Magic of Thailand 16 Days / 15 Nights

In the morning, head to the Grand Royal Palace, the most revered and majestic site in Bangkok, where the Thai royal family holds their ceremonies. The palace complex is a historical treasure with many temples and official buildings that date back centuries and are still in use today. One of the highlights is Wat Phra Kaew, the temple that houses the Emerald Buddha statue. Next, visit Wat Pho, one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok, located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. The temple is famous for its Reclining Buddha statue, which depicts Buddha on his deathbed. The statue is 45 meters long and 15 meters high, with feet inlaid with mother of pearl. 

In the afternoon, explore Chinatown, the busiest area in Bangkok, known for its diverse and delicious cuisine from different countries in the region. The dishes are made with only the freshest ingredients of the day. Stop by Wat Traimit, the temple that hosts the Golden Buddha statue. 

In the afternoon, board a long-tail boat and cruise along the Chao Phraya River and its lively canals on the Thonburi side, where you can see the local life up close. Enjoy some snacks, buy souvenirs, or use the restroom at some of the stops. Visit Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, on the way. Return to the hotel and have some free time to relax.

Overnight in Bangkok

Escape from the busy streets of Bangkok and discover the rural charm of Thailand on this full-day trip to Samut Songkhram Province, only an hour away from the capital. Experience the traditional culture and lifestyle of the Thai countryside.

The first stop is Mae Klong Railway market, where vendors set up their stalls along the railway tracks. Watch them quickly pack up and unpack their goods as the train arrives and departs from the station! Then, visit the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you can see boats and stalls selling fruits and other delicacies. Enjoy a paddle boat ride through the canals and see the old part of the market and the local life along the water. Alternatively, if you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, you can choose to visit Tha Kha Floating Market instead, which is smaller and less crowded. Observe how coconut palm sugar is made at an old Thai house.

Next, head to Kanchanaburi, where you will learn about the history of World War II at the Jeath War Museum and Cemetery. Board a train and ride along the railway from Wang Pho, admiring the beautiful scenery and river for about 30 minutes. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Kanchanaburi

In the moring, leave for Erawan Waterfall, a stunning seven-level cascade in Erawan National Park. Walk up to admire each of the scenic falls and bring good shoes for the hike. You can also swim in the natural pools of the waterfall, so don’t forget your swimsuit. 

In the afternoon, drive to Ayutthaya, the ancient city that was once known as the ‘Venice of the East’ because of its location along the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 by King Uthong, who moved the Thai people southward to escape the pressure from their northern neighbours. There are many monuments and ruins from that period in this historic city.

Overnight in Ayutthaya

In the morning, hop on a Kermit tuk tuk, a unique and colorful vehicle that is only found in Ayutthaya and Trang provinces of Thailand. Ride around the city and visit some of the most impressive temples, such as Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat (where a Buddha face is entwined with a tree), and Wat Phra Srisanphet. Stop by a local market and see the variety of goods and foods on sale. 

Next, head towards Sukhothai, the ancient capital of Thailand and the cradle of Thai culture and identity. Along the way, pass through Uthai Thani and Phitsanulok. Sukhothai offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, from ancient temples and monuments to local crafts and cuisine. Arrive at Sukhothai in the late afternoon and check in to hotel.

Overnight in Sukhotai

In the morning, head to the bike parking area to pick up bicycles and explore the Sukhothai historical park. This park is home to nearly 200 ancient chedis that are well-preserved and stunning. First, visit the statue of Ajana Buddha, which is said to be the Buddha who spoke at Wat Srichum, a temple with a huge hall and a towering spire. Next, cycle to Wat Prapailuang, which was the center of the community before Sukhothai became a kingdom. Continue to Wat Sri Sawai, Wat Sra Sri and Wat Trapang Ngoen, which are temples with beautiful architecture and sculptures. 

In the afternoon, transfer to Lampang.

Overnight in Lampang

In the morning, visit the magnificent Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, a temple that showcases the Lanna style of architecture. The temple has open-sided halls that are characteristic of this style. Unlike some other temples that have been renovated with modern materials and methods, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang has maintained its original state. The temple dates back to the 13th century and its name means “the temple of the Great Relic of the Lampang Buddha”. The temple features a blend of Lanna and Thai Lü styles of architecture. After that, enjoy a 30-minute ride on a horse-drawn carriage through the city and the villages. 

In the afternoon, head to Chiang Rai. On the way, stop at Phayao Lake, where you can sip some coffee and take in the scenic view of the lake. Reach Chiang Rai by the end of the day.

Overnight in Chiang Rai

In the morning, visit the local market and see the local products. Proceed to the famous Wat Phra Kaew, where the Emerald Buddha used to be kept. Continue to Wat Phra Singh, where there is one of the most beautiful Buddha statues in Thailand. Later, drive a short distance from Chiang Rai to Black House. Baan Dam or the Black House is the unique work of national artist Thawan Duchanee. It is a combination of traditional northern Thai buildings and some peculiar modern designs. 

In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Mae Kok River from Chiang Rai to a Karen village, where you can observe and interact with elephants. Next, enjoy a one-hour ride on an elephant. Drive back to Chiang Rai.

Overnight in Chian Rai

In the morning, drive to Chiang Saen, an ancient city on the bank of the Khong River. Visit the Opium Museum and learn about the history of opium in Thailand. 

Lunch at own expense at a local restaurant at the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Take a boat trip along the Mekong River and see the three countries from the water. Later, drive to Chiang Mai and check in at hotel.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

In the morning, explore the old town on foot and see the old wall, the moat and a gate of the old town. Visit some of the most beautiful temples in Chiang Mai: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao and Wat Chedi Luang. Walk along small streets with traditional houses and take a rickshaw tour. Then walk through the Warorot Central Market to see the local products. 

In the afternoon, climb the hill of Doi Suthep and enjoy the view of the city. 

In the evening, enjoy the bustling Night Market, where you can find many things to buy.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

In the morning, drive for about two hours to reach Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest peak of Thailand. There, embark on a 2-3-hour trek through the jungle, following a narrow mountain trail that leads to a stunning hidden waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. On the way to the Pagagayaw Karen hill tribe village, walk through the farmland and observe coffee plants, flower gardens and rice terraces. Learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Pagagayaw Karen people and enjoy a cup of their local coffee. Then, move on to Vachiratharn Waterfall, a spectacular 70-meter-high cascade. Relax and refresh at the waterfall before heading back to the ground.

Proceed to the impressive structures of Napamaytanidol Chedi and Phra Mahatat Napaphon Bhumisiri, which were built to commemorate the 60th birthday of King Bhumipol and Queen Sirikit. 

Lastly, transfer back to Chiang Mai. 

Overnight in Chiang Mai

In the morning, drive to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and follow the below itinerary: 

08:00 – 08:30 Pick up from your hotel/ accommodation.

08:30 Drive appr. 1.5 hours South of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forest, and local farming areas.

10:30 Arrive at the Sanctuary. Meet your guide and walk for 10-15 min through the jungle to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Change into traditional Karen clothing. Enjoy an introductory lesson about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

11:00 Meet the elephants. Feed, interact, and play with the elephants in a natural environment as you learn about their behavior and history. Take photos with the elephants.

12:00 Enjoy a lunch of traditional Thai food and fresh fruit.

13:00 Learn how to make herbal medicine balls, feed the Elephants and then walk with the elephants to the river. Bathe and brush the elephants.

14:00 Join the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa. Swim in the river and take photos with the elephants.

15:00 Change clothes and say good bye to the elephants.

15:30 Leave the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and drive appr. 1.5 hours back to Chiang Mai.

17:00-17:30 Drop off at your hotel/ accommodation.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Enjoy some free time in the morning before transfer to the airport for your flight to Krabi. Pick up on arrival and transfer to Ao Nang to board a ferry to Koh Lanta Island. Check in to hotel and free at leisure on the island.

Koh Lanta is a stunning island in Thailand, located just off the coast of Krabi. It has a long coastline with many beaches, each one with its own charm and atmosphere. Some of them are considered to be among the best in the country.

Overnight in Koh Lanta Island

Free at leisure at the resort

Optional Tour: A Day on the Phi Phi Island by Speed Boat

Enjoy a thrilling speedboat ride to the Phi Phi Island Group, one of the world’s best destinations for its amazing marine life.

Itinerary:

8-8:30am – pick you up from your hotel and transfer to the speedboat.

Head to Phi Phi Leh and visit the Viking Cave and the stunning Phi Phi Le Lagoon. You will have a chance to swim and snorkel at Loh Sa Ma Bay, a snorkeling paradise. Proceed to Maya Bay, the beautiful location of the movie The Beach (2000). Next, go to Monkey Bay, where you will meet many friendly monkeys.

Enjoy a tasty buffet lunch and relax at a restaurant on Phi Phi Island.

After lunch, snorkel again at Hin Klang, where you will see colorful corals and exotic fish in the open sea.

Finally, stop at Bamboo Island, swim, relax and sunbathe on the white sand beach.

Return to the pier and transfer back to hotel.

Note: The program may vary depending on the tide or weather conditions.

Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, hat, towels, swimsuit and flippers (you may also want to bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain in the low season).

Price for this optional tour includes: transfer to the hotel, entrance fees, accident insurance, mask and snorkel, life jacket, first aid kit, water and soft drinks, fruit, lunch (for halal or vegetarian Muslim food, please ask on reservation) and an English-speaking guide.

Overnight in Koh Lanta Island

Free at leisure at the resort

Overnight in Koh Chang Island

Morning pick-up and transfer to Krabi airport for your outbound flight.