Thailand Laos 18 Days

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. Wat Pra Kwae is famous not only for its beauty of unique Thailand Buddhism architecture but also for the sacred jade Buddha statue. Thai people believe that the statue will bring back fortune and prosperity for the nation.

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.

The Wat Pho wall-surrounded complex was divided into 2 by Soi Chetuphon running along East – West. The Northern complex is the one including the in gold Buddha statue and massage school mentioned above. The Southern complex, Tukgawee, is a monastery and a school

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. “Arun” means sunrise, but it is most beautiful in the sunset. The pagoda was decorated with glass pieces and Chinese ceramic, in a complicated style. You can climb up to the top of Wat Arun to see Chao Phraya, Grand Palace and Wat Pho at the opposite side.

Afternoon, 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. The Golden Statue was defined to be built in Sukhothai period, the 13-15th century – one of the most famous periods of Thai Buddhism architecture.  

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 or even hire a paddling boat to breathe the once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere here.  

We then take a boat ride out of the floating market and journey along the winding canals to see remote villages, gardens and plantations.
Arrive at a jetty pier where you board on the vehicle and proceed to Ayutthaya.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Ayutthaya 

Meals: Breakfast 

Having a breakfast then we will transfer to pay a visit in 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 handicraft type of architecture built with red bricks, the park was recognized as World’s Heritage Site by UNESCO.
En route, we visit the Royal Summer Palace in Bang Pa-in district.

It is a favorite resort of royal. The first palace had been built in mid-early of the 17th century, then was the ruins and be forgotten when Burman occupied Ayutthaya. It was not until the rule of King Rama IV – did the palace rebuild. King Rama IV was the first Siamese king came to Europe and was sharply impressed by the architecture there. Therefore, the whole architecture of the palace is in the way of 19th century European style.

–     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.

Return to Bangkok.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Bangkok 

Meals: Breakfast 

The morning will be on your own to go to shopping or explore Bangkok by yourself.

In the afternoon, we transfer to the airport, taking a flight to Chiang Rai. Checking-in the hotel in Chiang Rai and then you are free.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Rai 

Meals: Breakfast 

We also visit the famous Wat Rong Khun. Only a transparent white color from the towers to the Buddha statues, Wat Rong Khun is equally noteworthy as the gold-plated temples typical of Thailand’s smiley country. 
This is a combination of unique Thai architecture and realistic depiction style Completed in the late 20th century, the temple is one of the attractive destinations to both a large number of Thai and foreign tourists.
We can’t miss Wat Rong Seur Ten. It stands out among other magnificent temples in Thailand thanks to the enchanting green. This unique green building is one of the pride of Chiang Rai city. Not only by the rare and magical blue, the temple is covered by meticulous, sophisticated and gilded decorative details.
Continue to visit Baan Dam (Black House), an eclectic mix of traditional northern Thai buildings interspersed with some outlandish modern designs.
Then take a boat to cruise on Mae Kok river from Chiang Rai to Karen village.
Heading back to Chiang Rai to overnight.
 
Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Rai 
Meals: Breakfast 

Morning, take the road to Doi Mae Salong. You will climb and hurtle down the green hills covered with tea plantations. Enjoy also the delicious tea produced by one of the many plantations in the region, before continuing your way to the Golden Triangle.
Doi Mae Salong, visit two ethnic minority villages: the Village Akah Loyo and the Lisu village of Ban Haygo. Visit the Botanical Garden Mae Fah Luang.
After that, visit the Museum of Opium. Then we board a long tail boat to the Lao side and see from the top of the hill, marvel at the splendor of the mighty Mekong joining with the Ruak and forming the actual “Triangle” with Laos – Myanmar and Thailand.
Back to hotel for overnight.
 
Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Saen 
Meals: Breakfast 

After having breakfast and you are free until transfer to Chiang Mai. It takes about 5-hour driving, therefore you can take your time to relax after checking-in the hotel in Chiang Mai.
 

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai 

Meals: Breakfast 

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 hotel in Chiang mai for your overnight

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai 

Meals: Breakfast 

After your breakfast, we will visit Chiang Dao cave. There are four interconnected caverns to see. Be prepared to bend down and perhaps even crawl between incredible stalactites.
Then, take two hour boat trip along the Mae Ping River is an excellent way to spend an afternoon, you get to watch as the scenery along the river changes, you will also get to see many beautiful traditional teak houses as well as a lot of rural greenery along the wat.
Returning to Chiang Mai hotel.
 
Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast
 

Pick up at your hotel at around 8:30 Am, we will head to the Doi Inthanon National Park, passing through various villages, rice fields and orchards. Upon arrival at Inthanon Mountain, we will spend spend 2-3 hours trekking to Thailand’s highest mountain at 2565 meters above sea level.

Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery, impressive waterfalls, and lush mountain forests. We first stop to the summit to see the great twin Royal Pagodas: Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Bhumisiri. Each pagoda also has relics of Buddha.

We then visit Wachirathan waterffalls by a short trek along Michael’s Trail.

After walk down the hill & have a short break at a local Hmong market, we will have lunch time.

In the afternoon, continue to visit Hmong and Karen hill tribe village at Ban Mae Klang Village to observe their still primitive lifestyle.

En route we will pass through the farmland where you will see the coffee plantation, flowers farm and the beautiful rice terraces.

Transfer back to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Mai 

Meals: Breakfast 

Morning after breakfast, we transfer to the airport for your flight to Luang Prabang via Bangkok

On arrival at the Luang Prabang airport, you will be met and transferred to check in the hotel.

Situated in the centre of northern Laos, Luang Prabang is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural, historic and architectural values and its harmonious relationship between the natural and built environment.

You are free to stroll around the city for your own first impression of this ancient city. Overnight in Luang Prabang

Accommodation: At the hotel in Luang Prabang 

Meals: Breakfast 

After breakfast, we drive directly to Manifa Elephant camp (Join in activities). You will visit the mahout (elephant handler) village in Manifa Elephant Camp and observe their daily routine as you see a demonstration of an elephant health check. Your guide will explain the elephants while they examine the elephant’s eyes, ears, mouths, and feet. Learn how to estimate the weight of an elephant by measuring the body used by veterinarians and Mahout. You will understand that riding an elephant is well below 20% of its body weight, which a human, elephant, horse, or most animals generally can carry.

You will know the name of an elephant that will become your partner today and learn how to introduce yourself to your elephant and how to mount your elephant to ride bareback. Then you will have an intimate interaction with the elephant.You will ride your elephant and explore the jungle. Experience how powerful elephant mobility is in the dense vegetation and sloping jungle terrain. After passing through the jungle, your elephant will plunge into the Mekong River. Help your elephant body cool off and bathe in the Mekong River. Finally, you feed and care for your elephant with organic vegetables and fruits.

Continue driving to Ban Pak Ou, and take the boat crossing the Mekong river to visit the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims.
 
We then take the boat downstream the Mekong river back to Luang Prabang. Transfer back to your hotel. Overnight in Luang Prabang  

 Accommodation: At the hotel in Luang Prabang 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, our guide will pick up you at hotel, then visit to the Royal Palace Museum, which hosts a range of interesting artifacts, and the nearby magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture.

We may have time to Traditional Art and Ethnology Center (closed on Monday) to learn about Laos’ many ethnic cultures

After lunch (on your own), we will reach one of the most beautiful Kuang Si Falls situated 30 kilometers of Southern Luang Prabang

The Kuang Si Waterfall consists of a tiered many of turquoise pools put amongst the dense Laotian jungle where we will have plenty of time to refreshing swim in the pools and hike around the falls.

You’ll also visit the Kuang Si Falls Butterfly Park, one of the must-visit spots, a project that was newly opened on January 2014 studying about Laos butterflies, host plants and preservation.

 We stop at one of the local villages before getting to Wat Siphouthabath to admire the sunset then find the way back to your hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Luang Prabang.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Luang Prabang 

Meals: Breakfast 

After breakfast, drive to Vang Vieng, drive passes through splendid scenery and past many panoramic lookout points on the winding mountaintop road.  There are several stops en route to take photos in the scenery. 

Arrive in Vang Vieng and descending the Nam Song by long tail boat leads us through idyllic scenes of rural life: a unique sight with the limestone mountain in the background.

Meals on your own. Overnight in hotel

Accommodation: At the hotel in Vang Vieng

Meals: Breakfast 

There are home to there are  numerous caves and caverns in the limestone cliffs and valleys surrounding the resort complex of Vang Vieng The and one of the most well known of these caves is Tham Jang, which was shelter for the local people against from from Chinese invaders 200 years ago.

Then we  continue our trip by passing through paddy field areas heading to Tham Phoukham caves  which is  located  to the northeast of the village of Ban Na Thong . On the way, you will experience  the local cultures by greeting the local people and learning about their daily lifestyle. There is a small natural pool named Blue Lagoon in front of the caves  where you can take a swim and relax by yourself or you could explore the nearby area.

Afternoon we continue our trip to  the capital, Vientiane. Arrival Vientiane, check in hotel.

The rest of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and relaxation.

Overnight at the hotel in Vientiane.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Vientiane 

Meals: Breakfast 

In the morning, we begin our trip with first destination of Wat Si Muang, which is very well-known for its supernatural power.

We then reach the Buddha Park after 45 – minute by road transfer. On the way, we make a brief stop and take photos of the Friendship Bridge, built by the Australian government in 1994, which connect Laos and Thailand.

On arrival, we go around the Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) with more than 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues. The tranquil setting along the Mekong River is a contrast to the slightly eccentric sculptures built in 1958 by a Laos shaman. The concrete sculptures are unique and intriguing, sitting majestically in the peaceful park.

In the afternoon, we discover the main sights of the capital; including the oldest Wat Sisaket, the temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image.

En route to Lao’s national icon, the well -known and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, we stop enroute to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is well known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. A spectacular view over the Mekong River at sunset is a perfect way to finish the day.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Vientiane 

Meals: Breakfast 

You are free to stroll around the town for your own exploration before taking the departure flight to hometown.

Accommodation: NA 

Meals: Breakfast