Best of Thailand 9 Days

Embarking on a comprehensive City Tour of Bangkok. Accompanied by your local guide, navigate through the bustling streets and charming alleyways of the city to visit its top attractions. Explore China Town and stroll along the Chao Phraya River to reach Wat Pho, home to the impressive 46-meter-long Reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. Next, head to the nearby Grand Palace, a stunning example of ancient Siamese architecture. You may also have the opportunity to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha within the palace grounds. Remember to dress appropriately for the Grand Palace with covered shoulders and knees. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and through the Thonburi canals, observing traditional family homes and temples, earning Bangkok the title "Venice of the East." Conclude your tour with a visit to Wat Arun, a stunning pagoda adorned with glazed ceramic pieces that sparkle in the sunlight. After a day of exploration, return to the hotel and relax in the afternoon at your leisure.

Set off from Bangkok early in the morning aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach as we journey to Kanchanaburi. Renowned for the Bridge over the River Kwai, this area holds deep historical significance due to its World War II heritage. Begin your exploration with a visit to the War Cemetery and War Museum, which honor the prisoners who perished during the bridge's construction. Enjoy a boat ride on the River Kwai, leading you to the iconic bridge where you can walk across and explore the surrounding area. Next, we’ll visit the "Hellfire Pass," a challenging railway section constructed by Allied POWs between 1942 and 1943. After lunch at a local restaurant, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon at your leisure, discovering more of Kanchanaburi on your own.

Bid farewell to Kanchanaburi as we head to the historic city of Ayutthaya! Renowned as Thailand’s hidden archaeological treasure, Ayutthaya is brimming with Buddhist temples, monasteries, and ancient statues. Accompanied by your guide, embark on a walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site, which dates back to 1350 and was once the capital of the ancient Siamese Kingdom, known as the largest city in the world at its peak. Discover the grandeur of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, the historical Wat Mahathat, and the impressive trio of ancient pagodas at Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. We will then travel to Ang Thong to explore the remarkable Wat Muang temple, famous for its enormous seated Buddha, the largest in Thailand and the ninth largest in the world, towering nearly 100 meters high. After a delightful local lunch, continue your journey to Phitsanulok, located in the heart of Thailand and one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the country. Observe the transformation of the landscape into lush, jungle-like greenery as you travel. Conclude the day with a wealth of photos and insights from your local guide before arriving at your 4-star hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.

For those who rise early, today begins with a visit to the hotel's surroundings to make a traditional offering to the monks, providing a close-up experience of this iconic aspect of Thai culture. After breakfast, we set off towards Sukhothai, the historical core of Thailand. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage City was the birthplace of Thai civilization and the center of the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1238 to 1438. Join your local guide for a walking tour of the Sukhothai Historical Park, where you'll discover ancient temples, impressive ruins, and the colossal Wat Sri Chum Buddha statue set in a picturesque park. Following this, enjoy a window seat as we continue our journey towards Chiang Rai, passing through Lampang province. Along the way, we'll have lunch and take a break by the stunning Phayao Lake. Arriving in Chiang Rai in the late afternoon, you'll have some leisure time to relax, take a dip in the hotel pool, or explore the city’s night market.

Heading to the striking Wat Rong Suea Ten, commonly known as the Blue Temple. Explore its stunning artwork, which shares a stylistic resemblance with the renowned White Temple, as the architect trained here for years. To immerse yourself in local culture, join your guide for a visit to the Akha village, famous for its vibrant traditional costumes and scenic tea plantations. Next, proceed to the breathtaking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) on the outskirts of Chiang Rai. This modern marvel, designed by the celebrated artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, symbolizes the purity and wisdom of Buddhism with its all-white exterior adorned with glass and mirrors that glisten in the sunlight. It's a perfect spot for memorable photos! The surrounding hilly, forested region offers tranquil landscapes, meandering rivers, and some of Thailand's top elephant sanctuaries. Spend the evening unwinding at our luxurious 4-star hotel in Chiang Rai in preparation for the adventures ahead.

Today, we embark on a half-day adventure to Elephant EcoValley for a range of exciting and animal-friendly activities. Gain an in-depth understanding of these incredible animals as you: Harvest grass and vegetation for elephant snacks; hike alongside the elephants to Upper EcoValley; plant a banana tree or herbs; create nutritional vitamin balls with herbs and fruits; feed these vitamin balls to the elephants (they'll love it!); enjoy a mud bath with the elephants (you can watch or join in!); and take an outdoor shower with a view of a mountain stream. After our return to Chiang Mai in the afternoon, visit the renowned Wat Doi Suthep, the perfect spot for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, enjoy some free time or explore the vibrant night market.

Explore Chiang Mai at your own pace or unwind by the pool until it’s time to transfer to the airport for a brief flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival and check-in at the hotel, take the opportunity to visit any remaining sights on your list during your final night in the city.

We’ll wrap up our journey in Bangkok, saying goodbye to those who have become friends and checking out of the hotel by 11am. Fortunately, this isn't a permanent farewell - just a “see you next time”!