll then continue on to Khon Kaen, a journey of around 3 to 4 hours. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the evening, a gastronomic highlight is on the programme: dinner at Krua Supanniga by Khunyai Somsie. Named after the Supanniga flower, this restaurant was founded to honour the authentic Eastern Thai family recipes of Khunyai Somsie Jantra. We highly recommend the Chamuang Pork, a delicious braised pork dish with a slightly tangy note from the Chamuang leaf. You’ll dine in an atmospheric setting, with the option of dining indoors or outdoors, including a charming treehouse location.
Round off your evening at Tawan Daeng, a lively club featuring live morlam music, a traditional musical style from Isan that combines classical and modern influences. An unforgettable way to end the day!
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Stop by Ban Mai Chay Nam Museum & Restaurant
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Dinner at Krua Supanniga by Khunyai Somsie
- Entrance Tawan Daeng
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- Drinks with dinner
Phu Wiang National Park
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your day begins with a fascinating journey back in time. Your guide will take you to Phu Wiang National Park, a nature reserve renowned not only for its beautiful forests and rivers, but above all for its remarkable archaeological finds. Following this impressive tour, you’ll visit the Phu Wiang Dinosaur National Museum, where you’ll learn more about the geology and the evolution of dinosaurs in Thailand. Here you’ll find fossils, interactive displays and comprehensive information about the discoveries made in the region. After a morning full of adventure, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
You’ll then return to Khon Kaen, but not without stopping off at one of the city’s lively markets. Depending on the day, you’ll visit either the Ton Tan Market – a bustling market with a huge variety of Isaan products, from vegetables and herbs to handmade souvenirs – Or you’ll visit Khon Kaen Walking Street (Saturdays only). This is a charming evening market where you can sample street food and experience the local culture. Here you’ll have the chance to discover the delicious Isaan cuisine.
Your dinner will be served right at the market, so you can enjoy authentic dishes in a lively setting
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Visiting Phu Wiang National Park and the Dinosaur Nature Trail
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Visit to Ton Tan Market or Walking Street including dinner
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Udon Thani province via Ban Chiang
After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon, an 80-metre-high chedi offering panoramic views over the city and Lake Kaen Nakorn. The Jataka tales are engraved within the temple complex, and dinosaurs are depicted in the mosaics. You will then travel to Phrathat Kham Kaen, a golden stupa with a remarkable legend linked to the origins of the city of Khon Kaen.
After lunch, the journey continues to Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prehistoric site, renowned for its pottery, is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. A visit to the Ban Chiang National Museum provides an insight into the discoveries of these ancient civilisations.
You will spend the night in charming accommodation in the village of Kut Sa, situated in Udon Thani province.
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Visit Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon & Phrathat Kham Kaen
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Visit Ban Chiang
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Chiang Khan with stops
The journey continues to Phu Phra Bat Historical Park, renowned for its remarkable mushroom-shaped rock formations and ancient cave paintings dating back 3,000 years. The park is also known as the ‘Thai Stonehenge’ due to its impressive rocks and Buddha statues. Next, visit Wat Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok, a temple that houses a relic of the Buddha.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll be taken to Chiang Khan, a charming little town situated on the Mekong River. Here, you’ll take a boat trip and admire the town’s historic wooden houses. You can also take a walk along the Skywalk, a 100-metre-long glass bridge spanning the river. You will then be taken to the Dan Sai district for the night.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Optionally, you can start the day with a visit to Red Lotus Lake, famous for its pink water lilies that bloom between November and February. The best time to visit is in the morning, between 7.30 and 8.30 am, when the flowers open. The cruise lasts 60 to 90 minutes, and there are various boat options available.
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Visit Phu Phra Bat Historical Park
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Visit Chiang Khan including boat trip Mekong River
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Dan Sai culture & nature
After breakfast, you will visit Phrathat Sri Song Rak, a Lao-style temple situated on the banks of the Man River, on the border between the ancient kingdoms of Ayutthaya and Lang Xang. A flight of steps leads to a chedi which is said to contain a relic of the Buddha.
You will then continue to the Dansai Folk Museum, which showcases the history, culture and costumes of the Phi Ta Khon ritual festival; an ancestral tradition from Dansai aimed at awakening the spirit of the Man River. The festival itself lasts three days and often takes place in June or July. At the museum, you’ll take part in a Ghost Khon mask-making workshop, where you’ll create your own mask.
You’ll travel on to visit Wat Neramit Wipatsana, a magnificent temple renowned for its laterite buildings. The 80-metre-long and 40-metre-wide main hall is considered the largest in the country. The temple honours the tradition of forest meditation.
You’ll have lunch again today at a local restaurant, after which you’ll be taken to Phu Ruea National Park, situated on the border with Laos. The park is characterised by a table mountain covered in pine trees and a cliff resembling the bow of a giant Chinese junk (‘Phu Ruea’ means ‘boat mountain’). The highest point, Yot Phu Ruea (1,365 metres), is considered the coldest spot in the country. After visiting the viewpoint, you will return to the hotel.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
When visiting Phrathat Sri Song Rak, women are not permitted to enter the area around the chedi, and the colour red is prohibited (so this colour must not appear in your clothing or accessories).
Inclusief:
- Dan Sai culture & nature tour in private service with English-speaking guide
- Ghost Khon mask workshop
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Sukhothai
Today, you’ll travel to the city of Sukhothai, a journey of around 3–4 hours. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch at Jay Hae Sukhothai Noodles, famous for its Sukhothai noodles (rice noodles with sliced roast pork, served with or without soup, green beans, radish and ground peanuts). After arriving at the hotel, the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.
Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital, is a historic city full of ancient temple ruins and Buddha images. The Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the splendour of the 13th-century kingdom. The name means ‘Dawn of Happiness’, symbolising the beginning of Thai civilisation. Sukhothai is also famous for its unique artistic style and the introduction of the Thai script. It is a magical place where history, spirituality and beauty come together.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer with English-speaking guide
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Historisch Sukhothai
You will spend the day exploring the impressive ancient city of Sukhothai. You’ll begin your tour at the Sukhothai Historical Park, stopping off at the Ramkamhaeng National Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of sculptures, including a walking Buddha. The museum is a good starting point for exploring the ruins of Sukhothai and houses a replica of the famous Ramkhamhaeng inscription.
Next, you’ll visit Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai’s most beautiful temple, featuring a chedi shaped like a lotus bud. You will then proceed to Wat Sri Sawai, a Khmer-style temple that was probably built as a shrine to the Hindu god Shiva and later converted into a Buddhist temple. You will then visit Wat Pra Pai Luang (Temple of the Great Wind), a 12th-century temple originally built by the Khmer as a Hindu shrine and later converted into a Buddhist temple. The monument was looted in the 1950s but has been restored by the Department of Fine Arts.
Round off your day with a visit to Wat Saphan Hin, a small temple on a hill overlooking old Sukhothai. Known for its 12-metre-high standing Buddha, it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Inclusief:
- City tour historic Sukhothai in private service with English-speaking guide and including lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Wat Mahathat & Ayutthaya
You’ll leave Sukhothai behind and travel back to Bangkok in 4–5 hours. On the way, you’ll first stop in Phitsanulok, an important commercial centre on the Nan River. Here, you’ll visit the famous Wat Mahathat, the temple that houses Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha image. It is one of the most revered Buddha images in the country, making the temple an important place of pilgrimage for Thai Buddhists.
After a delicious lunch, you’ll continue your journey and stop at Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Thai kingdom for 417 years. Founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, the kingdom was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767, leading to the city’s collapse. The ruins of the most important buildings have been stabilised, repaired and, in some cases, reconstructed, giving you an idea of their former splendour and explaining why Ayutthaya has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Inclusief:
- Private transfers with English-speaking guide
- Visit Wat Mahathat in Phitsanulok
- Lunch on the go
- Visit Ayutthaya
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
AriyasomVilla Boutique Hotel
AriyasomVilla is a charming boutique hotel built around a 70-year-old Thai house, with a perfect location in the heart of Sukhumvit, just a few minutes' walk from the nearest sky train station. Each of the 24 rooms are decorated in an Oriental style reminiscent of the early 20th century with antique...
AriyasomVilla is a charming boutique hotel built around a 70-year-old Thai house, with a perfect location in the heart of Sukhumvit, just a few minutes' walk from the nearest sky train station. Each of the 24 rooms are decorated in an Oriental style reminiscent of the early 20th century with antique furniture, silk fabrics and polished wooden floors, and are equipped with luxury linens, LCD TVs, wireless internet and spacious en-suite bathrooms. This distinctive hotel also features an elegant swimming pool with sun loungers, the "Som Sen" Spa and a restaurant serving freshly prepared Thai and Western dishes.
Your stay: 3 nights
Lala Mukha Tented Resort
Lala Mukha Tented Resort is located in Khao Yai, Thailand. The eco-friendly resort features 31 elegantly decorated tents and tree houses. Rooms feature a TV, free Wi-Fi, a tea/coffee maker, an electric kettle, a standing fan and a minibar. The resort also offers luggage storage,...
Lala Mukha Tented Resort is located in Khao Yai, Thailand. The eco-friendly resort features 31 elegantly decorated tents and tree houses. Rooms feature a TV, free Wi-Fi, a tea/coffee maker, an electric kettle, a standing fan and a minibar. The resort also offers luggage storage, room service, sightseeing tours and excursions, transfers, outdoor dining and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can stargaze, make campfires, swim, barbecue outdoors and much more.
Your stay: 2 nights
Ad Lib Khon Kaen
Ad Lib Khon Kaen is located in Khon Kaen, close to Khon Kaen Train Station. The hotel features comfortably furnished rooms equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a desk, a safe, a flat-screen TV, a hairdryer and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy...
Ad Lib Khon Kaen is located in Khon Kaen, close to Khon Kaen Train Station. The hotel features comfortably furnished rooms equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a desk, a safe, a flat-screen TV, a hairdryer and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy French, Italian and Thai dishes at the hotel's restaurants. Additional facilities and services include a bar, an outdoor swimming pool and parking.
Your stay: 2 nights
Baan Suan Kaew Khampaeng
Located in the serene village of Kut Sa, Udon Thani, Thailand, Baan Suan Kaew Khampaeng offers a peaceful retreat. The accommodation features comfortable air-conditioned bungalows with a private bathroom and a balcony. You can enjoy meals at the hotel's restaurant or local eateries in...
Located in the serene village of Kut Sa, Udon Thani, Thailand, Baan Suan Kaew Khampaeng offers a peaceful retreat. The accommodation features comfortable air-conditioned bungalows with a private bathroom and a balcony. You can enjoy meals at the hotel's restaurant or explore local eateries nearby. Nearby attractions include the Playground At Planetarium and The City Pillar Shrine, ideal for cultural exploration. For your relaxation, the accommodation offers free Wi-Fi, a garden and a picnic area, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Your stay: 1 night
Phu Pha Nam Resort & Spa
Phu Pha Nam Resort & Spa is located in Loei province, 455 km northeast of Bangkok, Thailand. Guests are sure to enjoy comfortable, spacious rooms fully equipped with Wi-Fi access, a TV, air conditioning and a fridge. The hotel also offers a restaurant, a swimming pool, a...
Phu Pha Nam Resort & Spa is located in Loei province, 455 km northeast of Bangkok, Thailand. Guests are sure to enjoy comfortable, spacious rooms fully equipped with Wi-Fi access, a TV, air conditioning and a fridge. The hotel also offers a restaurant, a swimming pool, a gym and a spa.
Your stay: 2 nights
Legendha Sukhothai Resort
Legendha Sukhothai Resort is spectacularly designed and modelled in a Thai village concept to give a sense of the authentic atmosphere of Thailand to its guests. The Chedi Wat Chang Lom, an ancient temple in Thailand's oldest capital, is located at the back of the boutique hotel!
All rooms ...
Legendha Sukhothai Resort is spectacularly designed and modelled in a Thai village concept to give a sense of the authentic atmosphere of Thailand to its guests. The Chedi Wat Chang Lom, an ancient temple in Thailand's oldest capital, is located at the back of the boutique hotel!
All rooms with teak furniture and generous ensuite facilities are designed to give you maximum comfort. A swimming pool with Jacuzzi and children's pool is also available. Within minutes of the hotel, the must-see, the Sukhothai Historical Park, is located.
Your stay: 2 nights
AriyasomVilla Boutique Hotel
AriyasomVilla is a charming boutique hotel built around a 70-year-old Thai house, with a perfect location in the heart of Sukhumvit, just a few minutes' walk from the nearest sky train station. Each of the 24 rooms are decorated in an Oriental style reminiscent of the early 20th century with antique...
AriyasomVilla is a charming boutique hotel built around a 70-year-old Thai house, with a perfect location in the heart of Sukhumvit, just a few minutes' walk from the nearest sky train station. Each of the 24 rooms are decorated in an Oriental style reminiscent of the early 20th century with antique furniture, silk fabrics and polished wooden floors, and are equipped with luxury linens, LCD TVs, wireless internet and spacious en-suite bathrooms. This distinctive hotel also features an elegant swimming pool with sun loungers, the "Som Sen" Spa and a restaurant serving freshly prepared Thai and Western dishes.
Your stay: 1 night
Experiences
Bangkok Streetfood Tour by tuk-tuk
Before dinner, dive into Bangkok's culinary world with an adventurous street food tour by tuk-tuk. You will taste iconic dishes in the vibrant districts of Thonburi, Rattanakosin and Chinatown, while your guide tells you all about the variations within Thai cuisine. This is an unforgettable dining experience in which you...
Before dinner, dive into Bangkok's culinary world with an adventurous street food tour by tuk-tuk. You will taste iconic dishes in the vibrant districts of Thonburi, Rattanakosin and Chinatown, while your guide tells you all about the variations within Thai cuisine. This is an unforgettable dining experience that introduces you to authentic flavours and hidden dining addresses.
Flavours of the Isan region
The Isan region in northeast Thailand is known as the cradle of Thai culinary cuisine. Many iconic dishes that are popular worldwide originate here, such as som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat) and grilled chicken (kai yang). Isan's cuisine is characterised by powerful...
The Isan region in northeast Thailand is known as the cradle of Thai culinary cuisine. Many iconic dishes that are popular worldwide originate here, such as som tam (spicy papaya salad), larb (spiced minced meat) and grilled chicken (kai yang). Isan cuisine is characterised by powerful flavours: spicy, sour, salty and savoury in perfect balance. Influences from neighbouring Laos and Cambodia give dishes an authentic, regional twist. Often prepared with simple, local ingredients and served with sticky rice, Isan food is inextricably linked to Thai food culture and loved for its purity and distinct character.
Destinations
Ayutthaya
Ayuttaha was the capital of the Siamese kingdom after Sukothai in the 12th century. You will find some spectacular historical ruins. Over the centuries, the city grew and was nicknamed the 'Venice of the East'. The Ayutthaya Historical Park includes the ancient remains of ornate monasteries and religious towers. This archaeological dig is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the main reason to visit this city. The modern part of the city itself has its own charms - including opulent Buddhist temples, quaint old colonial settlements and several markets.
Northeastern Thailand (Isan)
The vast northeastern part of Thailand is one of the country's largest but least travelled regions. It is mainly an agricultural region, richly covered with vast rural lands and emerald rice paddies. Isan is known for its rich, authentic culture, a mix of Thai, Lao and Cambodian heritage and traditions - a legacy of its proximity to these neighbouring countries - and for its spicy cuisine. Highlights include the animal-rich mountains of Khao Yai National Park, the high rolling hills of Loei, the Phimai Historical Park with its ancient Khmer temples and the city of Udon Thani, famous for the archaeological site of Ban Chiang.
Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is an always dynamic travel destination, famous for its cultural offerings, vibrant nightlife and rich choice of dining options - which range from bustling street markets to very upscale restaurants. Cultural highlights include the Emerald Buddha at Wat Pho, a boat trip on the 'Klongs' (canals) and the Grand Palace. For shopping, visit the tourist hub of Khaosan Road.
Thailand
Thailand, fondly known as 'the land of smiles', is often associated with beautiful golden sands, palm-fringed beaches, warm aquamarine waters, glorious temples and verdant jungle-clad mountains. With 16 million foreigners flying into the country every year, Thailand is Southeast Asia's premier travel hub, with a diverse range of attractions and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether exploring the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, relaxing on the tropical beaches of the southern islands, diving in the underwater wonderland off the coast of Koh Tao, jungle trekking in the north, or discovering the ancient cities of Chiang Mai, Thailand is filled with attractions to satisfy every interest.
Khao Yai National Park
Khao Yai is Thailand's third-largest national park. Established in 1962, this park is still one of the country's best-known and most popular protected areas. It stretches over 2,000 square kilometres of jungle, evergreen forests and grassy plains, and includes about 50 km of stunningly beautiful hiking and cycling trails, ranging from 500 m to 8 km long. It also includes several spectacular waterfalls, including the 20-metre-high Huay Suwat, which was featured in the blockbuster film 'The Beach'. The park is a hub of biodiversity, home to about 3,000 botanical species and a wide range of exotic animals, including macaques, gibbons, bears and elephants, as well as a dazzling array of birds.
Sukhothai
Sukhothai, one of Thailand's most sacred historical sites, was once the capital of the wider Sukhothai kingdom, which flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries. Although the ancient city fell into disrepair after being abandoned in the 16th century, it has since been restored and is considered one of the most important examples of ancient Siamese religious art and architecture. A designated World Heritage Site, it is located 12 km from the city of New Sukothai and is the area's highlight attraction with an array of decorative Buddha statues, towers, chedis and temples. Other nearby attractions include two national parks and the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum.
Khon Kaen
Khon Kaen, one of the four main cities in northeastern Thailand, is home to the largest university in the region and is one of the most progressive and vibrant destinations. The city has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in the many beautiful ancient temples and historical museums scattered throughout the city. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the beautiful Lake Bueng Kaen Nakhon, where you can enjoy delicious Thai food in waterfront restaurants, picnic in the shade of the trees, stroll through ancient shrines and enjoy spectacular sunsets from the lake's eastern shore.
Loei Province
The mountainous northeastern province of Loei borders Laos by the Mekong River and is known for its fantastic natural scenery and delicious wine. Loei charms visitors with its enticing vistas of jungle-covered hills, steep cliffs and waterfalls. Home to an array of scenic national parks, including Nam Nao National Park, with its diverse array of wildlife and Phu Kradung National Park, a popular destination for trekking. Loei is also one of Thailand's few wine regions and produces surprisingly good wine for its tropical region. The province is also attractive to those seeking an authentic experience of Thailand without mass tourism.
Udon Thani Province
Udon Thani province covers nearly 12,000 square kilometres and includes several important archaeological sites and natural attractions. The capital, which bears the same name, is considered one of the 'Big Four' of Northeast Thailand and is a pleasant and progressive city with a vibrant central market and several impressive attractions in the surrounding area. The Red Lotus Sea, located just 50 kilometres from Udon city, is one of the province's most fascinating spectacles - a huge lake covered with deep pink lotus flowers as far as the eye can see. Other regional attractions include the Bronze Age site Ban Chiang, known for its ancient red pottery; and Pru Phrabat Park, with its prehistoric petroglyphs and bizarre rock formations.
Udon Thani
One of the 'Big Four' of Isaan and the capital of Udon Thani province, 'Udon' is a pleasant city with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly people, located near the Lao border, in northeastern Thailand. Nong Prajak Park offers a lovely place to relax during the heat of the day (delicious traditional snacks and Thai massages are offered here), while the city's many temples will charm visitors with their serene opulence. There are several other national and historical parks scattered around the city's periphery, including the archaeological site of Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its attractive ancient pottery; and Phu Phra Bat Park, where you will find Bronze Age petroglyphs and intriguing rock formations.
Muak Lek
Resting in the foothills of the mighty Phetchabun Mountains among the lush landscapes of Thailand's Saraburi Province, the Muak Lek district is a picturesque destination offering a multitude of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Primarily, it functions as an idyllic and convenient base for excursions to and the spectacular Chet Sao Noi Waterfall, an enormous curtain spreading wide across and decorated by bright turquoise natural pools. The district also lies just north of the magnificent Khao Yai National Park, known for its impressive array of wildlife, which includes elephant, porcupine, Asian Black Bear, and many more.
Dan Sai
Set among the green hills of Loei province, Dan Sai is a picturesque, peaceful village that comes alive three days a year during the Phi Ta Khon Festival. This 'festival of spirits' is a celebration of a Buddhist story. Prince Vessantara (Buddha in his previous life) was away for a long time and his followers thought he was dead; however, he returned and the celebrations were so lavish that they raised the dead. The festival, full of dancing, brightly coloured costumes and processions, offers a unique attraction and is held sometime between March and July. The town also houses some beautiful temples and is an idyllic base for exploring its pristine natural surroundings.
Thailand trip | The hidden paths of Thailand
We offer the described trip from €3,685 per person.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Domestic flights
• Accommodation in charming lodges and hotels
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including the Bangkok Food Tuk Tuk Tour, Khao Yai National Park night safari and Ghost Khon mask workshop
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Walking excursions in the national parks
Not included
• International flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)