Cultural & Scenic Adventure

Welcome to book this 12-day Thailand tour package! Upon arrival at the Bangkok airport, our guide will greet you holding a sign with your name. Then you will be escorted to the hotel downtown with a comfortable private car. The rest of the day is free for you to relax in your hotel or explore the vibrant capital city on your own.

► Free Time Suggestion: Catch 360° Panoramic Views from King Power Mahanakhon
If you arrive early, get your first impression of Bangkok at the King Power Mahanakhon skyscraper, a 30-minute taxi ride from your hotel. Standing on the breathtaking 314-meter (1,030 ft.) high glass observation deck, you will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Bangkok dotted with some temples and with the Chao Phraya River winding through. For such an exhilarating skywalk experience, the entry fee is THB 1,080 (USD 31) per person, while children aged 3-12 and seniors over 60 can enjoy a special price of THB 350 (USD 10). It is best to book tickets on the official website one day in advance.
 How to get there: Using the Muvmi app to hail a tuk-tuk is a good choice to cope with Bangkok’s heavy traffic. You do not have to haggle with the driver because the price is transparent, determined by the distance, and it can be paid online. Hold on to the handrails when riding.

► Insider Tips on Currency Exchange:
It’s advisable to bring US dollars or euros to enter Thailand and exchange them for Thai Bahts after arrival. Skip uncompetitive airport money exchange kiosks since we offer a pick-up service. With your passport, exchange money at Superrich and Vasu Exchange, which provide excellent rates with no fees. The nearest Superrich, which closes at 19:00, is a 10-minute walk southeast of your hotel. Alternatively, Vasu is a 10-minute walk southwest and closes at 18:00.

Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

Our first destination today will be Wat Pho, which houses the largest reclining Buddha in the world. We’ll get there early to attend the monks’ morning chanting ritual at 9:00 am. Since the temple is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, you can imitate statues that display various massage postures to get interesting photos. Next, the guide will lead you to the Grand Palace, a masterpiece of Thai architecture. While admiring an array of resplendent palaces and temples, you will be amazed by the imposing Yaksha statues at the entrances. Clad in golden armor, they guard each palace with a 3-meter (10-foot) long weapon. Then head to Wat Phra Kaew, one of the national treasures. When the season changes, the King and Queen will change robes for the revered Emerald Buddha in a ritual: the golden robe embedded with exquisite jewels for the hot season (Mar.-Aug.), the golden monk’s robe for the rainy season (Aug.-Nov.), and the golden mesh shawl with a headdress for the cool season (Nov.-Mar.).
Tips: Stay close to your guide since the signs here can be confusing. Besides, please avoid tops that expose your shoulders, stomach, and back, and wear bottoms that cover your calves. Ripped trousers and flip-flops are not acceptable, either.

Afterward, we will arrange a riverside restaurant, Supatra River House, to enjoy a delicious Thai lunch.

★ Special Arrangement: Bangkok Walking Tour
In the afternoon, the guide will accompany you on an old-town walking tour starting from Bangkok Chinatown. We’ll stroll along the Yaowarat Road full of novel shops, drop by an antique teahouse to sip a cup of tea, and then head down Trok Leng Moi Eia to Talat Kao for an interesting local market. After that, visit a Taoist temple, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat (Wat Leng Noei Yi), and end the walk.

Then our driver will transfer you to the Ratchawong Pier for a 1-hour long-tail boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River, during which you will encounter iconic landmarks like Rama VIII Bridge and the towering Buddha image of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. Observe Bangkok’s life up close and be amazed at the contrast of opulent villas against the quaint wooden houses. The boat will take you to the final stop, Wat Arun, where the guide will lead you to visit the temple’s imposing stupa to end the day. 

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense): 
Sri Trat Restaurant and Bar mainly serves Eastern Thai cuisines, where you can enjoy delectable dishes while watching pop art-style murals. Don’t miss trying Red Prawn Curry and Crab Fried Rice, both served with aesthetic food presentation. You can also have a refreshing cocktail with the smooth tunes of jazz music. Take a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel to get there, and it is best to make a reservation in advance.
Average Cost per Person: THB 600-700 (USD 18-21)
Address: 90 Sukhumvit 33 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Sukhumvit 15 Bangkok (4 stars)

In the morning, we’ll drive for 1 hour to Ayutthaya. Upon arrival, go to explore ancient temples and ruins in Ayutthaya Historical Park, a World Heritage Site. As we will be walking long, please wear comfy shoes and pack something for sun protection. The ancient Bodhi tree intertwined with a Buddha’s head statue in Wat Mahathat will help you find inner peace. At Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, marvel at Thailand’s largest bronze-seated Buddha. Nearby, Wat Phra Si Sanphet will call you to mind the royal ceremonies that once graced its halls. And you will see local devotees apply gold foil to the Buddha statue for blessings at Wat Lokayasutharam.

★ Exclusive Privilege: Taste Ayutthaya Specialty Roti Sai Mai
Next, we’ll stop at the Muslim Quarter and taste the popular snack, Roti Sai Mai, a dessert once enjoyed only by the nobility during the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1351-1767). Experienced Muslim vendors will show you how to create fine sugar threads (Sai Mai) and wrap them into a soft pancake (Roti). Then you can enjoy the magic of sugar threads melting blissfully in your mouth. If time permits, the guide will show you around some workshops to admire the traditional skills of the local handicrafts. 

Then we will visit a local market and have lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll arrange a long-tail boat to transfer you to Bang Pa-In Palace, an ornate 17th-century palace that was once the summer residence of the Thai Kings. When visiting, please avoid wearing tank tops, shorts, short skirts, ripped jeans, tight pants, and sportswear. After visiting the palace by the Chao Phraya River, we’ll continue to explore Wat Niwet Thammaprawat on an island in the middle of the river. It’s hard not to be captivated by this Buddhist temple’s towering Gothic Revival architecture because elements such as the spire, bell tower, and stained glass will make you feel like you are in a church. Finally, we will drive 2 hours to Uthai Thani and spend the night in a local hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Uthai River Lake Resort

After breakfast, we will head up the mountain to visit Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri, a temple renowned for its Buddhist fasting ceremonies. The grandest event is held in October when over 500 monks descend the 449 steps to receive alms from devotees, honoring the Buddha’s legendary descent from heaven. You can also get a panoramic view of Uthai Thani at the observation deck.

► Visit Thailand’s Most Beautiful Crystal Temple
Next, we’ll proceed to Wat Chantaram (Wat Tha Sung). At first glance, it may look like just an ordinary Buddhist temple, but step inside and you will witness a surreal world of luxury! The main hall’s walls, columns, and ceiling are all covered with numerous diamond-shaped mirrored glass that glimmers brilliantly under crystal chandeliers. The temple used to be dilapidated, but the revered monk Luang Phor Ruesi Lingdam had restored and saved it, while his incorruptible remains kept drawing devotees to pay respects. The temple is only open 4 hours a day, so you may need to queue up to visit during peak hours.

Today’s lunch will be served on a distinctive rice barge which will slowly cruise the Sakae Krang River. Passing by orchards and bamboo forests, you will witness the tranquil life of local fishermen on their houseboats. After that, we’ll take a 2.5-hour ride by private car to Phitsanulok, and then visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, the biggest temple in the city. You will find the sacred Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, considered one of the most beautiful seated Buddha images in Thailand. Afterward, we’ll continue our road trip to Sukhothai and stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Sukhothai Heritage Resort (4 stars)

After breakfast, our guide will first accompany you to the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, where you can learn about the centuries-old Sukhothai Kingdom through a variety of artworks and artifacts on display. The most precious treasure is the stone stele inscribed with the manuscript of King Ramkhamhaeng, which was regarded as the origin of Thai script.

Later, we’ll come to the highlight of the day, Sukhothai Historical Park, one of Thailand’s most impressive World Heritage sites. Follow the guide to see the ancient city walls and moats, as well as the ruins of famous temples such as the Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai, Wat Sa Si, and Wat Trapang Thong, which offer a glimpse into the mighty empire of ancient Siam. Pay special attention to Wat Sa Si, where you will find a stunning statue of the Walking Buddha, a representative of Sukhothai Buddhist art that symbolizes Buddha’s passage from heaven to the mortal world.

Today’s guided tour will draw to an end there. If you want to spend more time enjoying the serenity of the park on your own, rent a bicycle for THB 30 (USD 1) or a golf cart for THB 300 (USD 9) at the entrance with cash. 

► Sukhothai: Birthplace of Loy Krathong Festival
The Loy Krathong Festival is a celebration of water and light in Thailand, where people float their exquisitely crafted candle-lit krathongs (floating baskets) on the river for blessings. Unlike other cities that celebrate on November 15-16, Sukhothai begins its vibrant festivities from November 1. As a hub for celebration, the park will be illuminated with glittering lanterns on paths, trees, and the river. If visiting during this time, you can take memorable photos with elephants and explore handicraft stalls scattered in the park, not to mention wonderful dance performances and fireworks show.

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense):
After your exploration, consider dining at the Sureerat Restaurant, a 10-minute walk east of the park. This family-run eatery offers a relaxed atmosphere and serves a wide range of delicacies like Stir-fried Rice Noodles and Basil Minced Pork. If you cannot eat spicy food, ask the waiter to fluctuate the spiciness. Please note that only cash payment is accepted.
Average Cost per Person: THB 100-200 (USD 3-6)
Address: 12 Mueang Kao, Sukhothai 64210

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sukhothai Heritage Resort (4 stars)

After breakfast, we will drive northward for 1 hour to the Si Satchanalai Historical Park on the Yom River. Like the Sukhothai Historical Park, it has preserved temples and ruins from the 13th to the 15th centuries, while many sites have not been restored and remain pristine. You can enjoy a quiet moment at the park as there will be few visitors. 

► Witness Ancient Weaving Techniques in Ban Hat Siao Village
After lunch, our guide will lead you to the weaving village at Ban Hat Siao. The original inhabitants are the Thai Puan people, who had migrated from Laos and inhabited traditional weaving techniques for more than a thousand years. You will watch in awe as skilled women deftly spin threads with old foot-operated looms and observe how they create stunning patterns on textiles by simply raising and lowering the warp. A piece of sarong, a traditional Thai costume woven with gold, is exhibited in the village’s museum, where you can marvel at its splendor and learn about the unique way to wear it.  

Later, we will drive about 3.5 hours to Chiang Mai, known as the ‘Rose of the North’. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel where we will stay for three nights.

► Free Time Suggestion: Get Lost in Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Open from 17:00 to 00:00 every day, this is Chiang Mai’s largest night market, a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel. It centers around Chang Klan Road and covers several nearby night markets. From carved wooden ornaments to soothing Thai massage, the Chang Klan Road Night Market is a great place to start your exploration. For food lovers, try classic street food such as Green Curry and Banana Pancake at the Kalare Night Bazaar for about THB 40-60 (USD 1-2). If you prefer handmade and creative goods like wooden kitchen utensils and leather products, head to the Anusarn Market. Just carry enough cash and show your negotiation skills!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

★ Explore Rural Chiang Mai by Mae Ping River Cruise
Today’s guided tour will begin at Wat Chai Mongkol, where you will board a long-tail boat to cruise down the Mae Ping River for 30 minutes. Away from the commercial boom, you will find a tranquil Chiang Mai and see locals who fish or practice yoga by the river. After disembarking, take a stroll into a local farmhouse and delve into the history of local cultivation by watching some traditional tools used to grow spices and fragrant rice. You can also immerse in the aroma brought by jackfruit, coffee, and longan trees. If traveling with kids, they may also have a chance to feed the cute rabbits here!

Our next stop is Warorot Market, the largest traditional market in Chiang Mai. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you meander through colorful stalls offering everything from tempting dried fruits to intricate woven fabrics. Don’t hesitate to compare prices before purchasing! The second floor features school uniforms, tie-dye linens, and handmade rattan handbags that showcase local fashion sense. Then we will arrange a trishaw ride for you to experience the most traditional local transportation. The enthusiastic trishaw driver will lead you through the ancient city walls and hidden alleys to unveil an authentic Chiang Mai.

For lunch, a local specialty, Khao Soy, will be prepared for you. Then our guide will accompany you to visit Wat Phra Singh and Wat Suan Dok. Today’s last stop is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Chiang Mai’s most important temples, where exquisite Buddha statues, stupas, and a sweeping panoramic view of the ancient city will take your breath away. To enter the main hall, you need to climb 306 steps or take a one-way cable car, which is included in the price.

► Witness Chiang Mai’s Gorgeous Yee Peng Lantern Festival
If your visit coincides with mid-November, you will come across spectacular celebrations of the Yee Peng Festival. It is only celebrated in northern Thailand. In Chiang Mai, the highlight is that thousands of lanterns filled with wishes illuminate the night sky and drift upwards like twinkling stars. Besides, you can watch dance performances, flower parades, communal chatting ceremonies, and dazzling fireworks shows during the festival.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

After breakfast, you will take a 1.5-hour bus ride to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Upon arrival, a volunteer will greet you, and lead you and other participants of the Elephant Care Program to walk around the park, sharing stories of rescue works and habits of elephants. Then put on the Karen Tribe’s traditional costumes and start from hands-on encounters with those gentle giants! You can touch and hug them, as well as prepare probiotic pills for them. After enjoying a Thai buffet lunch, join the elephants crossing the river and accompany them to bathe or roll around happily in the mud if you like. The volunteers will help to capture your lovely interactions with elephants. As the day comes to an end, say goodbye to your new elephant friends and you will be transferred back to the hotel in Chiang Mai.
Tips:
1. The elephants are treated with respect, and they will leave if they don’t want to have a bath. 
2. The road to the camp can be bumpy, so bring some pills if you are prone to motion sickness.

► Little Known Facts about Elephants
Are you aware that the tail is the smallest part of an elephant? But it is powerful! Elephants often swat away mosquitoes with their tails. The tail is also a unique communicator of their emotions. When it hangs low, you will see a calm and peaceful elephant. If it tilts upwards, the elephant is on high alert because it has detected potential dangers. When elephants are excited, those tails start wagging during their joyful runs!

Note: Our original itinerary was to visit the Elephant Nature Park, the largest elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. Due to current repairs from flooding, we offer this alternative experience that’s just as enriching. We’ll be sure to resume the visit when it reopens.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Rim Resort Chiang Mai (4 stars)

Today, our guide will accompany you to continue our in-depth exploration of northern Thailand. The driver will transfer us to Pai in a private car for about three hours. Please take some pills or prunes in advance since we will travel through 762 twists and turns. On the way, we will stop at the Mae Malai Market, a lively local market that sells everything from exotic fruits, food, clothes to toys. 

After a short rest, continue our car ride to Pai. As we approach, pass the Pai Memorial Bridge (WWII), where the guide will take you off for a stroll, and then we pass through the Pai Canyon to reach the final destination of the day. Although the road is winding and far away, the remote mountain town of Pai will brighten your eyes the moment you see it. A stunning sunset is possible if we are arriving at dusk. After checking into the hotel, you can take a short break or walk around.

► Free Time Suggestion:
Boasting lush greenery and a cozy atmosphere, Pai is dubbed “Little Switzerland of Thailand”. Consider renting a car to discover some Instagram spots on your own, like Baan Pai Fah Pai Fun, Coffee in Love, and Chedi Phra That Mae Yen. You can also ride a motorcycle along winding alleys. Just remember to wear your helmet!

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Quarter, Pai (4 stars)

After breakfast, you will enjoy the most scenic drive in Thailand, from Pai to Mae Hong Son. After around 1 hour, we will arrive at Tham Lod Cave, unveiling geological beauty and cultural remains in its three caves. Marvel at stalactites of various shapes and sizes in the Column Cave, and turn on your phone’s flashlight to fully appreciate their intricate details. Moving deeper, you will find murals left by ancient hunters dating back to 2,000-3,000 years ago in the Doll Cave. Then you will take a bamboo raft through the most mysterious Coffin Cave, where strange calls of bats and swallows echo in the cavern. After docking, ascend the stairs, and you will find remains of prehistoric coffins. Please avoid touching the handrails since there are some bat droppings on them.

After lunch, we’ll drive 1.5 hours to Mae Hong Son. Upon arrival, we will visit Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, a temple that blends Thai and Shan architectural styles, and is famous for its two large white stupas. Standing atop Mount Kong Mu, you can capture the spectacular views of the whole valley where Mae Hong Son is nestled. We’ll watch the sunset here before transferring to the local hotel.

► Dinner Suggestion (at your own expense):
Salween River Restaurant, a 5-minute taxi ride from your hotel, provides a warm local ambiance with its wooden roof and embroidered cushions. You can try traditional Thai cuisines and Burmese flavors by savoring signature dishes like Pickled Tea Leaf Salad, Potato & Eggplant Curry, and Chicken Schnitzel. If you want to dine by the river, book your seat in advance and take mosquito repellent! 
Average Cost per Person: THB 100-200 (USD 3-6)
Address: 23, Pradit ChongKham, Mae Hong Son 58000

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Imperial Mae Hong Son Hotel (4 stars)

In the morning, our guide and the driver will lead you to Sutongpe Bridge, which is about 500 meters (1,640 ft.) long and is said to be the longest bamboo bridge in Thailand. Crossing rice fields to connect a village and the Shan Buddha Statue on the top of the hill, it was built to facilitate villagers giving alms to the monks. If visiting after the rainy season (Jun.-Oct.), you will be immersed in the picturesque green rice fields and rolling hills. Next, we’ll transfer to a hidden village - Ban Rak Thai (Mae Aw), where most people are Chinese descendants. You can easily see Chinese elements in the village as red lanterns decorate everywhere from bamboo houses to boats on the lake. Take a stroll through the terrace fields and try a cup of authentic Pu-erh Tea by yourself if you like.

★ Ban Huay Sua Thao: Unveil Long-Neck Customs of Karens
In the afternoon, the guide will lead you to visit the famous Ban Huay Sua Thao, a village of the Long Neck Tribe. You’ll see local women and girls wearing bronze coils around their necks. The coils, some weighing more than 20 kilograms, compress their shoulder blades so heavily that make their necks stretch so long. Some believe the villagers want to imitate long-neck dragons, revered as celestial beings by the tribe. Also, some consider the long neck as a symbol of beauty carried through generations. You may find the real reason by communicating with locals assisted by our guide and experience the locals’ rich heritage and way of life.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Imperial Mae Hong Son Hotel (4 stars)

Hope you’ve enjoyed your Thailand holiday! After breakfast, our guide and the driver will escort you in a 6-hour private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport, where you will board a 1-hour flight to Bangkok. Wish you a pleasant trip!

Please Note: After arriving in Bangkok, you can transfer to your connecting flight, but be aware of which airport you will leave from, as Bangkok has two airports - Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang International Airport. Leave enough time for your transfer since the two airports are about 50 minutes apart by car and taking even longer when the road is congested. You can take a free shuttle bus between them from 05:00 to 24:00. Wish you a pleasant trip!

If you need to extend your Thailand tour to other destinations like Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Kanchanaburi, or travel to any other Southeast Asia countries like Vietnam, Lao, and Cambodia, please contact us for customized travel solutions.

Meals: Breakfast