Embark on an unforgettable Thai adventure. Begin in Bangkok, where ancient temples blend with modernity. Then, journey to the historic River Kwai, bearing witness to the poignant World War II history. Explore Ayutthaya’s temple ruins, whispering tales of centuries past.
In Chiang Mai, delve into Northern Thailand’s cultural richness, and indulge in delectable street food. Conclude your odyssey on Krabi’s tranquil shores, where turquoise waters meet limestone cliffs. Thailand’s diverse landscapes and traditions will leave you awestruck, creating lasting memories of this enchanting Southeast Asian gem.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Bangkok
Evening arrival at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, clear through immigration and luggage collection before exiting into the arrival hall where your guide will be waiting to meet you, after transfer by air conditioned vehicle to your hotel for check-in.
Day 2: Bangkok – Explore Bangkok (Breakfast, Lunch)
Home of the Kings of Siam of the Chakri Dynasty, originally built by King Rama I, it served as the royal residence until 1946. Today the palace is still used on certain occasions for visiting royalty or special guests of the Kingdom. Adjoining the Grand Palace you will find the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Keo), which is probably the best-known of the royal temples. It is regarded as the most important temple in all Thailand and it is the venue of many of the numerous religious ceremonies in which the King participates, especially at the beginning of each of the three seasons when His Majesty personally changes the elaborate robes of the Buddha image, carved out of a single piece of emerald-green jasper. Follow your guide to the Flower Market and the beautiful Buddhist temple complex of Wat Pho and admires the reclining Buddha statue before a lunch of typical Thai food.
Later visit one of the best examples of traditional Thai residential architecture with a breathtaking collection of Southeast Asian art. Formerly the residence of Mr. Jim Thompson, an American who arrived in Thailand after the Second World War and revived the Thai silk industry. On one of his expeditions to the jungles of Malaysia in 1967 Jim Thompson mysteriously disappeared and has never been seen or heard of since. His house has now been turned into a museum of Asian art as well as his personal possessions. The house in itself is of great interest for it is of traditional Thai architecture. Following the visit we shall continue to the Jim Thompson Shop, where you will have the opportunity to view, and buy, Thai silk.
Day 3: Bangkok (Breakfast)
A day at leisure, explore the city on your own, or engage your guide for optional sightseeing of the city.
The day is at leisure for you to relax, but if you wish to go out, speak to your guide about optional tours, we especially recommend a visit to the Thai Boxing at Ratchadamnoen Stadium.
Day 4: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi (Breakfast, Lunch)
With an early morning departure, you will travel 120 kilometres to Damnern Saduak where boat people sell their wares from boat to boat or boat to shore. You will be amazed at the variety of goods and products that are to be purchased – you may even try your bargaining skills. We proceed to Kanchanaburi for lunch and continue to visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum, an interactive museum, information and research facility dedicated to presenting the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. The fully air-conditioned center offers the visitor an educational and moving experience. Continue to the War Cemetery, final resting place for over 6,000 allied prisoners of war, and the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai. After we check-in for the night at your riverside resort.
Day 5: Kanchanaburi – Ayuthaya (Breakfast, Lunch)
Breakfast at the resort followed by check out and departure by boat transfer to the pier where we will continue by road to the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum, the museum explains to visitors the story of why and how the railway was built and attempts to convey the hardships and suffering endured by POW who were forced to work in extremely harsh conditions. After visit the Saiyoke Waterfall before boarding a train on the historic Death Railway Train. We then depart Kanchanaburi for the ancient capital of the former kingdom of Siam, Ayuthaya where you will overnight.
Day 6: Ayuthaya – Train (Breakfast, Lunch)
Among the “must see” attractions in Thailand is a visit to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. The Thai capital for 417 years, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s major tourist attractions. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in the city, which was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong. 33 kings of 5 dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767.During this day trip you will visit the principal sights: Wat Sri Sanphet – this important and outstanding monastery was used as a residential palace in the reign of King Ramathibodi I. Wat Phananchoeng: This monastery existed before Ayuttaya was founded as the capital. The principal 19 metres high Buddha image is made of stucco and is the most revered by the inhabitants of Ayutthaya. Wat Yai Chaimongkhol: The chedi at this monastery is among the largest in Ayuttaya and was built by King Naresuan (1590-1605). There are many Buddha images and a beautiful garden behind this chedi. This tour also includes a trip to Bang-Pa-In, the former Royal Summer Residence, which represents a fine example of Thai architecture. After board a river cruise as we return to Bangkok by way of the Chao Phraya River, enjoy lunch on board and the scenes along the river as you travel downstream.
As you arrive back in Bangkok you’ll be transferred to the central railway station for your overnight train to Chiang Mai.
Day 7: Arrive Chiang Mai (No meals)
As you arrive at Chiang Mai Railway Station, our local guide will be there to greet you. We’ll transfer you to the hotel, where your rooms might not be ready for immediate check-in. However, you can drop off your luggage and join us for a visit to the vibrant Worarot Market by the riverfront. From there, we’ll embark on a “Samlor,” or rickshaw ride, passing through Thapae Gate, one of the city’s original gates. We’ll then explore Wat Chedi Luang, a beautifully preserved example of Lanna Thai temple architecture. Next, we’ll visit Wat Phrasing, home to the exquisite Lai Kham Chapel with its intricate wood carvings and Northern-style murals. Our journey continues as we drive up to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, where you’ll experience a traditional blessing ceremony. Take in the scenic views before returning to your hotel.
Day 8: Chiang Mai (Breakfast, Lunch)
Depart from the hotel for a captivating adventure to Doi Inthanon National Park. At the highest peak, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the enchanting Ang-Kha Nature Trail, surrounded by lush ferns and moss. Visit the Twin Pagodas, a tribute from the Thai Air Force to their Majesties King and Queen on their 60th Birthday Anniversaries. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, embark on a hike along the Pha Dok Siew trail for nearly two hours, passing through rice fields to reach a serene Karen tribe village. The Karen people have mastered living harmoniously with nature and practice organic farming. Here, you can savor exquisite coffee in the peaceful, picturesque surroundings before returning to Chiang Mai.
Day 9: Chiang Mai (Breakfast, Lunch)
Our day kicks off with a hotel pick-up, followed by a visit to one of Chiang Mai’s largest local markets, the Sam Yaek Market. Here, you’ll shop alongside locals and gain insight into selecting the ingredients integral to Thai cuisine. Later, we head to a beautiful organic garden farm for an enjoyable experience of harvesting fresh ingredients for the day. You’ll spend a delightful day learning how to prepare your favorite Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, salads, desserts, street food, and local home-style cuisine.
Day 10: Chiang Mai – Krabi (Breakfast)
Following breakfast, it is time to depart for the airport and check-in for your flight to the southern beach resort of Krabi.
Upon arrival in Krabi, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Day 11, 12, 13: Krabi (Breakfast)
Free days at leisure for personal activities such as enjoying the sun, sea & sand or simply lazing by the pool.
Day 14: Depart Krabi (Breakfast)
Pick-up from your hotel at the designated time and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
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