Thailand by Train

“Sawatdee khap !” Your driver welcomes you at the airport, wishing you a warm welcome to Thailand. Head to the heart of Bangkok to check in at your hotel. Free time to relax or explore the Thai capital. Let yourself be swept along by the city’s vibrant energy. In the evening, be amazed by a dinner cruise on the majestic Chao Phraya, offering a beautiful night-time view of Bangkok.

Today is dedicated to discovering Bangkok’s treasures. Start with a visit to the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha. Next, let Wat Arun captivate you—an iconic temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Finish with the majestic Wat Pho and its gold-plated reclining Buddha. At the end of the day, board a wonderful and peaceful cruise along the city’s canals—a welcome moment of calm.

At dawn, you set off for a 1-hour train to the Mahachai market, then head further south to the photogenic and must-see railway market of Mae Klong. After a break at the floating market of Damnoen Saduak, enjoy a local lunch. In the afternoon, discover the magnificent Erawan Falls, with their crystal-clear waters and jungle waterfalls. End the day and spend the night in Kanchanaburi.

Today, take the mythical “Death Railway” by train on a surprising journey along a mountainside, all the way to the Nam Tok station. Explore the Sai Yok waterfalls and visit the Krasae caves, where breathtaking views await you. After a photo stop and a local lunch, you finish the route by car to Ayutthaya for the end of the day.

Step into the history of the ancient Siamese capital, Ayutthaya, with its iconic temples. Begin with Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha’s head entwined in a tree, then discover Wat Ratchaburana and its Khmer towers. After lunch, visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet and its magnificent Chedis, before ending at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon.

Today, set off to discover the city of Lopburi, home to a wonderful population of monkeys. After an approximately 1-hour train ride from Ayutthaya, explore the wonders of Phra Prang Sam Yot, with its iconic towers and the traditional Ban Chaophraya Wichayen house. Then delve into the elegance of the King Narai’s Palace, a 17th-century architectural gem. Once your visits are complete, take a little time for yourself—for example, by trying a delicious sticky rice with mango.

After your breakfast, you set off on a new train excursion. You admire the magnificent Thai countryside through the train’s large windows and enjoy the flavours of fruit and satay offered by vendors who stroll through the carriages. After about 3 hours, you arrive in Phitsanulok, a city often overlooked yet full of charm, from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat to Wat Nang Phaya. Then continue your journey by car toward Sukhothai, a splendid historic city.

This morning, discover the magnificent Sukhothai historical park. Then, board a new train journey across beautiful Thailand, to Chiang Mai. For nearly 8 hours, you let yourself be carried away by the lush green panoramas and distant mountains rolling past your eyes. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, you discover a city rich in culture and traditions—one that has managed to preserve its authenticity.

Today, you take the train to Lamphun; the journey takes 20 minutes. You visit the Hariphunchai museum, which traces the fascinating history of the region. Then, you go to see the statue of the revered monk Kruba Srivichai, before being amazed by Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and the Wat Chama Thewi temple. Return by train to Chiang Mai for the evening, then overnight.

At dawn, take part in offerings to the monks—an unforgettable spiritual experience at the foot of the majestic Doi Suthep temple, perched on the hills above the city. You then visit the peaceful Wat Palad, tucked away in the jungle. Conclude the morning with an immersion at the Warorot market, where you enjoy a local lunch. The afternoon is free to enjoy Chiang Mai at your own pace.

Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the heart of Karen culture in the lush mountain landscapes surrounding Chiang Mai. Start with an easy hike through enchanting scenery of waterfalls and rivers. Then, take part in the village’s daily activities—whether in the fields or around the homes. Discover traditional cuisine and help prepare the dishes using bamboo. In the evening, you’ll dine with your hosts, then spend the night in one of the community’s traditional homes.

You continue your authentic experience of daily life with the Karen, learning a little more about their culture and sharing wonderful moments of exchange. If you wish, you can visit a local school. To round off this wonderful day, get ready for some thrilling fun with a short rafting descent on a bamboo raft down the nearby river. Return to Chiang Mai for the night.

Today, discover the mystical caves of Chiang Dao and the magnificent waterfalls of Mok Fah. Then, you arrive at Baan Pam Bok village, inhabited by the Shan ethnic group. Join unique activities such as making a traditional broom, a local cooking lesson, and rice planting depending on the season. End the day with a friendly dinner and an overnight stay within the village.

Begin the day with a lesson on local plants with the residents, before visiting the Grand Canyon of Pai. Then, enjoy a relaxing swim in the Sai Ngam hot springs. Continue with a visit to the historic Pai bridge. In the afternoon, depart for Chiang Mai station for a night train to Bangkok, which is your final journey of your stay on the rail network. A unique ride lasting about 10 hours.

This morning, once you arrive at the station, you can take some time for yourself to do a bit of shopping in Bangkok. Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will take you to the airport, marking the end of your Thailand by train journey. See you soon on the roads of Asia.