How to Plan a Trip to Northern Thailand (Sample Itinerary)

From the golden temples and vibrant floating markets near Bangkok to the lush green mountains of Chiang Mai and the tranquil rivers of the Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and natural beauty for every type of traveler.

Do you have no idea where to start your trip in northern Thailand? Read on to get a comprehensive guide.

Top Places to Visit in Northern Thailand

In northern Thailand, travel resources are spread across Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Based on our extensive on-site exploration and recommendations from local guides in northern Thailand, we have curated a list of the top destinations in the region, each providing a distinct and memorable experience.

1. Bangkok: Modern Capital and Gateway of Thailand

Bangkok, the dynamic capital of Thailand, is also the main gateway to Thailand's history and culture. From the splendid temple architecture that tells a rich history to the bustling markets where aromas of street food beckon, this city is an ideal destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.

2. Ayutthaya: Ancient Capital of a Grand Kingdom

Ayutthaya is a city that's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located to the north of Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, this historical city is a treasure trove of majestic ruins and revered temples standing as a testament to its grand past. At a short distance from Bangkok, Ayutthaya is a popular day trip destination from Bangkok.

3. Sukhothai: Origin of Thai Civilization

Sukhothai is a history lover's paradise, with its UNESCO-listed ruins and peaceful landscapes. It's a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Thailand's origins, away from the crowds. For a truly magical experience, visit the historical park at sunrise or sunset. Given its significant distance from Bangkok (a 5-hour drive), it is recommended to plan your visit to Sukhothai from Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai for a more convenient journey.

4. Chiang Mai: Ancient Temples and a Paradise for Elephant Experiences

Situated in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a charming city to immerse yourself in serene temples and lush landscapes, offering a tranquil escape from the bustle of urban life. With a large number of ethical elephant sanctuaries, Chiang Mai is the best place for elephant experiences in Thailand. As well as that, Chiang Mai's Yi Peng Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing and romantic event for a cultural experience.

5. Chiang Rai: Visit the Famous Golden Triangle and the White Temple

Being the northernmost province in Thailand, Chiang Rai is known for the iconic White Temple, rural hill tribe villages, and the famous Golden Triangle (the border of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar). With a rich cultural heritage and a relatively short distance (186 km / 116 miles), this city is often in a tour combination with Chiang Mai.

6. Lampang: a Calm Historic City to Experience Horse-Drawn Carriages

Known for its historic wooden temples and well-preserved Lanna architecture, Lampang is a good place to experience a slower pace of life and immerse yourself in authentic Thai culture. It is a highlight to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Lampang's charming streets. Due to the relatively close distance (a 1½-hour drive), planning a trip from Chiang Mai to Lampang is a time-efficient travel option.

How Many Days to Spend in Northern Thailand and a Sample Itinerary

To cover the major cities (mentioned above) of northern Thailand, it is recommended to spend at least 10 days exploring the region. The following is a sample 10-day itinerary.

A Classic 10-Day Northern Thailand Tour Itinerary

This is one of our crafted tours for travelers seeking a flexible road trip to experience the rich history and culture of northern Thailand.

• Days 1–2: Bangkok (the top temples and nearby floating markets)
• Day 3: Ayutthaya (temples in Ayutthaya Historical Park and Bang Pa-In Palace)
• Day 4: Transfer from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai via Lopburi and Kamphaeng Phet (visit some UNESCO sites, such as the impressive Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park)
• Days 5–6: Sukhothai and Lampang (Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, and riding in a horse-drawn carriage)
• Days 7–10: Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai (the White Temple, the Golden Triangle, temples in Chiang Mai, and elephant experiences)

For travelers with limited time, you could choose to visit Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Spend 3–4 days in each city to cover the highlights in the two main cities in northern Thailand. If you have already visited Bangkok and are looking to explore the northern regions, choosing to visit Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai is a great option.

A Classic 7-Day Bangkok and Chiang Mai Tour

This itinerary is good if you would like to cover the highlights of northern Thailand in a limited time.

• Days 1–3: Bangkok (explore the city highlights and local markets)
• Days 4–6: Chiang Mai (Doi Suthep, elephant experiences, and Doi Inthanon National Park)
• Day 7: Departure from Chiang Mai

A 7-Day Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Highlights Tour

In this itinerary, you would explore the essential offerings of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, spending 3 days in each.

• Days 1–3: Bangkok to Chiang Rai (the Golden Triangle, hill tribe villages, and the White Temple)
• Days 4–6: Chiang Mai (Doi Suthep, elephant experiences, and a cooking class at an organic farm)
• Day 7: Departure from Chiang Mai

The Best Time to Visit Northern Thailand

Typically, the best time to visit northern Thailand is from November to March during the dry and cool season, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

November also hosts festivals like Loy Krathong and the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, enhancing your cultural experience. During the Christmas and New Year holidays, popular cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai get busy, so plan ahead and make reservations at least 3 months in advance for better deals and to secure accommodation.

During the months of March to April, rural areas of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai often engage in traditional farming practices involving burning straw. If you are concerned about the air quality and visibility, it may not be a good time for you.

Northern Thailand experiences its hot season from April to June. Despite the warmth, it remains a favorable time for travel as the temperature is generally acceptable, ranging from 28 to 33°C (82–91°F).

Visiting northern Thailand during the rainy season (July to early October) is still feasible since visits to attractions are typically unaffected, with rainfall mostly occurring in the late afternoon. Just keep in mind there's a chance of flooding in Chiang Mai, especially during September or October, so it's good to stay flexible.

Travel Costs in Northern Thailand

The travel costs in northern Thailand could vary depending on your preferences for accommodation and travel style. The following are our prices for a private tour based on two people during the peak season (November to March), for your reference.

For traveling on a medium budget, expect to spend about US$150–200 per day per person. Your cost would cover 4-star hotels, city transport, attractions, private tour guides, and transfers.

For traveling with a higher budget, US$200–250 per day per person would allow you to enjoy a more luxurious tour with 5-star hotels and premium services.

Getting Around in Northern Thailand

For efficient travel in northern Thailand, the best option is to hire a private car. This allows for convenient, customizable transfers between cities, with trips usually taking 2 to 4 hours. Although direct flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai are quick (1½ to 2 hours), flying to smaller cities, such as Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, or Lampang, is not feasible due to the lack of airports or direct routes.

Trains are another option but the long journey times, such as up to 14 hours from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, make them less time-effective for travelers with limited time. Therefore, a private car offers the most practical and flexible solution to explore northern Thailand at your own pace.

Travel with Asia Highlights

Looking for a hassle-free trip to northern Thailand? Travel with Asia Highlights and you will be guaranteed to get the most out of this region with a knowledgeable guide who can provide valuable insights into historical sites and help with interactions with locals. Please contact us if you have any questions.