Essential Thailand
Essential Thailand
$2025
Essential Thailand
12 Days Starting in Bangkok, Thailand and ending in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Visiting: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CSETN26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Essential Thailand" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Thailand's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Begin your adventure in the bustling city of Bangkok, where you'll explore iconic sites like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Experience the serene beauty of Kanchanaburi, with its poignant history and the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. Discover the ancient wonders of Sukhothai Historical Park and marvel at the modern artistry of the White Temple in Chiang Rai. Enjoy the laid-back charm of Chiang Mai, with its rich history and vibrant night markets. Throughout your journey, savor authentic Thai cuisine, stay in carefully selected hotels, and travel in comfort with a luxury air-conditioned coach. With expert guidance from a Travel Director and a variety of immersive experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable Thai adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation Name: Galleria 10
Meals Included: Dinner
‘Sawadee ka' and welcome to Thailand! Your trip will kick off in buzzy Bangkok, an urban wonder boasting all the soaring skyscrapers and glistening malls of any capital city, but with a distinctly Thai touch. Here you can see it all; orange robe-clad monks strolling the streets with smartphones in hand, while glowing temples and neon-lit bars co-exist peacefully side by side. At your hotel, you'll meet up with your Travel Director to get a glimpse of what's to come on your Thailand value tour, then dinner tonight will have you sampling some of Thailand's tasty cuisine while you get to know your fellow travelers.
Day 2: Bangkok Sightseeing
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation Name: Galleria 10
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get ready for a full day of sightseeing in Bangkok. We'll show off Bangkok's best cultural and spiritual delights, starting at Wat Pho, Bangkok's most ancient temple. Set eyes on the hugely impressive Reclining Buddha, the largest in Thailand, before moving on to the Grand Palace, a former royal residence. The intricate architecture of this massive complex never ceases to amaze and be sure to see the jewel in its crown, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. We'll make a pit stop for lunch at a local restaurant then you may choose to board a private boat and take to the maze of canals (klongs) that snake through the city. Kick back and enjoy the ride as you pass by traditional stilted family homes and soak up the quiet river lifestyle of those who work and live on the water. Still keen for more?
Day 3: Bangkok Free Day
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation Name: Galleria 10
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is all yours to explore Bangkok your way and the adventures are limitless. Want to check out the markets? You can find flower species of every shape, color and origin at the lively Pak Klong Talad (Bangkok flower market), while the charming streets of Chinatown are the perfect place to munch on street food and shop for jade. If you love architecture, you'll likely choose to join our trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the former capital city of Thailand. We'll make a stop along the way at the stunning Bang Pa Summer Palace, then continue on to Ayutthaya, an archaeological hotbed of temples, monasteries and statues that offer a glimpse into the glory days of this ancient land. We'll head back to Bangkok on a cruise and enjoy a buffet lunch as you watch the local life go by along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. This afternoon, you can join our optional visit to Jim Thompson's House, an exquisite example of traditional Thai residential architecture, where you'll find an incredible collection of Asian art.
Day 4: Bangkok - Kanchanaburi
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation Name: Felix River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
It’s goodbye Bangkok and hello Kanchanaburi town today, where we’ll jump straight into the action with a visit to the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, and the War Cemetery where over 6000 prisoners of war were laid to rest. Next up, we'll pause for lunch then see the infamously named Death Railway, before boarding a local train for a ride with a difference. Gorgeous views over the river and a journey across wooden viaducts will keep your camera busy, as will the next and final stop for today – the famous Bridge over the River Kwai. Our hotel is just a short distance from here, where we’ll dine as a group this evening.
Day 5: Kanchanaburi Free Day
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation Name: Felix River Kwai
Meals Included: Breakfast
With a completely free day today on your Thailand tour package, Kanchanaburi town is yours to explore your way. Those keen to take it easy can rest up at the hotel and take advantage of the spa facilities, or perhaps you’ll take the opportunity to explore the town and its surroundings. This adventure will begin with a visit to Hellfire Pass, a 500 meter long and 26 meter deep section of rock that was dug by Prisoners of War with nothing more than picks, rocks and their bare hands, to allow for the construction of Death Railway. Fuelling up on a yummy lunch then transfer you back to the hotel.
Day 6: Kanchanaburi - Sukhothai
Location: Sukhothai
Accommodation Name: Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll be up bright and early this morning to travel north to Sukhothai. The Thailand essentials just keep on coming and along the way we have a treat in store, with a visit to Bhutsaya Khiri Suvarnabhumi, or Rock Buddha. This impressive carving of a seated buddha, masterfully etched out of the hillside, was only finished in 2019 and is a true sight to behold. Stopping for a local lunch en route, we’ll arrive into Sukhothai later this afternoon, then dinner tonight will be a group affair.
Day 7: Sukhothai Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Sukhothai
Accommodation Name: Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Being famed as the birthplace of Thai civilization is a pretty big reputation to uphold, but Sukhothai does it with ease. Still historically significant to this day, we’ll start our adventures today with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park, where we’ll get to explore the centuries old temples and palace ruins. History itch scratched, this afternoon will then be yours to explore as you wish. Hungry to learn more about Thai cuisine? Our optional cooking class is there for all the budding chefs amongst you. You’ll start this foodie adventure by learning about the unique herbs and spices of Thailand courtesy of your host, then put the farm to table craze into action by using these ingredients to make a signature Thai dish, such as “Pad Pak Bung Fai Daeng”. And the best part? You get to eat your tasty creation for dinner.
Day 8: Sukhothai - Chiang Rai
Location: Chiang Rai
Accommodation Name: Wiang Inn Chiang Rai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The dramatic mountain beauty of Chiang Rai awaits us today, so we’ll be up early to travel further north. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at Khaw Phayao Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the North, before heading on to Wat Rong Khun, otherwise known as the White Temple. Unlike many Thai temples that are centuries old, Wat Rong Khun is unique in the fact that it was only built in 1977. The brainchild of artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, it’s also one of the most recognisable temples in Thailand – you'll know it when you see it. Finally, we’ll complete today’s journey with a short drive to Chiang Rai, where we’ll Check in to our hotel and eat dinner tonight as a group.
Day 9: Chiang Rai Free Time
Location: Chiang Rai
Accommodation Name: Wiang Inn Chiang Rai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for you to explore Chiang Rai as you choose. You may wish to journey to the heart of the Golden Triangle. This optional adventure includes hopping aboard a boat that will take you cruising along the mighty Mekong River to the exact spot where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), and Laos meet. You’ll have time to step ashore in Laos and head into the Don Sao Island markets, where you can browse the handicrafts and local snacks on offer. It’s the only part of Laos that can be visited without a visa, so make the most of it! Next, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the self-proclaimed ‘edutainment’ Hall of Opium, a fascinating museum that reveals an incredible 5,000 years of history. The state-of-the-art exhibitions, harrowing accounts, and even a tiny opium plantation all tell a vivid story of the conflicts, rituals, and abuse that have stemmed from opium, a trade that once ruled the Golden Triangle in the past century.
Day 10: Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation Name: The Empress Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Who’s ready to dip their toes in some bubbling hot springs? We hope all of you, as our first stop today en route to Chiang Mai, are the lovely Mae Kachan Hot Springs. Feeling refreshed, we’ll grab lunch in a local restaurant before traveling on to the laidback city of Chiang Mai. Sprawling in size but with a historic center that has managed to retain the charm and pace of a low-key country town, Chiang Mai is also THE place for temple exploring. So, guess what we’ll be doing this afternoon? You got it! We’ll be exploring both Wat Phra Singh temple, which was built in 1345, and Wat Chedi Luang temple, a charming wooden creation famous for its huge Lanna style chedi. This evening, prepare to discover the charm of Chiang Mai by night as we head out to visit the city’s iconic night markets.
Day 11: Chiang Mai Free Day
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation Name: The Empress Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day your way is what today is all about, and with it being your last day, be sure to make the most of it.
Day 12: Depart Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your incredible journey through Thailand's cities, rivers, mountains, temples and markets has come to an end. You've encountered diverse cultures, tasted all kinds of Thai foods and experienced the warmth of Thai hospitality and we're sure you'll be leaving with the iconic Thai smile on your face!
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in your tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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City Orientation Tours
City orientation tours are included to help you explore the destinations.
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Audio Headsets
Audio Headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury Air-conditioned Coach
Travel in comfort with a luxury air-conditioned coach.
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Extensive Variety of Choice Experiences
Enjoy an extensive variety of choice experiences during your tour.
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Alternative Hotels
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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Visit Wat Pho and the Grand Palace
Visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and observe local life along the canals during a khlong tour.
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Visit Thailand-Burma Railway Center
Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, the War Cemetery, the infamous Death Railway, and the Bridge on the River Kwai.
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Visit Sukhothai Historical Park
Explore the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfort throughout your journey. Enjoy city orientation tours and the convenience of audio headsets to enhance your sightseeing experiences.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like Galleria 10 in Bangkok, Felix River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, Le Charme Sukhothai Historical Park Resort in Sukhothai, Wiang Inn Chiang Rai, and The Empress Chiang Mai, all tried and trusted for comfort and convenience.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Lunch (L)
Essentials
- Visit Wat Pho, the Grand Palace and observe local life along the canals during a khlong tour
- Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, the War Cemetery, the infamous Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Kwai
- Visit Sukhothai Historical Park
- Visit Wat Rong Khun - the White Temple
- Feel refreshed in the natural hot springs
- Visit the Night Market and the temples of Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, many meals are included in the tour package, including daily breakfasts. The dining summary includes 4 dinners, 11 breakfasts, and 5 lunches.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver will accompany you throughout the tour.
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What are some of the key activities included in the tour?
The tour includes city orientation tours, visits to Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, Sukhothai Historical Park, and Wat Rong Khun. There are also opportunities to explore local life along the canals during a khlong tour and visit the Night Market in Chiang Mai.
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Is there any free time during the tour to explore on my own?
Yes, there are several free days included in the itinerary, such as in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai, allowing you to explore these areas at your own pace.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as a trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a visit to Jim Thompson's House, a cooking class in Sukhothai, and a journey to the Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty and joy of taking a guided vacation with Costsaver is that you get to meet, travel and make friends with people from all over the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Costsaver is part of The Travel Corporation, which has been in business for over 100 years.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Costsaver is proud to be a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. To date the charity has donated over US$2 million to assist underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives around the globe.
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Low Deposit
Costsaver requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of costsaver charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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