Embark on a captivating Thai sojourn. Start in Bangkok, where ornate temples meet vibrant street life. Then, journey to Ayutthaya’s historic ruins, a testament to the kingdom’s grandeur.
In Chiang Mai, immerse yourself in Northern Thailand’s cultural tapestry, exploring temples. Finally, discover the emerald beauty of Khao Sok National Park, where lush jungles embrace hidden lakes. Trek through the wilderness, float on crystal-clear waters, and savor serene moments in nature. Thailand’s blend of urban energy, historical richness, and natural splendor promises a truly mesmerizing travel experience.
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)
Your journey commences with a leisurely drive through rice paddies and salt fields. En route we visit a farmhouse along the way and watch locals produce sugar from coconut. The tour continues with a 30-minute longtail boat trip along fruit plantation to see Thai houses and the traditional way of life. Arriving at Damnoen Saduak floating market you will be fascinated by boats of various shapes and sizes used by local merchants to ferry their goods. Continue to the Maeklong Railway Market. It is one of the largest fresh seafood markets in Thailand, and is centered around the track of the Maeklong Railway. When trains approach, the awnings and shopfronts are moved back from the rails, and then replaced once the train has passed. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. Continue to home of the former 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), this 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.
Day 3: Bangkok (Breakfast)
Experience Bangkok’s many contrasts on a private tour that starts with a hidden gem for a picture-perfect view over the Wat Traimit. See the immense 5.5-ton Buddha statue made from gold, and explore the temple’s surroundings. Then, go to Chinatown to immerse yourself in one of the city’s food havens, day and night. Stroll among the stalls, restaurants, gold shops and Chinese temples before taking a local bus to Pak Klong Talad Flower Market. Mix with the locals as they buy flowers to use as offerings in the temple. Follow your guide goes to the beautiful Buddhist temple complex of Wat Pho and admire the reclining Buddha statue before a lunch of typical Thai food. Next, travel by tuk-tuk and experience the city from a different perspective. Climb the man-made hill to the Golden Mount to see the golden chedi (Buddhist stupa) at the top. Get a 360-degree panoramic view of Bangkok as you soak up the serene atmosphere. Climb aboard a boat and ride from Phan Fa Lilart pier to get a glimpse of the city’s local hustle and bustle, traveling down the canal, watch out, as you may catch sight of a monitor lizard lurking around. End with a refreshing drink at a local venue chosen by your guide before bidding farewell, we will leave you at the sky train station for you to return to the hotel on your own later.
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 – 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 5: Arrive Chiang Mai (No meals)
Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Railway Station you will be met by the local guide and transferred to the hotel for check-in, most likely your rooms will not be ready for immediate occupancy, but we can drop the luggage off and head to the riverfront Worarot Market. From the market we continue with a “Samlor,” or rickshaw pass Thapae Gate, one of the four original city gates, and then visit Wat Chedi Luang, which remains in an excellent state of preservation. Without a doubt, this is a perfect example of the Lanna Thai temple architecture. Visit Wat Phrasing which houses the beautiful Lai Kham Chapel with its exquisite wood carving and northern style murals. Afterward driving up to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, and experience a blessing ceremony. Enjoy the scenic views before returning to your hotel.
Day 6: Chiang Mai (Breakfast, Lunch)
Leave from the hotel to Doi Inthanon National Park. Reach to the highest peak Enjoy exploring around Ang-Kha Nature Trail at the highest peak viewing beautiful Fern & Moss. Visit the Twin Pagodas built by the Thai Air Force in honor of their Majesties King and Queen for their 60th Birthday Anniversaries. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch start hiking on Pha Dok Siew trail for almost two hours passing rice fields to waterfall and a Karen tribe village; The Tribe that learns to live in accordance with nature. They do organic farming. Here you can taste fine coffee amidst the peaceful and beautiful atmosphere. Drive back to Chiang Mai.
Day 7: Chiang Mai (Breakfast, Lunch)
The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel we then tour one of the largest Thai markets in Chiang Mai, the Sam Yaek Market. This is where we shop with the locals and learn about how to choose the ingredients that Thai people use to cook with. Later head out to the beautiful organic garden farm to have a bit of fun harvesting fresh ingredients for the day. Enjoy a lovely day learning how simple it is to make your favorite Thai curries, stir fries, salads, desserts, and even some street food, and local home-style dishes.
Day 8: Chiang Mai – Phuket (Breakfast)
Following breakfast, it is time to depart for the airport and check-in for your flight to the southern beach resort of Phuket.
Upon arrival in Phuket you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Day 9: Phuket to Khao Sok Adventure (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Commence your day with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Our first stop is the intriguing Monkey Cave temple. Later, engage in an incredible experience with elephants as they enjoy a bath. You can interact, scrub, play, and even ride these gentle, loving, and friendly creatures bareback. We pause at the Khao Sok scenic viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of Khao Son. After a satisfying lunch, we embark on a serene canoeing journey down the Khao Sok river.
Day 10: Khao Sok Exploration and Cheow Lan Lake Retreat (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
The day starts with breakfast, followed by a thrilling jungle trek in Khao Sok National Park, a hidden gem away from the bustling beach crowds. This ancient rainforest, dating back 160 million years, harbors enchanting flora and fauna, from plants and flowers to butterflies, birds, squirrels, and reptiles. Lunch awaits you at a picturesque mountain-view restaurant in Khao Sok. Afterward, check out and head to the serene Cheow Lan Lake. The afternoon offers leisure time for self-paddling canoe adventures around the floating huts, nature watching, relaxation, and refreshing swims in the pristine freshwater lake. Dinner and an overnight stay await you on the floating raft.
Day 11: Cheow Lan Lake Exploration and Return to Phuket (Breakfast, Lunch)
Begin your day with a tranquil longtail boat ride, crossing the 500 Rai Lake. Travel by bamboo raft to Pakarang Cave, also known as Coral Cave, due to its stalagmites resembling coral formations. Spend 30 minutes exploring this enchanting cave with remarkable formations. Return to the floating hut for a sumptuous lunch, followed by your journey back to Phuket, concluding this unforgettable adventure.
Day 12, 13 & 14: Phuket (Breakfast)
Free days at leisure for personal activities such as enjoying the sun, sea & sand or simply lazing by the pool.
Day 15: Depart Phuket (Breakfast)
Pick-up from your hotel at the designated time and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Hotel Accommodation
Destination | Hotel | Room Type |
Bangkok | Riva Surya Bangkok | Deluxe Riva Room |
Train | State Railway of Thailand | 1st Class Sleeper |
Chiang Mai | Empress Chiang Mai Hotel | Superior Room |
Phuket | Cape Panwa Hotel | Junior Suite |
Khao Sok | Khao Sok Boutique Hideaway | Exotic Cliff Room |
Cheow Lan Lake | Panwaree Raft House | Raft Room |
Phuket | Cape Panwa Hotel | Junior Suite |
Included
Accommodation as stated
Sightseeing tours and transfers as outlined
Meals as mentioned
English-speaking tour guide
Air-conditioned private vehicles
Accident insurance
Not Included
Services not mentioned
Expenses of a personal nature
Tips and porterage
Domestic flights in Thailand
International flights to/from Thailand