Enchanting Thailand

Bright Lights, Big City

Welcome to Thailand's capital city of Bangkok, an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping, and friendly culture. Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

Bangkok Bliss

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

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - TIMELESS TEMPLE: Visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) to marvel at the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok Housing more than 1,000 images of the Buddha, the temple complex features the famed the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha.

Free to Wander

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.

ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: You may consider a visit to Jim Thompson's House, a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or an excursion by tuk tuk to the bustling evening markets.

Water Works

Today, head to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This vibrant market provides an interesting glimpse into local life. Take a longtail boat ride through the canals filled with small flat boats expertly paddled by merchants. Continue to Kanchanaburi and spend some time at leisure.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOCAL TRADITION: Experience Thailand's largest and most famous floating market along the Damnoen Saduak canal. Here, the vibrant Damnoen Saduak Floating Market offers local specialties and fresh produce—from pad thai to pancakes. Glide through the colorful array and bustling morning atmosphere by long-tail speedboat for a local experience you won't forget.

Bridging History

Today's sightseeing begins with a visit to Allied Forces Cemetery, then spend time in the fascinating Thailand-Burma Railway Center. You'll visit Hellfire Pass Memorial, part of the Death Railway that cuts through the mountains. Today, it houses a museum detailing life of the Allied prisoners and Asian workers who helped build the railway and subsequently suffered or died at Hellfire Pass.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Today's highlight is a train ride across the famous bridge over the River Kwai to Wang Po Station, a journey offering stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. This unforgettable ride immerses you in both the historical significance and the natural beauty that makes this region so unique.

Spiritual Reflections

Today, settle in for a smooth drive through lush countryside to Sukhothai, Thailand's 13th-century former capital. Along the way, stop at Bhunyakiri Sri Suvarnabhumi, a spiritually significant site, and Wat Tha Sung, known for its Crystal Sanctuary that houses a 100-meter long hall adorned entirely with mirrors. Enjoy dinner at your resort tonight.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: The Sukhothai Resort offers a beautiful blend of traditional Thai charm with modern luxury. With its serene location, spacious rooms, and tranquil spa, the resort provides the perfect retreat to explore and enjoy the rich history and beauty of central Thailand.

History & Mystery

Today begins with a guided tour and workshop at a local agricultural farm. After lunch at the farm, you'll have time to freshen up at your resort. This afternoon, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temples and monasteries, including Wat Si Chum with its stunning seated Buddha. Dinner is included at your resort tonight.

LOCAL FAVORITE - FARMING TRADITIONS: Immerse yourself in the sustainable practices during a unique rice farming experience. You'll gain insight into the traditional farming methods during a guided tour of the fields. Then, roll up your sleeves and try your hand at harvesting rice the traditional way. Keep an eye out for water buffalo – an iconic site in the rice paddies!

Captivating Chiang Mai

Today, drive to Chiang M+ai. Along the way, stop at Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum, dedicated to the conservation and revitalization of Thai art, and participate in a ceramic painting workshop. This evening, join your Tour Director for a tuk-tuk ride and orientation walk through Chiang Mai's lively night market.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOCAL TRADITION: Experience the bohemian side of true Thai life after dark with a stroll through Chiang Mai's night market, where vendors serve of noodle soup, pork congee (rice porridge), dumplings, and fresh coconut ice cream—not to mention artisan treasures that are hard to resist.

Stepping Up

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. After lunch at the sanctuary, return to Chiang Mai for visits to 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.

LOCAL FAVORITE - PACHYDERM PARADISE: This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park. 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 center. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.

Colorful Culture

Travel again outside the city to Lisu Lodge in the Mae Taeng District. Start your visit with a traditional welcome drink, then your local Lisu guide leads you on a short walking tour of the hill tribe village. Gain insight into their traditional lifestyle and culture, then savor a delicious Thai lunch. Return to Chiang Mai where your afternoon is free for you to enjoy this dynamic city before dinner tonight at your hotel.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: The Lisu Lodge in the Mae Taeng district is surrounded by sprawling rice fields and orchards where it preserves the natural heritage of Chiang Mai's hill tribes. Known for various ethnic groups inhabiting the mountainous northern and western regions, the hill tribe people in Thailand share their traditions and culture with graceful hospitality.

Tranquility in Thailand

Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey through the green hills to Ban Thaton and embark on a scenic boat ride on the Mae Kok River. Continue to Chiang Rai.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SCENIC SERENITY: Visit the hilltop perch of the magnificent Buddhist temple complex of Wat Thaton—a stunning setting for peaceful meditation with panoramic views and a wealth of Buddha statues from around the world. Continue your tranquil experience with a boat ride on the Mae Kok River to enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and river life along both sides of the riverbanks.

Thailand to a Tea

Visit the stunning Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. This unique masterpiece blends traditional Buddhist design with contemporary elements, a stark contrast to other temples in Thailand. Then, 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. On your return to Chiang Rai, visit Choui Fong tea plantation. Your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner this evening.

LOCAL FAVORITE - TEA TRADITIONS: Embark on a guided tour through the picturesque tea fields at the Choui Fong Tea Plantation. Learn about the full journey of tea cultivation process, including planting, harvesting, and processing, as well as the significance of tea in Thailand. Unwind with refreshing tea drink at the onsite restaurant, offering serene panoramic views of the surrounding tea fields.

Bound for Bangkok!

Fly to Bangkok and prepare for departure tomorrow, or journey into the city for independent exploration.

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.