Thailand, Temples & Tribes - 10 days

Welcome to Bangkok, the bustling capital city of Thailand! A world-renowned tourist destination, this vibrant city offers an eclectic mix of lively street life, cultural landmarks, and busy shopping areas.





Arriving at Suvarnabhumi or Donmuang Airport, you'll be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check in. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore Bangkok. Why not try some tasty street food or take a thrilling tuk tuk ride?

Bangkok - Ayutthaya. Your day begins with an exploration into the area's rich history at Bang Pa-In, the summer palace of King Rama V. This palace is a fusion of diverse architectural styles, set within a sprawling park encircled by waterways.





After lunch, you'll head to Wat Ratchaburana and Chao Sam Phraya Museum. In 1957, the temple's crypt was looted of numerous Buddha images and golden artifacts, the recovered goods are now housed in this museum.





Concluding your day's journey is the Ayothaya Floating Market, where you can taste delectable snacks from the stalls that line the canal's edge.

Ayutthaya - Nakhon Ratchasima. This morning, you'll witness the impressive bronze statues of Wat Mongkol Borpitr. You'll also spot the three ancient pagodas that served as royal temples of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, at Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch and Wat Phra Mahathat.





You'll enjoy lunch before continuing on to Pimai. Here, you'll visit a museum that sheds light on the past while also exploring a remarkable collection of Khmer temples often referred to as the Angkor Wat of Thailand.





Before your day concludes, a visit to Ban Dan Kwian pottery village awaits, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship of this renowned area. You'll pause at a roadside retail market before you head to Korat for the night.

Nakhon Ratchasima - Sukhothai. You start the adventure towards Lopburi, with stops along the way.





First up are Phra Buddha Badh, shrine of the holy footprint of Buddha, and Narai Raja Nives Palace Museum. You'll also get to explore the three-spired pagoda of Prang Sam Yod, wander the ruins of Wat Phra Sri Ratana Maha Dhat, and meet the cheeky residents of the Monkey Temple.





In the afternoon, find yourself in the UNESCO-listed World Heritage city of Sukhothai, where you'll visit a pottery village. Watch local artisans use traditional techniques to produce hand-painted dishes and other ceramics. You'll even have the opportunity to learn and use some of these new skills!

Sukhothai - Lampang. Take a step back in time as you explore the ruins of Wat Maha Dhat, Thailand's first capital (1257 - 1379).





You'll venture on to Si Satchanalai, the northern outpost town of the Kingdom of Sukhothai. Built by King Ramkamhaeng, it is home to Si Satchanalai Historical Park, which forms part of Sukhothai's world heritage site.





The day concludes with visits to historic sites of Wat Chang Lom, Wat Jedi Jet Thaew, Wat Nang Phya and Wat Phra Sri Ratana Maha Dhat, which stand on the site of the Khmer fort Chalieng.

Lampang - Chiang Saen. Today begins with a drive to Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang, where one of Thailand's two Emerald Buddha statues resides. Continuing your journey, you'll reach Phayao, a quaint rural town featuring Wat Sri Kom Kam.





Your path then winds towards Chiang Saen, the former capital of the first Thai Kingdom. Nestled on the banks of the River Mekong, at the border between Thailand and Laos, you'll ascend 383 steps to reach the hilltop sanctuary of Wat Phra Dhat Jom Kitti.





After exploring Wat Jedi Luang and its museum, enjoy a long-tail speedboat ride upstream along the Mekong. This picturesque journey leads you to the iconic Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Burma, and Laos converge.

Chiang Saen - Chiang Rai. Enjoy breakfast, followed by a visit to a traditional Lisu village at ban Mae Khao Tom, where you will learn about the hill tribe's way of life and traditions. Continuing uphill, you'll also encounter the Yao and Akha hill tribe villages.





Atop the mountains, just 6 kilometers from the Thai-Myanmar border, awaits the city of Doi Mae Salong. Once home to a Chinese military division, the city resonates with Chinese influences, featuring captivating tea plantations and charming tea houses.





After lunch at Doi Mae Salong Villa, you'll visit Ban Lorcha, a Phami Akha hill tribe community centre dedicated to enhancing villagers' lives within this Akha community.





Your last stop for the day is Mae Sai, a northernmost Thai town that shares its border with Myanmar. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, indulging in some shopping at the local market, before returning to Chiang Rai for the night.

Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you drive to the northern Chiang Rai district of Mae Chan.





Along the way, pause for a moment of relaxation at Mae Kachan Hot Springs, a revitalizing natural spot that is believed to have healing properties.





After lunch, you'll embark towards Chiang Mai, but not without visiting a series of handicraft villages along the way. Within these vibrant communities, skilled artisans preserve traditional arts, showcasing their expertise in diverse handcrafted creations.





There will also be a visit to a Thai wood-carving factory which specialises in a range of antique-style work that you can purchase.

Start the day off fresh, with a visit to an orchid farm. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and varied species of flowers that thrive in Thailand.





You will then head to the Elephant Poopoo Paper Park, an eco-friendly attraction that offers a unique experience. Discover the fascinating process of making paper products from elephant waste - a creative and sustainable endeavor.





Next, head to the Dara Pirom Palace Museum, an elegant property that once belonged to one of King Rama V's royal consorts. The building has been transformed into a museum containing a wide range of exhibits that showcase palace decor.





In the afternoon, visit the sacred temple of Wat Doi Suthep. Perched atop a forested mountain, enjoy splendid views of Chiang Mai city and the sprawling Ping Valley below.

Your journey draws to a close in Chiang Mai today, but depending on your onward flight times or further, you may have the opportunity to indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing.