Welcome to Bangkok, the ever-alluring capital of Thailand. Once you have checked into your hotel the rest of the day is free until 6pm when you meet your guide for a welcome meeting. We'll make our way to the lively Khao San Road area, here we'll enjoy a welcome dinner down the bustling street of Soi Rambuthri. After dinner your guide will assist you back to the hotel, alternatively you can continue the night at one of the many exuberant bars in the area. Overnight: Bangkok | Dinner

This morning we set off to explore this sprawling metropolis. The first stop is at the 24 hour flower market where you get to view stunning orchids and roses on sale to the local restaurants and florists. We then jump on Tuk Tuks and take an exhilarating ride through the streets of Bangkok reaching our next stop Wat Pho, home to the famous reclining Buddha. Then we visit the spiritual and religious heart of the city - the striking Grand Palace. Topped by golden stupas, the complex has been the site of royal coronations and is home to the legendary Emerald Buddha. After a break for lunch we board a longtail boat and set off on an exploration of the labrynth of klongs (canals) that criss cross the city. On our journey we’ll glide by stilted houses and gleaming temples whilst old men fish and children play about on the water’s edge. Disembarking our boats, the rest of the day is at leisure to further explore Bangkok independently. Overnight: Bangkok | Breakfast

Bangkok - Chiang Rai. This morning we head for the airport before flying north to stunning city of Chiang Rai. This afternoon we'll visit fabulous White Temple of Wat Rong Khun which depicts scenes from movies including the Matrix, Star Wars and Superman! This temple is far from ordinary and it's white buildings glisten in the bright Thai sunshine. This evening we will visit Chiang Rai night market, which boasts many interesting stalls selling local & national handicrafts and souvenirs. You'll also find a number of street food stalls offering a variety of delicious Thai dishes. Overnight: Chiang Rai | Breakfast  

Chiang Rai - Mae Rim. After a leisurely breakfast we set off towards the hill tribe region, located north of Chiang Mai, reaching our accommodation in the afternoon. From here we can explore the surrounding countryside to visit the some of the nearby hill tribe villages and gain a wonderful insight into the lives of some of the smaller minority groups in the Kingdom. In the evening we enjoy a sumptuous BBQ before being entertained by dancers from the local community. Overnight: Mae Rim | Breakfast, Dinner

Mae Rim - Chiang Mai. This morning we visit the Araksa Tea Gardens, home to 110 acres of verdant tea plantations. You'll learn about the history of the tea plantation and their commitment to supporting the local people. You'll also discover the process of tea growing in this area and try your hand at picking before enjoying a cup of the freshest brew. Later we continue to Chiang Mai and make our way to the imposing Doi Suthep Temple that stands like a sentinel over the city. The temple is said to have been founded in 1383 and the beautiful golden stupa sitting in the centre of the temple complex is now the main attraction. This evening your guide will give you an orientation of the sprawling night market of Chiang Mai. A perfect place to shop away the hours and try some exciting local food. Overnight: Chiang Mai | Breakfast

This morning we head to a local cooking school to try our hand at preparing tasty local cuisine in a traditional Thai setting. This informative cooking class teaches us how to prepare three of Thailand’s most popular dishes that we’ll later get to enjoy for lunch. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore at leisure. In the evening we visit the Chiang Mai night market, a haven of souvenirs and works by local artisans. Overnight: Chiang Mai | Breakfast, Lunch

This morning marks the end of your trip. A transfer will be provided to take you to Chiang Mai airport for your onward journey. Breakfast