Tantalizing Thailand & the Temples of Angkor

Welcome to Cambodia! Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Your sightseeing tour starts at the best preserved of all the temples - Angkor Wat, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Continue to Angkor Thom to see Bayon Temple. One of the few Buddhist temples in Angkor, it features more than 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B/L)

Today, visit the exquisite 10th-century Banteay Srei, a unique temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. Then on to Ta Prohm, which has been left relatively untouched; surrounded by jungle, tree roots grow over and through the ruin walls. You'll also visit a local school to interact with the children. (B)

Today, fly to Bangkok, Thailand's capital city. After settling into your hotel, perhaps explore the Sukhumvit Street Market or wander the vibrant streets of Chinatown.

Bangkok is an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping, and friendly culture. An exciting day of sightseeing is ahead. Take in the city's principal landmarks such as the splendid Temple of the Golden Buddha and the spectacular Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. You will also visit the gleaming Grand Palace, Thailand's most sacred monument, and the spectacular Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

After lunch at a local restaurant, cruise along the Chao Phraya River by long tail boat. The city's network of canals ("klongs") evokes Bangkok as the "Venice of the East." Stop at the Temple of Dawn on return journey. (B/L)

Today is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. Spend free time to awaken your senses with local cuisine made with fresh Thai herbs, and sweet to spicy sauces at Bangkok's outdoor food markets and quaint local cafes. Or, try your bargaining skills along the khlongs on an optional shopping excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market. (B)

Enjoy a bit of time at leisure this morning then fly to Sukhothai, Thailand's 13th-century former capital. Enjoy dinner at your resort. (B/D)

Today, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temples and monasteries, including Wat Si Chum with its stunning seated Buddha. The afternoon is yours to relax or further explore the park. Lunch and dinner are served at your resort. (B/L/D)

Today, drive to Chiang Mai. This evening, join your Tour Director for a tuk-tuk ride and orientation walk through the lively night market. (B)

This morning, visit the revered Buddha statue at Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy this dynamic city. Things get spicy with mouth-watering northern Thailand dishes at an optional Kantoke dinner and performance by local hill tribe dancers. (B)

This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990's to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives. Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation centre. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.

After lunch at the sanctuary continue to Chiang Dao Cave, the most famous cave system in Thailand. Explore this beautiful cave system filled with stalagmites and stalactites that continues for miles below the surface. Lastly, make your way to your resort in the hills of Ban Thaton. (B/L/D)

Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey to Doi Mae Salong where you'll visit a green-tea plantation. Next, visit several fascinating hill tribes including the Yao, Lisu, and Akha, known for gorgeous headdresses decorated with silver coins. This fascinating cultural excursion enables you to interact with the locals and experience their daily lives and be taught their rich heritage and history. Continue to Chiang Rai. (B/L)

Drive to Mae Sai, Thailand's northernmost town to visit the Hall of Opium, built to educate people on the 5,000-year history of opium and help combat illegal drugs. Stop at the Golden Triangle viewpoint, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Here you'll take a boat ride on the Mekong River to enjoy spectacular views of the Laos countryside and river life along both sides of the riverbanks. After lunch, return to Chiang Rai and enjoy some time at leisure. (B/L)

Fly to Bangkok and transfer to your hotel near the international airport. Prepare for departure tomorrow or journey into the city for independent exploration. (B)

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)