Cultural highlights of Thailand

Thailand is located at the meeting point of the two great cultural systems of Asia, Chinese and Indian. In everyday life, Chinese culture has mixed very well with the Thai, whereas in Thai court culture, which has been based mainly on Buddhism and Brahmanism, India has exerted a strong influence.

Day 01: Arrival into Bangkok

Upon arrival you’ll be met and transferred to hotel for check-in and tour briefing. Time allowing, we take an orientation tour to acclimatize ourselves.
Day 02: Bangkok (B)

Step into the Old Kingdom of Siam through the Grand Palace, a sprawling compound of ceremonial halls, gilded spires, and ornate buildings. The ancient city’s defining landmark since 1782, the palace became the centerpiece of a new Thai capital called Krung Thep (city of angels), known outside of Thailand as Bangkok. The focal point of the palace is the Emerald Buddha carved out of jade and adorned with gold. Continue to Wat Po – one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and home of the famous 45 meter reclining Buddha as well as the original school of traditional Thai massage. In the afternoon, immerse in a world of exotic aromas and colors at the Flower Market of Pak Klong Talad. Experience a Tuk Tuk ride to Wat Trimit, home to the Golden Buddha. Traverse the China Town to explore one of the most dynamic and vibrant commercial districts of Bangkok. The remainder of the day will be at your own leisure.
Day 03: Bangkok - Dammouen Saduak Floating Market ‐ Kanchanaburi (B)

Early morning we transfer to Damnoen Saduak to explore the lively floating market. Later on, continue to Kanchanaburi and experience a ride on the Death Railways. Following the lunchtime break we visit the War Museum, take a photo tour of River Kwai Bridge, and then transfer to hotel.
Day 04: Kanchanaburi ‐ Ayutthaya - Night train to Chiang Mai (B)

Drive to Ayutthaya and explore this former capital of Thailand. Visit Bang Pa‐In, one of the most beautiful Summer Palaces in Asia, the Khmer Temple Wat Chai Wattanaram, Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch, the former Royal Temple of Viharn Mongkol Borphit, and Wat Mahathat that houses the head of Lord Buddha Image of Pho wood. Continue to Wat Ratchaburana, noted for the ornate vault and a large amount of the golden artifacts and treasures now being displayed in the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. Afterwards, board a night train to Chiang Mai.
Day 05: Chiang Mai (B, D)

Met upon arrival at Chiang Mai railway station and transferred to hotel. Later, take a tuk tuk and drive through different parts of the city, passing markets, residential areas and Chiang Mai's main street. This city tour includes many important and interesting temple grounds, such as Wat Phra Sing, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Suan Dok, and especially the remarkable temple of Doi Su Thep. Located high on a mountain top, overlooking the city and lowlands, the air is cool and clear. On a sunny day, of which Chiang Mai has many, the brilliant gold leafed Buddha images make stunning photographic subjects. This evening, enjoy a superb Kantoke dinner combining great food with cultural entertainment.
Day 06: Chiang Mai Elephant Safari (B, L)

Visit an elephant camp to see elephants at works and enjoy a ride on this giant’s back through the forest. After lunch, ride a bamboo raft along the calm river Mae Tang for 1hr 30 min. Return to the camp by ox cart, enjoying sights of plantations & rice fields. Visit a nursery orchid farm then return to town. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Free time provides opportunities to reveal the colours of the night market that Chiang Mai is famous for.
Day 07: Chiang Mai – Mae Sai – Golden Triangle – Chiang Mai (B, L)

Today we travel to the border town of Mae Sai, two and a half hour drive from Chiang Mai. Mae Sai is the most important border market and the easiest overland access to Myanmar. With interest you can buy day entry for a brief visit to Myanmar. After lunch we continue to Chiang Saen - the infamous Golden Triangle between Myanmar – Laos – Thailand. Visit the Opium House then return to Chiang Mai for overnight.
Day 08: Chiang Mai – Bangkok (B)

We fly back to Bangkok and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure
Day 09: Departure (B)

Free till transfer to the airport for departure