Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai Trip: 6 Days Through Northern Thailand
By Inej Travel | Thailand Tour Packages | Oct 2026
Most first trips to Thailand follow the same path: Bangkok, a beach or two, maybe an island. It is a good path, but it is not the only one. Up north, the pace changes. Mornings start in temples, afternoons drift through markets and villages, and the landscape turns green and hilly instead of blue and sandy. This guide walks through Inej Travel’s 6-day Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai Trip, day by day, so you can decide if this quieter side of Thailand is the right fit for you.
Quick Answer: What Is the Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai Trip?
Inej Travel’s Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai Trip is a 6-day itinerary that starts and ends in Bangkok and spends most of its time in northern Thailand. You arrive in Bangkok for a half-day temple and gems tour, fly to Chiang Mai, spend a day on temples, a farm, a village and a market, take a full day trip to Chiang Rai for its famous temples and the Golden Triangle viewpoint, visit an elephant sanctuary, and return to Bangkok for Safari World before departure. Sightseeing and transfers are by private air-conditioned vehicle, with an English-speaking guide. Inej Travel describes it as a good choice for travellers who want something offbeat beyond the usual Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Krabi route.
Prices depend on travel dates, hotel category and group size, so they are not listed here. You can ask Inej Travel for a quote that matches your plans.
Table of Contents
- Why choose northern Thailand
- The 6-day itinerary, day by day
- What is included
- How this trip feels different from the beach route
- Best time to go and what to pack
- Visiting temples respectfully
- Thinking carefully about elephant experiences
- Visa and entry basics
- Who this trip suits
- How to book step by step
- Tips for a smoother trip
- About Inej Travel
- Frequently asked questions
Why Choose Northern Thailand
Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Krabi are popular for good reasons: easy flights, beaches, nightlife and island boats. Northern Thailand offers a different kind of holiday. Chiang Mai sits among hills and is known for its old-city temples, markets and relaxed pace. Chiang Rai, a few hours away by road, is known for striking temples and for the area where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet along the river.
Inej Travel’s tour page says Chiang Mai has more than 250 temples and museums, and that Chiang Rai has several historic temples, with the White Temple and Blue Temple among the best known. It also describes the area as a balanced mix of culture, countryside, riverside, villages and nature. That mix is the main reason people choose this route: you get culture and scenery without the crowds that some beach destinations see in peak season.
If you have already been to Bangkok and the islands, or you simply prefer hills and temples to sand and surf, the north is worth considering. If you want a beach holiday, this is probably not the trip for you, and Inej Travel’s other Thailand packages may suit you better.
The 6-Day Itinerary, Day by Day
This is the itinerary as described on Inej Travel’s website. Timings can change with flights, traffic and weather, so treat it as a guide and confirm the final plan when you book.
Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok and half-day tour
You land at Bangkok airport and are met by an Inej Travel representative, then transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, the plan includes the Marble Buddha temple, the Golden Buddha Temple and a gems gallery. The evening can be spent on a Chao Phraya river cruise with dinner. After a flight and an airport transfer, this is a gentle first day, and the river cruise is a relaxed way to see the city lights without much walking.
If you arrive early and feel fresh, enjoy the tour. If you arrive late at night, it is fine to treat this as a rest day and keep your energy for the north.
Day 2: Bangkok to Chiang Mai by flight
After breakfast, you transfer to the airport for a flight to Chiang Mai, then go to your hotel. The rest of the day is light, which is useful because the next two days are full. Use the free time to walk around near your hotel, try local food or simply rest.
Day 3: Chiang Mai day trip
This is a full sightseeing day. According to the itinerary, it includes:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: a gold-plated temple that Inej Travel describes as more than 700 years old, set on a hill above the city.
- Wat Chedi Luang: described as one of the oldest temples in Thailand and still a place of worship for monks.
- Orchid and butterfly farm: followed by lunch.
- Ban Mae Kampong village: a village surrounded by greenery.
- Warorot Market: a well-known market for handicrafts, textiles, clothes, snacks, local tea and coffee.
Temples, a farm, a village and a market in one day is a lot to take in. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and take your time at each stop instead of rushing to tick everything off.
Day 4: Chiang Rai day trip
Today you drive to Chiang Rai, which the itinerary says is around three hours from Chiang Mai. That means a good part of the day is spent on the road, so bring music, a book or a neck pillow. The stops include:
- White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): one of the best-known temples in the region.
- Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten): another famous Buddhist temple.
- Tea plantation: a stop for photos and a cup of Thai tea.
- Golden Triangle: a viewpoint with mountains, paddy fields, villages and the river.
The package also includes lunch at a local restaurant and a boat ride in Chiang Rai. In the evening, you drive back to Chiang Mai.
Day 5: Elephant sanctuary, then back to Bangkok
After breakfast, the plan includes a visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, described on the tour page as a habitat for elephants where visitors can take part in several activities. In the afternoon you transfer to Chiang Mai airport for a flight to Bangkok and then go to your hotel. See the section below on how to think about elephant experiences before you decide on this stop.
Day 6: Safari World and departure
On the last day, you check out and visit Safari World, which Inej Travel describes as spread over more than 200 acres and considered the largest open-air zoo in Southeast Asia. You can choose to attend a dolphin show. After a farewell dinner, you transfer to Bangkok International Airport for your flight home.
Inej Travel notes that drivers usually speak Thai, and that add-on tours are available on request.
What Is Included
According to the tour page, the package includes:
- All sightseeing and transfers as per the itinerary.
- A private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced chauffeur.
- Five nights of hotel stay as per the itinerary.
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi at the hotel.
- An English-speaking tour guide.
- A Chao Phraya cruise dinner.
- Lunch at the butterfly farm in Chiang Mai and at a local restaurant in Chiang Rai.
- A boat ride in Chiang Rai and a tuk-tuk ride in Bangkok.
- Parking, fuel and driver allowance, and all applicable taxes.
The page does not list international flights, so ask Inej Travel what is and is not covered before you book. Do the same for the two domestic flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, so you know exactly how they are arranged.
How This Trip Feels Different from the Beach Route
The beach route is built around water: boats, snorkelling, island hopping and long evenings by the sea. The northern route is built around places and people. You will spend more time in temples, villages and markets, and more time in the car between them. The scenery changes more slowly, with green hills, paddy fields and river views instead of ocean horizons.
That has a few practical effects:
- More walking on uneven ground. Temple steps, village paths and market lanes are part of the day.
- Longer road time. The Chiang Rai day is a good example. A comfortable seat, water and snacks help.
- A cultural focus. Many stops are active places of worship, so dress and behaviour matter.
- A calmer mood. Many travellers describe the north as slower and more relaxed, though your experience will depend on the season and the places you visit.
Best Time to Go and What to Pack
Thailand’s weather varies by season and region, and conditions change from year to year. In general, travellers look for times of year that are drier and a bit cooler for sightseeing, and may avoid the heaviest rain or the hottest weeks. Because this trip involves a lot of time outdoors, it is worth checking recent forecasts before you travel and asking Inej Travel which months they recommend for your dates.
A simple packing list for this itinerary:
- Light, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees, for temple visits.
- A light layer for cooler mornings, evenings and air-conditioned cars or flights.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals that are easy to take off, since you will remove shoes at many temples.
- A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- A small umbrella or rain jacket, depending on the season.
- Insect repellent for village and farm visits.
- A refillable water bottle, basic medicines and any prescriptions you take.
- A power adapter and a power bank for photos and maps.
- Some small cash for markets and tips, along with your card.
Visiting Temples Respectfully
Temples are the heart of this trip, so a few habits go a long way:
- Cover your shoulders and knees. Some places may refuse entry if you do not.
- Take off your shoes where asked, and watch what other visitors do.
- Speak quietly and avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images.
- Ask before photographing monks, and follow any signs about where photos are not allowed.
- Women should avoid touching monks, and everyone should follow guidance from your guide on the day.
Your guide can explain local etiquette on the spot, and asking questions is usually welcome.
Thinking Carefully About Elephant Experiences
Elephant encounters are a popular part of northern Thailand trips, but they are also a topic where practices differ and opinions vary. Some places focus on close contact and rides, while others focus on observing animals in a more natural setting. Before you decide to include a stop like this, consider asking:
- What activities are offered, and are any of them rides or shows?
- How are the animals cared for, and what is the visitor limit?
- Can I choose to watch from a distance instead of joining every activity?
Inej Travel’s page describes the sanctuary as offering multiple activities. If animal welfare matters to you, ask the team for details, and tell them your preferences when you plan the trip. Add-on tours are available on request, and they may be able to suggest alternatives.
Visa and Entry Basics
Entry rules for Thailand can change, and they depend on your passport, how long you stay and the purpose of your visit. Do not rely on an old blog post, a friend’s experience or hearsay. Check the official sources before you book flights: the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi visa page and the Thailand e-Visa website. Make sure your passport has enough validity and blank pages as per the current rules, and keep printed or digital copies of your bookings handy.
Inej Travel can guide you on the documents commonly asked for, but the final requirements come from the Thai authorities.
Who This Trip Suits
This itinerary may suit you if:
- You are visiting Thailand for the second time and want something new.
- You enjoy temples, local markets, villages and scenery more than beaches.
- You travel with family or friends and prefer a private vehicle and guide instead of juggling local transport.
- You want a mix of culture and light nature without extreme activity.
It may be less suitable if you want a long beach stay, a lot of free time or a very slow pace with no early starts. It also involves a few flights and long drives in a short time, which some travellers, especially older ones or those with young children, may find tiring. Be honest about your comfort level when you talk to the team, since the plan can be adjusted on request.
How to Book Step by Step
- Decide your dates and group size. Know who is travelling, including any children or older family members.
- Tell Inej Travel what you want. Share your interests, comfort level and any must-do or must-skip stops.
- Ask for a written itinerary and quote. Check what is included and what is not, including flights and visas.
- Review the hotels and transfers. Ask about hotel category, location and room type.
- Confirm the details. Check dates, names as on passports, and payment and cancellation terms in writing.
- Prepare your documents. Sort your passport, visa and insurance before departure.
You can start by using the Get in Touch page or the Plan My Trip form on the tour page.
Tips for a Smoother Trip
- Keep the first and last days flexible. Flights do not always arrive on time.
- Carry a small day bag. Water, tissues, sunscreen and a light layer cover most needs.
- Start early on busy days. Popular temples are often calmer in the morning.
- Keep small notes handy. Markets and small shops may prefer cash.
- Look after your health. Drink water, take breaks and be careful with unfamiliar street food if your stomach is sensitive.
- Save your hotel names in English and Thai. It helps if you take a taxi on your own.
- Take travel insurance seriously. Read what it covers before you go.
About Inej Travel
Inej Travel is a travel company that plans tours for India and international destinations, including Thailand. You can browse its Thailand tours and other packages on its website, or email info@inejtravel.com. If you want a trip tailored to your interests, share your ideas with the team and ask for a plan that fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai?
Inej Travel’s package covers both in 6 days, including arrival and departure in Bangkok. If you want a slower pace, ask about adding days.
Is Chiang Rai a day trip from Chiang Mai?
In this itinerary, yes. The tour page says Chiang Rai is around a three-hour drive from Chiang Mai, and the trip returns to Chiang Mai the same evening.
What are the main sights on this trip?
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, Warorot Market, the White Temple, the Blue Temple, a tea plantation stop, the Golden Triangle viewpoint, an elephant sanctuary and Safari World in Bangkok.
Are flights included?
The inclusions list covers sightseeing, transfers, hotels, some meals and other items, but it does not mention flights. Ask Inej Travel to confirm what is covered.
Is there an English-speaking guide?
Yes, the inclusions list an English-speaking tour guide. Inej Travel also notes that drivers usually speak Thai.
Which meals are included?
Breakfast at the hotel, a Chao Phraya cruise dinner, lunch at the butterfly farm in Chiang Mai, lunch in a local restaurant in Chiang Rai and a farewell dinner on the last day are mentioned. Confirm your meal plan when you book.
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Thailand?
Rules can change, so check the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi and the official Thailand e-Visa website before you travel.
What should I wear to the temples?
Wear light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and shoes that are easy to remove.
Can the itinerary be changed?
Inej Travel says add-on tours are available on request. Ask the team about changes that suit your interests.
Is this trip good for families?
It can be, especially for families who enjoy culture and sightseeing. Because it includes flights and long drives, tell the team about children or older travellers so they can advise.
How do I book this trip?
Use the Plan My Trip form on the tour page, the Get in Touch page on the website, or email info@inejtravel.com.
Conclusion
Northern Thailand rewards travellers who like to slow down and look closely. Temples, tea hills, village lanes and river views make this a good fit for a second trip to Thailand or for anyone who wants a break from the beach crowd. Check the details, ask your questions early and pick the pace that suits your group. When you are ready, you can find the full itinerary on the Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai Trip page and talk to the team at Inej Travel.
Information about the itinerary and inclusions is taken from Inej Travel’s website as of October 2026. Check current details and terms with Inej Travel before booking.
Note: This article reflects information published by Inej Travel on inejtravel.com at the time of writing. Itinerary details, pricing, and availability may vary; please contact Inej Travel directly for current details.
