Authentic Thailand 21 Days 20 Nights

Today, we will take the whole day to explore Bangkok – the city of golden temples.

The first destination is the Grand Palace. 

This huge architecture complex is over 2 sq. kilometers, including 3 main sites: Royal Palace, Royal Office and pagodas (Wat) built in 1770s. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is no longer home of Thailand Royal, most of national significant events takes place there. 

Wat Phra Kaew is the most out-standing architecture in complex, built in 1785 when King Rama I moved the capital to Bangkok. The pagoda is famous not only for its beauty of unique Thailand Buddhism architecture but also for the sacred jade Buddha statue.

Nearby Grand Palace is Wat Pho - the oldest and biggest pagoda in Bangkok with more than 1000 Buddha statues and the huge one sit-back Buddha in gold. This pagoda is also famous for being a birthplace of traditional Thai massage, since there is a traditional medicine school established in 1982, educating the arts of Thai massage.

We will board on a boat to pay a visit along the Chao Phraya River, watching the life of local people close by.

On route, we stop at Wat Arun, known as the most beautiful pagoda in Bangkok not only for its location on the Chao Phraya’s riverbank but also for the different architecture from other pagodas. The pagoda was decorated with glass pieces and Chinese ceramic, in a complicated style.

After having lunch, we visit the last destination of the day: Wat Traimit. This pagoda is famous for its unique and historic beauty, and also for the huge golden Buddha statue. Thai people believe that the statue represents for prosperity and purity, as well as strength and power.

Return to the hotel and you are free to explore Bangkok by night.

Accommodation:           At the hotel in Bangkok
Meals:                           Breakfast

Early in the morning, after having breakfast, we pay a visit to Meaklong Railway Market – a local market has grown up along the rail tracks.

When a train pulls in or out of the station, the sellers quickly clear their stalls, and set them up again when the train has passed. We continue our way to Damnoen Saduak Floating market. 

Arrival at the market, you can see the vendors who wear traditional farmer dresses and hats bring local Thai foods, fruits and products to sell on rowing boats.

You should not miss the opportunity to experience sitting and giving them a try on one of these boats on the canal. You are free to explore around the market, take photos/videos

We then take a boat ride out of the floating market and journey along the winding canals to see remote villages, gardens and plantations.

Afterwards we continue the road to the city of Kanchanaburi.

Upon arrival, visit the World War II memorial including the Jeath War Museum, Cemetery. We will take 30 minutes train to experience and enjoy the beautiful view from train along the river. This is one of Southeast Asia's historic railways, the remaining part of the "Death Railway", departing from the provincial capital to the Railway Station from Tonburi (or Namtok) and transfer then city to visit Kwai bridge.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Kanchanaburi
Meals: Breakfast

Early morning departure to Erawan National Park considered as the most beautiful waterfall of Thailand. This is such an impressive series of seven tiers, each with a shape and character on its own. 

Originating from the Monglai Stream, water flows down from the hill at height of 2000m and flows into the Khwae Yai River. The waterfall is named after the legendary three-headed white elephant living in the Himavarna forest. You'll get to enjoy a relaxing swim in the natural pools.

In the afternoon, transfer by road to Ayutthaya. The ancient city of Ayuthay is known as the "Venice of the East" because it is located along the Chao Phraya River, tributaries surrounding the Ayuthaya province.

Night in Ayuttaya

Accommodation: At the hotel in Ayutthaya
Meals: Breakfast

Having a breakfast and today we will pay a visit to some sites of Ayutthaya Historical Park, situated in the old city of Ayutthaya. The city was constructed by Ramathibodi I in 1350 and was the capital of Thailand until it was destroyed by Burmese – Myanmar army in 1767. 

Being a ruin with many temples which characterize this type of architecture built with red bricks, the park was recognized as World’s Heritage Site by UNESCO.

– Wat Phu Khao Thong is a massive pagoda towering in the middle of paddy fields and can be seen from afar. Built by King Ramesuan in 1395, the pagoda is unique with the combination of 2 architectural styles: Thai – style and Mon – style. There is a high golden plated chedi on the top, which makes the pagoda outstanding.

– Wat Phra Sri Sanphet was the most important temple of Ayutthaya and situated within the Ayutthaya Grand Palace grounds. It served as a model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. The highlight of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is 3 towers standing high together in Ceylonese style, has the same architecture with Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.

– Vihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit is the pagoda in which the bronze Buddha statue in the attitude of subduing Mara is situated. This is one of the biggest Buddha statue in Thailand. It was considered to be built during the Ayuttaya period of King Srongta, who transferred the location from the east side to the west and has been the location since then. After that he ordered to build a dome on top.

– Wat Lokaya Sutha is considered as the sacred place for pilgrims since it’s famous for the reclining Buddha statue, which is the statue of the Blessed Buddha intact compared to other monuments in the entire Ayutthaya ruins. It is also the most important relics in most of those in Wat Lokaya Sutha. Thai people believe that if they paste the golden leaf onto Buddha statues, they will be protected by Buddha. 

And after that we visit will be the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, built during the Ayutthaya era. The palace showcases an eclectic collection of buildings that blend European, Khmer, Thai and Chinese architectural styles. It’s the favorite summer palace of the King.

And transfer to the station to embark on the night train to Chiang Mai (2nd class, sharing cabin). Overnight onboard.

Accommodation: Night on train. 
Meals: Breakfast
 

On arrival to Chiang Mai station, you will have a breakfast at local restaurant.

After breakfast, our morning tour will be started by a walking tour of the old town with a stop at the old wall, the moat and a door of the old town. You will be able to visit the most beautiful temples of Chiang Mai including of Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Prah Singh.

Wat Chedi Luang is the impressive ruins of a temple in the center of Chiang Mai which was built in 1411. 

Next to the sacred Wat Chedi Luang is a small interesting temple called Wat Phan Tao. This ancient temple is well known for its exquisite Lanna-style ordination hall entirely made of teakwood, which served as a throne hall during the reign of King Mahotara Prateth. 

Wat Prah Singh is the second most venerated temple in Chiang Mai after Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and a glittering example of Lanna art and temple architecture.

We then continue wander through small streets lined with traditional houses, where you will take rickshaw tour. 

And then a walking through the central market of Warorot before visiting the Doi Suthep hill. You then exercise yourself by ascending the 306 steps to the temple.

However, it is very well worth the effort. A panorama view of the city and the surrounding areas can be seen from the temple grounds.

Return to the hotel in Chiang Mai for your overnight.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai
Meals : Breakfast

After breakfast, join guide brings you to Elephant Nature Park

Starting from: 8:00am - 8:30am from your Chiang Mai city hotel or you must be at our office no later than 8:00am.

Returning: around 5:00pm / 5:30pm to Chiang Mai city.

Today, you enjoy a full day Elephant Nature Park, a home and natural sanctuary for elephants, buffaloes, dogs, cats, birds and many other rescued animals.

Your visit begins with a picturesque conduction through the countryside for the Elephant Nature Park. You will be telling the personal stories of rescued and orphaned elephants. You can see how they became a proud and violence-free flock for the first time in their life.

Many people find their visit the Elephant Nature Park gratifying and relaxing. Watch free elephants (no riding) and other rescued animals while enjoying the natural surroundings of our sanctuary.

Your visit supports our regional projects and offers an opportunity invaluable to help protect elephants.

In the afternoon, return to the hotel.

Night in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, transfer in an hour and a half through beautiful green landscapes in the village of Mae Kampong, a small & peaceful village located in the middle of mountain.

En route we will stop at a local market to buy the ingredients for cooking your own dinner. Today we will hike through coffee and tea plantations.

You will have a picnic near a beautiful waterfall where you can cool off. This waterfall has about 7-level height. The water is absolutely clean and cool.

You will then enjoy a relaxing traditional massage while returning to the village.

At the end of the day, you have a fantastic opportunity to learn their lifestyles and culture by preparing for your dinner with the local host. Overnight in homestay

Accommodation: Night at homestay in Mae Kampong.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, heading to Chiang Rai for visiting Wat Rong Khun (known as White Temple; built from the imagination and belief) and continue the trip to Wat Rong Suea Ten (known as Blue Temple).

Transfer to hotel and free at leisure.

Night in Chiang Rai.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast we continue the trip by heading to the northern Thailand – a wooded, mountainous and beautiful area.

This morning, you will explore the surroundings and the first road you will take is the one that leads to Mae Salong. Climb up and down the green hills, covered with tea plantations.

Here, you can enjoy a cup of tea in a traditional Chinese tea house overlooking the mountains and tea fields before continuing your way towards the Golden Triangle. From Doi Mae Salong, we will visit the villages of ethnic minorities.

Drive to visit Chiang Saen the ancient city.

Lunch on your own.

After that, visit to Opium museum where show about the opium’s history in the past in Thailand. Have lunch on your own at the local restaurant at the Golden triangle. Taking a boat trip along Mekong Kong River to see Thailand, Burma & Laos meet at the Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle is known for its beautiful scenery. Some of the sights in the area include a large golden Buddha image seated in a boat, an ancient temple on a hill.

Transfer back to Chiang Rai for overnight.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
 

After breakfast, return to Chiang Mai airport for the flight to Surat Thani.
Upon arrival, welcome and depart from Surat Thani to Khao Sok National Park.
Night in Khao Sok.
Accommodation: At the hotel in Khao Sok
Meals: Breakfast

Highly recommended tour at Cheow Lan Lake. 1 hour by car to Rajaprabada Dam and 1 hour by longtail boat. The Dam was build about 22 years ago and created Cheow Lan Lake. The Dam produces hydro power and supplies many villages in the south from electricity.

On Cheow Lan Lake we arrive at Tone leuy Rafthouses where there is time for swimming and relaxing. you can use one of the kayaks if you like. After lunch we depart for a 4 to 5 hour jungle walk to the Namtaloo Cave. Some people say that this cave is the highlight of Cheow Lan Lake. In the past: this cave was a hide out for communist students fighting the Thai Government back int he 70's. A freshwater forest stream runs troug the cave all year. Sometimes it is possible to see catfish and large toads. When we are inside the cave, you have to wade through the streams inside the cave.

Notes: For this tour it is advisable to wear sandals with straps, shorts and a t shirt. Training shoes are also ok. Big walking boots are not advicable. The trails are easy going and you will get wet. Your boots will just fill up with water. The cave hve some intersting highlights like large stalagtites, stalagmites, rocks with crytal and some waterfalls. There are places where the water is to deep to wade. You will have to swim about 5 to 10 meters. Don't worry it is not dangerous and our guide can take care of your valuables. You will spend about 1 hour inside the cave, so you need a torch, headlight or flashlight. On exit of the cave, you will trek to the rafthouse where you can relax and swim and change to dry clothes.

When we go trekking through the cave, we suggest that you only bring your flashlight, water bottle and camera. (preferable in waterproof bag). The rest you can leave at the raft house or at Khao Sok Tree House Resort. Departure: about 8 am. Arrival back at Tree House: 7 pm. Overnight in a tree house at Khao Sok National Park.

Accommodation: At tree house at Khao Sok National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Khao Sok National Park is a hiker’s dream, and a short hike is sometimes all you need. The tour offers half day hikes for everybody from the adventurous to the beginner.

Let our expert guides show you the hidden gems that Khao Sok has to offer as the jungle comes alive with blooming flowers, calls of the gibbons and birds and the micro world of the insects.

WHAT TO BRING: Light hiking shoes, Camera, Hat, Sunscreen, Insect repellent

(Canoeing on the Sok River, 2 hours –join-in tour/shared tranfer)

Canoeing is a very relaxing way to see Khao Sok from a different side. Our experienced English speaking guide take you on a canoe safari aong the Sok River. Genlty following the river you can see the natural beauty of Khao Sok, the evergreen rainforest and the limestone karsts.
Taking a canoe is also good to spot some wildlife. Birds and curled up snakes can be seen at tree branches. If you would like to try a bit canoeing yourself you're free to try!

WHAT TO BRING: Swimsuit, Hat, Towel (from your room)
Overnight in a tree house at Khao Sok National Park.

Accommodation: At tree house at Khao Sok National Park.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer from Khao Sok, Surat Thani to Krabi. Arrived at the hotel, free time for relaxation.

Night in Krabi.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Krabi
Meals: Breakfast

08:30 – 08:45am           After breakfast, pick up from your hotel Ao Nang.
09:00am                       Depart from the pier by speed boat.
Bamboo Island   Relax on the white soft sand or swim in the clear waters.
Viking Cave                   Sightseeing in this enchanted and sacred cave.
Loh Samah Bay  Snorkeling point with an abundance of species of colourful fish.
Pileh Bay                       A breathtaking blue lagoon surrounded by green limestone mountains.
Spectacular views and surreal scenery from the movie “The Beach”.
Monkey Beach   Up close with the monkeys on a small deserted island, with coral reef,
Phi Phi Don                    Enjoy lunch on the beach, swim snorkel, relax.
16:00pm                       Arrive back at Ao nang and transfer to hotel.
Night in Krabi.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Krabi
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you have free time for relaxation or activities on the beach.
Night in Krabi.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Krabi
Meals: Breakfast
 

After breakfast, transfer to Phuket and check in at hotel for relaxation or activities on the beach.
Night in Phuket.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Phuket
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you have free time for relaxation or activities on the beach.
Night in Phuket.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Phuket
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you have free time for relaxation or activities on the beach.
Night in Phuket.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Phuket
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Phuket airport for flight back to Bangkok. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel for check in and relaxation.

Night in Bangkok.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, free time until transfer by the driver to Bangkok airport for departure flight.

Accommodation: NA
Meals: Breakfast