Northern Thailand Tours & Trips
Picture shopping at Taling Chan floating markets, exploring Wat Pra Maha Doi Sutthep temple, experiencing Thai cooking classes, and visiting the local Elephant Sanctuary. Discover the Summer Palace of Rama V, tour ancient Sukhothai Historical Park, and boat around the Golden Triangle. Northern Thailand is ready for you, and it’s a trip like no other.
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Jonathan • traveled in May, 2025
Excellent itinerary and guides, guides were also flexible and gave their own recommendations (such as stopping at the train market on the way to the floating market) and also allowed us to dramatically change the last day in Chaing Mai as we didnt want to spend 7 hours driving, but filled our day with other activities. Highlights of the trip were the Elephant camp (which was very humane) and the PhiPhi island tour. Highly recommended but personally i would ask for a different itinerary for the day in Chaing Mai instead of the massive drive to the Myanmar/Laos border, as Chaing Mai itself is beautiful and full of things to do (I would have happily had a whole Thailand trip in Chaing Mai!)
Fantastic Circle of Thailand Tour - 10 Days - S
Sinead • traveled in February, 2025
We have just returned from the 14 day tour with our guide Sky who was brilliant. The tour provides a good mix of culture, locations and time for you to explore yourself which is what we were looking for.
Northern Thailand Adventure - D
Debbie • traveled in May, 2025
10-day Thailand private tour was good. The organizer/coordinator, Chris Tran was excellent, always organized and on top of things. Transportation (vans, buses, planes) always on time and punctual with good connections and safe, cautious drivers, never had to wait. 4-star Hotels were okay, breakfasts were Asian focused, not too tasty. Excursions were appropriate with English speaking guides, sometimes had language breakdown but never was a problem. The Bangkok excursion to Grand Palace was good, but was too rushed, more time needed. Floating Markets were experiencing very heavy tourist numbers, good but felt like boats were bumper cars and lost their special appeal. The Elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai was very special. It was very smoggy while in Chiang Mai. The Chiang Mai night market was fun with lots of eating options. The side trip to Chiang Rai was a very long 8-day, three-hour drive each way with 2 hours for temple and museum, the traditional meal was very good. Phuket was a nice way to end the trip. The Old Phuket Hotel was very nice and near to the beach and restaurants. The only drawback was the 2-hour ride from the airport to the hotel upon arrival. We would recommend this trip to others. If doing this again, we would recommend going 5-star hotels, maybe breakfasts would be better. Consider making trip to Chiang Rai an overnight excursion. Would like Chris Tran for coordination again, he keeps in constant contact through WhatsApp. Thank you, Tour Radar for a special experience in Thailand.
Marvelous Thailand In 10 Days - Private Tour
Traveler Photos & Videos from Northern Thailand tours
Fantastic Circle of Thailand Tour - 10 Days
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Experience Thailand 9 Days - Bangkok to the North, Small Group Tour (English Only)
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A 5 Day Tuk Tuk Adventure in beautiful Chiang Mai
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Chiang Mai Cruising Tour To Pak Beng, Luang Prabang, And Vientiane – 8 DaysMarcus
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A stunning 11 day Tuk Tuk Adventure in Northern Thailand
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Experience Thailand 6 Days, Small Group Tour (English Only)
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Table of contents
- The best Northern Thailand tour packages
- Travel Northern Thailand your way
- Best tour companies for Northern Thailand tours
- Popular Northern Thailand Cruise Ships
- Best places to start your Northern Thailand tour
- Discover Northern Thailand tours for every budget
- Northern Thailand tours for every type of group
- Top Northern Thailand travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Northern Thailand
- Contact our Northern Thailand travel experts
- What our customers ask about Northern Thailand Tours & Trips
The best Northern Thailand tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Thailand travel expert at TourRadar
Fantastic Circle of Thailand Tour - 10 Days
39 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This time I decided to let a tour company handle everything for us. Legend Travel exceeded our expectations.”
Berry, traveled in January
Journey through Northern Thailand starting from Bangkok's temples to Chiang Mai's Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Mae Tang elephant sanctuary. Experience white water rafting, trek to jungle waterfalls, and explore the Golden Triangle. Stay at White Boutique Hotel while savoring traditional Khantoke dinners and local cuisine for $308 per day.
Duration 10 days Destinations Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Mae Taeng, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Ko Phi Phi Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Legend Travel Group From $1,846
20% Off- US$1,477+$599 local paymentsYou save $369
Northern Thailand Adventure
1,864 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“All activities that we done on the tour were fun and experiences you would not have found elsewhere.”
Bria, traveled in October
Explore Northern Thailand's treasures from ancient Ayutthaya temples to Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuaries. Experience hill tribe homestays, traditional cooking classes, and jungle adventures while staying in authentic accommodations.
Duration 14 days Destinations Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Erawan National Park, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, Pai Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator TruTravels From $1,425
30% Off- US$998You save $428
Marvelous Thailand In 10 Days - Private Tour
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“They were very communicative, and answered all the questions that we had throughout the trip.”
Thomas, traveled in October
From Sukosol Hotel Bangkok, this 10-day expedition reveals Northern Thailand's wonders. Shop at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, connect with elephants at Chiang Mai's Jungle Sanctuary, and gaze upon Wat Rong Khun temple in Chiang Rai. Approx. $350 per day includes guides, domestic flights, ending at Phuket's Chanalai Romantic Resort.
Duration 10 days Destinations Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch Operator Vietnam Tour Fun From
30% Off- US$1,174+$500 local payments
Thailand Nature Escape 10 Days-Truly Local Experience - Bangkok/Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Smooth airport transfers, good guides and great local experiences made it a enjoyable tour.”
Peter, traveled in October
Explore Northern Thailand's highlights from Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuaries to Chiang Rai's Golden Triangle. Visit Karen Village, enjoy bamboo rafting at Mae Wang National Park, and experience authentic stays at Karen Ecolodge and Akha Mudhouse.
Duration 10 days Destinations Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Mae Wang National Park, Chiang Rai Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Russian Operator PrestiGo Asia From
30% Off- US$1,899
Experience Thailand 9 Days - Bangkok to the North, Small Group Tour (English Only)
32 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a wonderful trip with lot's of history and culture.”
Claudia, traveled in December
Northern Thailand's cultural treasures unfold from Sukhothai's UNESCO ruins to Chiang Mai's Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The Golden Triangle beckons, with stays at Imperial River House Chiang Rai, and traditional craft-making at Baan Tipmanee workshop.
Duration 9 days Destinations Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Lampang, Golden Triangle Park, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Destination Services Thailand From $1,610
15% Off- US$1,368You save $241
A 5 Day Tuk Tuk Adventure in beautiful Chiang Mai
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Fantastic experience. Opened my eyes to places I never thought I'd see.”
DebraHetherington, traveled in July
5-day Northern Thailand adventure from Mae Wang to Doi Inthanon National Park. Drive Tuk Tuks through mountain switchbacks, visit Karen villages and elephant sanctuaries. Includes stays at Khum Khun Wang Resort and traditional Mae Khlang Luang lodges with rice terrace views.
Duration 5 days Destinations Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator The Tuk Tuk Club From
15% Off- US$801
Explore Northern Thailand
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The entire tour was a fantastic experience. Food was an important part of our experience and she was able to help us experience the very delicious food Thailand has to offer.”
Robin, traveled in December
Northern Thailand's cultural heritage spans ancient Sukhothai temples to Chiang Mai's vibrant markets. Local village life, ChangChill elephant sanctuary visits, and UNESCO-listed sites await while staying in varied accommodations from resorts to authentic homestays.
Duration 8 days Destinations Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $1,480
20% Off- US$1,184You save $296
Experience Thailand 6 Days, Small Group Tour (English Only)
43 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A great way to get to know the real Thailand.”
Kelli, traveled in January
Northern Thailand reveals UNESCO sites Ayutthaya and Sukhothai Historical Parks, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, and Golden Triangle excursions. Four-star comfort at Imperial Phitsanulok and Empress Chiang Mai complements visits to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden.
Duration 6 days Destinations Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Lampang, Phayao, Golden Triangle Park, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Destination Services Thailand From $1,167
15% Off- US$992You save $175
Chiang Mai Cruising Tour To Pak Beng, Luang Prabang, And Vientiane – 8 Days
22 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The cruise down the Mekong was mesmerizing—we passed lush jungles, quiet villages, and even spotted elephants along the riverbank!”
Matt, traveled in February
Start in Chiang Mai visiting Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) before heading to Chiang Rai and Chiang Khong. Experience local hot springs and traditional temples while staying at Teak Garden Riverfront Resort. Perfect introduction to Northern Thailand's cultural heritage.
Duration 8 days Destinations Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chiang Khong, Huay Xai, Pakbeng, Luang Prabang, Vientiane Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator VietLong Travel From
15% Off- US$1,319
The beauty of Thailand 21 days 20 nights
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Fabulous exposure to the culture and geography!! We requested two changes in itinerary before finalizing booking which were wonderful.”
Shari, traveled in April
A 21-day expedition through 12 Thai cities spans from Bangkok's temples to Chiang Rai's Golden Triangle. UNESCO sites Ayutthaya and Kamphaeng Phet, Sakaekrang River boat rides, and the unique Elephant Poopoo Paper Farm create lasting memories. 3-star hotels with breakfast and Mae Klong Railway Market visits included.
Duration 21 days Destinations Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Uthai Thani, Sukhothai, Lampang, Chiang Rai, Chiang Saen, Chiang Dao, Chiang MaiSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Asia Focus Travel From
15% Off- US$3,990
Travel Northern Thailand your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Northern Thailand tours
Our travelers consistently praise the guides at both TruTravels and G Adventures for their personal touch and deep local knowledge. At TruTravels, Dan and Minnie get lots of mentions from guests who loved how they made each day fun while sharing interesting cultural insights. Over at G Adventures, Willie and Pentor come up again and again in reviews for creating really special group experiences and handling everything smoothly. Destination Services has solid feedback for their well-planned tours, with Sunny and Thunder getting specific praise for explaining things clearly and being genuinely helpful throughout. Though it's worth noting that some travelers mentioned the actual trips didn't quite match what was advertised in every detail. Bravo Indochina Tours does a great job with their itinerary planning, comfortable transport options and fantastic communication. Toni, in particular, gets high marks from our customers for being super responsive and going above and beyond to help with questions and special requests. Looking at the guides across all these companies, you can see how much of a difference they make - it's really the people who transform a good itinerary into something special. While each company has its own style, they've all got guides who know their stuff and clearly care about giving travelers a great experience.
Popular Northern Thailand Cruise Ships
Best places to start your Northern Thailand tour
Most people kick off their Northern Thailand trip from Bangkok - about 58 of our travelers start there, while 25 begin in Chiang Mai and another 12 from Chiang Rai. Looking at our booking patterns, you'll want to lock in your plans roughly 3.3 months ahead, especially if you're traveling during the popular cool season from November through February. The journeys between cities can take a while, but our customers often tell us these longer road and train rides give them great views of rural Thai life. November to February brings the nicest weather with cool temperatures and very little rain. Just keep in mind that March through May is burning season, when farmers clear their fields and the air gets quite hazy. Many of our guests like taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai - it saves on hotel costs and gives you that real Thai travel experience. The Sunday Walking Street market in Chiang Mai is perfect for trying street food and meeting local artists who make and sell their crafts right there.
Discover Northern Thailand tours for every budget
Northern Thailand tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Northern Thailand travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers140 tours- Couples150 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)9 tours
- Seniors (50+)72 tours
Best time to visit Northern Thailand
- Winter 2025 / 2026
During winter from November through February, you'll get perfect touring weather in Northern Thailand with cool air and clear skies. Our most requested trip is an 11-day journey where you drive your own tuk-tuk between mountain communities, explore quiet temples and stay at comfortable riverside hotels each night. Many travelers combine Bangkok temple visits with time at an ethical elephant sanctuary near Chiang Mai, plus hands-on cooking lessons for authentic northern dishes. The 9-day route through the Golden Triangle by boat is consistently popular - you'll see the White Temple in Chiang Rai and spend time with hill tribe communities. Families often book our shorter 6-day cultural tours, while hikers head to Doi Inthanon National Park for bamboo rafting and waterfall trails.
- 119 tours
- popular 131 tours
- 113 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring sees fewer crowds from March to May but offers its own special experiences. Our 9-day cultural route works well - you'll catch floating markets in the cool morning hours and spend hot afternoons in air-conditioned temples and museums. Many pick tours with plenty of water activities, staying in floating bungalows at Khao Sok and also snorkeling around Phi Phi Islands. The 6-day northern highlights tour fits nicely in spring, mixing temple visits with dawn market walks and evening cooking classes. Our travelers particularly enjoy hill tribe treks this season when mountain temperatures stay mild and the trails between villages are in good condition.
- popular 146 tours
- 142 tours
- 141 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer tours from June through August focus on staying cool and dry. Our most practical choice is a 9-day journey using air-conditioned transport between sites with lots of water activities mixed in. You'll visit temples early, take cooking classes later and explore night markets when evening brings cooler air. The Golden Triangle region works well too, since higher elevations mean milder temperatures. Many pick our 6-day cultural route featuring botanical gardens, temple visits and also traditional craft workshops - all timed around typical afternoon rains.
- 140 tours
- 140 tours
- popular 144 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Fall brings pleasant temperatures and green scenery after the rains. Our most popular September-October tour runs 6 days from Bangkok's canals up to Chiang Mai's temples, stopping at Sukhothai's historical park on the way. The 9-day northern route really comes alive in autumn - you'll see harvest time in rural villages, join morning alms-giving and explore the Golden Triangle when visibility peaks. Hill tribe treks are ideal these months with trails lush but not muddy. Many guests choose tours including Mae Rim's Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden and Thailand's longest canopy walkway when conditions are just right.
- 146 tours
- popular 150 tours
- 118 tours
Contact our Northern Thailand travel experts
Rufus
Expert in Northern Thailand at TourRadar
Rufus is one of our seasoned Northern Thailand Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Northern Thailand tours answered!
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+1 844 311 8331What our customers ask about Northern Thailand Tours & Trips
What Can You Experience in Northern Thailand's Local Culture?
You'll love diving into Northern Thailand's rich traditions especially in Chiang Mai where the Khantoke Dinner is a must-try experience. Picture yourself enjoying authentic Northern Thai dishes served on a traditional raised platform while hill tribe dancers perform their mesmerizing routines. The 9-day Fantastic Thailand tour includes this and it's definitely worth your time. If you're into cooking you can get hands-on experience at several cooking schools in Chiang Mai where local experts will teach you their secrets. The Northern Thailand & Beaches tour takes you through local markets to pick fresh ingredients before learning to whip up traditional dishes yourself.
Where Can You Find the Best Natural Areas and How Do You Get There?
Northern Thailand's parks are absolutely stunning and each offers something unique. Doi Inthanon National Park home to Thailand's highest peak is easily reached by mountain roads from Chiang Mai and you'll find amazing hiking trails waterfalls and Royal Pagodas there. The 11-day Tuk Tuk Adventure lets you explore all of this at your own pace. Over at Khao Sok National Park you can actually stay in floating bungalows surrounded by limestone mountains and spend your days kayaking on Cheow Lan Lake - the Northern Thailand & Beaches tour includes this incredible experience. For something really special head to Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary where you'll find Thi Lor Su Southeast Asia's largest waterfall. You'll need to combine songthaews and some trekking to get there but the Umphang Wildlife Explorer tour makes it all seamless.
What Are the Hidden Gems When It Comes to Travel Routes?
The Mae Hong Son Loop is honestly one of Northern Thailand's best-kept secrets. This winding mountain road connects Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son through Pai and you'll find yourself stopping constantly for amazing views hot springs and waterfalls along the way. Lots of travelers choose this route because it's perfect for motorbiking adventures and lets you really experience local village life. The Cycling Northern Thailand tour follows this loop and gives you a unique perspective from two wheels.
Which Local Foods Should You Try and Where Can You Find Them?
You absolutely have to try Khao Soi while you're in Chiang Mai - it's this incredible coconut curry noodle soup that's basically the region's signature dish. The Marvelous Northern Thailand 8-day tour knows exactly where to find the best bowls. Don't miss Sai Oua either it's a flavorful Northern Thai sausage you'll find in street markets and local restaurants. The Northern Thailand & Beaches tour takes you to all the right spots to sample these local specialties.
How Do You Get Around Northern Thailand?
Getting around is actually pretty straightforward and can be part of the adventure. Songthaews these converted pickup trucks are great for getting around towns and shorter trips - the Umphang Wildlife Explorer tour uses them to reach some amazing spots. For longer journeys you've got regular buses between major cities and overnight trains with comfy sleeper berths especially between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Both the Northern Thailand & Beaches and Incredible Thailand and Laos by Train tours include these overnight train experiences. If you're feeling adventurous rent a motorbike particularly for exploring rural areas and mountain roads - it's perfect for doing the Mae Hong Son Loop.