HISTORY - VALLEYS & RIVERS
OVERVIEW
This five-day adventure from Bangkok explores the cultural and natural treasures of Thailand's countryside. Beginning with the UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park, travelers hike through lush rainforests, marvel at the towering Haew Narok Waterfall, and visit a vineyard for wine tasting. The journey continues to the historic city of Ayutthaya, once Siam’s capital, where visitors explore ancient temples and take a scenic riverboat ride. In Kanchanaburi, the tour covers WWII sites, including the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai and the Thai-Burma Railway, before diving into the area’s natural beauty at Sai Yok National Park. A heartwarming experience awaits at Elephant Haven, a sanctuary for elephants to roam freely.
Trekking 
Family 
Culture 
Archaeology 
Adventure & Nature 
Day 1 : Bangkok – Khao Yai National Park (- / L / D)
History, heritage and sublime natural splendour is revealed on a five-day adventure in provinces conveniently situated close to Bangkok. The exploration gets underway with a transfer from airports or hotels in the capital, depending on individual travel arrangements.
Our journey through scenic countryside takes us to the World Heritage-listed Khao Yai National Park. This huge expanse of tropical rainforest covers an area of 2,168 sq-km. The pristine environment is home to diverse flora and fauna, including abundant bird species and elephants, clouded leopards, tigers and gibbons.
On arrival, we trek to the spectacular three-level Haew Narok Waterfall, where water gushes from 50 metres and crashes into three different levels. After absorbing this amazing sight, we head to PB Valley Khao Yai, the largest vineyard in Khao Yai where we undertake a short tour of the site, followed by wine tasting and a set lunch.
Dinner and overnight is in the peaceful Lala Mukha Tented Resort. We will sleep in chic glamping tents surrounded by the pristine beauty of the tropical rainforest and grassland overlooking limestone mountains. Our free-standing canvas homes provide total luxury, including air-cons, comfy beds and full private bathroom facilities. We will fall to sleep to the soothing sound of nature.
Overnight in Khao Yai
Day 2 : Khao Yai - Ayutthaya (B / L / D)
Breakfast
Today’s highlight is exploration of ancient Ayutthaya. This was the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767. During its heyday, merchants came from across the globe to trade. This resultant wealth financed the magnificence of the city’s architecture. We will see the ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries, and statues set on a 4 km-wide island at the confluence of three rivers. We set off from Khao Yai for a two-hour drive and on arrival at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, we visit impressive 14th century Wat Yai Chaimongkol. This features a towering spire, a prominent landmark of Ayutthaya.
Next, we head to 15th century Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the most important temple in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. This served as a model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. Our cultural discovery continues at Wat Mahathat, famed for the head of a stone Buddha image entwined in the roots of a tree.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we enjoy a relaxing 90-minute guided river boat tour. This provides us with a beautiful view of Ayutthaya and its magnificent relics from a completely different perspective. We then transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight in Ayutthaya
Day 3 : Ayutthaya - Kanchanaburi (B / L / D)
Breakfast
Today’s historical and cultural exploration involves a trip back in time to absorb the splendour of a royal palace, plus an insight into World War Two history. After breakfast, we visit Bang Pa-In, King Rama V’s summer palace. This was used by the royal court as a retreat in the 17th century. It was ransacked by Burmese invaders in 1767 and later restored by King Rama IV in the mid-19th century. The expansive landscaped grounds, surrounded by waterways, contain a wealth of impressive buildings built in different architectural styles, including Thai, Chinese and European.
We then take a three-hour drive to Kanchanaburi where we visit the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Next is a breath-taking ride down original wooden sections of the Thai-Burma Railway. This is part of the Siam-Burma ‘death railway’ build by Allied prisoners of war (POWs). A highlight is the Wang Pho Viaduct where the train snakes along an elevated track attached to a riverside cliff.
Next, we visit the JEATH War Museum, a fascinating attraction which details the harsh living conditions of the captured Allied POWs. Dinner and overnight is at a riverside hotel in Kanchanaburi.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi
Day 4 : Kanchanaburi (B / L / D)
Breakfast
After the previous days historical and cultural discovery, today we enjoy exploration of the region’s natural wonders. After breakfast, we board a river boat and head along the Kwai Noi River to Sai Yok National Park. The park covers an area of approximately 300-sq-km and contains several interesting caves and the famous Sai Yok Yai Waterfall. This protected area is also home to numerous wild animals and extensive plant species.
After lunch at local restaurant, we visit Elephant Haven to feed and bathe the jumbos. We will get an expert guided tour of this sanctuary and learn about the elephant’s habitat. The is no elephant riding, just respectful interaction with the magnificent animals. The herd has the freedom to roam, socialise, enjoy a mud bath and cool down in the river. In a beautiful setting we will observe their natural behaviour and learn about their complex social structure.
Our visit will also financially support the best possible ongoing care for the resident pachyderms. After this amazing experience, we return to the hotel for overnight and dinner.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi
Day 5 : Kanchanaburi - Bangkok (B / - / -)
Breakfast
Our inspirational excursion concludes today. We have explored natural wonders in World Heritagelisted Khao Yai National Park, tasted fine wines in a leading vineyard, spent the night under the stars in luxury glamping tents, gone back in time to the glory of the Ayutthaya era, delved into Thailand’s World War Two history in Kanchanaburi, experienced the splendour of a royal summer retreat and interacted with jumbos in an elephant sanctuary.
This is the perfect multi-day tour to see some of the kingdom’s leading attractions and enthralling sites well off the tourist trail.
After breakfast, we transfer to airports or hotels in Bangkok, depending on individual arrangements, with an estimated arrival in the capital at 11.30 am.
End of our services.
Our services include :
- Tours and transfers with licenced English-speaking guiding services / assistance.
- Other languages are on request and are subject to availability
- Accommodation in sharing twin / double room with air-conditioning
- Transportation for tour and transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, unless otherwise stated
- All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the program
- All applicable taxes and service charges
- All meals as indicated in the program (food only)
Our services do not include :
- Personal expenses such as other meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours/ visits, unless otherwise stated
- Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement
- Any domestic / international airline tickets, airport taxes, visa fees, specific camera / video fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general pick-up / drop-off regions (such as airports, out-of-town resorts, ports, harbours and accommodation in surrounding towns)
- Any accommodation expenses of a personal nature. This includes (compulsory festive) meals and drinks, mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program
- International travel and medical insurance coverage for customers
B= Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner BL= Box Lunch
|
City |
Superior |
Deluxe |
|
Khao Yai |
Lala Mukha Tended Resort |
Lala Mukha Tended Resort |
|
Ayutthaya |
Kantary Ayutthaya |
Sala Ayutthaya |
|
River Kwai |
River Kwai Resotel |
Float House River Kwai |
HALF DAY PHUKET CITY TOUR
On DemandPrivate Service / Time: 08.00 - 12:30 hrs. Or 13:00 – 17:30 hrs.
Our local expert who accompanies you are delighted to show you his/her island city to appreciate the beauty of nature, history and architecture of Phuket's oldtown and try out Phuket specialty and will serve you the best of Phuket experience. The trip features to most southern of Phuket Island to Promthep Cape, it looks like a curve cape extending into the Andaman Sea. It is surrounded by palm trees and grasses. On the right side is Nai Harn Beach and Koh Man. On the left side, you will see a small beach called Nai Yah beach.
Next to visit the Big Buddha is one of the most important and revered landmarks on the island. The huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills, this buddha image is a stunning piece of contemporary art which measures in at 25.45 meters wide and 45 meters in height. The image is made from reinforced concrete and covered in white and jade ‘Suriyakanta’ marble which also affords great views over Chalong Bay from the front face of the image and of Kata, Karon and other smaller bays to the rear.
Then a visit to the acclaimed Chalong Temple; famed for its Portuguese architecture. Loved by both Asian and foreign visitors, the temple's highlight is a wax sculpture of the abbot housed in an air-conditioned Thai-style house next to the chapel. Then drive to Phuket Old Town, visit beauty elegant architecture buildings reflecting European influence in the early 20th, take you back to a charm of a century ago.
Try out local dishes at Punte Traditional Food Center, experience variety of popular Phuket local dishes in one place where traditional recipes still retain the original flavors from generations ago.
FULL DAY PHI PHI ISLAND BY SPEEDBOAT
On DemandJoin-In Service / Time: 06.00 - 17:00 hrs
- 06.00- 07.00 : Pick-up from your Phuket hotel lobby – Arrive Safely at private pier “VISIT PANWA”.
- 08.00 : Arrive at the pier for check-in, enjoy breakfast with sandwiches, fresh fruit juice including tea and coffee.
- 08.30 : Introduce our loving – nature tour guide & get ready for hopping on the boat – Program briefing from our tour guide on coral-friendly tour including details and safety instructions on board, full with smiles and laugh.
- 09.00 : Depart from pier heading to Phi Phi Leh – Cruising and sightseeing beautiful scenery, astonishing beauty of steep stone cliff and curved bay created by nature, enjoy your trip with our service-minded team by fully-equipped safety speed boat with life jackets provided.
- 09.45 : Maya Bay – the mysterious crescent moon-shaped clear white sand beach hidden in the huge limestone mountain, full of baby sharks. Its beauty is in the world’s rank and it is chosen to be the location for shooting the movie titled “The Beach” because of its beauty.
- *The National Park will temporarily close Maya beach for conservation but we can sightsee the beautiful of Maya Bay from the lagoon view. (1 July – 30 September)
- 10.45 : Pileh Lagoon – Known as “Swimming Pool in the Sea”, enjoy swimming in the emerald green water surrounded by limestone mountains.
- *Optional need to book in advance: Hop on the long-tailed boat, getting close to the real locals’ ways of life on Phi Phi Island, take photos on Pileh Bay, and indulge in the amazing Andaman Sea.
- 12.15 : Viking Cave- Cruising and taking photos of Viking Cave or known as Phraya Nakarat Cave with the swallows nests concession inside, enjoy snorkeling among various kinds of fish along the coral reef.
- 13.20 : Monkey Bay – Sightseeing adorable monkeys on the forested cliff along the seaside.
- 13.30 : Ton Sai Bay – Lunch time at TonSai Seafood beach-side restaurant on Phi Phi Don, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, relax, take photos, and feel free to roam around the island.
- 14.30 : Bamboo Island – Heading to Bamboo Island, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Andaman Sea, long curved beach with powdery white sand with astonishing beauty, enjoy swimming and relax on the beach.
- 15.30 : Time to say goodbye to the island of beautiful nature – Depart from Bamboo Island to our pier.
- 16.15 : Back to the pier – van picks up and transfers to the hotel safely.
Note: The tour itinerary is given only for information as each trip depends on weather and sea conditions, with main concern on client’s safety first.
FULL DAY PHANG NGA BAY & JAMES BOND ISLAND BY SPEED BOAT
On DemandJoin-In Service / Time: 07:00 - 17:00 hrs
Enjoy beautiful scenery of limestone islands in Phang Nga Bay National Park, including the well-known Ko Ta Pu islet of James Bond and canoeing among mangrove forest at Hong Island and swimming and relaxing at Naka Island. Lunch is served at the Panyee Island restaurant.
- 07:00 - 08:00 : Pick up from hotel and transfer to Ao Por Pier
- 09:30 : Depart from the pier to Phang Nga Bay
- Sightseeing at Panak Island, Phang Nga Bay
- Enjoy spectacular canoeing among mangrove forest at Hong Island in Phang Nga Bay
- Sightseeing and trekking at James Bond Island
- Lunch is served at Panyee Island restaurant
- Swimming and relaxing on white sandy beach at Naka Island
- 16:30 : Arrive Ao Por Pier and transfer back to your hotel
Note: The tour itinerary is given only for information as each trip depends on weather and sea conditions, with main concern on client’s safety first.
FULL DAY PHANG NGA BAY SEA KAYAK – HONG BY STARLIGHT
On DemandJoin-In Service / Time: 11:30 - 21:30 hrs
Enjoy an afternoon of sea cave exploring literally inside Phang Nga Bay’s marine geology, – including the caves and hidden lagoons. Great nature and wildlife surround you.
Entry Trip starts mid-day to avoid the crowds, customized transfers included. Don’t eat lunch – we serve you on board of our comfortable support boat. After lunch, a professional guide paddles you through Phang Nga Bay’s “Tidal Nape Sea Caves” in our custom designed kayaks hand-made in Oregon by SOTAR, the World’s premier white water raft manufacturer. The unique experience is dramatic, but Caveman’s SOTAR custom kayaks are specially designed for your trip. We’ve never capsized, punctured or had an accident.
After a detailed briefing, your professional guide paddles you and your partner through “Tidal Nape” Sea Caves literally inside Phang Nga Bay’s marine limestone karstic islands into “Hongs“(Thai for “Room”). The hidden cliff-lined lagoons are populated with macaques, water monitors, kingfishers, mudskippers, egrets, Sea Eagles and Brahminy Kites. We finish after dark by floating your own self-made flower “Kratong” in a spiritual and spectacular Natural light show. Eating our delicious seafood-vegan buffet on the trip back, you return to the pier two hours after sunset.
Note: The tour itinerary is given only for information as each trip depends on weather and sea conditions, with main concern on client’s safety first.
EVENING PHUKET STREET EATS & MICHELIN SELECTED TOUR
On DemandPrivate Transfer Service / Time: 16.00 - 20:30 hrs
Your local guide will take you to local evening market Talad Saphan Hin where local people hope to shop their food back home after work. Learn about different kind of snacks you could find in local Thai market and of course test them. Your local guide will give full explanation of all kind of food but will let you try 2-3 things. Moving to try unique Phuketian food O TAO selected by Michelin Found only in Phuket, O Tao is a unique stir-fried dish made with seafood and battered taro. Cooked over a charcoal flame, the textures and flavours are well-balanced and the smoky aroma very pleasing. Prepare to arrive early, as crowds gather nightly. Fried oysters are also available.
Continue on your culinary adventure by walking and around Classical Phuket Old Town to observe the night life of living. Street food and food shop that open until midnight is almost everywhere in Phuket town area. Taking picture of heritage building at night while learning about its culture before zipping local soft drink with storytelling from our local guide. Phuket viewpoint is included in the tour for taking picture.
The day will end with typical Thai Desert and Typical Phuketian desert at Suan Luang Area. Try local Roti , created as a communal pancake , all roti here comes from one huge charcoal flat pan, and one guy shapes, fries, taps and cuts faster than the eye can see. Order code numbers stand for the number of roti to eggs. Don't miss the tender beef curry, which is also good. Sweet desert with ice called O aew which originally introduced by Phuket people is your last menu for today before send you back to hotel.
EVENING PHUKET FANTASEA SHOW & DINNER
On DemandPrivate Transfer Service / Time: 17.30 - 23:00 hrs
Inspired by Thailand's rich and exotic heritage, Phuket Fantasea not only showcases the charm and beauty of Thailand but also enriches ancient Thai traditions with the wonder of cutting-edge technology and special effects. The result is a stunning 140-acre themed complex packed with a multitude of activities and entertainments: a carnival village with games, handicrafts and shopping, a 4,000-seat themed restaurant offering a grand buffet of Thai and international cuisines, a breathtaking Las Vegas-style theatrical show, displaying Thailand's myths, mysteries, grace and beauty, not to mention the troupe of elephants, fire-eaters, graceful dancers and even a tiger! This wondrous extravaganza is certain to delight the whole family.
**Phuket Fantasea is operated every Tuesday, Friday & Sunday
EVENING SIAM NIRAMIT SHOW & DINNER
On DemandPrivate Transfer Service / Time: 17.30 - 23:00 hrs
One of the Best Shows in the world, be amazed by the State-of-the-Art stage performance. It is so realistic, just like going back in a time machine and seeing history come to life. Siam Niramit Show is an excellent introduction to history and culture of Thailand. The stage is 65 metres wide, 40 metre deep and 10 metre high. There are 100 performers and 500 costumes. Over 100 beautiful set pieces and artistic backdrops make every scene so real. Many special effects will create fun and surprises. For example, all of a sudden, the river appears on the stage, the and angels fly realistically in the heaven scene. Siam Niramit Phuket show is a MUST-SEE.
**Siam Niramit is operated daily except Tuesday
AYUTTHAYA DINNER CRUISE
On DemandJoin-in Service / Time: 19.00 21:00 hrs
Board our converted traditional teak rice barge and drift slowly along the majestic Chao Phraya River, the ‘River of Kings’, and her tributaries, and while the sights of the Island City of Ayutthaya pass you by enjoy a fine selection of traditional Thai cuisine, prepared especially for you in our own kitchens. Take a cruise around Ayutthaya Island and take in the romantic atmosphere of the old capital. Within its ancient monuments, the artistic and cultural heritage of the nation is preserved for later generations to admire. You will have ample opportunity to see some of these magnificent sites along the river, as well as observing the timeless day-to-day activities of the people living along the riverbanks. During your cruise a carefully selected set menu of delicious traditional Thai dishes will be served (food only). The art of Thai cuisine is balancing the delicate flavors that make up our four different taste sensations: sour, salty, sweet and, of course, spicy hot. Thai food is very versatile and can be adapted to suit almost any palate. Return to the hotel for overnight.
CHIANG MAI STREET EATS BY TUK TUK
On DemandPrivate Service / Time: 16.30 20:30 hrs
Highlights:
• Take a local transport “Tuk-Tuk” (pick-up & drop-off hotel in town)
• Experience on tasting local food in Chiang Mai town
• Visit the religion relics places in Chiang Mai town
• A glass of beverage at Xanadu Restaurant with scenic Chiang Mai view
Depart from the hotel by local transport “Tuk-Tuk” to Chiang Mai gate local market for street food. Just outside the old walled city center of Chiang Mai, the Wat Lok Molee is one of the city’s older temples. The temple that is also known as the Wat Lok Moli houses one of the largest and most impressive chedis in Chiang Mai.
After your experience with Chiang Mai local shopping, take a ride to the night market on Chang Puak Gate or North Gate is always busy and offers a great range of authentic Thai cuisine. Try the stewed pork leg from the famous vendor with the cowboy hat who’s had visits from the likes of Anthony Bourdain. Taste Bua Loi, or floating lotus, is a warm fresh coconut milk broth with teeny pandan-laced glutinous rice flour balls swimming around.
Take a ride with Tuk-Tuk to see Chiang Mai nightlife around old city, visit 3-Kings monument, Wat Chedi Luang. Let's celebrate with your friends and family, spend the night and enjoy the beautiful Chiang Mai view with a glass of beverage at Xanadu Restaurant before return to the hotel in Chiang Mai town.
Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles," is a vibrant and diverse destination offering travelers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Thailand:
Bangkok :
Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: Begin your journey in Bangkok, the capital city, with a visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Marvel at the intricate architecture and stunning craftsmanship of these iconic landmarks.
Wat Pho: Explore Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha statue and a center for traditional Thai massage and medicine.
Chao Phraya River: Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River to discover Bangkok's historic sites, bustling markets, and vibrant waterfront communities.
Chiang Mai :
Old City: Explore the ancient walled city of Chiang Mai, known for its well-preserved temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.
Doi Suthep: Visit Doi Suthep, a sacred mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, and climb the 309 steps to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a revered Buddhist temple with panoramic views of the city.
Night Bazaar: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, sample delicious street food, and enjoy traditional performances.
Phuket :
Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket, such as Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach, known for their crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand.
Phi Phi Islands: Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands, a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and exploring pristine beaches and turquoise lagoons.
Big Buddha: Visit the Big Buddha, a towering white marble statue located atop Nakkerd Hill, offering panoramic views of Phuket and the surrounding islands.
Phuket street food : Haven for food lovers, especially those seeking authentic street food.
Ayutthaya :
Historical Park: Explore the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, home to impressive ruins of ancient temples and palaces that showcase Thailand's rich history and heritage.
Wat Mahathat: Visit Wat Mahathat, famous for its iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree, a symbol of Ayutthaya's spiritual past.
Sukhothai :
Sukhothai Historical Park: Discover the ruins of Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Kingdom of Sukhothai.
Explore the well-preserved temples and monuments that reflect the glory of Thailand's first kingdom.
Practical Tips :
Currency: Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency.
Language: Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Transportation: Thailand has an extensive network of buses, trains, and domestic flights, making it easy to travel between cities and regions.
Weather in Thailand:
Thailand has a tropical climate, with a hot and humid season, best time to go to Thailand :
Best time to visit Thailand : November to February
Rainy season in Thailand : June to October
Monsoon season in Thailand : Agust to September
From bustling cities to tranquil beaches and ancient ruins, Thailand offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers to explore and enjoy. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxation, Thailand has something for everyone.
Thailand
HISTORY - VALLEYS & RIVERS
Reference #: WTP0355
- Khao Yai National Park
- Haew Narok Waterfall
- Ayutthaya Ancient City
- Wat Yai Chaimongkol
- Wat Mahathat
- Kanchanaburi
- Bridge over the River Kwai
- Thai-Burma Railway
- JEATH War Museum
- Sai Yok National Park
- Elephant Haven
- Sail along Kwai Noi River
- Royal Summer Palace
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This five-day adventure from Bangkok explores the cultural and natural treasures of Thailand's countryside. Beginning with the UNESCO-listed Khao Yai National Park, travelers hike through lush rainforests, marvel at the towering Haew Narok Waterfall, and visit a vineyard for wine tasting. The journey continues to the historic city of Ayutthaya, once Siam’s capital, where visitors explore ancient temples and take a scenic riverboat ride. In Kanchanaburi, the tour covers WWII sites, including the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai and the Thai-Burma Railway, before diving into the area’s natural beauty at Sai Yok National Park. A heartwarming experience awaits at Elephant Haven, a sanctuary for elephants to roam freely.