Thailand Heritage Discovery

Today, we are going to visit downtown Bangkok. First, the guide will lead you to visit Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan, where you will be awed by its shimmering glided façade and a giant golden Buddha statue. Our next stop is Wat Pho, home to the remarkable Reclining Buddha. After that, we will step into the magnificent Grand Palace. The golden roofs and walls are adorned with gorgeous floral patterns, showcasing the majesty and splendor of this royal complex. We will also visit Wat Phra Kaew, famous as Thailand’s most sacred temple, nestled north of the grounds of the Grand Palace. Apart from paying your respect to the Emerald Buddha, you cannot miss the elaborate murals in the corridors. These vivid paintings bring to life the heroic tales from Indian epics.
Tips:
1.Please keep your backpack in front of you since the Grand Palace draws a large number of tourists.
2.If you visit between March and May, the heat can be unbearable. To stay cool, you can sprinkle prickly heat powder on the body.

★ Enjoy Scenic Chao Phraya River on a Long-tail Boat
After lunch, the guide will accompany you on a 1-hour long-tail boat tour of the Chao Phraya River. Known as the “mother of all rivers” in Thailand, the Chao Phraya River runs through downtown Bangkok. You will encounter iconic landmarks like the majestic Rama VIII Bridge and the giant Buddha statue of Wat Pratunam. Also, rustic wooden stilt houses along the banks will leave you an impression of Bangkok’s authentic life.

Then the guide will lead you to disembark at Wat Arun to visit its towering 79-meter (259-foot) high pagoda. While porcelain pieces and bold structure display its geometric beauty, the exquisite mosaic patterns on the white background add to its grandeur. Led by our guide, you will ascend to the pagoda and overlook Bangkok’s enchanting skyline. As you rise, hold tight to the handrails since the stairs are steep. After the visit, you will be escorted back to the hotel.

► Dinner Suggestion:
Try the rice-based snack Thai Holy Basil Stir Fry (Pad Kra Pao), which features pork or chicken stir-fried with aromatic basil, chili and a fried egg with a still runny yolk perched on top. It is highly recommended that poke the golden yolk, allowing it to blend with the rice for the ultimate flavor. For an authentic culinary experience, you can go to Krua Khun Puk Restaurant and be sure to start with a lower level of spiciness, and it is best to get there early.
Average Cost per Person: THB 100-200 (USD 3-6)
Address: 155 Sukhumvit 11/1 Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Toei Nuea, Bangkok 10110 Thailand

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Centre Point Plus Hotel Silom Bangkok (4 stars) - Deluxe Room or similar

★ Damnoen Saduak: Immerse Yourself in the Bustling Floating Market by Boat
After breakfast, we will drive to the bustling Damnoen Saduak Floating Market in Bangkok’s western suburbs, where you can get a taste of the local life. You might have seen the scene of traditional floating trade in movies or TV shows, but nothing compares to experiencing it on a boat by yourself! You will see vendors expertly maneuvering their wooden boats, each brimming with tropical fruits, local snacks, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. When your boat approaches, they will reach out to showcase their colorful goods with broad smiles. If you find yourself drawn to the goods lining the shore, don’t worry! The gracious shopkeepers will wield long bamboo poles to pull your boat closer, ensuring you don’t miss a single tempting item. Please keep your hands inside the boat to avoid bumps from passing boats. As your eyes wander, a glimpse of everyday life in stilt houses along the bank will attract your attention.

Next, we’ll continue our journey westward for about 2.5 hours to Kanchanaburi. Here, the guide will first lead you to visit JEATH War Museum, which stands on the site of a former prisoner-of-war camp during WWII. The name “JEATH” is an acronym of the first letters of the six nations involved in building the Death Railway (Japan, England, Australia, America, Thailand, and Holland). To build this railway, over 60,000 prisoners of war endured unimaginable hardships, working up to 18 hours a day. The prisoners’ uniforms, weapons, and construction tools displayed in the museum will retell stories of their struggles and harsh living conditions. Some exhibits are personal donations from veterans, so there is no strict display order, but our guide will not leave you confused about them.

Afterward, the guide will lead you to walk to the nearby River Kwai Bridge, the most significant section of the Thai-Burma Railway, aka Death Railway. Visit the nearby museum and monument, providing anecdotes and immense challenges faced during its construction. At the foot of the bridge, you can see a lively marketplace with many vendors showcasing Burmese goods. Finally, we’ll check in at a hotel in Kanchanaburi for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: U Inchantree Kanchanaburi (4 stars) - Superior Garden View or similar

In the morning, we will head to Ayutthaya in a private car, about 2.5-3 hours from Kanchanaburi. The Historic City of Ayutthaya, founded in 1350, was once the second Siamese capital and is now a World Heritage site. Despite the scars left by war, it continues to attract people with its precious remnants that whisper tales of a glorious past.

► Bang Pa-in Summer Palace: A Fusion of Architectural Wonders
Upon arrival, our guide will show you around the luxurious and elegant Bang Pa-in Palace, an architectural gem combining distinct elements. You will see the Thai-style golden temple merging nicely with the ornate Chinese-style roofs and goddess sculptures from Greek mythology. When you stroll around the lake, the Phra Thinang Aisawan Thiphya-Art in the center may draw your attention. With four porches and a pointed roof, it is the only classic Thai structure in the palace. You can admire a revered statue of King Rama V there.

Our next stop is Wat Chaiwatthanaram, the best-preserved ruins in Ayutthaya. Its main pagoda is a masterpiece of Khmer style, making it look like a miniature of Angkor Wat. Then we will visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Three iconic Ceylonese pagodas stand tall as the temple’s symbols, with each enshrining the remains of a king. Next, wide stone slabs will lead us to the adjacent Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit. Its red-roofed and white-walled appearance exudes a splendid charm, and you can admire the largest bronze seated Buddha statue in Thailand.

Today’s guided sightseeing will conclude at Wat Mahathat, where the sacred spectacle of a Buddha’s head cradled by the sturdy roots of a Bodhi tree will stop you from gazing. Despite numerous attempts by archaeologists to move it, the Buddha’s head remains lovingly embraced by the tree. Its tranquil smile is a silent witness to the royal ceremonies and turbulent wars that once happened here. At the end of the day, the guide will accompany you to check in at a local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya (4 stars) - Studio Suite or similar

After a hearty breakfast, our guide and the driver will pick you up and drive to Lopburi, taking about 1 hour. Originally built in the 5th century, the city is best known not for its monuments but for being overrun by monkeys. Our exploration will start from the Phra Prang Sam Yot. Built by the Khmer people, it has a similar architectural style to the well-known Angkor Wat, such as walkways connecting three stupas and reliefs depicting mythological scenes. This building is nicknamed “Monkey Temple” because monkeys are also residents here. As you approach, you may be greeted by naughty monkeys frolicking along the roads. Besides, some vivid monkey statues stand along the main thoroughfare, displaying unique and amusing expressions.

► A Festival Just for Monkeys!
On the last Sunday of November, a Monkey Buffet Festival is held near the Phra Prang Sam Yot. This tradition originated from a local entrepreneur who regarded monkeys as the mascot of his thriving business. So he decided to host a lavish fruit feast for monkeys. It has evolved into a spectacular celebration today with over 4,000 monkeys joining in and consuming more than 2 tons of fruits and vegetables!

Special Note: Though monkeys have become very much accustomed to travelers, they are wild and curious about everything about humans, especially the baby monkeys. They are not only stealing easy pickings like food or fruits but also getting their hands on valuable things like handbags and phones. When visiting, please keep your belongings safe and avoid bringing plastic bags or flashy jewelry that might attract their attention.

Then we will visit the nearby San Phra Kan, which enshrines one of the principal deities of Hinduism, Vishnu. This unique structure, crafted from laterite and sandstone, perfectly embodies the Lopburi architectural style.

In the afternoon, we’ll drive north to Sukhothai, once the capital of Thailand’s first ancient kingdom. It’s a long drive of 4 hours that allows you to enjoy the Thai countryside landscape or take a nap. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel before the guide leads you to the Sukhothai Historical Park, another World Heritage Site with amazing temple ruins. You will delve into the ancient Sukhothai civilization by visiting Wat Mahathat, Wat Sisawat and Wat Sa Si. Take pictures of these ancient buildings silhouetted against the setting sun. If you visit during mid-November, you will witness several celebrations of the Loy Krathong Festival (A Festival of Water and Light), such as floating candle-lit Krathongs on the river for blessing or enjoying a dazzling light and firework show. Then you’ll be escorted to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort (4 stars) - Superior Room or similar

After breakfast, the driver and the guide will escort you to Chiang Mai. It’s a long ride further north, about 4 hours, with a short break. The road is hilly and beautiful, but if you are prone to motion sickness, please take some pills before departing. Upon arrival, we will first check into a hotel in Chiang Mai.

After a short break, our guide will lead you to Doi Suthep Mountain, a famous Buddhist shrine on the western outskirts of Chiang Mai. Explore the hillside Wat Phra That Doi Suthep with our guide. You can take a one-way cable car ride (included in the price) to the temple’s entrance. Of course, if you feel fine, you can hike up the 306-step staircase, which is said to bring good luck. Once you reach the top, take a moment to soak in the panoramic view of downtown Chiang Mai at the observation deck.

After that, return to the city center and the guide will lead you to Wat Phra Singh to admire the statue of Phra Singh Buddha. It stands in the center of the main hall, surrounded by a circle of smaller Buddha statues. If your visit coincides with a temple event, you might witness local devotees chanting alongside the master monks. And you will be escorted back to the hotel after visiting.
 
► Recommended Restaurant (at your own expense):
Ginger Farm Kitchen boasts warm wood tones, thatched roofs and red brick walls, offering a cozy farmhouse ambiance. You can savor flavors of northern Thai cuisine, like Crispy Pork Rinds, Grilled Spicy Herb Sausage and Egg Noodle Curry. Every dish is crafted with organic ingredients sourced from local farms. From 2020 to 2023, the restaurant has been awarded the Michelin Bid Gourmand. Since it’s located in the bustling Nimman Road area, make reservations ahead of time to grab a table.
Average Cost per Person: THB 500-600 (USD 15-18)
Address: Nimmanahaeminda Road One Nimman, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars) - Supreme Deluxe Room or similar

★ Elephant Observation Viewed from a Skywalk
Today is dedicated to fostering friendship with cute elephants! After breakfast, get ready to buckle up for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Elephant Nature Park, the largest and best elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, which escues over 120 elephants from abuse or animal performance. Our hands-off project promises an ethical way to learn more about their current conditions and living habits when wandering through the park led by a volunteer. You’ll also ascend to a raised boardwalk that offers an incredible vantage point to watch them frolicking in the vast greenery or whispering to their companions across the fence. Preparing food for the elephants is another highlight today.

At noon, a delectable vegan buffet lunch awaits you. The fun doesn’t stop here! The afternoon observation concentrates on how the elephants bask in the river’s cool water or cover themselves with mud and sand to adjust temperatures, and you can’t help smiling when seeing their playful antics! Before we return to the hotel in Chiang Mai, don’t miss taking memorable photos with the elephants!
 Friendly Reminders: 
1. You will travel on unpaved mountain roads in an open truck before entering the park, so please take pills in advance if you are prone to motion sickness. 
2. If you visit between May and October, please bring a raincoat just in case and wear comfortable shoes for a long walk. 

► Fun Facts about Elephants
1. Elephants always splash water with trunks over themselves to cool off in hot weather. 
2. Shaking tails or fanning ears is simply expressing their relaxed state.
3. An elephant will stick out its teeth or squat on one leg to say hello or request tasty snacks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars) - Supreme Deluxe Room or similar

In the morning, we will take a comfortable private car to Chiang Rai, with a short rest at Mae Khachan Hot Spring on the way. You can dip your feet into the soothing water or savor the unique flavor of hot spring-boiled eggs. After a 3.5-hour drive, we will stop at Wat Rong Khun (White Temple). Unlike the golden exterior of most temples in Thailand, it stands out with an extraordinary white appearance, a symbol of the Buddha’s purity. Tens of thousands of silver mirrors create a dazzling display outside, which suggests the Buddha’s wisdom illuminates the universe. However, the restrooms here are designed with golden hues to remind people to give up worldly desires.

► Crossing the Symbolic “Cycle of Rebirth” Bridge - Never Look Back!
Our guide will lead you through the symbolic “Cycle of Rebirth” bridge in the White Temple, inviting you to have a self-reflection. You will see many sculptures of hands reaching out from the depths beside the bridge, some even adorned with vibrant red nails. Such desperate gestures illustrate lingering greed, anger and obsession. Please do not look back to prevent those emotions from pulling you into the abyss of insatiable longing. After releasing all your desires and sins when crossing the bridge, you will enter into an ethereal world of rebirth because your soul has been purified.

Then we’ll continue our journey to Chiang Rai. It will be afternoon when we arrive in Chiang Rai. Check into the hotel first, and then the guide will accompany you to the Mae Sai Border, the northernmost part of Thailand, where Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos. The streets there are alive with a border market featuring treasures of the neighboring cultures, such as Thai Buddha statues, Chinese agates, and jades from Myanmar and Laos. A stone bridge in the town connects to Tachileik in Myanmar, and you will see the flags of both countries fluttering in the breeze. Today’s itinerary comes to an end here, and you’ll be transported to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort and Spa (4 stars) - Superior Studio Room or similar

After breakfast, our guide and the driver will escort you to Chiang Rai Airport for a 2-hour flight to Phuket. After arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our local driver, who is ready to escort you to the hotel.

Note: The direct flight from Chiang Rai to Phuket is not always available. If there is no direct flight on your travel date, we will arrange the flight with a transit via Don Muang or Bangkok instead.

Phuket is a jewel in Thailand’s crown of seaside resorts, with various islands, dense rainforests and national parks scattered around. To make your experience more enriching, we have set aside two days of free time for you to spend it exactly the way you want. Consider reserving one-day trips or water sports activities, with pick-up services provided by local travel agencies, in shops at the busiest Patong Beach.

► Recommended Restaurant (at your own expense): 
Taste the unique flavor of Phuket food before enjoying the unbeatable sea view at the Dang Restaurant. It has an open dining area without air conditioning, but the exceptional food more than makes up for it. It serves traditional Thai cuisine, and the Grilled Prawns are superb. Each one is as big as your palm, boasting a tender and juicy texture. Don’t forget to save room for mango sticky rice, dubbed “the best in Phuket”.
Average Cost per Person: THB 300-400 (USD 12-15)

Address: 188 Ratuthit 200 Pee Road, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars) - Deluxe Room or similar

This is the first day of your free time in Phuket. Start a leisurely day at Patong Beach by renting a colorful parasol and recliner, lounging lazily under the tropical sun and watching travelers from around the globe. Besides, exhilarating water sports await you there. Make some new friends when you hop on a banana boat ride, feel the adrenaline rush while paragliding high above the turquoise water or try the thrilling flyboarding. And remember to practice your bargaining skills! Getting a 30-40% discount is reasonable. However, if you want to take a motorboat ride, please be careful of some hidden reefs.

Then head to the Bazaan Fresh Market at Patong Beach for dinner. It is open from 6:00 to 24:00, where an enticing series of seafood awaits your selection. Once you have gathered your favorite seafood, head to the restaurant on the second floor of the market and the chef will work their culinary art at an additional cost of about THB 100 (USD 3) per dish or THB 200 (USD 6) for lobsters, often with a complimentary vegetable dish.

► Insider Guide for Exploring Bazaan Fresh Market:
1. It is recommended that arrive there at 20:00 or 21:00 because vendors are slightly weary from the hustle of the day and more willing to offer a reasonable price. Try starting your negotiation at around 70% off the initial prices.
2. You can stroll deep into the market to find the freshest seafood at the best prices. And please watch closely when your selected seafood is weighed and packaged.
3. To ensure you get exactly what you have picked, you can snap a photo before cooking.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars) - Deluxe Room or similar

In Phuket, it is highly recommended to choose a sunny day to go out to sea on a speedboat or sailboat. There are many beautiful islands around to choose from, such as the Racha Island and Coral Island route, or the combo of Phi Phi Island, Khai Island, and Bamboo Island.

Otherwise, you can head to the Similan Islands, a fabulous site for diving which is only open for from November to May, to protect the marine life. It is comprised of nine islands, showing you the raw beauty and rich marine biodiversity. A day trip to the Similan Islands often focuses on exploring Island 8 (Koh Similan), the biggest one of them. Hiking up to the iconic landmark Sail Rock perched on top of the island, you can admire a panoramic view of Similan Bay. Snorkeling in the enchanting underwater world is also a highlight. Anita’s Reef lies between Island 5 and Island 6, a world-class dive site, inviting you to admire giant coral reefs and observe how eels search for their next meal. On Island 9, Christmas Point is another legendary snorkeling spot. You may encounter large marine creatures like turtles and white-tip sharks. Many shops on Patong Beach offer various options for a day trip to the Similan Islands.

► Tips:
1. The boat journey from Phuket to the Similan Islands takes about 1.5 hours, and you can take seasickness pills at the pier before departure. The back of the boat tends to be calmer, ideal for a more pleasant ride.
2. To protect the delicate ecosystem, wearing shoes is not acceptable when you explore Island 8. It is recommended that bring snorkeling socks for a comfortable stroll since many stones along the way can become scorching under the sun.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Charm Resort Phuket (4 stars) - Deluxe Room or similar

Our 12-day Thailand holiday is coming to an end today. After breakfast, our driver will escort you to the airport for a 1.5-hour flight to Bangkok. This is the end of our service. Bon voyage!

Note: Once in Bangkok, please pay special attention to which airport your connecting flight will depart from, as Bangkok has two airports - Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport. If it is different from where we land, please leave at least one hour for transportation between the two airports. There is a free shuttle bus service between the two airports, which you can take from Gate 3 on the second floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport or Gate 6 on the first floor of Don Mueang Airport. It is best to book a late afternoon or evening departure flight to avoid missing it.

If you need to extend your trip to other Thailand destinations like Pai, Mae Hong Son, and Krabi, or neighboring countries such as Laos or Cambodia, please feel free to contact our travel consultants to arrange for you.

Meals: Breakfast