Chennai to Thailand Trip Itinerary (Oct 17 – Oct 23, 2025)

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

Morning: Depart from Chennai on a direct flight (approx. 4 h 30 m) and arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Transfer to the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok for early check‑in.

Afternoon: After settling in, enjoy a relaxing riverside lunch and take a short walk to the Asiatique Night Market for some light shopping.

Evening: Dine on authentic Thai cuisine at a riverside restaurant and unwind with a gentle stroll along the Chao Phraya River.

Day 2: Bangkok City Highlights

Morning: Visit the iconic Grand Palace and the adjoining Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha), exploring the intricate architecture and royal history.

Afternoon: Walk to nearby Wat Pho to see the massive Reclining Buddha, then enjoy a traditional Thai massage at the temple’s massage school.

Evening: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Khao San Road, sampling street food and soaking up the lively nightlife.

Day 3: Ayutthaya Day Trip

Morning: Take a comfortable chartered minivan to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya Historical Park, arriving early to avoid crowds.

Afternoon: Explore the ruins of Wat Mahathat and the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, followed by a river cruise around the island.

Evening: Return to Bangkok and enjoy a relaxed dinner at the hotel’s rooftop bar, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Day 4: Travel to Chiang Mai

Morning: Check out of the Bangkok hotel and board a domestic flight to Chiang Mai (≈1 h 20 m). Transfer to the U Nimman Hotel for check‑in.

Afternoon: After a quick refresh, wander through the trendy Nimman Road area, visiting boutique cafés, art galleries, and local designer shops.

Evening: Join a traditional Khantoke dinner at a local cultural venue, enjoying Lanna cuisine and folk performances.

Day 5: Chiang Mai Old City Exploration

Morning: Explore the historic Wat Chedi Luang and the majestic Wat Phra Singh, admiring Lanna‑style temple architecture.

Afternoon: Stroll through the vibrant Warorot Market, sampling northern Thai snacks and browsing handicrafts.

Evening: Relax at the hotel’s spa or enjoy a quiet dinner at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Ping River.

Day 6: Doi Suthep & Elephant Sanctuary

Morning: Travel to Doi Suthep for sunrise views over Chiang Mai; visit the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and enjoy panoramic photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Head to an ethical Elephant Sanctuary where you can feed, bathe, and learn about conservation efforts with these gentle giants.

Evening: Return to the city for a relaxed dinner at a local night market, sampling grilled meats and fresh fruit desserts.

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, then take a final stroll through the nearby Chiang Mai University Botanical Gardens.

Afternoon: Check out and transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for the return flight to Chennai.

Evening: Arrive back in Chennai, concluding a memorable week of Thai culture, nature, and cuisine.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Round‑trip flight Chennai ↔ Bangkok: 7 h total, $550
• Domestic flight Bangkok ↔ Chiang Mai: 1 h 20 m, $120
• Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok (3 nights): 3 × $130/night, $390
• U Nimman Hotel Chiang Mai (3 nights): 3 × $110/night, $330
• Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: 3 h, $20 entry
• Wat Pho: 2 h, $5 entry
• Khao San Road dinner & drinks: 2 h, $30
• Ayutthaya Day Trip (transport & guide): 8 h, $70
• Wat Mahathat & river cruise: 3 h, $15
• Wat Chedi Luang & Wat Phra Singh: 4 h, $10
• Warorot Market lunch: 2 h, $12
• Doi Suthep visit: 3 h, $8
• Elephant Sanctuary experience: 5 h, $70
• Local meals & street food (average $15/day × 7): $105
• Transportation (taxis, tuk‑tuks, airport transfers): 7 h, $80
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,955

Tips

If you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a two‑day island escape to Phuket or Krabi for beach relaxation. To shorten the itinerary, you could skip the Ayutthaya day trip and spend the extra day exploring more of Chiang Mai’s surrounding countryside or the Bangkok suburbs.