14 Days Trip to Bangkok and a Tour in Northern Thailand

Welcome to the land of smiles! Thailand is a vibrant and diverse country that offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil mountains of Northern Thailand, this 14-day trip will take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of this beautiful country. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and explore the hidden gems that Thailand has to offer.

Destination Highlights

• Bangkok: The capital city of Thailand, known for its ornate temples, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife.
• Chiang Mai: A charming city in Northern Thailand, famous for its ancient temples, traditional markets, and lush mountains.
• Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya is home to ancient ruins and historical sites.
• Sukhothai: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sukhothai is known for its well-preserved ruins and beautiful temples.
• Pai: A small town nestled in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Pai offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
• Chiang Rai: Located in the Golden Triangle region, Chiang Rai is known for its unique temples, including the famous White Temple.

Suggested Itinerary

Here is a suggested itinerary for your 14-day trip to Bangkok and Northern Thailand:

Please note that this itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized according to your preferences and time constraints.

Realistic Time Management

To make the most of your time in each destination, it is important to plan your activities and manage your time effectively. Here is a detailed hourly schedule per activity with estimated travel time based on the location proximity:

• Day 1:

  • Morning: Explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit Wat Arun and take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River (2 hours)
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Khao San Road (3 hours)

• Day 2:

  • Morning: Take a cooking class and learn to make traditional Thai dishes (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Jim Thompson House and explore the Siam Paragon shopping mall (3 hours)
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Thai massage (2 hours)

• Day 3:

  • Morning: Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (2 hours)
  • Evening: Take a sunset cruise along the Chao Phraya River (2 hours)

• Day 4:

  • Morning: Travel to Chiang Mai and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Old City and visit the temples of Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh (3 hours)
  • Evening: Experience the Night Bazaar and try local street food (3 hours)

• Day 5:

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Elephant Nature Park (8 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Nimmanhaemin Road area (3 hours)
  • Evening: Attend a traditional Khantoke dinner and cultural show (3 hours)

• Day 6:

  • Morning: Visit the Doi Inthanon National Park and hike to the highest peak in Thailand (8 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Baan Kang Wat artist village (2 hours)
  • Evening: Relax with a traditional Thai massage (2 hours)

• Day 7:

  • Morning: Travel to Ayutthaya and visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace (4 hours)
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Thai dinner on a river cruise (3 hours)

• Day 8:

  • Morning: Travel to Sukhothai and explore the Sukhothai Historical Park (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum (2 hours)
  • Evening: Experience a traditional Thai dance performance (2 hours)

• Day 9:

  • Morning: Travel to Pai and visit the Pai Canyon (3 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tha Pai Hot Springs (2 hours)
  • Evening: Attend a live music performance at a local bar (3 hours)

• Day 10:

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Tham Lod Cave (6 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Pai Walking Street (2 hours)
  • Evening: Relax with a traditional Thai massage (2 hours)

• Day 11:

  • Morning: Travel to Chiang Rai and visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) and the Black House (Baan Dam) (3 hours)
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Northern Thai dinner (3 hours)

• Day 12:

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Golden Triangle and visit the Hall of Opium Museum (8 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar (2 hours)
  • Evening: Attend a traditional Thai dance performance (2 hours)

• Day 13:

  • Morning: Visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden (4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Wat Huay Pla Kang and climb the giant Guan Yin statue (3 hours)
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views (3 hours)

• Day 14:

  • Morning: Depart from Chiang Rai and return home with unforgettable memories

Local Cuisine

No trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in the mouthwatering local cuisine. Here are some famous local dishes you must try:

• Pad Thai: A stir-fried noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts.
• Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and lime.
• Green Curry: A fragrant curry made with green chili, coconut milk, and various vegetables.

Here are some highly-rated restaurants in Bangkok and Chiang Mai where you can savor these delicious dishes:

• Bangkok:

  • Supanniga Eating Room
  • Thip Samai Pad Thai
  • Somtum Der

• Chiang Mai:

  • Huen Phen
  • Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham
  • Dash! Restaurant & Bar

Accommodation Recommendations

Finding the perfect accommodation is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some recommendations for different budget ranges:

Budget:

1. Lub d Bangkok Silom - Located in the heart of Bangkok's business district, this hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation with easy access to public transportation.
2. Niras Bankoc Cultural Hostel - Situated in the historic area of Bangkok, this hostel provides a unique cultural experience with its traditional Thai-style architecture and friendly atmosphere.
3. The Yard Hostel - A trendy and budget-friendly hostel located near the famous Khao San Road, offering a vibrant social atmosphere and convenient access to Bangkok's attractions.

Mid-Range:

1. Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit Sukhumvit - A modern and stylish hotel situated in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and easy access to shopping and dining areas. 2. Centre Point Pratunam - Located in the vibrant Pratunam area, this hotel provides spacious and well-equipped rooms, along with a rooftop pool and fitness center.
2. Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok - Offering stunning views of the Chao Phraya River, this hotel features luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, and a relaxing riverside pool.

Luxury:

1. The Peninsula Bangkok - A luxurious riverside hotel known for its impeccable service, elegant rooms, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
2. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - An iconic 5-star hotel offering world-class facilities, exquisite dining options, and a serene spa, located along the Chao Phraya River.
3. The Siam Hotel - A boutique luxury hotel with a blend of traditional Thai and Art Deco design, providing a tranquil retreat in the heart of Bangkok.

How To Get There And Away

Getting to Bangkok and Northern Thailand is relatively easy, thanks to the well-connected transportation system. Here are some suggestions for different transportation modes:

• By Air: Bangkok is served by two international airports - Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. Several airlines operate direct flights to Bangkok from major cities around the world. From Bangkok, you can take domestic flights to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

• By Train: Bangkok is the main railway hub in Thailand, with trains connecting to various cities, including Chiang Mai and Ayutthaya. The train journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes approximately 12-15 hours, while the journey from Bangkok to Ayutthaya takes around 1-2 hours.

• By Bus: Bangkok has a well-developed bus network that connects to various destinations in Thailand. Buses are an affordable and convenient mode of transportation. From Bangkok, you can take buses to Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Pai, and Chiang Rai.

• By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Bangkok and explore Northern Thailand at your own pace. However, keep in mind that traffic in Bangkok can be congested, so plan your routes accordingly.

Comprehensive Packing List

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip, here is a comprehensive packing list organized by category and their useful applications:

• Clothing:

  • Lightweight and breathable clothing for hot weather
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Swimwear and beach towel
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Rain jacket or umbrella for unpredictable weather

• Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Travel-sized toiletries
  • Medications and first aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Travel adapter and chargers for electronic devices

• Miscellaneous:

  • Travel guidebook and maps
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Money belt or secure wallet
  • Portable charger and power bank
  • Reusable water bottle and travel mug

Budget Consideration

a. The standard cost of living per person per day for travelers in Thailand is approximately $30-50 USD, depending on your accommodation, dining choices, and activities.

b. Relevant costs from the suggested itinerary (excluding accommodation) may include:

• Entrance fees to temples and historical sites: $5-10 USD per person per site
• Cooking class: $30-50 USD per person
• Day trips and tours: $50-100 USD per person
• Traditional Thai massage: $10-20 USD per hour

c. Tips for saving money:

• Eat at local street food stalls and markets for affordable and delicious meals.
• Use public transportation or walk instead of taking taxis or private cars.
• Look for discounts and deals on attractions and activities.
• Bargain at markets and negotiate prices for souvenirs.

Language and Cultural Etiquette

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Thai phrases can go a long way in communicating effectively with locals. Here are some useful phrases:

• Hello: Sawasdee (sa-wat-dee)
• Thank you: Khop khun (kop-koon)
• Yes: Chai (chai)
• No: Mai chai (mai-chai)
• Excuse me: Kor thot (kor-tot)

When visiting temples and other religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders, knees, and avoiding revealing clothing. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering temples and to be mindful of your actions and behavior.

Some Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While exploring Bangkok and Northern Thailand, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences you can consider:

• Explore the hidden alleys and street art in Bangkok's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Banglamphu and Chinatown.
• Take a boat ride along the Mae Kok River in Chiang Rai and visit the local villages