Overview
In Bangkok—Thailand’s current capital—visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha; the Temple of the Reclining Buddha built in 1832; and the Grand Palace, the royal residence established in 1782 where you’ll see the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist sculpture. You’ll also cruise the city’s canals (klongs) by long tail boat. In Sukhothai, Thailand’s 13th-century capital, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ruins of palaces, temples, and homes.
But that’s not all…in Chiang Mai explore a night market by tuk-tuk and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. Travel to the “Golden Triangle,” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet and visit a local tea plantation. You’ll also visit several interesting hill tribes in the mountains near Chiang Rai.
The perfect conclusion to your Thailand experience is the paradise of Phuket. Relax with 3 days of aquamarine water, pristine beaches, and pampering services available if you choose. Your trip to Thailand is rich in experiences, sights, and welcoming people you’ll long remember!
Itinerary
Welcome to Thailand's capital city. Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Today, head to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This vibrant market provides an interesting glimpse into local life. Take a longtail boat ride through the canals filled with small flat boats expertly paddled by merchants. Continue to Kanchanaburi and spend some time at leisure. (B)
Today's highlight is a train ride across the famous bridge over the River Kwai to Wang Po Station. Also visit the Allied Forces Cemetery and spend time in the fascinating Thailand-Burma Railway centre. This afternoon, visit Hellfire Pass Memorial, part of the Death Railway that cuts through the mountains. Today, it houses a museum detailing life of the Allied prisoners and Asian workers who helped build the railway and subsequently suffered or died at Hellfire Pass. (B/L)
Today, return to Bangkok. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Bangkok is an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping, and friendly culture. An exciting day of sightseeing is ahead. Take in the city's principal landmarks such as the splendid Temple of the Golden Buddha and the spectacular Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. You will also visit the gleaming Grand Palace, Thailand's most sacred monument, and the spectacular Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
After lunch at a local restaurant, cruise along the Chao Phraya River by long tail boat. The city's network of canals ("klongs") evokes Bangkok as the "Venice of the East." Stop at the Temple of Dawn on return journey. (B/L)
Today is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. Spend free time to awaken your senses with local cuisine made with fresh Thai herbs, and sweet to spicy sauces at Bangkok's outdoor food markets and quaint local cafes. Or, try your bargaining skills along the khlongs on an optional shopping excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market. (B)
Enjoy a bit of time at leisure this morning then fly to Sukhothai, Thailand's 13th-century former capital. Enjoy dinner at your resort. (B/D)
Today, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temples and monasteries, including Wat Si Chum with its stunning seated Buddha. The afternoon is yours to relax or further explore the park. Lunch and dinner are served at your resort. (B/L/D)
Today, drive to Chiang Mai. This evening, join your Tour Director for a tuk-tuk ride and orientation walk through the lively night market. (B)
This morning, visit the revered Buddha statue at Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy this dynamic city. Things get spicy with mouth-watering northern Thailand dishes at an optional Kantoke dinner and performance by local hill tribe dancers. (B)
This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990's to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives. Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation centre. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.
After lunch at the sanctuary continue to Chiang Dao Cave, the most famous cave system in Thailand. Explore this beautiful cave system filled with stalagmites and stalactites that continues for miles below the surface. Lastly, make your way to your resort in the hills of Ban Thaton. (B/L/D)
Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey to Doi Mae Salong where you'll visit a green-tea plantation. Next, visit several fascinating hill tribes including the Yao, Lisu, and Akha, known for gorgeous headdresses decorated with silver coins. This fascinating cultural excursion enables you to interact with the locals and experience their daily lives and be taught their rich heritage and history. Continue to Chiang Rai. (B/L)
Drive to Mae Sai, Thailand's northernmost town to visit the Hall of Opium, built to educate people on the 5,000-year history of opium and help combat illegal drugs. Stop at the Golden Triangle viewpoint, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Here you'll take a boat ride on the Mekong River to enjoy spectacular views of the Laos countryside and river life along both sides of the riverbanks. After lunch, return to Chiang Rai and enjoy some time at leisure. (B/L)
Today, transfer to Chiang Rai airport for your flight to Phuket (via Bangkok). On arrival, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. (B)
Enjoy your day doing as little or as much as you wish. Visit fabulous beaches, explore Phuket Town for shopping and local specialties, treat yourself to a Thai massage, or simply relax by the pool. (B)
Another full day at leisure. (B)
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- 16 Breakfasts
- 6 Lunches
- 3 Dinners
- Bangkok Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (First-Class)
- Kanchanaburi Felix River Kwai Hotel (First-Class)
- Bangkok Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom (First-Class)
- Sukhothai Sriwilai Sukhothai (Superior First-Class)
- Chiang Mai Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai (First-Class)
- Ban Thaton Maekok River Village Resort (First-Class)
- Chiang Rai The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa (First-Class)
- Phuket Chanalai Garden Resort
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Enjoy inside visits to Asia's the must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more
Cosmos build free time into every one of their holidays, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more
Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Cosmos. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Cosmos. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Similar Tours
15 Days Bangkok Bangkok
Operated By: Cosmos
