Duration: 15 nights
Best months: November–April
Country: Thailand · Laos
Region: Bangkok · Chiang Mai · Chiang Rai · Golden Triangle · Mekong River · Luang Prabang · Phuket · Khao Lak
A Journey Through Spiritual North, River Mystique, and a Beach Finale
This Luxury Thailand and Laos itinerary 15 nights is designed for travelers who want Southeast Asia at its most soulful: temple calm in Chiang Mai, mountain landscapes and the White Temple in Chiang Rai, meaningful time with elephants in the Golden Triangle, then a slow glide into Laos on the Mekong River—ending with true rest on the sands of Khao Lak. Explore more ideas for Thailand and Laos.
Chiang Mai — Temples, Sunset Views, and Thai Cooking Done the Real Way
After landing in Bangkok, take a short transfer flight north to Chiang Mai, where you’ll meet your private guide and check into Tamarind Village Resort—right in the center, styled in chic Lanna tradition, and perfectly placed for easy exploration.
Over the next days, you’ll discover why Chiang Mai feels so grounding: learn the story of Buddhism at Wat Chedi Luang, then head up to Wat Doi Suthep for one of the city’s most rewarding sunset views. When you want nature, we’ll shape time outdoors—rice-field landscapes, and if conditions align, a perspective-from-above moment like a sunset hot air balloon.
A highlight here is food—done with heart, not performance. You’ll join locals on their daily market route (fish, meat, rice, vegetables), then cook in a home or small cookery school, learning family recipes and techniques passed down through generations.
Northern Thailand, slowed down—where culture feels personal
Chiang Rai & The Golden Triangle — Mountain Scenery, White Temple, and Elephants
Travel through rolling plantations and dramatic hillsides toward Chiang Rai—one of the most scenic drives in the region. Along the way, we can tailor a trek through terraced tea and rice plantations, coffee fields, and Karaen tribe villages, adjusting the difficulty to match your pace.
In Chiang Rai, discover the region’s distinctive culture and artistry at the White Temple, then continue to the remote Anantara Golden Triangle for a deeply memorable encounter with Thailand’s gentle giants. Join experienced mahouts at sunrise, watch elephants at river bath time, and learn what true care looks like up close.
Between experiences, drift along the Ruak and Mekong Rivers on traditional boats and take in the views across the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar—especially striking at sunset.
Luang Prabang — Mekong Mysteries, Sacred Caves, and Timeless Rituals
Next, cross into Laos with a luxury overnight river cruise down the Mekong River, arriving into the historic capital of Luang Prabang and checking into Amantaka.
One day is dedicated to the legendary Pak Ou Caves—Tham Ting and Tham Teung—reached by traditional longtail boat. The approach is part of the magic: limestone formations, fishing villages, and a sense of stillness that feels increasingly rare. Inside, thousands of wooden Buddha statues create an atmosphere that’s quietly unforgettable.
Later, explore Luang Prabang’s heritage: the palace of the former Laotian Royal Family, Wat Mai, the city’s oldest pagoda, and other historic sites. End with a short climb to Mount Phousi for panoramic views over the rivers and surrounding mountains.
Your days in Laos also include immersive moments: lunch by the river, time learning more about caring for elephants, and a visit to the glistening Tad Sae Waterfall. Before dawn on your final Laotian morning, witness the sacred alms offering by saffron-robed monks—observed respectfully, with your guide providing context and guidance if you choose to participate.
In the afternoon, step into the jungle for local survival skills: collecting herbs, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, learning traditional fishing methods, then trekking onward to the Kuang Si waterfall—where your gathered ingredients become a delicious Laotian lunch.
Phuket to Khao Lak — A Beach Reset at The Sarojin
For a grand finale, transfer back to Thailand—first to Phuket, then onward to Khao Lak to check in at The Sarojin. Overlooking the turquoise Andaman Sea, this is where the itinerary softens completely: sugar-white sand, spa time, yoga, and days that require nothing from you.
When you want a final burst of ocean wonder, venture out to the Similan Islands for a full-day snorkeling adventure—clear water, bright marine life, and the kind of horizon that makes you breathe deeper.
Ready for Something Extraordinary?
Tell us your travel dates, who’s coming (and ages), and the rhythm you want—more temples and culture, more nature, or a balanced flow. We’ll curate stays, private guiding, and seamless transfers, then deliver a final itinerary with checklists and support for changes. Your planning/design fee translates into discovery, curated options, smart iterations, and a polished plan you can travel with confidently.
Signature Experiences
- Temple immersion in Chiang Mai: Wat Chedi Luang and sunset at Wat Doi Suthep
- Local-led Thai cooking with market visits and generational recipes
- Scenic trekking through tea/rice plantations and Karaen tribe villages
- White Temple discovery in Chiang Rai
- Elephant time with mahouts at Anantara Golden Triangle
- Luxury overnight river cruise down the Mekong River to Luang Prabang
- Pak Ou Caves: Tham Ting and Tham Teung, by traditional longtail boat
- Beach finale at The Sarojin in Khao Lak + Similan Islands snorkeling
Why Travel to Thailand & Laos with Escape Xperts
Thailand and Laos are at their best when the pacing is intentional and the handoffs are smooth—flights, drives, river time, and border transitions handled without friction. Escape Xperts curates trusted local partners, private guides, and the right stays for privacy and comfort, while designing days that feel immersive but never overloaded. We build the journey around your travelers’ ages and energy, balancing cultural depth with genuine rest. Expect a clear design process—discovery, curated options, thoughtful iterations, and a final itinerary with practical checklists—plus support if plans shift before or during travel. CREATE TRIP
