BANGKOK, 24 November 2025;This feature marks the second instalment of my Blue Jasmine diary, a special series documenting every stage of this extraordinary nine-day rail journey across Thailand, offering readers an unfolding portrait of one of the country’s most exciting and culturally meaningful new tourism experiences.
Day Three: Uthai Thani to Chiang Mai
Dawn rose softly over Uthai Thani as the river breathed a gentle mist across the wooden houses along its banks. Our morning began at the bustling riverside market, alive with farmers, vendors, and the comforting aromas of grilled pork and freshly cut herbs. Here, we selected fruits and simple offerings for alms-giving, a ritual deeply woven into Thai life.
A monk soon glided towards us in a small wooden boat, the bow dipping quietly with each stroke. One by one, we stepped forward to offer our gifts, placing our hands together in a respectful wai. The river shimmered with early light, giving the moment a peaceful, almost timeless quality.
Back at the resort, we joined teachers and students for the eight o’clock flag-raising ceremony in the school courtyard. Singing the national anthem together was unexpectedly moving. The flag was set at half mast in honour of the recent passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.
A lively Thai language lesson followed breakfast in the school’s dining hall, led by our cheerful teacher JayJay. He guided us through everyday phrases and playful tongue twisters, including the well-loved Krai, Khai, Kai, Gai (Who sells chicken eggs). In a thoughtful gesture from DTH Travel, each guest received a personalised name badge in the style of a blue Thai street sign; a simple gift and a charming keepsake.
Our next stop was Wat Tha Sung, home to the remarkable Crystal and Golden Temples. Inside the Glass Temple, mirrored pillars sparkled like stars across the vast hall, while the Golden Temple glowed with ornate detail and spiritual warmth. From there, we boarded a traditional rice barge for lunch on the Sakae Krang River, gliding past floating homes, small boat gardens, and riverside families preparing for the day.
After a coffee break, we returned to The Blue Jasmine for an afternoon inspection of the beautifully refurbished train before settling in for the overnight journey north to Chiang Mai.
Day Four: Chiang Mai
Rain greeted us as we rolled into Chiang Mai, falling softly across the mountains and giving the city a refreshing coolness. After breakfast on board, we checked into the Bodhi Serene Hotel, a peaceful hideaway with classic Lanna charm. The morning was at leisure and perfect for wandering through the Old Town with umbrellas in hand or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the boutique hotel.
Lunch was a treat — a visit to the much-loved Huen Phen restaurant to savour Chiang Mai’s signature dish, Khao Soi Gai.
The yellow curry broth, tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and crispy toppings combined beautifully, a comforting reminder of the region’s culinary heritage.
Later, we travelled up the winding mountain road to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples.
The rain deepened the colours of the golden chedi, the teakwood carvings, and the sweeping naga staircase. At 1,676 metres, the mountain holds a commanding view of the city and remains a cherished symbol of the former Lanna Kingdom. The temple’s origins reach back to the 14th century, and its peaceful presence felt especially vivid in the soft afternoon mist.
Our day concluded with an excellent Thai dinner at Tamarind Village in the heart of the Old City. Its quiet courtyards, lanterns, and fragrant garden paths provided the perfect finale to our first day in Chiang Mai: Gentle beauty from morning to night.
(Source: Andrew Wood)
About the author
Andrew J. Wood is a British-born travel writer and former hotelier who has lived in Thailand since 1991. With more than four decades of experience in hospitality, he has managed leading hotels, served as a Director of Skål International and is a Past President of Skål International Bangkok, Skål Thailand, and Skål Asia. Andrew writes for travel and hospitality publications worldwide and is widely recognised as an ambassador for Thailand’s tourism industry.
Blue Jasmine Train nine-day trip dates and price
Scheduled departure dates for the Blue Jasmine departing from Bangkok.
2025
Maiden Journey The Blue Jasmine
16.11.25 – 24.11.25
2026
24.01.26 – 01.02.26
21.02.26 – 01.03.26
11.07.26 – 19.07.26
21.11.26 – 29.11.26
12.12.26 – 20.12.26
Retail approximate price: UKP7,120 pp (THB302,585), excludes flights.
