Treasure of Thailand 9 days

OVERVIEW ITINERARY

Day 1: Bangkok Arrival
Day 2: Bangkok Full-day City Tour
Day 3: Bangkok – Railway market – Floating market – Kanchanaburi
Day 4: Kanchanaburi – Erawan waterfalls – Ayutthaya
Day 5: Ayutthaya – Bang Pa-In – Night train to Chiang Mai
Day 6: Chiang Mai City Tour
Day 7: Chiang Mai – Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Join tour)
Day 8: Chiang Mai – Mae Kampong – Chiang Mai
Day 9: Chiang Mai Departure

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Bangkok Arrival

Upon your arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle into Thailand's vibrant capital, a city of contrasts where modern skyscrapers stand alongside ancient temples. Take some time to relax after your journey, or perhaps enjoy a leisurely evening stroll to get a first taste of the city's lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Bangkok Full-day City Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural splendor of Bangkok.

• Morning: Visit the majestic Grand Palace, a sprawling complex of temples and royal residences, home to the revered Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple.
• Mid-day: Continue to Wat Pho, famous for its enormous reclining Buddha statue and as a traditional Thai massage school.
• Afternoon: Take a longtail boat trip along the Chao Phraya River and its intricate klongs (canals) in Thonburi, offering a glimpse into traditional riverside life. You'll stop at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), an iconic riverside landmark with its stunning spire adorned with colorful ceramics.
• Evening: Enjoy a delicious Thai dinner, perhaps at a riverside restaurant or exploring the diverse street food scene.

Day 3: Bangkok – Railway Market – Floating Market – Kanchanaburi

Leave the urban sprawl behind as you delve into Thailand's unique market culture before heading west.

• Morning: Depart early for the Maeklong Railway Market, a truly unique market built directly on active train tracks. Witness the incredible spectacle as vendors swiftly pack up their stalls when a train approaches, then quickly set up again.
• Mid-morning: Continue to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand's most famous and vibrant floating markets. Enjoy a thrilling longtail boat ride along the canals, observing local vendors selling fresh produce, snacks, and souvenirs from their traditional boats.
• Afternoon: Journey to Kanchanaburi, a town famous for its WWII history. Check into your hotel upon arrival.
• Late Afternoon: Visit the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai and explore the JEATH War Museum to learn about the historical significance of the area and the "Death Railway."

Day 4: Kanchanaburi – Erawan Waterfalls – Ayutthaya

Today combines stunning natural beauty with ancient history.

• Morning: Head to Erawan National Park to discover the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls, a magnificent seven-tiered waterfall cascading through lush jungle. Enjoy trekking alongside the falls and swimming in its emerald green ponds.
• Afternoon: Drive towards Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom. This journey offers scenic views of the Thai countryside. Check into your accommodation upon arrival.
• Evening: Relax or perhaps take a walk around the area to catch a glimpse of some illuminated temple ruins.

Day 5: Ayutthaya – Bang Pa-In – Night Train to Chiang Mai

Explore royal grandeur and ancient ruins before an overnight journey north.

• Morning: Begin your exploration of Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore magnificent temple ruins such as Wat Mahathat (famous for the Buddha head intertwined in tree roots), Wat Phra Si Sanphet (the former royal temple), and Wat Ratchaburana.
• Mid-day: Visit the beautiful Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a former summer palace of Thai kings, showcasing a fascinating blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles.
• Afternoon: Transfer to the train station (likely in Ayutthaya or nearby) for your overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai. This unique experience allows you to travel comfortably while observing the changing landscapes.

Day 6: Chiang Mai City Tour

Arrive in the "Rose of the North" and discover its spiritual and urban heart.

• Morning: Upon arrival at Chiang Mai train station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After refreshing, begin your Chiang Mai City Tour.
• Daytime: Explore some of the most beautiful temples within Chiang Mai's old city walls. This typically includes Wat Phra Singh, known for its beautiful Lanna architecture and revered Buddha image, and Wat Chedi Luang, an impressive crumbling pagoda that was once home to the Emerald Buddha. Wander through the charming streets and alleys of the old city.
• Afternoon: Ascend to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai's most iconic temple, nestled high in the mountains. Enjoy the intricate architecture and panoramic views of the city below.
• Evening: Explore the vibrant Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for dinner, shopping for local handicrafts, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Day 7: Chiang Mai – Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (Join Tour)

Experience an unforgettable ethical encounter with Thailand's revered elephants.

• Full Day: Spend a heartwarming and educational day at an Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (or similar reputable ethical sanctuary). This join-in tour, complete with transfers, focuses on responsible elephant tourism. You'll learn about the elephants' history and behavior, feed them, interact with them, and bathe them in a natural, respectful environment. This is a truly immersive and educational experience centered on elephant welfare.
• Evening: Return to Chiang Mai. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps revisiting a favorite restaurant or exploring a different part of the city.

Day 8: Chiang Mai – Mae Kampong – Chiang Mai

Discover the charm of a traditional Thai village and lush natural surroundings.

• Full Day: Take a delightful day trip to Mae Kampong, a charming and picturesque village nestled in the mountains east of Chiang Mai. This traditional Lanna village is known for its peaceful atmosphere, coffee plantations, and natural beauty.
• Activities: Explore the village's rustic charm, visit local coffee shops, perhaps see how traditional fermented tea leaves are produced, and enjoy the lush surrounding forests. You might also visit the nearby Mae Kampong Waterfall. This day offers a genuine glimpse into local Thai village life away from the bustling city.
• Evening: Return to Chiang Mai.

Day 9: Chiang Mai Departure

Your incredible Thailand adventure concludes today.

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, a final visit to a temple, or a relaxing coffee in the old city.
• Departure: Transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) for your departure flight, carrying a lifetime of incredible memories from Thailand.

Important Notes:

PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

Included activities

• Overnight in shared Twin/ Double room with Air-condition (AC) at hotels
• All transport during tour on air - conditioned vehicle as per itinerary (including airport pick up & see off)
• All in-tour stationed local English speaking guide.
• Meals as indicated in the program
• Entrance fees, performances, boat trips & excursions as per itinerary
• Water on coach

Notes

• All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
• Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request