best places to visit northern thailand

Northern Thailand: The Ultimate 2-week Itinerary

Welcome to the enchanting realm of Northern Thailand, a timeless favorite and perfect example of the vibrant spirit of the ‘Land of Smiles’. Embark on a two-week journey, immersing yourself in the region’s breathtaking beauty and rich culture as you explore its lively cities, natural wonders, and ornate temples. The country is famously known as the jewel of Asia, making the luscious north an irresistible and must-visit destination. From peaceful nature hikes to lively night markets, here’s everything you need to know for the perfect itinerary through the north of Thailand.

2 Weeks in Northern Thailand

Different than the famous pristine beaches in the south and the bustling capital of Bangkok , northern Thailand is renowned for its forested mountains, lush rice paddies, and powerful falls. Explore the vibrant city of Chiang Mai with its ancient temples and lively night markets before journeying on to the picturesque towns of Pai and Chiang Rai .

Also read: Complete 7-Day Thailand Itinerary

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to soak up the beautiful landscapes, from tall canyons to luscious jungles and peaceful hot springs. Discover our Northern Thailand itinerary in this complete guide.

Day 1 + 2: Arrival in Chiang Mai

Welcome to the vibrant city and ancient capital of Northern Thailand! Chiang Mai makes the perfect destination to start your 2-week journey through the lush landscapes of the north, filled with many hidden gems. The international airport has many connections worldwide and is only a 10-minute ride from the center. 

Century-old temples, bustling night markets, and some of the best coffee shops in the world – that’s what you can expect from the first few days of your north-of-Thailand itinerary. Although Chiang Mai is one of the largest cities in the country, it has a cozy atmosphere, allowing you to soak up the rich culture and surroundings at a slower pace.

In the early hours, visit one of the most stunning temples in the area, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which sits high atop Doi Suthep mountain. Then, explore the old center and city walls of Chiang Mai (the city is believed to date back all the way to 1294 A.D.!).

The Old Town is the beating heart of Chiang Mai, home to charming streets, sacred temples, and many hidden coffee shops. By night, delve into the delicious Thai cuisine by visiting the incredible street markets or joining a fun cooking class. 

Read more: The best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Doi Inthanon National Park

For stunning mountain views, thundering waterfalls, and beautiful sunrises, spend your next day in Doi Inthanon National Park. Located only 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai, this incredible park is home to the highest mountain in Thailand and many beautiful trails, making it a must-do when visiting the north.

Trek through the lush jungles and across flat grasslands, always with incredible views over the green surroundings. The trails in Doi Inthanon are especially stunning in the winter mornings when a blanket of clouds swirls over the mountain ridges into the valleys. 

Read all you need to know about visiting Doi Inthanon National Park .

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has various accommodation options for every budget, from backpacker hostels and mid-range guesthouses to luxury apartments.

Hotels in Chiang Mai 😴

If it’s your first time in Thailand, the best place to stay is in the Old Town, where most hotels and hostels are located.

Day 3: Chiang Mai to Pai

High up in the mountains of northern Thailand lies Pai , a beautiful village known for its stunning landscapes and relaxed vibe. It’s a popular backpacking destination, with many visitors arriving on the Mae Hong Son Loop. From Chiang Mai, it’s about a 3-hour journey north to Pai. Wind your way past brightly-colored rice paddies and take in some of Thailand’s most breathtaking views. 

Also read: Best Places to Visit in Thailand

From bamboo bridges tucked between lush green and yellow rice fields to the forested mountains and bright blue sky – everything here looks as if it could come straight off a painting.

Climb up to the majestic Big Buddha (Wat Phra That Mae Yen) that lies nestled in the green hills, overlooking the village and surrounding paddies below. After dark, visit the bustling hub of the Pai Night Market, where stalls line the streets, and live music drifts out the bars.

How to Get from Chiang Mai to Pai

Pai lies about 3-4 hours from Chiang Mai and makes a great destination to add to your North of Thailand itinerary. You can get to the mountain village in a few different ways.

The easiest way to get to Pai is by renting a car. The roads in Thailand are becoming more and more developed, making it easier to drive between destinations. Having your own transportation also gives you more freedom on your trip. 

We recommend to rent a car in Thailand through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By Shared Van

The cheapest way to get to Pai is to book a shared van from Chiang Mai (about 280 THB/8 USD per person). However, this is a very popular option, so we recommend booking a few days in advance during the high season.

By Motorbike 

Another, more exhilarating, way to travel to Pai is by motorcycle. This is a great way to see the incredible nature of the north of Thailand as you zigzag your way up into the hills. However, only do this if you feel confident driving, as this is a busy itinerary with many (762!) corners and usually takes a bit longer than Google Maps tells you. 

Tip: Don’t want to carry your luggage? There are companies in Chiang Mai who’ll take your bags for you to your next destination.

Motorbike rental starts around 150-400 THB (4.30 – 11.60 USD) per day, depending on the model you choose. There are many rental companies in Chiang Mai, but remember that you’ll always need to leave your passport or a deposit of 3.000 THB (87 USD).

Day 4 – 6: Pai

Spend the next few days of your north-of-Thailand itinerary exploring the village of Pai and its surroundings. Though small, there are plenty of things to do in and around the mountain settlement. From marveling at the stunning Pai Canyon around sunrise to visiting one of the most beautiful temples (Wat Si Don Chai), intricately decorated with gorgeous details. Explore the region by bike, stopping at every viewpoint and looking out over the stunning cloud-covered mountains. 

Read more: best things to do in Pai, Thailand

One of the best things to do in Pai is to go rafting or tubing on the river! See the beautiful surrounding nature from a different perspective and meet new friends while you make your way down the waters. Normally, tours drop you a few km upstream, allowing you to float back down (usually 1-2 hours). During the rainy season, when the river level is high, you can go for adrenaline-pumping white water rafting instead. 

Where to Stay in Pai

Depending on your budget, there are lots of accommodation options in Pai, from backpacker hostels to pool-side villas or traditional wooden bungalows.

Hotels in Pai 😴

Day 7: Tham Lod Cave

Motorcycle around the cloud-covered mountains as you pass buffalos grazing in the luscious rice fields and people swimming in the river – the perfect way to see local life in Northern Thailand. From Pai, make your way to the hot springs and the nearby Tham Lod Cave. The Pai region has hundreds of caves, but Tham Lod is easily the most impressive. 

This 1.5 KM cave network is mind-blowing, with three enormous chambers to explore on foot. Climb the bamboo stairs into caves full of stalactites as a guide helps you navigate through the dark. The most spectacular sight happens just before the sun sets when 250.000 birds fly back into the cave for the night. Afterward, stay overnight at Resort Kanlaya’s Eyrie . 

Entry Fee & Opening Times: 500 THB (14.40 USD) for a guided tour of all three caves + raft boat that you split with three other people. It’s mandatory to hire a guide. The caves are open from 9 AM – 6 PM. Read more about Tham Lod in our complete Pai travel guide .

How to Get to the Tham Lod Cave

To explore the nature around Pai, you’ll want to rent a motorcycle or book an organized tour. A motorcycle costs around 150-400 THB (4.30 – 11.60 USD) per day, depending on the model you choose. There are a few companies in town, but keep in mind that you’ll need to leave your passport or put down a deposit of 3,000 THB (87 USD).

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Day 8: Pai to Chiang Mai

After your small break from the city, head back to Chiang Mai. On your way, make a stop at the Elephant Nature Park , an incredible nature reserve that’s an ethical and responsible sanctuary for animals. This is the only place in Thailand to experience elephants (or another sanctuary recommended by the park’s staff). Watch as the majestic animals interact with one another, happy and healthy as they would in the wild. However, make sure to book ahead, as this experience sells out quickly, especially during peak season. 

Book your visit to the Elephant Nature Park here

Once you return to Chiang Mai, head to the Old Town for live music at places like North Gate Jazz Co-op or hunt for colorful street art.

Here are all your hotel options in Chiang Mai.

Day 9: Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

From the ancient capital, head up north towards the mountainous Chiang Rai , full of thundering falls, green valleys, and beautiful flower fields. This unique destination is often missed in favor of more popular destinations but makes a must-visit on any trip through the north of Thailand. Explore the incredible temples perched between the lush greenery, and dive into the many jungle trails, taking in all the beautiful surrounding nature.

Read more: Best things to do in Chiang Rai, Thailand

How to get from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai lies about a 3.5-hour drive from Chiang Mai, making it a popular destination for tours. The easiest way to get to Chiang Rai is by hiring a car. The roads in Northern Thailand are becoming more developed, making it easier to travel between destinations. 

Alternatively, you can book a tour up to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai, including transportation, a guide, and entry to all the most important sites around town.

Where to Stay in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai has many budget-friendly hostels in the center, as well as more scenic options along the river. Here, you’ll find more upmarket options, including some high-end resorts and boutique hotels.

Hotels in Chiang Rai 😴

We stayed at Baan Ga-Cha Villa , which is great for a bigger group! Although, you do need a motorcycle to get there as it’s a little out of the center.

Day 10 + 11: Chiang Rai

Spend your mornings sipping delicious coffee in one of the many cafes around the area. Discover the highest waterfall (70 meters!) by going on a beautiful jungle hike, passing through the greenery to the falls. Make sure to visit the detailed hilltop temples and the Big Buddha around sunset, when lovely colors light up the buildings and the valleys below. End your days at the night market in Chiang Rai, full of delicious food, live music, and a great atmosphere. 

Day 12: Phu Langka Viewpoint

Leave in the morning and head out to Phu Langka to discover some of the most incredible views in Chiang Rai. This stunning region in Northern Thailand is known for its protected forest and limestone peaks towering out between a blanket of low-hanging clouds. En route, stop at great coffee spots like Paragraph Cafe or Cafe’ine before heading to the Phayao viewpoint . 

This large platform atop the high mountain ridge looks over the beautiful valley below. We recommend staying the night here if you can, so you’ll wake up to an incredible sunrise view over the surrounding. (Read all about Phu Langka viewpoint in Phayao, Thailand )

Remember that not many people speak English in this region. Because of this, it’s best to download the Thai language offline on Google Translate. Although, typically, 4G connections do work in this area.

Getting to Phu Langka

It’s a 3-hour drive to get to the viewpoint. However, this journey is an experience in itself, leading you through beautiful rice paddies, farm fields, and stunning mountain roads. There are a few different routes to get to Phu Langka viewpoint , with the most direct being 2 hours on the highway. However, traffic is much busier here, so we recommend taking one of the alternative roads. 

Tip: Bring layers! It’s slightly cooler up in the mountains, so you’ll likely want to add/remove a layer while making your way up through the winding roads.

Renting your own transport means you can explore at your own pace and make up your own itinerary. We rented scooters from B-Rider, and another good option is Nice Rental. You can also opt to rent a car, as many of Thailand’s roads are improving. 

Where to Stay in Phu Langka

You can stay in the tiny village where you’ll find the viewpoint. All the houses line one street, with a few cafes and restaurants serving food in the morning and evening. There are currently barely any accommodations on any hotel booking sites. We booked ours by looking on Google Maps and messaging them via FB.

Read: All about Phu Langka viewpoint in Phayao, Thailand .

Day 13: Back to Chiang Rai

On day 13 of your north-of-Thailand itinerary, head back to Chiang Rai and spend your last day strolling through the laidback city. Marvel at the golden clock tower if you haven’t seen this centerpiece yet, and relax at one of the many cafes in town. This region of the country is home to the best coffee plantations, so Chiang Rai has fantastic locally-sourced coffee. Some of our favorites: 

• Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House
• Doi Chang Coffee
• Akha Ama Coffee
• Ban Mai Chay Nam
• Norn Nung Len Cafe

Day 14: Fly out from Chiang Rai

After an amazing two weeks in Northern Thailand, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful part of the country. Whether heading home or traveling elsewhere, you’ll have plenty of incredible memories of your journey here. It’s only a 15-minute drive from central Chiang Rai to the Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, which has many domestic and international connections. 

Visiting more of Thailand? Discover all our Thailand travel guides here .

How to Visit Northern Thailand

Getting to northern thailand .

The north of Thailand’s biggest airport is Chiang Mai International Airport, with many connections, particularly within Asia, and is only a short 10-minute taxi drive from the center.

Getting Around the North of Thailand

Depending on your preferences, there are a few different ways of getting around the region. In Thailand, getting around by taxi is the most convenient. For example, we mostly used the Grab taxi app to get around Chiang Rai . 

Alternatively, you can also hop on a Tuk-Tuk or Songthaew to get around the cities. These are both cheap and convenient options for getting around and can be hailed from the street. Songthaews are the red shared taxis that are more affordable than tuk-tuks but can be a bit slower.

An easy way to get around on your route through the north of Thailand is by renting a car. The roads in Thailand are becoming more and more developed, making it easier to drive between destinations.

Renting a motorbike

Scooter/motorbike rental starts at around 150-400 THB (4.30 – 11.60 USD) per day, depending on the model you choose. There are lots of rental companies in the cities and towns of Northern Thailand, but keep in mind that you need to leave your passport or put down a deposit of 3,000 THB (87 USD).

Our Favorite Accommodations

There are many fantastic options when it comes to accommodation in northern Thailand, whether it’s a jungle bungalow high up in the mountains or a lively hostel in downtown Chiang Mai. Below are our favorites for each destination on this 2-week itinerary.

• Chiang Mai:  18 In Town Homestay , Makkachiva , POR Thapae Gate
• Pai:  Village Boutique Resort , Family House Pai , Resort Kanlaya’s Eyrie (Nam Lod Cave)
• Doi Inthanon: Father’s Garden , Monsonkeang Camping View
• Chiang Rai: Baan Ga Cha Villa , MORA Boutique Hotel , Sleepy House

How Much Do 2 Weeks in Thailand Cost?

Overall, Thailand is very affordable, particularly if you’re staying in hostels and eating out at local restaurants or street vendors. The biggest expense on your north-of-Thailand itinerary will be transport, such as for the tuk-tuks downtown, car rental, or scooter hire. 

Costs of Traveling in Northern Thailand

Travel on a budget in Northern Thailand, from $180 − $360 USD weekly per person, mid-range $450 − $860 USD, and high-end from $860 − $1180 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $20 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $2 − $10 USD
• Activities: $5 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Northern Thailand

Thailand is generally hot and humid. However, the weather depends on the region and time of year you visit. The country sees three seasons, with the cool season being the most pleasant time to visit. This period runs from October to February in Northern Thailand, bringing cool air up into the mountains. Due to its elevated position, Pai sees the coolest temperatures in the north.

However, this is also considered the high season in Thailand, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices. For that reason, the perfect months for your north of Thailand itinerary are October – November, just at the end of the rainy season. 

Read more: The best time to visit Thailand

Do I Need a Visa for Thailand?

Most passport holders do not require a visa to enter Thailand. However, you will need a valid passport and an onward plane ticket to prove you will exit the country within 30 days. You can check the national Thai embassy website to see if your country is exempt from needing a visa and how to apply for a Visa on Arrival instead.

Check whether you need a visa for Thailand here

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13 Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Phu langka: thailand’s best sunrise viewpoint in phayao national park, 8 best things to do in krabi, thailand.

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Northern Thailand Itinerary for 7 days, 10 days or 2 weeks

Planning a Northern Thailand itinerary and wondering how to plan your route to see as much as possible while maximizing your time?

This itinerary covers all the must-visit places in Northern Thailand as well as some hidden gems!

I’ll also tell you how to travel between each destination and provide suggestions on the best places to stay.

With this North Thailand itinerary, you’ll be able to experience Bangkok’s bustling city vibes, immerse yourself in the local culture of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, learn about the dark history of Kanchanaburi, and explore the ruins of Ayutthaya, all the while sampling the unique local cuisine!

So keep reading to find out how to plan the perfect Northern Thailand itinerary for 7 days, 10 days, or up to 2 weeks.

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support 🙂

Read more about Thailand:

• What to do in Chiang Mai in 3 to 5 days
• Guide to planning a Chiang Rai itinerary

Chiang Mai vs Chiang Rai: Which is better?

• Kanchanaburi travel itinerary
• Top things to do in Bangkok in 4 days

Table of Contents

Northern Thailand Itinerary: Best places to visit

Bangkok: 1-4 days.

Your Northern Thailand itinerary begins in Bangkok, famous for its Buddhist temples, shopping malls, and mouth-watering food.

I recommend spending at least 2 to 4 days in Bangkok so you have enough time to get over jet lag and also visit some of the main tourist attractions.

Best things to do in Bangkok:

• Check out the Grand Palace, the former residence of the Kings of Thailand and Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Check price for a guided tour here .
• Temple hopping to Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Wat Suthat, Wat Ratchanatdaram (Loha Prasat), Golden Mount Temple (Wat Saket), and Wat Benchamabophit. Check price for a Bangkok temple tour here.
• Get a bird’s eye view of the city from King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk. Get discounted tickets here.

• Explore Chinatown and indulge in street food at the night market.
• Shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market.
• Check out the shopping malls such as MBK Center, Platinum Fashion Mall, ICONSIAM, Siam Paragon, etc.
• Take a scenic cruise along Chao Phraya River as you feast on a delicious buffet dinner.
• Go on a street food tour and eat at Michelin-starred restaurants and street food stalls.
• Visit Amphawa Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market. Since both are located outside of the city center, it’s recommended to book a guided tour .

Related post: Ultimate Bangkok itinerary for 4 days

Where to stay in Bangkok?

Luxury: Get a taste of luxury at Chatrium Grand Bangkok . The hotel has an outdoor pool and gym and boasts spacious rooms with great views. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of the metro station, providing easy access to the tourist attractions. Check price here.

Mid-range : Amara Bangkok Hotel is also conveniently located near the metro station. It has an infinity pool with one of the best views in Bangkok as well as a sky bar. Check price here.

Budget : Talakkia Boutique Hotel is a budget hotel situated within walking distance of Chinatown. Rooms are small but clean and have a private bathroom. It’s also very quiet a night. Check price here.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN BANGKOK

Chiang Mai: 2-5 days

With an abundance of temples (over 300!), national parks home to stunning viewpoints and waterfalls, and some of the best night markets in all of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a must-visit on any Northern Thailand itinerary!

There’s so much to do in Chiang Mai that you could spend several weeks there and still find new things to do!

But if you’re short on time, 2 to 5 days in Chiang Mai should be enough to get a taste of this incredible province in Northern Thailand.

Best things to do in Chiang Mai:

• Temple hopping around the Old Town – Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, Silver Temple, Wat Lok Moli, etc. Check price for a guided temple tour here.
• Check out one of the many Chiang Mai Night Markets . The Saturday and Sunday night markets are the most popular ones.
• Day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park. Check price for a guided tour here.

• Take in the view from Doi Suthep Temple.
• Day trip to Bua Tong Sticky Waterfall. Check price for a guided tour here.
• Check out the waterfalls near Chiang Mai like Montha Than, Huai Kaeo, Mae Sa and Mok Fa.
• Go hiking in Chiang Mai . The best and easiest one is the Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat temple.
• Take a Thai cooking class .
• Visit the underrated Wat Phra That Doi Saket temple.

Related post: Chiang Mai itinerary for first-time visitors

Where to stay in Chiang Mai?

Luxury : 99 The Heritage Hotel is located right in the middle of the Old Town. Rooms are beautifully decorated, plus the hotel has a nice swimming pool. Check price here.

Mid-Range : El Barrio Lanna is great for those looking for a quiet hotel but still want to be near the attractions, restaurants, and cafes. Rooms are spacious and have either a twin or double bed. There’s also an outdoor pool. Check price here.

Budget : Located less than 200 meters from Wat Phra Singh with plenty of restaurants nearby, Sleep Walker Poshtel offers double and family rooms at affordable prices. Check price here.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN CHIANG MAI

How to get to Chiang Mai?

Plane : If you’re planning a 7-day Northern Thailand itinerary, I recommend taking a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai so you don’t waste time. The flight duration is only about 1h15.

Train : If you’re on a budget or spending more days in Northern Thailand, you can instead take a sleeper train to Chiang Mai . The train takes on average 10-13 hours and tickets cost about 700-1400 baht depending on the cabin class, time of the day, and whether you choose the lower or upper bed.

Bus : Buses are also available and cost about 650 baht. The journey takes about 9 hours.

BOOK A TRANSFER FROM BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI HERE

Chiang Rai: 2-3 days

The next stop on your itinerary for Northern Thailand is Chiang Rai.

This underrated province is home to unique temples, waterfalls, mountains, scenic rice fields and tea plantations. There are also a few night markets that are worth visiting.

Most people visit Chiang Rai as a day trip from Chiang Mai but I would actually recommend spending at least 2 days in Chiang Rai so your itinerary doesn’t feel too rushed.

Best things to do in Chiang Rai:

• Visit the Chiang Rai temples – White Temple, Blue Temple, Wat Huay Pla Kang, and Wat Phra That Doi Khao Kwai.
• Go on a hike to Khun Korn Waterfall .
• Sample street food at the night markets in Chiang Rai .
• Have lunch with a view at Choui Fong Tea Plantation.
• Day trip to the Golden Triangle to check out the Thailand-Laos-Myanmar border.

Related post: Ultimate itinerary for Chiang Rai Thailand

Where to stay in Chiang Rai?

Luxury : Conveniently located in Chiang Rai city center, Le Patta Hotel offers spacious rooms and a beautiful outdoor pool. Check price here.

Mid-Range : Sleepy House is located within walking distance of the bus station and Chiang Rai Night Bazaar. Rooms are cozy and clean and free breakfast is included in the room rate. Check price here.

Budget: Also located in the city center, Baan Mai Kradan Hostel is great for budget and solo travelers. Free breakfast is included in the room rate. Check price here.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN CHIANG RAI

How to get to Chiang Rai?

Bus : Buses from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai depart every 30 minutes from 7 a.m to 6 p.m and the total journey takes about 3.5 hours. Tickets cost about 270 baht or more depending on the time. Make sure to book a few days in advance as they may sell out.

Taxi : If you’re traveling with a group, you can instead book a private taxi .

Note that there are no direct flights between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Ayutthaya: 1 day

Established in 1350, Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam and one of the most important trading ports in Asia.

Ayutthaya is best visited as a day trip from Bangkok and is the perfect place to visit for history and architecture lovers.

Temples to visit in Ayutthaya:

• Wat Mahathat (Buddha head)
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Lokaya Sutharam
• Wat Kasattrathirat
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram

How to get to Ayutthaya?

After you’re done exploring Chiang Rai, take a flight back to Bangkok .

Once you arrive in Bangkok, take the local train to Ayutthaya which should take about 2 hours. You can also get there by train, bus, taxi, or guided tour.

I’ve written a comprehensive guide on how to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok , so make sure to read it for more details.

Related post: Guide to planning an Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok

Kanchanaburi: 2-3 days

Located about 140 km west of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi was by far the highlight of my Northern Thailand itinerary!

Kanchanaburi offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and culture.

There are so many things to do here – from learning about the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway link to walking across the River Kwai Bridge, hiking at the beautiful Erawan Falls, or exploring the many temples, so I recommend staying at least 2 days in Kanchanaburi .

Best things to do in Kanchanaburi:

• Walk along the River Kwai bridge and watch the train pass by.
• Take a day trip from Kanchanaburi to Erawan Falls .
• Visit the Kanchanaburi temples – Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple), Tham Kaew Kanchanaphisek, Wat Ban Tham, Wat Tham Khao Pun, Wat Thaworn Wararam.
• Have lunch with a view at Meena Café.
• Sample street food at JJ Night Market.
• Learn about the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway link at the Death Railway Museum and War Cemetery.
• Ride along the Death Railway by train to visit Tham Krasae Bridge & Cave.

Related post: Ultimate Kanchanaburi itinerary

Where to stay in Kanchanaburi?

For those on a budget, I highly recommend Thyme Xeriscape Hostel   which is located within walking distance of the train station. They offer both private rooms and dorms. Water, tea, and coffee are provided free of charge.

Alternatively, you can stay at Good Times Resort or  Natee The Riverfront Hotel .

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN KANCHANABURI

How to get to Kanchanaburi?

Train : The most popular way to get to Kanchanaburi from Bangkok is to take the local train. 3 rd class tickets cost 100 baht per person. The train departs only twice a day at 7.45 a.m and 1.55 p.m from Thon Buri station ( check the timetable here ). The journey takes about 3 hours.

Bus/Mini-van : If the train schedule doesn’t work for you, you can instead take a bus from Mochit van terminal in Bangkok . Buses depart every hour and tickets cost about 140 baht per person. The journey takes about 3 hours.

Ratchaburi: 1 day

For those planning to spend 2 weeks in Northern Thailand, I also recommend visiting Ratchaburi. There isn’t a lot to do here, so one day should be enough.

Best things to do in Ratchaburi:

• Visit the Maeklong Railway Market which is literally set along a railway track! When the train passes, vendors have to quickly remove their goods from the train track.
• Take a walk around Hin Khao Ngu Stone Park.
• Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites bathe in colorful lights at Khao Bin Cave.
• Admire the view from Wat Nong Hoi temple.
• Visit Wat Khao Chong Phran temple at sunset to see thousands of bats flying.

Where to stay in Ratchaburi?

If you’re on a budget I recommend staying at Happy Home . The hotel is located within walking distance of the train station with plenty of restaurants nearby. Rooms are very spacious and clean with large bay windows overlooking the city.

Alternatively, you can stay at Hotel Wisma or Navela Hotel .

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HOTELS IN RATCHABURI

How to get to Ratchaburi?

Bus : To get to Ratchaburi, take a local bus from Kanchanaburi bus terminal . Tickets cost about 70 baht and the journey takes about 2.5-3 hours.

Day by Day Northern Thailand Itinerary Ideas

Now that you know about the best places to visit in Northern Thailand, I’m going to share 3 suggested itineraries for 7 days, 10 days, and 2 weeks.

Feel free to follow the exact route or modify the itineraries according to your interests and travel style.

7 Day Northern Thailand Itinerary

Day 1 – Bangkok : Arrive in Bangkok. If you’re not too jet lagged, check out the Grand Palace or Wat Arun and Wat Pho. In the evening, take a night train (13 hours) or flight (1h15) from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Day 2 – Chiang Mai : Wander around Chiang Mai Old Town and visit the temples or explore further out to Doi Suthep Temple. Check out a night market in the evening.

Day 3 – Chiang Mai : Take a day trip from Chiang Mai to Doi Inthanon National Park or Sticky Waterfall.

Day 4 – Chiang Rai : Take a bus to Chiang Rai (3 hours). Take a walk around town to visit some temples and then check out the night market in the evening.

Day 5 – Chiang Rai : Visit the Blue Temple, White Temple, Khun Korn Waterfall, and Wat Huay Pla Kang temple.

Day 6 –  Golden Triangle : Take a day trip from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle. Check out Choui Fong Tea Plantation along the way.

Day 7 – Bangkok : Morning flight from Chiang Rai to Bangkok (1h25) and then fly back home. If you have time before your flight, visit King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk .

10 Day Northern Thailand Itinerary

Day 1 – Bangkok : Follow day 1 as above but stay the night in Bangkok.

Day 2 – Bangkok : If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out Chatuchak Market. If not, explore Chinatown or visit the temples. In the evening, take a night train (13 hours) or flight (1h15) from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Day 3 & 4 – Chiang Mai : Follow day 2 and day 3 as above.

Day 5 – Chiang Mai : Take a morning cooking class. In the afternoon, visit Wat Pha Lat temple and Montha Than Waterfall or Huai Kaeo Waterfall.

Day 6, 7 & 8 – Chiang Rai : Follow day 4, day 5 and day 6 as above.

Day 9 – Bangkok : Flight from Chiang Rai to Bangkok (1h25). Visit King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk for sunset or check out the shopping malls.

Day 10 – Bangkok : Explore more of Bangkok before flying back home.

2 Week Northern Thailand Itinerary

Day 1 to 9 – Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai : Follow day 1 to day 9 as above.

Day 10 – Ayutthaya : Take a day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok to visit the temples (the train takes 2-3 hours one-way). Stay the night in Bangkok.

Day 11 – Kanchanaburi : Take the morning train from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi (3 hours). check out the temples and the River Kwai Bridge.

Day 12 – Kanchanaburi : Day trip to Erawan Falls by bus (2 hours one-way). In the evening, take a bus to Ratchaburi (2.5-3 hours).

Day 13 – Ratchaburi : Check out Maeklong Railway Market in the morning. For the rest of the day, visit Hin Khao Ngu Stone Park, Khao Bin Cave, and Wat Nong Hoi temple.

Day 14 – Bangkok : Take the morning train from Ratchaburi to Bangkok (3 hours) and then fly back home.

I hope you’ve found this Northern Thailand itinerary guide helpful and got some ideas on how to plan your trip. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below.

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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