8-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Thailand

1. Day 1: Visit Bangkok's Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
   30 minutes (9.3 km) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

   Admire the elaborate architecture and stunning colors of Thailand's Grand Palace and temple of the Emerald Buddha.

2. Day 2: Explore the Ancient Ruins of Ayutthaya
   1 hour 30 minutes (76.7 km) from Bangkok

   Wander through the ancient city of Ayutthaya, exploring crumbling temples and majestic statues of the city's past.

3. Day 3: Take a Boat Trip Through Khao Sok National Park
   8 hours (391 km) from Ayutthaya

   Experience stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and exotic wildlife on a peaceful boat ride through tropical Khao Sok National Park.

4. Day 4: Explore the Stunning Beaches of Krabi
   3 hours (144 km) from Khao Sok National Park

   Relax on the white sand beaches of Ao Nang, wander down bustling Walking Street and head to the Tiger Cave Temple for a scenic hike.

5. Day 5: Visit the Famous Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island
   2 hours by ferry from Krabi

   Explore the crystal-clear waters and stunning coves of Phi Phi Island, famously featured in the movie "The Beach".

6. Day 6: Visit the Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market
   2 hours by flight from Krabi

   Browse hundreds of food and craft vendors at the famous Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market, a weekly event in the heart of the city.

7. Day 7: Get Up Close With Elephants in Chiang Mai
   1 hour 30 minutes (78.7 km) from Chiang Mai

   Visit an elephant rescue center for a hands-on experience feeding and bathing these magnificent animals.

8. Day 8: Relax on Chiang Mai's Nimmanhaemin Road
   20 minutes (5.4 km) from Chiang Mai Airport

   Enjoy the trendy cafes, boutique shops and world-class spas of Chiang Mai's Nimmanhaemin Road, the perfect end to an unforgettable journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (2 hours, 500 baht)
• Ayutthaya (6 hours, 200 baht)
• Boat Trip at Khao Sok National Park (8 hours, 800 baht)
• Krabi (3 days, 3000 baht)
• Phi Phi Island Tour (1 day, 800 baht)
• Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street Market (5 hours, 300 baht)
• Elephant Rescue Center (3 hours, 1000 baht)
• Nimmanhaemin Road (1 day, 1000 baht)
• Total Estimated Costs: 7600 baht (approx. 210 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding in a visit to Pai from Chiang Mai, where you can enjoy hot springs, waterfalls and picturesque landscapes. If you have less time, consider skipping Ayutthaya and flying directly to Khao Sok National Park or Krabi. Don't forget to dress modestly when visiting temples and culturally significant sites.