11 Days Best of Thailand Tour
Tour Overview
Uncover the rich culture and history of Southern Thailand in this 11-day journey which sees you travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Starting from the capital, explore the historical...
Code of Tour: TAD0000028749
Length of Travel: 11 Day
Destinations of Tour:
Departure City: Bangkok
Price of Tour: Request
Type of Tour: Private
Features of Tour:
Uncover the rich culture and history of Southern Thailand in this 11-day journey which sees you travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Starting from the capital, explore the historical parks that the country has to offer at Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, take in sights of the Golden Triangle then finally visit Chiang Mai, the beautiful ancient town with splendid temples. End your tour with a day out beside gentle giants of the Elephant Camp through the dense jungle. A host of adventurous activities and breathtaking sceneries await on this amazing trip.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR
Get on a city tour around Bangkok’s most famous landmarks: Wat Traimit, Wat Arun, Wat Po, Royal Grand Palace, and the Emerald Buddha
Board a boat trip to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a fine example of Thai architecture
Explore different stages of Thai kingdom at the historical parks of Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and Sri Satchanalai
Visit the monkey city of Lopburi and the sacred temple of Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat
Learn about Lanna style architecture at Phrathat Lampang Luang Temple
Marvel at the spectacular temples of Chiang Rai: Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Phra Singha, and Rong Khun Temple
See where the three borders of Laos – Myanmar – Thailand meet at the Golden Triangle
Admire the beauty of Doi Suthep Temple in the color of sunrise
Enjoy a half-day tour around the Old City of Chiang Mai
Have a fun-filled day in the Elephant Camp and the local hand-crafted bamboo rafting along the Mae Taeng river
DAY 1: BANGKOK
Transfer:
Activities: Arrive at Bangkok Airport, Transfer to hotel in city center to check in, Free time to relax
Once you arrive at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, you will meet our tour guide and driver then then get transferred to your hotel to check in. (Check-in time is at 14:00)
Free time to relax after your flight.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 2: BANGKOK
Transfer:
Activities: Visit the highlight attractions in Bangkok
After breakfast at the hotel you begin your sightseeing tour with our guide and driver.
Your tour begins at Wat Traimit, the temple of the Golden Buddha; the 900-year-old, five-and-a-half-ton solid gold image. After this, you continue on to visit Wat Arun, better known as the Temple of the Dawn, which is one of the best known landmarks and most published landmarks of Bangkok. Next, you will visit Wat Po, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, and also the temple holding the largest single Buddha image; the Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas). This temple is also known as the birthplace of Thai traditional massage. We then go for lunch at a local restaurant, after which, we continue on to visit some of the most famous tourist spots in Bangkok; the Royal Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace adjoins Wat Phra Kaew in a common compound, and is where you will end up after exiting Wat Phra Kaew. Despite the proximity of the two, there is a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai Wat Phra Kaew and the more European inspired designs of the Grand Palace (the roof being the exception. After this we return to the hotel and you are free at leisure.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Experiences:
8
Get an insightful and fabulous day touring Bangkok
Welcome to Bangkok – The capital of Thailand. Nothing is better to feel the real life in this city than spending a day touring around Bangkok in a clean and comfortable air conditioned van with our friendly local guide. You will have an amazing day visiting the must-see attraction of Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the Golden Buddha Temple (Wat Traimit) and Chinatown, learn more about history & culture of Thailand’s capital city, taste delicious traditional cuisine.
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Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 3: BANGKOK, AYUTTHAYA
Transfer:
Activities: Visit Ancient Capital of Ayutthaya
Breakfast at hotel. Then you will check out hotel in Bangkok.
After that, we head to Ayutthaya to visit the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace; beautifully decorated in both the traditional Chinese and European styles. From here, a long-tail boat journey takes you up the Chao Phraya river to inner Ayutthaya to explore the temple ruins within and surrounding the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Among the “must-see” attractions in Thailand are the palaces, temple ruins and historical sites of Ayutthaya. This former capital of Thailand is situated 90 km north of Bangkok. The principal sights include the gigantic bronze statues of Wat Mongkol Borpith, Wat Phra Srisanpetch and Wat Yai Chai Mongkol. A traditional Thai long-tail boat will transport guests between sites, and
this tour also includes a boat trip to Bang Pa-In, a former Royal Summer Residence, which represents a fine example of Thai architecture. Lunch will also be served during this tour. Afterwards, we transfer to the hotel and you are free at leisure.
Overnight in Ayutthaya.
Experiences:
18
Explore the ancient capital Ayutthaya
A rich history and developing modern culture make Ayutthaya a fascinating place to visit. Located at 85 km north of Bangkok, this special place possesses both the ruins of an ancient city and the feel of a modern one. With its unique history, Ayutthaya is a worthy cultural destination to include on your tour in Thailand.Wat Phra Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana are the highlights here. Wat Phra Mahathat is a must-see, with rows of majestic headless Buddha statues and a very famous tree, the roots twisting and weaving around a Buddha’s head. Wat Ratchaburana is next door, featuring a fully-restored prang that you can climb (an intricately carved spire resembling a tower), and original temple paintings.If you are looking for a historic experience, Ayutthaya is well worth because of its majestic stone temple ruins.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 2 Choices
DAY 4: AYUTTHAYA, LOP BURI, SUKHOTHAI
Transfer:
Activities: Drive to Lopburi and Sukhothai and visit the highlights there
Breakfast at hotel and check out hotel in Ayutthaya.
The we will drive to Lopburi. This city was used as a second capital during the reign of King Narai the Great. Today we will bring you to Monkey House (the shrine of the city), and then proceed to Prang Sam Yot (the three Khmer Prang) that are the symbols of Lopburi city. Lunch will be at a local restaurant before we continue our drive to visit Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat, the most sacred temple in Pitsanulok which houses the shrine of King Naresuan the Great, most well-known in Thailand for his victories over the invasions of the Burmese. In the temple area you will see the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand called “Phra Buddha Shinnarach”, in the beautiful and graceful design of Sukhothai art. Walking around the temple area you will see more Buddha images and have the time to enjoy taking photos, after which we continue to your hotel in Sukhothai.
After check-in, you are free to relax on your own. In the evening you can drive to the town for your dinner if you wish.
Overnight in Sukhothai.
Experiences:
12
Visit Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat in Phitsanulok
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, also known as Wat Yai (the Big Temple), is an important Buddhist temple located on the banks of the Nan River, near Naresuan Bridge of Phitsanulok Province. Dating back to the 14th century, this ancient temple is associated with the history of the formation of Phitsanulok land from the Sukhothai period. The temple also houses the Phuttha Chinnarath Buddha statue hailed as the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. Another highlight is the 36-meter Khmer style prang that enshrines relics of the Buddha. Visitors can access inside the prang via a stairway. Tourists can also spend time at the foundry or the museum on the temple grounds to see many Buddha images and artifacts from the Ayutthaya and Sukhothai era.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 2 Choices
DAY 5: SUKHOTHAI, LAMPANG
Transfer:
Activities: Visit Sukhothai Historical Park and Si Satchanalai Historical Park
After breakfast, we will visit the Sukhothai Historical Park or the first capital of Thailand. Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai (which literally means Dawn of Happiness) was the first truly independent Thai kingdom, which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, who was also credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored in the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travelers.
Lunch at a local restaurant before continuing on to Si Satchanalai Historical Park, located on the banks of the Yom River at Tambon Muang Kao, Si Satchanalai county, only 55 km from the town of Sukhothai. The ancient town, formerly called “Muang Chaliang”, was named “Sri Satchanalai” during the Phra Ruang Dynasty when a new administrative center was established to replace Chaliang. This ancient town occupied more than 320 hectares (800 acres) of land. Of this, the 91-hectare (288 acres) area within the old laterite ramparts and the city moat is the sightseeing focus in the historical park. After this, we proceed to Lampang for your overnight stay.
Overnight in Lampang.
Experiences:
10
Visit Sukhothai Historical Park
Great for history buffs, Sukhothai Historical Park is the remains of ancient Sukhothai, the capital of Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th and 14th centuries. Covering an area of about 70sqkm, this impressive UNESCO-listed park includes numerous historical ruins, large ponds, and trees surrounded by old walls. Strolling through the grounds of the historical park, you will encounter some classic lotus-bud chedi in Sukhothai architectural arts, Lanka styled stupas or Hindu shrines, as well as learn more about the Thai history from each site. Take time at some main highlights such as Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai, Wat Phra Phai Luang, and Wat Si Chum.
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11
Si Satchanalai Historical Park
If you are planning to visit Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai Historical Park is a must-see place. This park is similar to famous Sukhothai History Park but it’s less crowded. The park is a huge area containing several substantial ruins including Si Satchanalai and Chaliang. Most of them are original, only 20% is restored. Tourists can walk around to learn about the history or cycle around the park. With an abundance of lush green countryside and an atmospheric setting, Si Satchanalai Historical Park is work a visit if you want to avoid the touristic hotpots.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 2 Choices
DAY 6: LAMPANG, CHIANG RAI
Transfer:
Activities: Visit Phrathat Lampang Luang Temple, Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, Kwan Payao, Drive to Chiang Rai,
Check out of the hotel and then drive to visit Phrathat Lampang Luang Temple; the finest northern temple and best presentation of the Lanna style architecture. After this, we will explore the town using the town’s unique and colorful horse carriages. We will also visit Baan Sao Nuk; a 150-year-old teak house in the northern Thai style, and Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao, where the famous Emerald Buddha was enshrined for 32 years (from A.D. 1436 to 1468).
Later on, we proceed to Chiang Rai. En-route we will stop at Kwan Payao, the largest permanent freshwater lake (1,980 ha), fringed to the south and west by approximately 3,000 ha of rice paddies to the south and west, and with a marshy area and some old oxbows (c.300 ha) at the northern end where the Nam Mae Ing empties into the lake. There is also some inflow from the Mae Tam which empties into the lake from the south. The eastern shore of the lake is largely built up, and the town of Phayao lies near the southeast corner. The lake empties to the east, via the Nam Mae lag, into the Mekong. The water level is controlled by a sluice gate and a spillway; the mean depth is 1.7m, and the pH varies from 6.0-9.1. Kwan Phayao is one of the largest semi-natural wetlands in northern Thailand. Lunch at a local restaurant before proceeding to Chiang Rai. Free at leisure after check in.
Overnight in Chiang Rai.
Experiences:
11
Visit Ancient Buddhist Temple of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang
Located 20 kilometers from Lampang, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a Lanna-style Buddhist temple. This temple was built in the fifteenth century. It is great place for who wants to learn about the real architecture in this period because unlike most of the temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang hasn’t been ‘renovated’ to conform to modern Thai ideas about temples; it still maintains the pure state of all the temple buildings. The ancient beauty of this temple is definitely worth a look.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 7: CHIANG RAI
Transfer:
Activities: Visit highlights attractions in Chiang Rai
After breakfast you will meet your guide and transfer onwards for your visit to Wat Phra Kaew, where the Emerald Buddha image was once enshrined. The temple now houses a jade Buddha image which was made to commemorate the 90th birthday of the late Princess Mother. We will also visit Wat Phra Singha where the famous Buddha image housed here is believed to have been built in 157 A.D. in Sri Lanka or Ceylon, and brought to Thailand in the Sukhothai period (1238-1438). We then continue on to visit the Hill-tribe Museum and Education Center, built with the intention of teaching people about the hill tribes and strengthening their position in Thai society. The center exhibits local crafts, all of which are for sale, and also provides information through slideshows. Continue on to the extremely beautiful Rong Khun Temple (the White Temple), designed by a famous national artist. The main temple building is a striking white which shines in the sun, and is decorated with fragments of reflective glass which can be seen from afar. After this, we transfer back to hotel where you are free at leisure.
Overnight in Chiang Rai.
Experiences:
6
Unique White Temple in Chiang Rai
Wat Rong Khun, better known as “the White Temple” is one of the most recognizable temples in Thailand. Designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a famous Thai visual artist, the temple is filled with Buddhist symbolisms, from its layout, architecture, all the way to the ornate reliefs and mirror decorations. Wat Rong Khun is a unique temple that stands out through the white color and the use of pieces of glass in the plaster, sparkling in the sun. The white color signifies the purity of the Buddha, while the glass symbolizes the Buddha’s wisdom and the Dhamma, the Buddhist teachings.The temple opens daily from 8am until 6pm.Dress respectfully, take off shoes before entering a temple building are things to keep in mind when visiting any temple in Thailand.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 8: CHIANG RAI, CHIANG MAI
Transfer:
Activities: Visit Mae Sai border & Golden Triangle, Drive to Chiang Mai
After check-out you will meet your guide and begin the drive to the Mae Sai border. This is not only the largest border in Thailand, but is also used as an important gateway to Tha Khi Lek, a border city of Myanmar, the mystic country (Tourists pay an immigration fee of 500 THB per person; please take care of this fee yourselves). We continue on to the Golden Triangle where the three borders of Laos – Myanmar – Thailand meet. Later on, visit the Hall of Opium, where you can study how the opium was delivered commercially in the old days. Then we transfer to Chiang Mai in the evening. You are free at leisure after check-in.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Experiences:
9
Visit The Famous Golden Triangle
If you enjoy a holiday in Chiang Rai province in northern Thailand, do not miss the chance to see the infamous Golden Triangle where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Locally known as Sop Ruak since it is where the Ruak River flows into the Mekong River, this mysterious site was once the center of opium production and trade in the world. Today, the Golden Triangle is a tourist draw with peaceful landscapes, misty mountains dotted with hill tribe villages and ancient temples. Here, you can enjoy many photo ops at the gate marking the Golden Triangle, marvel at the giant golden Buddha seated on the riverside ship, check out the hilly Phra That Doi Pu Khao temple or explore all aspects of opium around the world at the Hall of Opium. You can also go on a long tail boat trip across to a Lao island named Don Sao without a visa or along the Mekong to Chiang Saen for a more authentic Thai experience.
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Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 9: CHIANG MAI
Transfer:
Activities: Visit highlight attractions in Chiang Mai
Early this morning, at 6:15 am, you will be picked up from your hotel to experience the traditional offering of food to the Buddhist monks. This is a daily ritual and can be a very beautiful experience. Join the locals during the daily alms-offering ceremony. This is a serene Buddhist procession where hundreds of monks walk barefoot through the street collecting food. Next, you will drive to the Doi Suthep Temple which is on top of a mountain. In the morning is the best time to visit this temple while the beams of sunrise brighten the Golden Pagoda. Then transfer back to the hotel.
This afternoon, you will drive around the Old City to see city’s moat and old city wall ruins. We start the afternoon temple tour with Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple, which probably dates back to 1296. The temple was the residence of King Mengrai, who founded Chiang Mai, and it is noteworthy for its chedi supported by rows of elephantine buttresses. Next, we visit Chedi Luang Temple, where the great chedi which was built at the end of 14th century is located. Even though it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1545, it was to remain the tallest structure in Chiang Mai till today. Then, we visit Wat Phra Singh, which was built in the year 1345. This temple contains marvelous examples of Lanna art, including a Lanna style viharn and the finest scripture repository of its type in the north. After this, continue with a visit Wat Suan Dok, which means ‘field of flowers’. This temple is one of the first temples with a large viharn, or prayer hall. This chapel is unusual not only for its size, but also for the fact that it is open on the sides rather than being totally enclosed. We then continue to Warorot Market, the biggest local market in Chiang Mai, which sells everything from clothes and textiles to fruits, herbs, flowers, vegetables, insects and even fireworks. Afterwards, we transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Experiences:
6
Doi Suthep Temple – The most sacred temples in Chiang Mai
Located at 15 kilometers from the city of Chiang Mai and situated at an elevation of 1,073 meters, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. From the temple, impressive views of downtown Chiang Mai can be seen. This 14th century temple is filled with beautiful Buddhist shrines and auspicious relics; it is a beautiful example of northern Thai architecture. Visitors must climb 306 steps to reach the temple’s entrance but the views are well worth it! An easier, alternative route is available via a cable car ride to the top of the staircase for who don’t have much time.
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Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 10: CHIANG MAI
Transfer:
Activities: Visit Mae Tang Elephant Camp
After having breakfast at the hotel, we embark on our trip to the Elephant Camp where you will see the elephants at work in the jungle areas, see how the elephants are trained for working with humans, and enjoy the elephant shows. Then, you will have the chance to enjoy an exciting ride on elephant-back along the trails (Elephant Ride is optional), followed by an ox-cart ride back to the camp. Lunch will be served at the elephant camp. In the afternoon, enjoy the local hand-crafted bamboo rafting along the Mae Taeng river. Return to Chiang Mai and have a stop at the beautiful Orchid Nursery. Transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Experiences:
9
Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai
The most popular thing to do in Chiang Mai is to visit one of the elephant sanctuaries. So a full day trip to an elephant camp will be an interesting experience when in Chiang Mai. Each camp has different activities with the elephants and you can choose the one that meet your interest. Learn more about the elephants, take a memorable elephant riding through the jungle or trek in a short time in the forest, enjoy a bamboo rafting along the river… All will bring you a day with full of joy and memory.
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: 3 Choices
DAY 11: CHIANG MAI
Transfer:
Activities: Free to relax, Transfer to Chiang Mai airport
Breakfast at hotel.
03 hours before your flight: Our driver will transfer to the airport for your next flight.
End of services!
Meals: Breakfast
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Inclusions
Meals
10 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches
Accommodation
Hotel (10 nights)
Transport
Car, Boating
Included Services
Accommodation with daily breakfast
Private transport in air-conditioned vehicles
Local English-speaking guides
Meals as mentioned in itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N/A: Not Available)
Water on coach
Entrance fees, performances, boat trips & excursions
Exclusions
International flights to/from Thailand
Travel insurance
Visa stamp fees
Early check-in & late check-out surcharge
Personal expenses
Meals not mentioned
Drinks not mentioned
Tips & gratuities for guides and drivers
