Thailand's Ultimate 7-Day Adventure

1

Day 1: Bangkok Arrival & New Year's Eve Spectacle

Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Activities
4

Arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Samut Prakan, Thailand
The Airport Rail Link is the fastest and cheapest way to get into the city. Alternatively, use a ride-hailing app like Grab or a metered taxi from the official taxi stand.

Check-in to Adventure Basecamp

Sukhumvit Area, Bangkok
Consider hotels near a BTS Skytrain station for maximum convenience. Book well in advance as it's New Year's Eve.

Pre-Celebration Street Food Dinner

Victory Monument Boat Noodle Alley, Bangkok
Be adventurous and try different things! Look for stalls with long queues of locals – it's usually a sign of great food.

New Year's Eve Countdown at a Rooftop Bar

Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar or similar
Reservations are absolutely essential and must be made months in advance. Expect special NYE packages with high prices. An alternative is the massive public countdown at CentralWorld, but be prepared for huge crowds.
2

Day 2: Bangkok's Hidden Alleys & Flight to the North

Thursday, January 1, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Bangkok Backstreets Bike Tour

Thonburi, Bangkok
This is a fantastic way to see local life up close. Choose a reputable tour operator like 'Co van Kessel' or 'Grasshopper Adventures'. It's an active and immersive experience.

Lunch at a Riverside Cafe

Thonburi Riverside, Bangkok
Ask your bike tour guide for a local recommendation nearby.

Explore Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok
Dress respectfully: cover shoulders and knees. You can easily reach it by taking a cross-river ferry from Tha Tien Pier near Wat Pho.

Flight to Chiang Mai

Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
Book your flight in advance with airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, or Lion Air for the best prices. Allow at least 2 hours to get to DMK from the city center.

Check-in to Chiang Mai Hotel

Chiang Mai Old City
The Old City is a great base for exploring temples, markets, and restaurants on foot.
3

Day 3: Mountain Temples & Jungle Trek

Friday, January 2, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Sunrise at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
The ride up can be cold in the morning, so bring a jacket. Remember to dress respectfully. The 306-step Naga staircase is the traditional way up, or you can take a funicular.

Hike the Monk's Trail

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Chiang Mai
The trail is moderately challenging and takes about 1.5-2 hours. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The trail ends near Chiang Mai University, from where you can easily get a songthaew back to the city.

Khao Soi Lunch

Khao Soi Mae Sai or similar, Chiang Mai
This dish is typically served with chicken or beef and comes with pickled mustard greens, shallots, and lime on the side.

Relax and Explore the Old City

Chiang Mai Old City
A one-hour Thai massage is an incredible value and a perfect recovery activity.

Dinner at the Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Bargaining is expected when shopping, but always do it with a smile. The food courts here offer a huge selection in one place.
4

Day 4: Elephants & Jungle Ziplining

Saturday, January 3, 2026
Activities
3

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Visit

Elephant Nature Park or similar
Book this well in advance as the best sanctuaries fill up quickly. Research to ensure the sanctuary is genuinely ethical (no riding, no hooks, no tricks). Most tours include hotel pickup and lunch.

Ziplining Through the Rainforest

Flight of the Gibbon or Eagle Track Zipline
Choose a company with a strong safety record. This activity is often combined with the elephant sanctuary visit in full-day tour packages. Wear closed-toe shoes.

Dinner in the Nimman Area

Nimmanhaemin Road, Chiang Mai
Try a Northern Thai fusion restaurant or enjoy some craft beer at one of the local bars.
5

Day 5: Conquering Thailand's Highest Peak

Sunday, January 4, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Day Trip to Doi Inthanon National Park

Doi Inthanon National Park
The drive is about 1.5-2 hours each way. A private driver offers the most flexibility. The park entrance fee is 300 THB for foreigners.

Hike the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail

Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, Doi Inthanon
The trail is closed during the rainy season (June-Oct). It can be very cool at this altitude, so bring layers. The views are absolutely worth it.

Visit the Summit & Royal Pagodas

Summit of Doi Inthanon
The weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for cool temperatures and potential rain.

Wachirathan Waterfall

Wachirathan Waterfall, Doi Inthanon
Be careful on the slippery rocks. There are several other waterfalls in the park, but this is one of the most accessible and spectacular.

Hearty Northern Thai Dinner

Huen Phen or similar, Chiang Mai Old City
This is a great way to sample many different local flavors in one meal.
6

Day 6: White Water Rapids & Cave Exploration

Monday, January 5, 2026
Activities
3

White Water Rafting on the Mae Taeng River

Mae Taeng River, Chiang Mai Province
Book with a reputable company that prioritizes safety and provides all necessary gear and experienced guides. Most tours include transport, lunch, and other activities. No prior experience is needed.

Explore Chiang Dao Cave

Chiang Dao Cave, Chiang Dao District
Some rafting tours can be combined with a visit here. The unlit sections are the most adventurous part. Wear good shoes as the ground can be uneven and slippery.

Farewell Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant

The Good View Bar & Restaurant or similar
Book a table by the river for the best experience. Many places have live music.
7

Day 7: Culinary Skills & Departure

Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Activities
3

Thai Cooking Class

Thai Farm Cooking School or similar
This is a fantastic souvenir to take home. You get to eat everything you cook for lunch! Book in advance. Backup option: If you prefer more action, try rock climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Chiang Mai Old City
Look for local handicrafts, textiles, or dried spices to take home.

Departure from Chiang Mai (CNX)

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
You can easily get a taxi or Grab to the airport from the city center. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes.
Travel FAQs

Q.What is the best way to get around the cities?

In Bangkok, use the BTS Skytrain and MRT Metro to avoid traffic. For other distances, use the Grab or Bolt ride-hailing ...

Q.What is the currency and how should I handle money?

The currency is the Thai Baht (THB). While credit cards are accepted in hotels and large restaurants, cash is king for s...

Q.What should I pack for an action-packed trip in December/January?

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the heat. Include long pants and a sleeved shirt for temple visits. For hiking...

Q.Are there any local customs I should be aware of?

Yes. The head is considered sacred, so avoid touching people's heads. Feet are considered lowly, so don't point them at ...

Q.What are some must-try food items?

In Bangkok, don't miss Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and Mango Sticky Rice. In Chiang Mai, you must try K...

Q.Do I need a visa for Thailand?

Many nationalities are eligible for a 30-day visa exemption upon arrival by air. However, visa policies can change. Alwa...

Q.Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Thailand. Always drink bottled water, which is widely available and inex...