Our travel spirit was born thanks to this enchanting Thailand backpacking route. This amazing country left a burning desire for more travel and exploration. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a loyal Thailand returner, Thailand has so many places to discover, that you can spend a lifetime of exploring. Brace yourself for an infectious case of the travel bug when you keep reading!
How long can you stay in Thailand?
Thailand welcomes visitors from 50 countries under a non-visa tourist exemption scheme, allowing a stay of up to 60 days without a visa. This convenient policy (an effort to revive the tourist sector after the Covid-19 pandemic) makes it incredibly easy to travel to this remarkable country!
Costs of our 4 weeks Thailand backpacking route
Thailand offers endless options, ranging from the broken backpacker’s budget to the extravagant traveler. While we strive to travel on a budget, we firmly believe in seizing the opportunity to partake in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. After all, these adventures are gifts to ourselves, considering we don’t typically engage in partying or fine dining throughout the year. Our one month Thailand trip costed 2600 euros/person, which included plane tickets and a slightly pricier liveaboard on the Similan Islands. Note that this price is in low season (November), and was right after the Covid Pandemic.
One month Thailand backpacking route
3 days of Bangkok
2 days in Chiang Mai
2 days in Chiang Dao
3 days in Pai
1 day in Surat Thani
3 days in Khao Sok
4 days in Kao lak
2 days in Phang Nga
3 days on Ko Yao Islands
3 days in Krabi
Back to Bangkok
Bangkok- 3 days
You can easily spend 3 days in Bangkok. Eventhough you’re not particularly drawn to bustling metropolises, Bangkok has something for everyone. There are big shopping malls, bustling food markets and an abundance of temples. You’ll likely see enough temples for the rest of your trip here!
You will most likely arrive at the airport of Suvarnabhumi, which is one hour away from the city center. You can take a taxi from the airport by simply following the arrows ‘public taxi’. Outside you need to take a ticket and walk to your personal taxi driver. Taxi drivers may attempt to negotiate a fixed fare, but insist on using the meter to ensure a fair and reasonable price for your journey. A good tip for visiting Bangkok: a meter is ALWAYS cheaper than fixed prices!
Khao San Road is the famous party street in Bangkok where you can taste crickets, crocodile and the famous mango sticky rice. Although you like or don’t like the busy Khao San Road, it’s a good location to stay in Bangkok since it’s pretty close to all the highlights. However, if you still wish to get some sleep at night, we recommend staying a few streets away from the noisy street. We booked our stay at Lamphu House, a cozy place, hidden in the busy streets of Bangkok. The perfect place to unwind and recharge after a day of sensory overload.
If you fly to another region of Thailand after visiting Bangkok, you’ll probably have to go to the airport of Don Mueang which represent the smaller flights across the country.
2 days in Chiang Mai
There are different options to go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. We took the fastest option as we only had limited time. As our plane touched down at Chiang Mai International Airport, we immediately sensed a shift in atmosphere. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, you’ll be welcomed by the tranquility that permeates the streets of Chiang Mai. A mere 15-minute taxi ride will transport you to the heart of this captivating city. The best time to visit the northern part is from November until February, the dry season.
Chiang Mai has a lot of ancient temples to discover such as What Phra That Doi Suthep which is completely surrounded by nature. It’s a beautiful place to watch sunset and soaking up Thai history.
Covid has left its mark in the northern part of Thailand. Most locals and hotels insist on going on daytrips from the city center instead of pointing you to a scooter shop. You can still do it on your own, just be aware to reserve a scooter in advance. If you’d like to do certain activities such as climbing the summit of Chiang Dao or visiting the Elephant Nature Park, reserve your spot on time!
Interesting spots to explore:
- Vipuya: an amazing breakfast spot which makes amazing oatmeal and fruitbowls and breakfast shakes!
- Tha Phae Gate Lodge: the place is owned by a warm-hearted French host who stored our backpack free of charge for an entire week! (We could only take one backpack with us on our scooter ride to Pai).
2 days in Chiang Dao
Chiang Dao is an amazing mountain area, known for its hot springs and cool hiking routes. It’s a district of the Chiang Mai Province and is situated in the north of Chiang Mai. It’s the perfect spot to explore if you’re making your way up to Pai.
Its green surrounding will make you feel like your alone on the world. It’s even possible to spend a night at one of the traditional mountain tree houses. You’ll come across a lot of wildlife sanctuaries too in this area.
If you want to have an ethical tourist experience with elephants, a day trip to the Elephant Nature Park is an absolute must! This sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued elephants, allowing you to observe and interact with these magnificent creatures in a responsible and sustainable manner.
3 days in Pai
Pai has garnered attention for its unique blend of Western influences and bohemian spirit, attracting a vibrant community of digital nomads and expats. The village is completely surrounded by the stunning natural landscapes of the north. It’s not an undiscovered gem anymore and you’ll probably see the most western influences here. However, it’s an amazing place to go to if you like exploring waterfalls, can appreciate the quietness and are in for an adventure. Two amazing places to book your stay are the Pai Country hut (make sure to reserve your spot a week in advance!) and Romantic Time Mountain Resort.
Reaching Pai is an adventure itself. You can reach Pai by taking the bus from Chiang Mai or by doing the route 1095 by scooter. Both will take approximately 3-4 hours. The route to Pai forms a part of the famous Mae Hong Son Loop, showcasing 762 turns through the jungle before you reach the bohemian village. If you don’t feel comfortable riding a scooter, you can take the bus. Make sure to secure a spot in the front of the bus to avoid any potential motion sickness.
There is so much to do in Pai that you’ll definitely have to stay there for at least 3 days before moving to a next destination. Some backpackers and digital nomads even tend to stay for a few weeks.
1 day in Surat Thani
Upon your arrival at Surat Thani Airport, you’ll find yourself faced with the delightful dilemma of choosing between two enchanting directions to explore. If you crave sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tropical paradise, the islands of Koh Samui and Ko Tao are the place to be. Book a ferry ticket, readily available through platforms such as 12goasia, to embark on an island-hopping adventure that will leave you in awe of Thailand’s coastal beauty.
On the other hand, if you yearn for the wonders of the natural world and seek to immerse yourself in verdant rainforests and breathtaking landscapes, heading west towards Khao Sok National Park and Khao Lak is the perfect choice. Arrange your transportation to these destinations by reserving a spot in a van.
While Surat Thani itself may serve primarily as a transit point, it offers convenient facilities and services to facilitate your onward journey.
Travel tip: Book your super cheap stay at OYO Hotel.
3 days in Khao Sok National Park
If you would ask me the one thing not to miss if you’re visiting Thailand, it would be Khao Sok National Park, the highlight of our trip. Khao Sok National Park is a rain forest that’s older than the Amazon Rainforest! The park can be divided into two distinct sections: the Lake section and the Forest section. Both are worth exploring, but it’s good to know that the lake section is only accessible through a guided tour. If you’d like to explore the Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park, booking a tour with the Coco Hostel is the best way to experience a night on the lake!
4 days in Khao Lak
Khao Lak is the perfect destination to eat good seafood and relax on the beach. It’s also a good starting point for exploring the Similan Islands! If you possess diving experience, seize the opportunity to explore the underwater wonders during a day trip or diving liveaboard on the Similan Islands. Adventure assured!
2 days in Phang Nga
Phang Nga Bay, the place to take a daytrip to out of this world sceneries in the Bay. To witness a sight that will forever be etched in your memory, set your alarm for 4 o’clock in the morning and embark on a journey to the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint.
Phang Nga is the perfect gateway to all the islands in the bay. It’s also a one hour drive away from Phuket!
3 days on Koh Yao Islands
Amidst the bustling tourism hubs of Thailand, there exists a hidden paradise that stole our hearts during our one month Thailand backpacking route – the Koh Yao Islands. Nestled away from the tourist crowds, these islands offer a truly authentic and unspoiled experience that surpasses the fleeting pleasures of a day trip. The Koh Yao Islands will enchant you with its local and pure island vibe. Koh Yao Yai has an ultimate island soul of tranquility, while Koh Yao Noi is the perfect place to explore Phang Nga Bay.
3 days in Krabi
3 days in Krabi will give you plenty of time to explore the surroundings. Explore the Dragon Crest mountain for a challenging jungle hike or if you like a good workout on your holiday, go to the Tiger Temple on legday. It has 1260 stairs, I challenge you to go up without taking a rest!
