9 Day Itinerary
Welcome to the enchanting country of Thailand! As you step off the plane and breathe in the refreshing mountain air, you’ll immediately feel the charm and warmth of this captivating destination. The most common way to reach Chiang Mai or any other part of Thailand from India is by taking a flight. Many major airlines are available, which includes Thai Airways, Air India, and budget carriers like AirAsia and IndiGo, operate regular flights from various Indian cities to Chiang Mai, Phuket and Bangkok. The main international airports in India with direct flights to Chiang Mai are Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
Chiang Mai Airport is located just a short drive from the city center. Various transportation options, including taxis, private transfers, and Grab (ride-hailing service), are available to take you to your hotel or accommodation.
We had opted for a private cab service as we were a group of 5 people. It costed us 100 baht with pick-up and drop service. It was quite a budget friendly option.
The Chiang Mai City Bus operates on Route R3, with buses running on both Red and Yellow lines. The bus route forms a loop, taking travelers from the airport to the city center, also known as the ‘Old City,’ in opposite directions. It will cost you roughly 20-50 baht per person and a duration of 20-30 minutes to reach the destination.
Exchange rates can vary slightly between different banks and currency exchange counters, so it’s a good idea to shop around for the best rates before making the exchange. If you coming for a short trip, I would strongly recommend getting the currency exchanged from your hometown, as it will not matter much it will just be a difference of 300-600 baht.
But if incase you are planning to exchange money you can also do it from banks, currency exchange counters, ATMs, Airport exchange counters. Getting a SIM card in Chiang Mai is a convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected during your trip. 7-Eleven stores, also known as “7/11,” are popular locations where you can purchase SIM cards and top-up credit easily.
To ease any travel fatigue, treat yourself to a traditional Thai massage. Renowned for its therapeutic benefits, a Thai massage will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready for the days ahead. End your first day in Chiang Mai by indulging in some authentic Thai cuisine at a local eatery. Savor the traditional dishes like Khao Soi or Pad Thai and experience the explosion of flavors unique to Thai cooking.
Table of Contents
Day 2 (Chiang Rai) a 3 hours journey from Chiang Mai
Day 2 embark on an unforgettable day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, a province known for its fascinating attractions and unique cultural landmarks. This carefully curated itinerary will take you to some of the most iconic sites, immerse you in the local culture, and offer a taste of Northern Thailand’s beauty and charm. To start of you will need to rent a car or hire a private taxi for a day trip to Chiang Rai. We hired a private van that took us around basis our itinerary or you can even follow their itinerary. This cost us roughly around 4400 baht for a total of 5 people. The service was amazing, the ride was comfortable and the AC worked just fine.
Mae Khachan Hot Spring
Mae Khachan Hot Springs is a tranquil and picturesque natural geothermal spring. Surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, the site offers a serene escape from the bustling city life of Chiang Mai. The hot springs are fed by natural underground geothermal sources, and the temperature of the water ranges from warm to hot. The main attraction of Mae Khachan is the opportunity to relax in the mineral-rich thermal water. There are several small pools where visitors can dip their feet or fully immerse themselves in the warm water.
Location: Mae Khachan Hot Springs are located approximately 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive from Chiang Mai, nestled in the Mae On District of Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand.
Entrance Fee: There is a small entrance fee to access the hot springs area, which is generally affordable for both locals and tourists.
Timing: The hot springs are usually open from early morning until late afternoon, making it a great option for a refreshing stop during your day trip.
White temple
The White Temple is an extraordinary architectural wonder that stands as a symbol of contemporary art and spiritual insight. Designed and built by the visionary Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, the temple is a breathtaking fusion of traditional Buddhist elements and modern artistic expressions. As its name suggests, the temple is entirely white, representing purity and the Buddha’s enlightened state. The sparkling white surface is adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering pieces of mirrored glass, which reflect the sunlight and create a dazzling effect.
Location: Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is situated in the district of Rong Khun, approximately 1 hour’s drive from Mae Khachan Hot Springs in Chiang Rai province, Northern Thailand.
Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee of 100 baht pp to visit the White Temple.
Timing: The temple is open to visitors during daytime hours till 6:00pm, and it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the temple’s beauty.
The Blue Temple
The Blue Temple is a relatively new addition to Chiang Rai’s cultural landscape and has quickly become a popular attraction due to its stunning blue exterior and exquisite craftsmanship. This unique temple stands as a testament to the artistic skills of its creator, Chalermchai Kositpipat, the same visionary artist behind the renowned White Temple. The vivid blue color, combined with intricate golden accents, creates a celestial and mesmerizing sight that delights visitors. The Blue Temple is a contemporary masterpiece, where traditional Lanna architecture meets modern design concepts.
Location: Wat Rong Suea Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, is located in the Rim Kok area of Chiang Rai, a short drive from the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), in Northern Thailand.
Entrance Fee: There is no official entrance fee to visit the Blue Temple. However, donations are welcome and encouraged to support its continued construction and maintenance.
Timing: The temple is usually open to visitors during daytime hours. Arriving early ensures a more serene experience and better lighting for photography. The temple is open everyday from 7 am until 8 pm.
Wat Huay Pla Kang
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a magnificent temple complex that houses one of the tallest Buddha statues in Thailand. The temple’s grandeur, intricate architecture, and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Chiang Rai. The Nine-Tiered Pagoda: One of the main attractions of Wat Huay Pla Kang is the nine-tiered pagoda, which represents various stages of spiritual enlightenment. Each level is adorned with intricate details, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes from its higher tiers.
Location: Wat Huay Pla Kang is situated in the district of Mae Kon, Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand, near the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten).
Entrance Fee: There is generally no official entrance fee to visit Wat Huay Pla Kang.
Timing: The temple is usually open to visitors during daytime hours. To witness the sunrise or sunset views, plan your visit accordingly.
Lalitta Cafe
Lalitta Café is a hidden gem in Chiang Rai, known for its warm ambiance, delectable dishes, and friendly service. This quaint café is the perfect spot to refuel and savor a delightful meal during your Chiang Rai day trip. Lalitta Café’s pricing is reasonable and reflects the quality of the dishes and the pleasant dining setting. Lalitta Café offers a delightful lunch experience, allowing you to savor a mix of traditional Thai flavors and international favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for a fragrant Thai curry, a fresh salad, or a hearty sandwich, the café’s menu has something to please every taste bud.
Location: Lalitta Café is located in Chiang Rai city, Northern Thailand, offering a charming and inviting dining experience.
The entry fees, which is 60 baht, can be redeemed at the cafe.
Timing: The café is typically open during daytime hours, making it an ideal stop for lunch during your Chiang Rai day trip.
Karen Long Neck
The Karen Long Neck Tribe is renowned for its distinctive cultural traditions, most notably the striking brass neck coils worn by the women. Visiting their villages offers a rare opportunity to witness the preservation of ancient customs and learn about their unique way of life. When visiting the Karen Long Neck Tribe, it’s essential to approach with respect and genuine interest in their culture.
Location: The Karen Long Neck Tribe, also known as the Padaung tribe, can be found in the northern regions of Thailand, particularly in the Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai provinces.
Entrance Fee: Some Karen Long Neck Tribe villages may charge a nominal entrance fee to visitors which vary from 300-500 baht pp. The funds collected often contribute to the maintenance and welfare of the community.
Timing: The villages are open to visitors during daytime hours, allowing ample time to explore and interact with the tribe members.
Besides these there are also other places to explore if time permits, for eg:- Golden triangle and Black house.
After a day of exploration in Chiang Rai, make your way back to Chiang Mai, approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with vibrant night markets. Stroll through the bustling stalls, shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothing, and savor delicious street food. The night market offers a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Treat yourself to a relaxing foot massage to soothe your tired feet after a day of exploration. Indulge in a traditional Thai massage technique, known for its healing benefits and rejuvenating effects.
Day 3 (Chiang Mai)
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Goodsoul, known for its wholesome and organic offerings. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee, organic juices, and a variety of scrumptious breakfast options, including healthy bowls, omelets, and homemade pastries. Good soul Café is located in the heart of Chiang Mai, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for breakfast. On day 3 also you will need a private car for a day, that will take you around places. We had booked from the same vendor who helped us with the Chiang Rai day trip. It costed us around 300 baht for 5 people. Make sure to start your day early as you have a lot on your list as it is your last day in Chiang Mai.
Dandewadi waterfall
Get back to nature and refresh your spirit at Dandewadi waterfall, a peaceful oasis just a 45 minutes short drive from the city. Exploring Angel Land, a breathtaking oasis near Chiang Mai! This hidden gem is a paradise of waterfalls, rivers, and enchanting mist-filled forests. Venture through the mysterious mist, where every step unveils a new surprise. I stumbled upon a captivating cave adorned with stalactites and a serene Buddha shrine.The entry fee is approximately 80 Baht, providing access to this magical place. The place welcomes visitors from 8 am to 8 pm daily, offering a mystical experience any time of day.
Flower Farm
The Flower Farm is a picturesque destination that showcases a vibrant array of blooming flowers and lush greenery. As you step into this enchanting oasis, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The farm features an extensive variety of flowers, including marigolds, chrysanthemums, cosmos, and many more, creating a breathtaking panorama that changes with the seasons.
Location: The Flower Farm is nestled approximately 20 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai’s city center, offering a serene escape to the countryside.
Huay Tung Tao Lake
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Huay Tung Tao Lake, a serene reservoir just a short drive and a must things to do in Chiang Mai. The picturesque surroundings, with the backdrop of Doi Suthep Mountain, make it an idyllic spot for a relaxing day by the water. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, indulge in delicious local food at the lakeside huts, or simply unwind amidst the natural beauty.
The lake is usually open daily from around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific timings before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season or special events.
Huay Tung Tao Lake is situated approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) north of the Chiang Mai Old City. It’s easily accessible by car, motorbike, or taxi, and the journey typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the traffic.
Huay Tung Tao Lake has a small entrance fee, which is usually around 50 to 100 Baht per person for adults. The rental fees for huts, bamboo mats, boats, and fishing equipment are separate and can vary depending on the duration of use.
For lunch,Tucked away in the back left corner of Carp Cafe, there lies a magical realm reminiscent of a fairy tale. Stroll down the slender wooden path that meanders through an enchanting mini rainforest.
This cafe is renowned not only for its immersive experience but also for its delectable sushi and verdant rainforest garden. The menu boasts a diverse array of fish, predominantly prepared as sushi. Patrons can indulge in a variety of offerings, including soft shell crab, ikura (fish roe), salmon, tuna, shrimp tempura, saba, unagi, and much more! Take a wonderful lunch here and carry on with your day planned for ahead. Then continue as planned for the rest of the day.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Nestled on the rolling hills of Doi Kham (Golden Mountain), Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a peaceful temple located approximately 10 kilometers (around 6 miles) southwest of Chiang Mai’s city center. Wat Phra That Doi Kham is known for its large, gleaming white Buddha statue sitting atop the mountain, visible from afar. The temple grounds are adorned with traditional Lanna-style architecture and colorful murals that depict Buddhist stories, creating an atmosphere of cultural richness and artistic beauty.
Entrance Fee and Timings: Wat Phra That Doi Kham did not charge an entrance fee for visitors, making it an affordable destination to explore. However, do check for any updates on fees before planning your visit. The temple is typically open from early morning (around 7:00 AM) until late afternoon (around 5:00 PM). Morning visits allow for cooler temperatures and a quieter atmosphere, enhancing the sense of tranquility.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Perched on the lush Doi Suthep Mountain, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most iconic and revered temples in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple is located approximately 15 kilometers (around 9 miles) from the city center, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai and its surrounding countryside. A visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep offers more than just a glimpse into Thailand’s spiritual heritage; it provides a chance to experience the profound tranquility and devotion that define Thai Buddhism.
The entrance fee for foreigners to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was approximately 50-100 Thai Baht (THB). For Thai nationals, the fee is typically lower or free of charge. Visitors must climb a staircase of 300 steps or take an electric tram, which is available from 6.00 am-6.00 pm with a fees of 50 THB for foreigners to reach the temple.
The temple is open daily from early morning (around 6:00 or 7:00 AM) until evening (around 6:00 or 7:00 PM). It is advisable to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the tranquil ambiance of the temple.
Conclude your day with a visit to Anusarn Market, a lively night market offering a wide array of souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and indulge in a delectable dinner at the various food stalls. Anusarn Market is situated near the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. And yes, do not forget to take your last foot massage before you move out of the country.
Day 4 ( Chiang Mai to Bangkok)
Fly to Bangkok and take the earliest flight possible as there is a lot to see here as well.
Pro tip- take a early morning flight to Bangkok and start a day with 2 beautiful markets:- Maeklong railway and Damnoen Saduak market are the traditional and the most famous markets of Thailand that are now famous on social media sites. To experience this beauty you need a day trip, which has a particular working day and time from 2 pm to 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Maeklong market is a railway market also known as “Pull down umbrella market”, where trains pass trough the narrowest street market on a busy hours.
There are a lot of cafes, restaurants and shopping hubs and it is the freshest seafood market in Thailand to explore. Meanwhile, Damnoen is Thailand’s famous floating market, where you can shop from floating boats and shops with lots of products in food, clothing, drinks and gifts in a variety of designs. The best way to start your day for this is early in the morning to avoid the heat and capture the liveliest market with scenic photos and later can hop on to Maeklong market.
Then enjoy the sunset at Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple built in the 17th century, is a famous temple with its staggering architecture, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river. This place is not only famous for its location on the bank of the river but for its stunning architectural design, which is unique from all the other temples in the whole capital and this temple has a rich history, unlike others. The ‘Temple of dawn’ is another name for Wat Arun, so the ideal time to visit this temple is during the sunset to avoid touristy crowds.
Siam Center, situated in the very center of Bangkok, is a renowned shopping and art complex. Known for its array of shopping options, it features clothing from Thai fashion designers, shoes, handbags, distinctive fashion accessories, jewelry, and Thai souvenirs. Established in 1973, it holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first shopping center that meets international standards. Icon Siam center on Chao Phraya river also has a Starbucks reserve.
Shopping in Platinum Mall is usually the best place to shop your heart out. As this market is listed in 1 of the best things to do in Bangkok’s busiest area of retail and shopping district. Another known place is Pratunam market which is the largest market for clothing, shoes, and fashion accessories giving it an ultimate experience for tourists all around.
The day ends with partying at Fake Club, the most interesting and unique club in Bangkok, with a distinctive crowd. It has recently been renovated, featuring full-blown interiors, impressive light and sound technology, and a large stage. This place is mostly packed on weekends with young and fashionable Thai or Asian gays and also a mixed crowd. This club is a top choice even on weekdays, as it consistently offers live bands playing a mix of international and Thai pop hits, along with an elegant male model show.
Day 5 (Bangkok)
In the Ancient city there are five distinct park zones to explore, each representing different regions of Thailand and featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary structures. While you explore, you’ll gain insights into the country’s history, immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of the Ancient City, and encounter a blend of both new and age-old cultures, architectural marvels, and artistic treasures. There is also an outdoor museum named Erawan museum where you will be exploring unique architecture. Here you will observe the replicas of 116 sacred monuments of Thailand.
Within this expansive outdoor complex, you’ll encounter a wealth of attractions that might make you feel as though you’ve experienced the best of Thailand in just one day. Wander through this remarkable site and delve into scaled-down replicas of Thailand’s renowned temples, palaces, gardens, floating markets, and many other highlights.
Wat Samphran or Ancient City & Erawan Museum
Situated in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, the Wat Samphran Dragon Temple is a unique 17-story tower embellished with a winding dragon sculpture. This temple provides a serene ambiance that appeals to both religious pilgrims and inquisitive tourists. Ascending to the tower’s summit rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the nearby countryside and a deeper understanding of Thai Buddhist customs. The temple stands as an emblem of Thailand’s profound spiritual dedication, cultural legacy, and impressive architectural beauty.
Temples in Bangkok
You can book a guided tour for all the temples which are very famous in Bangkok and make sure it cover all the famous ones.Try to cover all the temple by the dawn. Here is the list:
1. Wat Arun
Wat Arun, a Buddhist temple built in the 17th century, is a famous temple with its staggering architecture, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river. This place is not only famous for its location on the bank of the river but for its stunning architectural design, which is unique from all the other temples in the whole capital and this temple has a rich history, unlike others. They have a visiting hour of 8:30 am – 5:30pm.To enjoy the view and explore this beautiful temple, 1-2 hours is enough for the time being, which costs 100 Baht.
2. The temple of Emerald Buddha
The Emerald temple is also recognized as Wat Phra Kaew, which is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok. This temple is located on the grounds of The Grand Palace and is open from 10 am to 2 pm with audio guides, available in all languages. This temple has a spiritual value, so the dress code should be strictly followed, for example, no see-through clothing is allowed for both men and women as they adhere to a strict dressing code to enter the holy ground and there shouldn’t be any bare feet as well. Lastly, the entry fee is included with the ticket to The Grand Palace, which costs around 500 baht.
3. Wat Pho
Wat Pho is the largest and oldest holy temple of the Buddha community built in the 16th century. It is home to a gold-plated reclining Buddha statue which is 46 m long and 150 feet tall. This temple is also home to a 394-gilded image of Buddha with 4 chapels in its complex. The visitors’ timing is same as Wat Arun from 8:30am to 5:30pm and the ideal time to visit will be early in the morning to avoid touristy crowd as the rush starts from afternoon. Also, 200 baht is an entry fee for international tourists. Furthermore, the best possible way to reach this location is by river taxis.
4. Wat Traimit
Wat Traimit, a temple built in the 18th century by 3 Chinese people in the locality of famous Chinatown area, making it a very famous location to explore other local attractions. Wat Traimit is a very auspicious and royal temple of this area and is mainly known for gold seated Buddha statue, that is made of 5.5 tons of gold. The temple of gold Buddha is another name for Wat Traimit, in which, the statue is five meters tall and is 700-800 years old which enshrines solid gold.The best time to visit here is again in the morning or afternoon between 8 am to 5 pm, when the place is little not too crowded. The entry charges to this temple is 40 baht, so, spare at least 2-3 hours to experience this glory. Getting to this historical site is easy, if you are in Chinatown, one can a take a tuk-tuk as it cost you cheap. MRT blue line can drop off to Hua Lamphong station from where its a few minutes walk.
5. Wat saket
Wat Saket, a temple located in Bangkok’s old town also known as ‘Golden Mount’, occupies man made 80 meters tall hill which was built during the reign of King Rama 3. To get to the top, 300 steps needs to be climbed that surrounds the Chedi. Wat Saket is a sacred pilgrimage site for Thai people, especially during the month of November. Although, visitors are welcomed all year long. But due to this festive season in November known as Loy Krathong happens every year, there is a prayer event held up for a week long which is the most busiest time of the year. The best time to visit here is in the morning and it is open all year long from 8 am to 5 pm, the entry costs around 50 baht. You can reach here by taxi, bus or MRT, the nearest MRT station is Sam Yot. From there, Wat Saket is just 10-15 minutes of walk.
6. Loha Prasat
Between Wat Saket and Khao san road, there is a holy temple of Thai but not much recognized as others. This is Loha Prasat temple, which has a unique designs and architectural identity, which standouts own. Loha Prasat is also known as ‘metal castle’ because of construction done in such a way that it is supporting 3 metal spires which represent 37 virtues towards enlightenment. Gold seated Buddha, extravagant door carvings and beautiful murals along with Buddha statues market are not to miss off. Moreover, Wat Saket is at the nearest distance from Loha Prasat by walking, so traveling is same as Wat saket.
7. wat mahathat
A beautiful Buddhist temple located in the middle of nature exactly opposite of the grand palace in the city of Bangkok named Wat Mahathat. This temple is a holy, most significant and oldest in the history of Ayutthaya as it housed the Buddha’s holy relic. The disclaimer here is, this place was used in hosting a lot of royal ceremonies of the Ayutthaya era. When this era ended in the year 1767, the Wat Mahathat was destroyed with fire and in many other ways. Since then this place has been abandoned and converted into a archeological heritage site. Today, the temple is situated within the Ayutthaya Historical Park.This place is very rustic and defines the essence of nature’s spirituality. To feel and explore you’ll need to pay an entry fee of 50 baht.
8. wat suthat
Wat Suthat is again one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples like others but this can be said as the prettiest temples of all. One of its prominent features is the towering red Giant Swing at the entrance. This temple is well-known and can be conveniently visited alongside the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, The Grand Palace, and Wat Pho. Inside the main prayer hall of Wat Suthat, you’ll find wall paintings that depict the previous 24 incarnations of Buddha. The covered courtyard that surrounds the main prayer hall is adorned with approximately 156 Buddha images, and the outer walls and four entry gates are meticulously hand-carved with complex details.
9. Wat benchamabophit
Wat Bencamabopit is a remarkable and most beautiful temple in whole Bangkok, which is also known as ‘the marble temple’. This temple is again built by a king named as King Rama V, it resides exactly next to Duscit Palace. This temple is located inside the complex of royal temples with many such surrounding galleries which has beautiful displays of 52 Buddha and a Buddha tree bought from Bodhgaya, India to showcase the crowd. Visiting the temple incurs an entrance fee of 20 baht per person, and it is open from 8 am to 5:30 pm. You can easily access the temple via various modes of transportation, including tuk-tuks, metered taxis, BTS trains, and the MRT.
10. Wat Chakrawat
During the Ayutthaya period, the Chao Phraya River used to be home to crocodiles. However, due to an incident, a crocodile was spared and found refuge on the grounds of Wat Chakrawat. Today, there are three live crocodiles that roam around the temple. Interestingly, one of these crocodiles was originally bought by a person named Ai-bod, and its descendants still live here.
After exploring all the temple you can shop yor heart at Platinum mall
Platinum mall is a 4 storey building with approximately 1,300 shops inside fitted, it is a chatuchak shopping market version but with air-conditioned and malls like feel. The interesting part about this street shopping mall is you can haggle like you do on streets, which is more fun as you save up a lot of money but end up buying in large quantities. It has a large food court, cafes and fast food joints. There is 4 star hotel Novotel on the top of the mall. Every floor is named by famous shopping centers from around the world, namely Orchard, Nathan, Ginza, Soho, Oxford and Camden. Lastly, you can buy anything from top to bottom, from children’s wear to men and women’s accessories. You can do a little mix and matching during the browsing session.
Partying at Khaosan road after the dawn
This road in Bangkok is a wide street stretched up to approx 410 meters with large varieties of food carts, bars, restaurants, fascinating nightlife, cafes and massage parlors, also the most interesting market in south-east Asia. Also, the most famous area for foreigners to meet-up and have the time of their lives. It is noticeable that the streets are themselves loaded with dancers and street clubbing, making it an interesting place for bachelors and youthful crowds. The best time to visit this Khao San road for a spree is in the evening after dawn.
Day 6 (Bangkok to Phuket)
Shop at Chatuchak
Bangkok is widely known for its famous markets. So, here it is, another market for all the explorers. Chatuchak market is basically a chor Bazaar of India but a better version of it where you’ll can experience variety of shopping products like, clothes, antiques, books, foot wears, furniture’s etc. The most important is here we also get pets and pets accessories all at reasonable rates. This market is only available on weekends from 6 am to 6 pm. To come here, one should be well versed in all the bargaining skills and smart enough to handle the crowd.
After having your heart filled with all the unexpected shopping head straight to the airport and catch your flight to Phuket. Well you will find mini vans sharing services from airport which will drop you to your hotel for 200 baht or you can always opt for bus which will cost you around 100 baht. Once you arrive in Phuket, check into the hotel and have a refreshing break of all the mesmerizing Bangkok spree.
Day 7 (Phuket)
This day will be all for beaches and parties, book a tour to phi phi island, that will cost you 1650 per person. This package includes breakfast and lunch and pickup and drop services. In phi phi island there are so many local shops selling amazing beachwear’s and other authentic stuff.
All these places have proper restaurants, be it Thai or any international cuisines. Here you will be travelling by private speedboats to waste less time in communal boats.
There is one more beach to cover in this one day trip is Maya beach, top rated movies like ‘The beach’ Maya bay was featured and since then it has become a favorite tourist spot.
After this, Patong beach is one of the most popular beaches for both foreigners and localiltes as this is a long stretched beach with golden sand and a row of amazing activities with night party place and this is in the prime location in Phuket.
One can find beach front restaurants and open bars at the middle of a beach offering everything as per the requirement plus Thai and international cuisines are must try here.
Furthermore, there are wandering vendors selling food and sacks, with most of the beach lined up with cafes and fast food joints like McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King. Here day comes to an end with good food and an amazing party.
Day 8 (Last day in Phuket)
Make the most out of this day as this is your last day in Thailand. Take a stroll around the markets, some beautiful beaches like James bond, monkey, etc. Renting a bike will be a perfect idea to explore any part of Phuket.
Highly recommended beaches and places to explore are:
1. Phuket is primarily recognized for its exceptional beaches, which are its main attraction. The island boasts more than 30 beaches, offering a diverse range of environments, views, amenities, and even different types of sand.
There are many beaches lined up in north side of the Phuket from Paradise beach to Karon beach to many others. You can spend 1 whole day to explore these beautiful beaches.
starting from Paradise beach, this small bay near Patong, divided by a slightly rocky headland into two beaches, features tranquil water and a soft seabed almost all year round.
The beautiful white sand, under the shade of swaying palm trees, seems as if it’s lifted directly from a vacation brochure cover. Additionally, it’s the location for Phuket’s exclusive Koh Phangan-style beach parties.
Freedom beach is again a heaven of white sand and a pristine deserted island vibe though it does have some beautiful restaurants and beach fronts, it is the perfect combination of peaceful and quiet environment to enjoy.
Kata Beach offers a complete beach experience with its soft, inviting sand, gently swaying palm trees, and clear water with a gentle seabed. It’s ideal for surfing during the low season and snorkeling in the high season, all complemented by a relaxed ambiance. At its northern end, colorful long-tail boats add to the picturesque scene.
Just a short 10-minute journey away lies Karon Beach, Phuket’s third-longest stretch of sand, almost perfectly linear. The fine, soft sand here produces a distinctive sound underfoot. The southern end of Karon Beach is beautifully adorned with trees, while the northern half buzzes with volleyball nets and beachfront dining options, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Both beaches are in a close proximity, making it easy to experience their unique charms.
All these beaches have extravagant water sports activities and many such beach front restaurants and bar offerings. Beside all these beaches there are Bangtao, Nai Harn, Surin beach which lies at the same coastal line of Karon.
- Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha is a known name amongst the localite Thai’s which is popular as The big Buddha amongst the touristy crowd. As soon as you arrive near this temple you’ll feel the pleasantness of this place and in the atmosphere, wind chiming with the twinkling sound of bells and religious music with a silent surrounding. This place is perfect to narrow down your heavy mind with peaceful energy.
3. Phuket FantaSea holds the distinction of being among Asia’s most enduring shows. It is Thailand’s biggest theatrical project of this nature and the first to seamlessly blend Thai cultural elements with advanced show technology. Since its inauguration in 1998, this 140-acre park has been captivating visitors with its array of attractions and arcades, centered around the magnificent Palace of the Elephants. This 3,000-seat theater is The Carnival Fun Fair zone, designed like a carnival-themed street fair, features themed shopping arcades, boutique eateries, and bars. It also includes street dancing, parade performers, entertaining games, rides for children, and a variety of activities for visitors.
- The western end of the Phuket walking market you have a lot of food cart eatery items to gorge on like boiled corn, spicy sausages, grilled chicken, fried insects with a few options of authentic cafes and restaurants serving full meal of Thai delicacies and seafood. Also there are a lot of ice-cold beer options to gulp down the food. The best time to visit this largest market in Phuket is around 4pm to avoid the crowd as covered areas are jam-packed that is not even worthy to get stuck into, especially in the covered area.
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint gained photographic prominence thanks to Thai professional photographer Theerasak Saksritawee, whose stunning shots from this elevated spot rapidly became popular first among local residents and then expatriates. Its somewhat remote location, necessitating a 25-kilometer journey from Phuket’s Sarasin Bridge via winding rural roads, has kept it relatively hidden from the majority of tourists. Nevertheless, its appeal is sufficient to draw a crowd of around 50 people to its compact peak, particularly for those seeking to witness the sunrise. The view facing east is especially breathtaking during sunrise.
The panorama includes a series of islands extending beyond view to both sides in Phang Nga Bay, with around 1.6 kilometers of mangroves in the foreground. Sunrise occurs typically between 5:30 am and 6:00 am, varying with the seasons. Before this, the magnificent spectacle of the galaxy is often visible in the sky above, although this is also dependent on the time of year.
This landmark in Phang Nga Bay is known for its numerous limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the emerald-green waters. The island lies within the protected Ao Phang Nga Marine National Park, which restricts boats from getting too close. Its unique structure is top-heavy, with a broad upper section and a narrower base. Visitors can observe James Bond Island either from a boat or from a small beach on the nearby Koh Ping Ghan.
Day 9 (Flying back home)
So, here is the detailed itinerary of what all places can be explored in these 8 days. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Thailand as soon as possible.
