7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Thailand in October 2023

  1. Day 1: Bangkok
    30 minutes (20 km) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

    Explore the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, two of the most famous landmarks in Bangkok. Take a tuk-tuk ride to the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market for bargain shopping.

  2. Day 2: Ayutthaya
    1 hour 30 minutes (76 km) from Bangkok

    Visit the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the majestic structures of Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, and take a boat tour around the historical city.

  3. Day 3: Chiang Mai
    1 hour 10 minutes (700 km) from Ayutthaya

    Take a flight to Chiang Mai, a laid-back city surrounded by mountains and temples. Visit the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the stunning Walled City, and the bustling Night Bazaar.

  4. Day 4: Pai
    3 hours 30 minutes (135 km) from Chiang Mai

    Take a scenic bus ride to Pai, a small town nestled in the mountains. Rent a motorbike and explore the stunning Pai Canyon and the nearby hot springs. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the town centre.

  5. Day 5: Chiang Rai
    4 hours 30 minutes (150 km) from Pai

    Head to Chiang Rai, a city known for its stunning temples. Visit the White Temple, the Blue Temple, and the Black House. Take a boat trip to the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

  6. Day 6: Khao Yai National Park
    11 hours (700 km) from Chiang Rai

    Explore the beautiful Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the majestic waterfall at Haew Narok and spot wild elephants and tigers. Take a night safari and camp under the stars.

  7. Day 7: Bangkok
    2 hours 30 minutes (165 km) from Khao Yai National Park

    Head back to Bangkok for your flight home. Visit the famous Khao San Road for street food and shopping. Relax with a traditional Thai massage before departing.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (2 hours, ฿500)
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market (3 hours, ฿300+)
  • Ayutthaya (1 day, ฿100)
  • Chiang Mai (2 days, ฿600)
  • Pai (2 days, ฿400)
  • Chiang Rai (1 day, ฿200)
  • Khao Yai National Park (2 days, ฿500)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ฿2,600
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