Escape the ordinary with this 10‑day journey through Thailand’s sun-kissed south and enchanting north. You’ll experience idyllic beaches in Krabi, spiritual temples in Chiang Mai, and bohemian vibes in Pai—all with local food, hidden gems, and practical tips.
📅 Days 1–4: Sun, Sand & Limestone in Krabi
Must-see beaches:
- Railay & Phra Nang – Accessible only by boat, these limestone-framed white-sand beaches are perfect for rock climbers and sunset lovers (thailandstartshere.com). Don’t miss the sacred fertility cave at Phra Nang (drillinjourneys.com).
- Ao Nang & Nopparat Thara – Great for easy access and a bustling beachfront lined with cafes and seafood shacks (drillinjourneys.com).
- Hidden gems: Tubkaek, Khlong Muang, Ko Kwang – Quiet, peaceful beaches perfect for unplugging away from crowds (reddit.com).
Day-by-day:
- Day 1: Arrive in Ao Nang. Sunset stroll on Ao Nang beach, then dinner at Leon Bar in Nopparat Thara market area (drillinjourneys.com).
- Day 2: Take a boat to Railay/Phra Nang. Climb the viewpoint, explore caves, lounge on one of Thailand’s signature beaches.
- Day 3: Island-hop: Koh Poda, Hong Island, and Tub Island—great snorkeling & fewer crowds (drillinjourneys.com, traveltomtom.net).
- Day 4: Chill day at Tubkaek or Khlong Muang before an overnight train or flight to Chiang Mai.
📅 Days 5–8: Chiang Mai – Ancient Temples & Modern Eats
Where to stay: Choose a boutique guesthouse in the Old City or the trendy Nimmanhaemin area (christinagalbato.com).
Must-visit temples:
- Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Singh – Historic heart-of-the-old-city temples (travelbycarlavianna.com).
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – Perched atop the mountain; climb the 309‑step Naga staircase for sweeping city views (en.wikipedia.org).
- Hidden Northern gems: Wat Pha Lat, Wat Saen Fang, Wat Ku Tao for quieter temple visits (en.wikipedia.org).
Local eats:
- Khao Soi Khun Yai – Legendary curry noodle spot in the Old City (vogue.com).
- Baan Rai Yam Yen – Famous local haunt, featured aboard Anthony Bourdain’s show (christinagalbato.com).
- Cafés & night markets – Nimman district for artisan coffee; Sunday Walking Market near Tha Phae Gate for street snacks (christinagalbato.com).
Day-by-day:
- Day 5: Arrive in Chiang Mai. Afternoon temple stroll + Khao Soi dinner. Evening walk through Nimmanhaemin.
- Day 6: Mount Doi Suthep early morning; return to relax at a spa or café.
- Day 7: Explore the Sunday Market (if timing aligns). Tuk-tuk to Wat Saen Fang, Ku Tao, and Pha Lat.
- Day 8: Day trip: zipline, hike Doi Inthanon, or visit an ethical elephant sanctuary.
📅 Days 9–10: Pai – Mountains, Waterfalls & Chill Vibes
Getting there: Scenic and winding 3‑hour minivan or motorbike ride (brace for 762 curves!) (christinagalbato.com, theaustralian.com.au, en.wikipedia.org, thesun.co.uk).
Where to stay: Reverie Siam – riverside boho style with saltwater pool .
What to do:
- Pai Canyon – Sunrise hike for panoramic sunsets (christinagalbato.com).
- Bamboo Bridge (Boon Ko Ku So) – Walk through emerald rice paddies (christinagalbato.com).
- Hot springs & waterfalls – Visit Pam Bok & Mo Paeng, or soak at Pai Hot Springs (christinagalbato.com).
- River tubing – Chill river floats on Pai River (youtube.com).
- Temples & markets: Wat Mae Yen on the hill overlooking Pai; evening night market and local street food (christinagalbato.com).
Final day: Morning market stroll and café breakfast (Earth Tone Café for organic fare). Head back to Chiang Mai or continue on.
🎒 Travel Tips & Packing
| Category | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Transport | Boat taxis in Krabi, local songthaew/tuk‑tuks in Chiang Mai, minivans/motorbikes in Pai |
| Weather | Light cottons + a warm layer for mountainous Pai mornings |
| Best time to visit | November–February for sunny beaches & cool northern air (vogue.com) |
| Local etiquette at temples | Cover shoulders & knees, remove shoes inside, and be respectful during prayers |