Carbon Friendly Rail-Ride Through Thailand

📍 Bangkok Airport Rail Link from the Airport directly to Phaya Thai BTS Skytrain Station or via Phetchaburi MRT Station 01:00 hr.

Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, you will be met by your Exo Travel guide and transferred to your hotel using public transportation.

You will take the Bangkok Airport Rail Link from the airport directly to Phaya Thai BTS Skytrain Station or via Phetchaburi MRT Station (connecting to Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station), where you can transfer to other train lines or forms of public transportation to reach your accommodation.

OPTIONAL TRANSFER: Private transfer from BTS/MRT to the hotel.

Note: In case the hotel is not located near the BTS (skytrain) or MRT (underground) station.

Free at leisure after check in or enjoy optional activities.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY 1: Flavors of Nighttime Chinatown

You will be picked up at 17:00. As evening approaches, Bangkok comes alive, and every street is filled with the delicious aroma of food that will delight your taste buds. One of Bangkok's best-kept secrets is Chinatown, known for its internationally renowned street food. The best way to explore the area is on foot. On this tour, you will start at MRT Hua Lamphong Railway Station and explore the backstreets, discovering the bright lights and energy of Yaowarat Street in Chinatown. You will learn about the history of the area and meet some of its favorite street food artisans. You will have the opportunity to sample a variety of foods, from famous Chinese dumplings and peppered pork noodles to Chinese donuts and more. You will also enjoy sweet Chinese desserts and visit a tea shop. By the end of the tour, you will understand why Chinatown is one of Bangkok's best-kept secrets.

Time: 17:00 – 21:00

Departure: Daily except Mondays

Note:

The walking starts from MRT Hua Lamphong Station.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY 2: Twilight Culinary Journey by E-Tuk Tuk (Hotel Pick-Up Not Included)

This evening at 17:00, make your way to the meeting point near Bangkok’s main railway station, where you will be met by a local food guide who will give a short briefing before the start of this fun evening.

Then it’s time to hop on Bangkok’s iconic 3-wheel Tuk Tuk for a night adventure, visiting the best local eateries around the city’s famous street zones. Bangkok is often called the city that never stops eating, with locals frequently enjoying street food late into the night.

During the ride, make several food stops at local spots where even the aromas will ignite your taste buds. Sample the best-kept secret Guay Tiew Gai, one of the finest Pad Thai in town, and Sukiyaki with seafood—each dish recognized by the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand. To delight your sweet tooth, enjoy some local desserts along the way.

Between bites, take breaks at the city’s old-town landmarks. Visit Wat Suthat, one of Bangkok’s iconic sights, and admire its illuminated chedis while learning about the temple’s history. Then, view the Giant Swing right in front of the temple.

The night ends with a stop at a hidden bar nearby. Sip a chilled Thai beer or a non-alcoholic drink, paired with a famous Thai appetizer, while enjoying stunning night views of the Giant Swing and the glittering temple.

After the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel by Tuk Tuk. (D)

Time: 17.00 – 21.30

Departure: Daily

Blackout dates on New Year's Day or Valentines' Day.

Note:

• Meeting point: MRT Hua Lamphong Station, Exit 3.
• Even though the visit is only to the temple grounds, appropriate dress is required. Shorts, mini-skirts, tight-fitting trousers, sleeveless shirts or vests, and sandals are not allowed.
• The visit to Wat Suthat is limited to the temple grounds (open until 21:00).
• The hidden bar is located on the 6th floor of the hostel, and there is no elevator.
• The table at the bar will be pre-booked to offer the best views of the Giant Swing and Wat Suthat; however, reservations cannot be guaranteed on Saturday nights, as this is the bar’s peak time. If the reservation cannot be secured, an alternative bar will be offered.
• Please note that not all restaurants are street-side; some are sit-down, air-conditioned venues. The dishes served include classic Thai street food, as well as some shared-style Thai dishes.
• If you have any dietary requirements, please inform your travel consultant at the time of booking

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

Breakfast at the hotel. 

This morning, you will be picked up at 08:00. Look beyond the crowded streets of the metropolis and discover a more local side of Bangkok. Take advantage of the city’s network of public transportation of the capital, seeing the main sites but also getting a closer look at the traditions and lifestyles of the Thai people.
    
The day’s adventure begins with a walk or take a taxi with your guide to the nearest BTS Skytrain or MRT Underground. Then start to explore the iconic of Bangkok by taking the BTS and/or MRT to MRT Sanamchai station. 

Then walk to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Spend the remainder of the morning exploring these two remarkable sites, learning about the country’s regal history and of the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of its people. 

In the afternoon, board a public boat from Tha Maharat Pier to Saphan Phut Bridge, walking across the bridge and straight to the pier at Wat Kalayanamit to embark on a private Thai retro solar boat. The style of the boat may seem fairly mundane, but the boat is driven in an eco-friendly way, using solar power directly from the sun during the day, it is an impressive feat of engineering. Now, sit back and relax on a soft cushion while the boat slowly cruises along the banks of the Chao Phraya River through Bangkok’s historic, charming khlongs. Once a major trading route, this waterway is now lined with wooden shop houses and local temples. Then the boat continues cruising onwards to Khlong Bang Khuntien, and makes a stop at Wat Ratcha Orasaram Ratchaworawihan, a distinct temple with Chinese-style artwork and artifacts. Take a closer look at the temple's roof and see its unique green-coated ceramic tiling. If time allows, you may have an opportunity to visit the nearby Wat Nang Nong Worawihan, another historic temple built around the era of King Rama III, with beautiful mural paintings with Chinese-influenced stories. 

Return to the boat and chill out for a little while until reaching an authentic natural garden and restaurant called “Poomjai Garden”, nestled secretly on the banks of the canal. Owned by a local Thai family, this beautiful garden has a long history of over 100-years, when the family decided to renovate the land into an organic permaculture, while preserving some rare plants and trees, like a century-old Lychee tree in the area. In the meantime, the family is connected with the nearby local community to source fresh ingredients that can be used at the restaurant.

Enjoy your dinner while admiring the beautiful garden landscape before boarding a private transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Train transfer, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Taling Chan takes about 15 minutes Train transfer, #1113 Dep. 08:24 Taling Chan railway station – Arr. 09:15 Nakhon Pathom

Wake up early and have breakfast at the hotel.

Escape the bustling crowds of the city and explore the western outskirts of Bangkok in Nakhon Pathom Province. This province is well-known for its towering golden stupa, beautiful Thai countryside, and several still-hidden landmarks and cafés.

Set off in the morning with a short train journey, starting from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (formerly Bang Sue Grand Central Station), heading toward a local railway station. Transfer to a suburban or feeder train to reach the final terminal. As the train slowly pulls away, the scenery changes to a more rural view, with lush greenery and rice paddies lining the route. Sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery for about an hour until the train reaches the station.

Upon disembarking, you will see the big stupa right in the center of town. Walk through an old market selling various local produce as you approach the stupa, then visit Phra Pathom Chedi, the impressive tallest stupa in the world, soaring to a height of 127 meters (417 feet).

Next, you will be picked up by private transportation and continue to Joon’s Studio and Café, a small family-oriented art café. Choose your preferred seat for lunch—either indoors in a modern loft-style space or outdoors under shady trees. In addition to the café and restaurant, the house serves as a ceramic and art studio offering various workshops, such as painting, candle-making, and kite-making. If time permits, you may join a workshop of your choice (at your own expense).

(Note: Joon’s Studio and Café is closed on Tuesdays. If your visit falls on a Tuesday, the guide will take you to an alternative family-oriented restaurant.)

After lunch, continue to a local orchard farm, a hidden gem rarely visited by foreign tourists. Explore the shady garden farm and enjoy fresh fruit tasting, picked straight from the trees. Depending on the season, you may see, learn about, and taste a variety of fruits. Seasonal fruits can also be purchased (at your own expense). Conclude your visit with a refreshing coconut before being transported back to Bangkok.

Return to Bangkok by private transportation.

Please note: The train schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Train transfer, Train #75, Dep. 08:45 Krungthep Apiwat Central Station – Arr. 09:41 Ayutthaya

Early breakfast at the hotel.

You will be picked up at your hotel in Bangkok and transferred to Krung Thep Apiwat Central Station. Board the train and enjoy a leisurely ride, first through the suburbs of the Thai capital, and then past farmlands and local communities as the train makes its way to Ayutthaya.

Upon arrival at the train station in Ayutthaya, transfer to the starting point of your cycling trip. Begin the ride through Ayutthaya Historical Park and explore the classical side of Ayutthaya, including its ancient temples and the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cycling route is mostly urban, with some time spent in and around parks.

Lunch at Malakor, a local Thai restaurant.

After lunch, embark on a private transfer to Bang Pa-in Summer Palace, located south of Ayutthaya. Visit the beautiful palace, followed by Wat Niwet Thammaprawat, a Gothic-style temple. Today’s tour concludes here with a transfer back to your hotel in the city.

Please note: The train schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Overnight in Ayutthaya

Difficulty: Easiest (approx. 9-km cycling)
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Train transfer, train #111, Dep. 08:38 Ayutthaya – Arr. 09:42 Lopburi Train transfer, train # 109, Dep. 16:23 Lopburi – Arr.20:35 Phitsanulok

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to the train station to board the train heading north to the small town of Lopburi.

Upon arrival in Lopburi, take a short walking tour of the town to Prang Sam Yot, located just opposite the railway station. This site is famous for the many monkeys inhabiting its grounds. Afterwards, continue by van to King Narai’s Palace, where, 350 years ago, high-level trade and foreign diplomacy took place. French missions promoting Catholicism and a Greek adventurer serving as de facto ruler are just a few of the fascinating—and rarely heard—stories from that era.

Continue along the Lopburi River to a local restaurant for lunch before returning to the train station to board the train to Phitsanulok.

Dinner will be served on board.

Upon arrival at the train station in Phitsanulok, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Overnight in Phitsanulok

**The train schedule is subject to change without prior notice**

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

📍 Train transfer, train #109, Dep. 20:37 Phitsanulok - Arr. 04:05 Chiang Mai Difficulty: Easy – Medium (approx. 25-30-km cycling, flat area)

Early breakfast at the hotel, depart the hotel around 07:00 for a transfer to Sukhothai and start a full day cycling excursion in Sukhothai. The cycling tour starts from a small village on Sukhothai’s outskirts known as Ban Kheay. Take a dirt road passing through endless rice paddies with beautiful views of the Kao Laung mountain range in Ramkhamhang National Park. Arriving at the Southern Gate, explore some of Sukhothai’s famous ancient ruins. Marvel at beautiful Buddhist and Hindu architecture. The tour offers the visitor a guided cultural experience, learning about Sukhothai’s history and complex architecture as well as the story of Buddhism in Thailand. After a delicious local lunch, continue riding along small irrigation canals (Klong Mae Lampan) passing through rural villages before arriving back to town. 

Transfer back to Phitsanulok to board the overnight train to Chiang Mai.

Please note: The train schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Chiang Mai Train Station – Chiang Mai Hotel (5.2 km): 10 min

Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Train Station early in the morning, meet your guide and transfer to your accommodation in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle.

Early check-in and free time at leisure in the morning.

This afternoon, take a closer look at Chiang Mai on a walking tour with a local guide. Step off the main streets to discover hidden neighborhoods brimming with charm.

During the tour, experience local life firsthand. Visit bustling markets where residents buy fresh vegetables, spices, and other daily necessities. Observe schoolchildren on their way to class, elderly Thais tending their gardens, and other scenes of everyday city life.

Explore historic landmarks, including Wat Chiang Man, Chiang Mai’s oldest temple. Walk alongside the crumbling walls of the old town and admire the city’s iconic Three Kings Monument.

Visit the Lanna Folklife Museum, located inside a restored colonial building. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Northern Thailand and provides further insight into Chiang Mai’s history.

After several hours of walking, refresh tired muscles at the Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institute, where former female prisoners run a traditional Thai massage spa. The project trains prisoners to become skilled masseuses, helping them gain self-sufficiency after their release. Support this meaningful program by enjoying a 30-minute foot massage.

Before returning to the hotel, take a short stroll to the majestic Wat Chedi Luang, the final stop on the Chiang Mai walking tour. After visiting the temple, return to your hotel by car.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Inclusions:

Breakfast at the hotel.

This morning, discover the many facets of Chiang Mai. Spend the day exploring the town’s main monuments as well as lesser-known sites, traveling by local transport for a more authentic experience.

Set off in a songtaew, a local pick-up truck taxi (known as Rot Daeng in Chiang Mai, meaning “red car”), and drive to Wat Gatekaram for a glimpse into a local neighborhood. Venture through the small alleyways of this trading community, stopping to see old temples and a local market.

Next, head away from the city center to Wiang Kum Kam, a “lost civilization” wiped out by a flood 200 years ago. Hop on a bike to explore the ancient ruins scattered across the rural fields. Pedal slowly through the site to observe traces of the past. The museum there provides a fascinating insight into this lost civilization. Take time to explore the innovative technology used in the museum, which brings history to life in a fun and interactive way for both children and adults.

Take a rest and board a longtail boat for a scenic ride down the Mae Ping River. Relax and enjoy the views of riverside villages, fishermen, and passing boats.

Disembark near the city and have lunch at a local Thai restaurant.

In the late afternoon, visit the city’s old town, walking along the crumbling city walls and admiring the blend of old and new architecture. Catch glimpses of glittering pagoda spires illuminated by the late afternoon sun.

Then, step into the secret jungle temple, Wat Phalad. One of Chiang Mai’s most peaceful and enchanting temples, it was built to enshrine a piece of bone said to belong to the historical Buddha. Here, meet one of the monks and receive a blessing for good health and fortune.

Continue on the spiritual trail by leaving the city center and taking a winding drive into the hills. Climb the staircase of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, admiring the intricate naga carvings along the way. Upon reaching the top, explore the 14th-century pagoda and learn about its origins. Wander around the towering gilded stupa and take a moment to enjoy panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

Before sunset, witness the magical evening chanting of the monks, a serene way to conclude the day’s spiritual tour.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Chiang Mai - Saraphee (9.2 km): 20 min Saraphee – Chiang Mai Train Station (9.2 km): 20 min Train transfer, train #10, Dep. 18:00 Chiang Mai – Arr. 06:50 Bangkok

Be picked up at the hotel between 08:00 and 08:30 by a resident chef, who will lead the way using local modes of transport such as the songtaew (a local shared mini-bus) and the train. Begin the trip with a ride on a songtaew to a bustling local market, where you will learn about the ingredients that will be used in your cooking class later.

Next, head to the train station for a short train ride of approximately 20 minutes to the outskirts of Chiang Mai, toward Lamphun. Disembark at a local train station and transfer by van to Saraphee Cooking Studio, located in the lesser-known Thai-Burmese community of Lamphun. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. If desired, make a brief stop at a local temple along the way.

Upon arrival at the cooking home, you will be warmly welcomed and offered a local-style coffee, tea, or herbal drink. Learn about Lanna culture and traditions, such as the traditional welcome set of betel nuts (snacks mainly offered to elders), taste some Mieng (fermented tea leaves), and discover how to make cigars and beautiful flower cones for the Buddha and Spirit House.

Take a stroll around the organic garden and pick fresh ingredients for the cooking class with the chef. The cooking is conducted in a traditional charcoal and firewood style—no gas stove is used. Learn to cook various Northern Thai dishes for an authentic culinary experience.

After lunch, bid farewell to the chef and drive to Chiang Mai Train Station to board the overnight train back to Bangkok.

(Note: There is no guide on board the train.)

Please note: The train schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Arrive at Bangkok Train Station in the morning (no services on this day).

Inclusions: