Thailand Unveiled

Upon your arrival in Bangkok, Thailand, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. This evening you will enjoy an exciting tuk-tuk tour of Bangkok, exploring the vibrant neighbourhoods of Thonburi, Rattanakosin, and Chinatown. This food adventure will introduce you to the city’s rich culinary tapestry where you will experience, like a local, the sights, smells, and flavours of Bangkok.

Journey through the historic city centre and the adjoining districts, immersing yourself in the cultural stories behind each bite. Relish five carefully selected diverse street food vendors, each offering a unique taste experience, concluding the evening with a delightful dessert in bustling Chinatown.

Begin your day at the Grand Palace, Bangkok’s most iconic attraction and a pilgrimage site for devout Buddhists. Explore the palace’s grandeur, the majestic throne hall, and the revered Emerald Buddha. Next, visit Wat Pho, one of the city’s oldest and largest temples, home to the 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf.

Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant (at your expense) before boarding a colourful long-tailed boat along the Chao Phraya River. Escape the city’s hustle and enter the tranquil canals of Thonburi, witnessing traditional teak wood houses and a slower-paced lifestyle. Return via Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), marvelling at its 79-metre spire adorned with multicoloured porcelain. Here, you will receive alms from monks for good luck and blessings.

Ayutthaya, a historical gem, was once Southeast Asia’s most glorified city, holding power for 417 years. Surrounded by three rivers, its grandeur and numerous temples make it Thailand’s archaeological miracle.

Today, journey to the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your first stop is Wat Phra Mahathat, famous for the mysterious stone Buddha head entwined in banyan tree roots. You will then visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, once the grandest temple, with its three iconic chedis. Next, explore Wat Lokaya Sutharam, home to a 42-meter-long reclining Buddha. After a traditional Thai lunch at Sala Ayutthaya, visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram, featuring Angkor-inspired architecture with eight towering chedis before finally savouring traditional Thai sweets at a local dessert shop.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive northward to Phitsanulok. Upon arrival, you will delve into the cultural riches of Phitsanulok with a visit to Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat. This renowned temple is home to Thailand’s most revered Buddha image, Phra Puttha Chinnarat, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and serene countenance, often considered a masterpiece of Thai Buddhist art.

After immersing yourself in the spiritual ambience of the temple, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic flavours of the region. Following lunch, you will continue your drive to Sukhothai where you will overnight.

Join your travel expert today to explore Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a cycling tour from Ban Khuai village, passing through rice paddies with views of Kao Laung Mountain and stopping at a wood furniture factory. Then, journey along small irrigation canals (Klong Mae Lampan) and through rural villages to the Eastern Gate. Explore architectural marvels like Wat Chang Lom and Wat Si Chum, home to exquisite Buddha images. Discover Sukhothai’s ancient ruins, showcasing Buddhist and Hindu architecture from Thailand’s Golden Era.

After enjoying a local lunch, you will explore the southern area by bike and when finished, you will conclude your cultural journey through Sukhothai’s history and Buddhism.

This morning, depart for Ban Na Ton Chan, an enchanting ecotourism village that epitomises the traditional Lanna lifestyle in Si Satchanalai. Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of this village nestled amidst serene natural surroundings. Indulge in a sumptuous lunch served at a traditional Thai house, where you will savour authentic flavours amidst a tranquil setting.

Afterwards, explore the village and its picturesque countryside, by bicycle or aboard an old-fashioned tractor. Witness local artisans crafting intricate dolls, observe the preparation of Khao Poep or the renowned Phra Ruang noodles, and stroll across the bamboo walkways spanning lush rice fields. Following lunch, continue your journey to Lampang.

NB: The ideal months to visit Sukhothai’s rice paddies are February, March, September, and October.

Start with a visit to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Lampang’s revered historical temple dating back to Queen Chammathewi’s reign in the late 15th century. This temple, steeped in legend, boasts intricate wooden architecture and ancient relics. From here, continue the journey to Chiang Mai, renowned for its stunning temples. Historically, these temples were symbols of royal devotion, wealth, and power, serving as centres of faith, education, and healthcare. Today, they remain integral to Thai life, preserving timeless traditions and connecting people to their cultural heritage. Experience the living history of Chiang Mai’s sacred sites, where ancient structures and rituals offer profound insights into Thailand’s rich spiritual and architectural legacy.

Chiang Mai boasts a wealth of stunning temples. Historically, these temples were a testament to kings’ devotion plus their power and wealth. Beyond being places of worship, they functioned as educational institutions and hospitals. Today, these temples remain integral to Thai life, serving as living monuments that connect people to their ancestral traditions and provide a profound link to the past.

Your day will begin at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Ascend via a 306-step Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase to a captivating copper-plated chedi topped with a five-tier gold umbrella that houses partial relics of Lord Buddha. Enjoy panoramic views over Chiang Mai; locals deem this temple essential for city experiences. Descend to Wat Palad, a serene forest temple once a pilgrims’ rest. Gain insights into Buddhism and try walking meditation with your Travel Expert. Explore Wat Suan Dok with a revered Buddha relic and Wat Phra Singh known for ancient statues and northern-style murals. Conclude your day enriched by these cultural treasures.

Visit the Patara Elephant Conservation, renowned for its 20-year commitment to elephant rescue, breeding, and reintroduction to the wild. Experience hands-on learning amidst the free-roaming elephant families in MaeKhanin’s Secret Valley, observing their natural behaviours. Activities at the centre can include feeding them organic fruits, participating in health inspections, or enjoying a picnic lunch by the creek while elephants roam nearby. You can also customise your experience with insights into elephant welfare through activities like specialised bathing and skincare sessions, all part of Patara’s mission to protect these majestic creatures.

Today, enjoy a leisurely day to explore at your own pace.

After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport where your journey concludes.