Discover Thailand

You depart the UK on the overnight flight to Bangkok.

On landing mid afternoon in Bangkok you transfer to your hotel. There will be a chance to relax before dinner in the hotel.

After breakfast at hotel set out to explore Bangkok. 

Begin your exploration of the complex with a visit to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), regarded as Thailand’s most sacred icon the Emerald Buddha is 66cm in height and sits in a state of meditation. Continuing you will explore the 240-year-old Grand Palace, an opulent and historic landmark and Wat Pho, a timeless sanctuary that has stood since the late 17th century, predating Bangkok's rise as Thailand's capital. 

After lunch at local restaurant walk to Pak Klong Talad Market to enjoy a kaleidoscope of colours, bustling vendors, and the delicate art of flower arranging. Roll up your sleeves and join a local flower-making workshop, crafting your fragrant souvenir to carry the vibrant spirit of Bangkok with you.

Ride on a shuttle ferry cross the river to at Thonburi and begin a captivating walking tour in the district, known for its colonial Portuguese history. 

Later walk to enjoy dinner at local restaurant.

Today you will take a walking tour of the city, strolling through Bangkok’s vibrant soi, or side streets, and exploring the local market. China Town Bangkok, also known as Yaowarat is a lively neighbourhood filled with an array of sights, sounds, and smells that offer visitors a glimpse into Thai Chinese culture. Lunch will be provided at local restaurant. Then take a Tuk Tuk ride to Bangkok Art & Culture centre. After a quick look around walk into the Krua Nua community area as there are plenty of street art along the way before returning to the hotel.

This evening enjoy dinner at a local riverside restaurant.

Walks

Distance: 2 miles

Time: 2 hours

Ascent: 10

Descent: 10

After breakfast in the hotel drive to Nakhon Pathom province and Don Wai Market. This market is a well-known riverside market celebrated for its authentic charm and diverse offerings. The market boasts a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing a variety of local foods, fresh produce, and handicrafts. Here partake in a Thai cooking class at a local riverside restaurant. Led by experienced local chefs, these classes offer hands-on learning experiences, allowing you to master the art of preparing traditional Thai dishes. Delve into the significance of each ingredient, the delicate balance of flavours, and the cultural context behind every dish. Cooking classes in Thailand are far more than educational; they offer a lively way to immerse yourself in Thai culture and culinary traditions. Enjoy your own cooked dish.

After lunch drive out to Kanchanaburi, check in and enjoy dinner at hotel.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, explore the iconic Kwai Yai Bridge, globally recognized as the 'Bridge over the River Kwai,' with a reflective walk over the bridge, taking in the river scenery and historical resonance. After that, experience a poignant train ride over the "Death Railway Trail", connecting with the tragic history of the route until Namtok Station. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant and visit the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum. 

Take a contemplative walk to the Hellfire Pass, where history echoes through the serene landscape. Pause at the memorial site, adorned with flags representing the nationalities of those who lost their lives. Return to the museum, respecting the gravity of the experience.

Next, venture to Erawan National Park, renowned for its seven-tiered waterfalls nestled in lush surroundings. Embark on an enjoyable walk to witness the beauty of the first and second waterfalls. Bring swimwear and a towel if you fancy a dip.

Enjoy dinner at hotel tonight.

Walks

Distance: 3 miles

Time: 2.5 hours

Ascent: 100

Descent: 100

Have breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi Airport (250km / 3h45 drive) to catch the flight to Chiang Rai. On arrival at Chiang Rai Airport we transfer to the hotel. Check in and free time at leisure.

This morning drive to visit the White Temple, known as Wat Rong Khun, stands out as an iconic and visually striking Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai. Noted for its intricate white architecture with mirrored elements, the temple presents a surreal and almost otherworldly appearance. Continue to Ban Dam Museum, also known as the Black House, stands as a captivating art exhibit and museum. Crafted by the late Thai national artist Thawan Duchanee.  Drive to Doi Tung Royal Villa, the residence associated with the late Princess Mother, Somdej Phra Srinagarindra. This villa, preserved to reflect her lifestyle and personal preferences. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the Golden Triangle. This area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers, holds historical significance. Take a boat tour on the Mekong River, providing an opportunity to witness unique scenery. Later return to the hotel in Chiang Rai for dinner and overnight at hotel.

Breakfast at hotel and drive to Chiang Dao (180km / 3h30 drive). 

Arrive at the village, enjoy lunch at local restaurant. Nestled in the mountains of Chiang Mai region, Mae Kampong is a delightful traditional village celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, lush surroundings, and immersive cultural experiences. Offering a window into rural Thai life and traditions, as you explore the village's narrow streets and wooden houses, you'll have the chance to experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Mae Kampong is also renowned for its traditional handicrafts, with a focus on hand-woven textiles and intricate bamboo products. Guests often get the chance to observe local artisans at work and may even participate in workshops to learn these traditional crafts. Transfer the hotel to enjoy dinner.

Breakfast at the lodge and drive to Mae Win area, located in the southern part of Chiang Mai province. It's known for its beautiful scenery, including lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls. 

Arrive and begin to walk 2 hours to a waterfall where you can relax in the beautiful surroundings and of course, cool off in the waters of the waterfall if you so wish! During the trek, you will visit a local hilltribe village. Picnic lunch will be provided and, in the afternoon, continue to walk in the jungle for 2 hours at the Mae Wang area to a local village to meet the transport. Then transfer to hotel in Chiang Mai for dinner at hotel.

Walks

Distance: 3 miles

Time: 2 hours

Ascent: 50

Descent: 50

Meet your guide at the hotel and embark on a journey to Doi Inthanon National Park. The park is a captivating natural sanctuary. It takes its name from Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in the country (2,565m). The park is celebrated for its enchanting natural landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural significance. You'll have the opportunity to visit Wachirathan Waterfall, explore the charming Mae Klang Luang village, and discover pagodas and shrines dedicated to the Thai king and queen. As the day concludes, return to Chiang Mai town, where you can enjoy free time at your leisure. This evening enjoy a delicious Thai Lanna Kantoke dinner. This unique dining experience represents the traditional Northern Thai culture, seamlessly blending flavourful cuisine with captivating cultural entertainment.

Walks

Distance: 2 miles

Time: 2 hours

Ascent: 100

Descent: 100

Today, journey to Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, a renowned natural sanctuary named after Doi Suthep, one of the region's most revered mountains, and Doi Pui. You will enjoy trekking at this national park before enjoy lunch.

Enjoy lunch at local restaurant and visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Nestled atop Doi Suthep, overlooking Chiang Mai, Wat Doi Suthep stands as a revered Buddhist temple and one of the most significant and picturesque in northern Thailand. Returning to the city visit Chiang Mai City Art & Cultural Centre. Then visit Wat Phra Singh, standing as a prominent and revered Buddhist temple. Acknowledged as one of the city's most significant temples, it carries profound religious and historical importance. Return to hotel before enjoying dinner at a local riverside restaurant.

We have free time at the hotel until check out and transfer to Chaing Mai Airport for our connecting flights back to the UK arriving late in the day.