Authentic Thailand Immersion 14 Days 13 Nights

After breakfast, we'll explore the revered Grand Royal Palace, the holiest and most majestic site in Bangkok, housing centuries-old temples and official buildings. Within the compound, we'll also visit the iconic Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha statue.

Next, we'll continue to Wat Pho, a sprawling temple complex featuring the colossal Reclining Buddha. Situated along the Chao Phraya River's eastern shore, south of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho is one of Bangkok's oldest and largest Buddhist temples. The highlight here is the renowned 45-meter-long, 15-meter-high Reclining Buddha statue adorned with mother-of-pearl inlay.

Afterward, lunch (client's expense) at a local restaurant followed by a stroll through bustling Chinatown, famous for its diverse regional specialties prepared with the freshest ingredients. We'll also visit Wat Traimit, renowned for its Golden Buddha.

In the afternoon, we'll embark on a long-tail boat journey along the Chao Phraya River and its vibrant Thonburi canal network, offering captivating views of local life. You'll have opportunities to purchase snacks, souvenirs, or use restroom facilities during the stops. Our journey includes a visit to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Afterward, return to the hotel for leisure time.

Night in Bangkok.

After breakfast, leave Bangkok for a day in the tranquil Thai countryside of Samut Songkhram Province, just an hour away. Begin at the unique Mae Klong Railway market, where vendors swiftly clear their stalls when trains arrive, only to set them up again moments later.

Continue to the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, offering a glimpse into the original floating market charm. Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride through the canals, exploring the old part of the market and its vibrant local life.

On weekends, choose between Damnoen Saduak and the quieter Tha Kha floating market, where you can take a short paddle boat tour and witness the traditional Thai coconut palm sugar-making process.

Later, head to Kanchanaburi to visit World War II memorials like the Jeath War Museum and Cemetery. Experience a scenic 30-minute train ride along the Wang Pho railway before returning to your hotel by car.

Stay overnight in Kanchanaburi.

After breakfast, we'll head to Erawan Waterfall, a stunning seven-tiered cascade within Erawan National Park. To fully enjoy the picturesque falls, wear comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget your swimsuit if you want to take a dip in the natural pools.

In the afternoon, our journey continues to Ayutthaya, often called the 'Venice of the East' due to its location along the Chao Phraya River and its surrounding tributaries. This ancient city, founded in 1350 by King Uthong, is home to numerous monuments and historical remnants, a testament to its rich heritage shaped by the Thai migration southward under northern neighbor pressures.

Stay overnight in Ayutthaya

After breakfast, hop on a unique Kermit tuk-tuk, a "cute" mode of transport exclusive to Ayutthaya and Trang provinces. As you ride, explore the city's temple highlights, including Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat (known for a Buddha face emerging from a tree), and a stroll through a local market en route to Wat Phra Srisanphet.

Following the temple visits, explore the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, dating back to the Ayutthaya era. This palace features a blend of European, Khmer, Thai, and Chinese architectural styles and is a favored summer retreat of the King.

Afterward, transfer back to Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Rai, where you'll be picked up and taken to your hotel.

Time free and stay overnight in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, we'll explore the local market, indulge in its diverse products, and then visit Wat Phra Kaew, once the home of the Emerald Buddha. We'll also stop by Wat Phra Singh, known for its exquisite Buddha image.

A short drive from Chiang Rai City takes us to the intriguing Black House, or Baan Dam, a creation by national artist Thawan Duchanee, blending art studio, museum, and residence elements with a unique fusion of traditional and modern design.

Lunch is at your leisure. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Mae Kok River to a Karen village where you can interact with and feed elephants. You'll also have the chance for a one-hour elephant trekking experience before returning to Chiang Rai.

Stay overnight in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, we'll journey to northern Thailand, an enchanting and mountainous region. This morning, we'll explore the picturesque surroundings, beginning with a scenic drive to Mae Salong. As you traverse the lush hills adorned with tea plantations, savor the exquisite tea produced by one of the many local plantations.

From Doi Mae Salong, we'll venture into two ethnic minority villages: the Akah village of Loyo and the Lisu village of Ban Hanygo. Afterward, our journey takes us to the Mae Fah Luang Botanical Garden.

Upon reaching the Golden Triangle, we'll embark on a boat trip along the Mekong River, offering views of the tri-border area where Thailand, Burma, and Laos converge.

Overnight in Chiang Saen

After breakfast, head to Thaton with a captivating stop at the Padong Karen village, known for its "giraffe" women who wear copper neck rings. You'll also visit a traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy to learn about herbs.

In the afternoon, proceed to Chiang Mai and explore Chiang Dao's underground galleries.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

In the morning, enjoy a walking tour of Chiang Mai's old town, including stops at the old wall, the moat, and an ancient city gate. You'll explore Chiang Mai's most exquisite temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Pan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang. Afterward, take a rickshaw ride through charming streets lined with traditional houses.

Following this, you'll visit the bustling Warorot Central Market before heading to Doi Suthep hill. In the evening, explore the Night Market for a delightful end to your day.

Overnight in Chiang Mai

After breakfast, transfer to the Elephant Poopoo Paper Farm, an eco-friendly outdoor museum park. Here, you'll discover the unique process of creating paper products from elephant poop fibers through eight informative pavilions. You'll even have the opportunity to try making poopoo paper yourself, which is quite exciting!

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic two-hour boat trip along the Mae Ping River, offering a captivating view of changing river scenery, traditional teak houses, and lush rural landscapes.

Finally, board an overnight second-class cabin train to Bangkok without a guide.

Overnight on board.

Arrive in Bangkok around 7-8 am, then take a noon flight to Trat airport (morning/noon flight recommended). Upon arrival, transfer to the pier for a ferry ride to Koh Chang island in the Gulf of Thailand.

Koh Chang boasts steep, jungle-covered peaks and beautiful west coast beaches with superfine sand and some pebbles. It offers a mix of wilderness and vibrant nightlife, allowing you to relax on the beach or at the resort during your free time.

Overnight in Koh Chang Island.

Estimate ferry time:15:45-16:15