Description
AMAZING THAILAND TOUR
DAY 1 TUE, ARRIVE BANGKOK
Arrive at Bangkok, Suwanabhumi International Airport by your own flight. Meet and greet by your tour guide and transfer to Millennium Hilton hotel. Check in and spend the morning at your leisure.
ACCOMMODATION: Millennium Hilton Hotel
Meals included: None
DAY 2 WED, SUNSET BOAT TRIP ALONG THE CHAO PRAYA RIVER (B)
TOUR DURATION: 15:00 – 21:00
Today, spend some leisure time, relaxing at the hotel to refresh yourself after your flight. Your Thailand tour package will start in the afternoon. We will take a private boat from the jetty of the hotel to visit Wat Prayurawongsawas, commonly known as Wat Prayoon, a royal monastery, situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is one of the ancient monasteries of the early Rattanakosin period, built in 1828 by the Minister in charge of the Royal Treasury, Foreign Affairs and Defense. The huge white chedi of Wat Prayoon is easily visible from the Chao Phraya River and a recognizable landmark on the Thonburi side of the river. It is the only one of this style built in Bangkok and stands 196 feet (60 meters) tall and contains relics of the Buddha.
Next, we will continue on our private boat – this craft will cruise slowly for a while along the Chao Praya River, the main river of Thailand. It will maneuver through the main parts of the river enabling us to survey many beautiful buildings, temples and compare the changes in the way of life, from the past until today. We will cruise until we reach the beautiful cable-stayed Rama VIII Bridge, with its unusual inverted “Y” design crossing Bangkok’s river. This bridge stands out above all others due to its unique atmosphere, created by the abundance of free space and public life surrounding it. That bridge is named after King Ananda Mahidol. We will return by the same route and visit the landmark of Bangkok, the Temple of Dawn at sunset.
The temple was renovated in 1767 and, from then on, known as the palace temple of Thonburi. The tallest structure, called “Prang,” is most impressive. This is certainly a place where you will want to take “bird’s eye” photos of Bangkok and the surrounding scenery along the river.
Lastly, we will continue by our private vessel to a pier belonging to the East Asiatic Company, a business dedicated to the export of teak wood and owned by Mr. Hans Nille Andersen, a Danish national. This pier signaled the beginning of international trade between the Kingdom of Siam (the former name of Thailand) and European nations in the 1900s during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, and was the key to Siam maintaining the sovereignty and independence it enjoys to this day.
Today, that same area which the East Asiatic pier occupies is being restored to its original glory under the name “ASIATIQUE the Riverfront,” the first and the biggest lifestyle project in Asia on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and soon to become Bangkok’s trendiest landmark.
We will leave our craft here to explore the charming and Bangkok’s newest Night Market (need name of market here)– a shopping and lifestyle complex, and the opportunity to enjoy your first dinner in Bangkok on your own.
(Name of market) is popular with Thais as well as tourists,and is definitely the most upscale night market in Bangkok. One of the first things you will see when you walk from the river to the market is a huge Store (unclear what this is).
At the conclusion of the tour, we will take the public express boat back to the hotel.
ACCOMMODATION: Millennium Hilton Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 3 THU, BANGKOK CITY AND TEMPLE TOURS – SIAM NIRAMIT (B, L, D)
TOUR DURATION: 08:00 – 14:30
This morning, we will depart from the hotel by the express boat for a visit to the Flower Market, the best way to explore the largest and most famous wholesale flower market of Thailand. It is situated on a site originally devoted to the exchange of many different kinds of commodities. As time passed, not only were commodities traded, but also an extravagant variety of flowers and vegetables, grown mostly in the suburbs of Bangkok and the northern part of Thailand.
Now, it has become the most famous wholesale flower and vegetable market of Thailand. Flowers arrive from all over Thailand; including roses, chrysanthemums, jasmine, orchids and gerberas. In addition to the flowers and all the beauty they reveal, there is another fascinating part of the market known as the “Spice Market”. Here vendors sell the rich variety of spices, famous all over the world, that provide the unique flavors associated with Thai cooking.
In addition, you will find all kinds of food are available that local people enjoy throughout the day. This is what the locals call “fast food” in Thailand.
Later, we will take “Tuk Tuks”, the three wheeled vehicle, from the flower market to the Reclining Buddha Temple, Wat Po. We will explore this majestic and splendid royal monastery, marveling at its grandeur! Wat Po was originally a modest and unimposing temple, but it was completely restored and rededicated in 1739 as the royal monastery, at the command of King Rama I. In 1893, it was restored once again, under the orders of King Rama III, converting it into the first university of Thailand. Our tour of this structure and its contents will last about 1 hour. We will begin in the image hall housing the colossal Reclining Buddha, 46 meters (about 153 feet) long [half the length of a football or soccer field] and 15 meters (about 50 feet) high. The magnificent figure is constructed of brick and stucco, and gilded with gold leaf.
The Reclining Buddha in the image hall is truly awesome, both in its scale and in its impact on the visitor; it is generally considered the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. The temple itself is the largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok today; resplendent in both its art and its architecture. In addition, Wat Po continues to function as a school for traditional Thai massage. Many tourists go there to experience the most renowned massage in the world.
Next, take a stroll down the street to a local Buddhist amulet market, located on the way to the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha image. There is a variety of commodities and amulets available for purchase on this passage. This walking tour will last about 20 minutes.
Finally, we will arrive at the most beautiful national treasure of Thailand, the Royal Grand Palace and the temple of the Emerald Buddha image.
The Grand Palace tour is comprised of the two most beautiful and significant sites of the Thai Kingdom, the Royal Grand Palace of the Chakkri Kings and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the protective palladium of the Thai people.
Our visit inside the complex will last about an hour and a half. First we will visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, built in 1782 as the palace temple, therefore used for various specific purposes by the kings and by other members of the royal family. Thais consider this edifice a treasure trove of Thai arts and culture, housing the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in Thailand. You will be mesmerized as you absorb the transcendent beauty of the Temple grounds, recognizing the Chinese influence on its Thai architectural style. It is particularly fascinating to note that this temple was constructed simultaneously with both the Royal Grand Palace and Bangkok itself!
Upon conclusion of our tour inside the Temple, we will move on to the Royal Grand Palace to visit the royal residence of the Chakri Kings from 1782 through the early Twentieth Century. Here, we will have access to only a few of the buildings, but they are magnificent. The Phra Mana Monthien (Great Residence) Group [closed on holidays], a group of three glittering structures, used for a variety of purposes. It includes the formal audience hall, the hall for coronation functions, and the royal reception hall where foreign heads of state were received in the past. The Chakkri Throne Hall was the main audience hall of King Rama V, built in the 19th century and reflecting the perfect combination of Thai and western style [seen from outside]. The Dusit Throne Hall, built in the 18th century as the place to hold the anniversary of the coronation day. It has also been used for the lying-in-state function for many decades [closed on holidays]. All of these distinctive and majestic structures represent the enduring traditions of the Thai Kingdom.
After we conclude the tour at the Royal Grand Palace, we will take a short walk to a selected restaurant on the bank of the river for authentic Thai cuisine. After lunch, we willtake the public express boat back to the hotel.
SIAM NIRAMIT SHOW
TOUR DURATION: 17:30 – 22:00
This evening is the moment to be entertained at “The must see show of Thailand”. We will take about an hour drive to the outskirts of Bangkok to Siam Niramit Show. Before the show starts, we will enjoy the buffet of both Thai and international food at the restaurant.
Siam Niramit is a true extravaganza and the most exciting night time show in Bangkok. It is the explanation and dramatization of history and culture of Thailand through music, dance, acrobatics, and special effects with a bit of Disney flavor. Wherever you’re from, it must be listed on your itinerary.
Travel back through time into the history and culture of the kingdom of Siam. You will be amazed and captivated by many scenes depicting the story, history, culture and people of Thailand.
ACCOMMODATION: Millennium Hilton Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 FRI, COOKING CLASS (B, L)
CLASS DURATION: 08:00 – 14:30
This morning, you will be picked up by the Cooking School at 08:00 from your hotel (join transfer) and taken directly to the cooking school. (The walking tour at the market is only on Mon, Wed and Fri). Enjoy your fun time cooking Thai food at this famous school.
After you enjoy lunch cooked by yourself, the school will return you to your hotel at around 14:30. This afternoon, experience the authentic Thai traditional massage in your own room. This massage will last 2 hours. It is one of the ten must do things in Thailand. It will be a wonderful experience of your trip in Thailand.
This evening is the best opportunity to experience Thai cuisine on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: Millennium Hilton Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 5 SAT, AMPAWA FLOATING MARKET (B, L)
TOUR DURATION 11:30 – 21:00
This morning, have a leisurely breakfast until 10:00 A.M. Check out and transfer from the hotel to Maeklong district. We will stop at a selected restaurant for delicious Thai set lunch. After lunch, we will walk through the local fresh market to observe the amazing variety of fresh food and vegetables.
After the walking tour, we continue on to Amphawa District, check in at the hotel and prepare to explore the bustling market in the late afternoon. This is a wonderful opportunity to be able to observe the authentic Thai way of life and see how the old and new ways have merged into present-day Thai life. The market place runs along the canal and waterways where vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, souvenirs and decorative items. Visitors can see and purchase a variety of locally made products or can walk further on into the fruit plantation area. This will be a fascinating and unforgettable experience regardless of which path is chosen.
Later board the long-tailed boat, and take a 1 hour cruise along the Maeklong River to experience the way of life of people living along the river. Leave the boat at the Ampawa Floating Market again. Enjoy shopping, dining at your own choice, and exploring the market at your own pace. Return to the resort to stay overnight
ACCOMMODATION: The Legend Maeklong
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6 SUN, AMPHAWA – AYUTTHAYA – U-THAI THANI (B, L, D)
TOUR DURATION 06:30 – 18:30
After a wonderful night in amazing natural surroundings, welcome the new day with the Thailand’s most important ritual. The giving of alms is an honor and very important in Thai culture. We will have the opportunity to offer food to the Buddhist monks who row boats to our resort. The food will be prepared for all members in the party.
After breakfast, depart from Amphawa for Ayutthaya, the former capital city of Thailand.
Start this wonderful day with a visit to Bang Pa In Summer Palace, an example of the perfect combination of Thai, Chinese and European art still visible, that tell the story of a glorious past. Then, drive to a selected restaurant for a buffet or Thai set lunch.
After lunch, continue the tour to Ayutthaya Historical Park with a visit to Wat Pra Srisanpetch and Wat Mahatat. Then, drive to Uthai Thani to explore the Charm of a Hidden Gem. Upon arrival, if time permits, check in at the selected resort. Late afternoon, end the day with a boat ride along the Sakaekrang River. The boat cruise slowly either to the north or the south. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe the way of life of the people who still live in floating houses along the river. Thai set dinner is served on the boat.
ACCOMMODATION:
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 MON, U-THAI THANI – SUKHOTHAI (B, L)
TOUR DURATION 07:00 – 17:00
After breakfast, brighten up the morning with a fascinating walking tour through the central market of Uthaithani where the locals trade various kinds of commodities. When the walking tour is over, continue with a 30 minutes motor rickshaw ride from town to visit the very famous temple of the city, Wat Ta Sung. The foreigners call it “the Crystal Palace temple”, and then drive back to town by private van to visit the most important Buddhist temple of U-thaithani, Wat Sangkas Rattanakiri.
Along the way, enjoy a Thai set lunch at a selected restaurant. Next, drive further to Phisanuloke to visit the most beautiful Buddha image of Thailand, Chinaraj Buddha image at Mahathat temple, cast between 1362 and 1368. After that, we will continue driving further to Sukhothai and check in at the hotel. Tonight is your opportunity to enjoy dinner on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: Legendha Sukhothai
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 8 TUE, SUKHOTHAI – LAMPANG (B, L, D)
TOUR DURATION 08:00 – 16:00
This morning, visit the birthplace of the Thai nation and the country’s first capital, Sukhothai, meaning ‘dawn of happiness’ to explore the magnificent ruins of the kingdom, Sukhothai Historical Park. We will visit Mahathat temple, the most important temple of Sukhothai Kingdom which dates back to more than 700 years ago. Then, visit Sri Sawai temple, the Hindu Shrine that was converted to be the Buddhist temple after the fall of Khmer Empire.
Later, we will depart from Sukhothai for Lampang to visit the most venerated Buddhist temple in Lanna Style of Lampang, Wat Prathat Lampang Luang. The temple was built around the 15th century to house the relics of the Lord Buddha. It was also a place where the Emerald Buddha of Lampang is enshrined. Drive further to the town of Lampang, check in at the hotel in and relax until late afternoon.
Start the sightseeing tour of Lampang town at 16.30 by horse carriage for about half an hour. It is the best opportunity to see many parts of this lovely city while we are moving slowly by the horse carriage. At the end of the day, we will be dropped off at a selected riverside restaurant located on the bank of the Wang River, the famous river of Lampang to enjoy excellent and tasty Thai food. Finally, you will be transferred back to your hotel by private van and stay overnight in Lampang.
ACCOMMODATION: Lampang Wieng Lakor
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 WED, LAMPANG – CHIANGRAI (B, L)
TOUR DURATION 08:00 – 18:30
After breakfast, depart for Chiangrai. Along the way, stop at a pineapple plantation to learn how the farmers grow the pineapple, and also enjoy the sweet juicy fresh pineapples from the plantation. Drive further to Payao Lake, the biggest fresh water lake of Thailand. This half way stop, is a opportunity for you to enjoy a cup of fresh coffee or tea (on your own budget). Depart from Payao Lake and continue to Chiang Rai. Enjoy lunch at a selected restaurant (Thai buffet or set menu). Check in at the hotel.
After lunch, depart from the hotel to the north of Chaing Rai to observe the notorious Golden Triangle, which was involved in drug trafficking in the past. Upon arrival, take a short boat ride along the Mekong River to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand. A stop will be made at a small village of Laos so that everyone will have a chance to do some shopping for Laos products. Take the boat back to Thailand and drive back to the town of Chiang Rai. Tonight is your opportunity to explore town of Chiang Rai at night and enjoy dinner on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 10 THU, DOI MAE SALONG AND LONG NECKED KAREN (B)
TOUR DURATION 07:00 – 13:30
Depart by van from the hotel in the early morning to gas station where we will switch to the pickup car and drive up to the hill to visit Doi Mae Salong and Hill tribes of Thailand. An hour later, the cars will stop at Doi Mae Salong, the Chinese Community, which is famous among the Thais.
Explore the beautiful U-Long green tea plantations. After that, it’s the opportunity to learn the process of making the tasty tea and taste the most famous U-Long tea of the Chinese. Next, drive to visit the Long-necked Karen tribe that migrated from Myanmar. Continue to visit Akha tribe, the most interesting tribe of all the six major tribes of Thailand. After the tour is over, drive back to the gas station and continue by van to Chiang Rai.
In the evening, you can take the shuttle bus from the hotel to the Night Market of Chiang Rai to explore its charm. The shopping here is highly recommended. Tonight is another opportunity to taste the food of your choice on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 11 FRI, CHIANGRAI – CHIANG MAI (B, L, D)
TOUR DURATION 08:00 – 21:00
Today, we will take a long drive from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. Along the way, we will make a stop at the “White temple”, the most famous temple of the people of Chiang Rai, built by the most famous artist in the north of Thailand. Then, we will continue to Chiang Mai. We will have lunch at a selected restaurant.
Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, we will visit the landmark of Chiang Mai located on top of the hill, Wat Prathat Doi Suthep. The temple was built in 1371 to house the relics of the Lord Buddha. Observe the spectacular view of Chiang Mai from the birds-eye view. Finally, spend some time learning about the fascinating story of the jade of Thailand. This will be at the factory where the Emerald Buddha image of Chiang Mai was carved to honor His Majesty the King of Thailand on the occasion his 50th anniversary of the accession to the throne. After that, drive to town of Chiang Mai to check in at the hotel.
In the evening, enjoy Khantoke Dinner, the traditional dinner of the north , and watch the folk dance of Lanna Kingdom and transfer back to the hotel after dinner.
ACCOMMODATION: Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12 SAT, PATARA ELEPHANT FARM (B, L)
TOUR DURATION 07:30 – 16:30
Today is the day to participate in an amazing experience with the “Elephant Owner for a Day package”. You will be met in the lobby of your hotel at 07:30 A.M., and transferred to the Patara Elephant Farm, located not far from Chiang Mai. At the farm you will be given your training outfit and a brief talk on working with elephants before heading into the bush to find them. You will learn about the management of the elephant farm, and how the breeding program has been developed and maintained. You will of course, be introduced to the stars of the show, and will slowly learn how to work with them on the ground. After you’ve made friends with these amazing animals, you can lead them down to the stream for their morning bath, followed by a short ride to a local temple where you will learn about elephants in Buddhism and the Thai’s ancient relationship with these traditional beasts of burden. Around midday you will set off on a ride through the jungle to visit some lovely waterfalls. Here you will enjoy a picnic lunch as well as a swim in the falls with your elephant. Return to the camp in the afternoon and say goodbye to your new friends before being transferred back to your hotel.
NOTE: Today you will get wet when you help with the elephants’ bath. Please bring appropriate clothing for this, as well as a towel and change of clothes.
This evening is the best opportunity to explore the main walking street of Chiang Mai (on Saturday and Sunday only)and enjoy dinner on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 13 SUN, CHIANG MAI CITY TOUR (B, L)
TOUR DURATION 08:00 – 14:30
After breakfast, you will be transferred to inside the city wall of Chiang Mai. The first visit is to the Arts and Culture Center of Chiang Mai where you will be introduced to the history, people and culture of the Lanna Kingdom. This tour will take about 2 hours. After that, continue your tour with a rickshaw ride to explore some major sites within the Chiang Mai city wall. This tour will give you some wonderful photo opportunities. We will get on and off the rickshaw as we reach the major sites along the city wall.
After our relaxing tour is over, we will have our home-hosted lunch at a selected house to enjoy the traditional food of Chiang Mai before heading back to the hotel.
This evening is the last night to explore Chiang Mai and enjoy dinner on your own.
ACCOMMODATION: Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 14 MON, CHIANG MAI – HOMEBOUND (B, L)
Today you have time for a leisurely breakfast and morning. Check out time is 12:00. Check out and transfer from the hotel to the airport for your flight back home.
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