Thailand, Temples & Tribes
PRIVATE TOUR: Discover Thailand's exotic allure on this exclusive 10-day private tour, starting in the vibrant Bangkok. Visit Bang Pa In's royal palace, the lively Ayothaya Floating Market, historic Pimai's Khmer temples, and the crafty Ban Dan Kwian Pottery Village. In Lopburi, step into the past exploring sites like Phra Buddha Badh and the exhilirating Monkey Temple. Explore ancient Sukhothai and the hill tribe villages of Chiang Saen, soak in Mae Kachan Hot Springs, and visit the Dara Palace Museum.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome
Day 1 Welcome
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?
Day 2 Summer Palace and Stolen Artefacts Museum
Day 2 Summer Palace and Stolen Artefacts Museum
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.
Day 3 Khmer Temples & Pottery Village
Day 3 Khmer Temples & Pottery Village
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.
Day 4 Buddha's Footprint and Stunning Sukhothai
Day 4 Buddha's Footprint and Stunning Sukhothai
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!
Day 5 World Heritage Site & Ancient Temples
Day 5 World Heritage Site & Ancient Temples
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.
Day 6 Emerald Buddha & Golden Triangle
Day 6 Emerald Buddha & Golden Triangle
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.
Day 7 Hill Tribes & Doi Mae Salong
Day 7 Hill Tribes & Doi Mae Salong
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.
Day 8 Handicrafts & Hot Springs
Day 8 Handicrafts & Hot Springs
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.
Day 9 Elephant PooPoo Park & Sacred Temples
Day 9 Elephant PooPoo Park & Sacred Temples
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.
Day 10 Goodbye
Day 10 Goodbye
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.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
The Mandarin Hotel Bangkok is recognized by its iconic white Mandarin building and has evolved into a renowned luxury destination for global travelers seeking both leisure and business comforts. Boasting two wings—the original Mandarin wing and the Princess wing added after refurbishments in 1981—the hotel's 367 modern and tastefully furnished rooms and suites, including Deluxe, Premier, Executive, and Grand Suite options, offer a comfortable and contemporary experience. There is an outdoor pool, fitness center, spa and restaurant on site.
Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom (formerly the Novotel Bangkok Silom Road Hotel) is a well-situated and versatile hotel in the heart of Silom, Bangkok. The hotel boasts an array of amenities, including an outdoor pool, two dining options, 24-hour room service, and complimentary WiFi. Its proximity to key attractions like the Jewelry Trade Center and Patpong Night Market, along with business facilities and a fitness center, makes it suitable for both leisure and business guests. With spacious, well-equipped rooms and various services, Hilton Garden Inn caters to a diverse range of traveler needs.
Welcome to Kantary Hotel Ayutthaya, where history meets modern comfort. Nestled in the heart of the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the hotel provides spacious accommodations with balconies and complimentary WiFi. Unwind by the outdoor pool, stay active in the fitness room, and rejuvenate in the sauna and steam room. The air-conditioned rooms offer a comfortable living space with a flat-screen TV, DVD player, and a kitchenette, ensuring a delightful stay. Savor a culinary journey at the California Steak Restaurant and explore Ayutthaya's rich heritage from Kantary Hotel's convenient central location.
Discover comfort and convenience at Kantary Hotel Korat, situated in Nakhon Ratchasima. This 4-star retreat offers a range of amenities including an outdoor pool, complimentary private parking, a fitness center, and a shared lounge. With services such as concierge assistance, a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, and free WiFi, guests are well taken care of. The thoughtfully designed air-conditioned rooms feature modern amenities like a desk, kettle, fridge, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower, along with a balcony for relaxation. Start your day with a delicious continental, American, or Asian breakfast, and savor a variety of cuisines at the hotel's restaurant.
Legendha Sukhothai Resort offers a captivating Thai village-inspired retreat with teakwood-furnished guestrooms and a saltwater swimming pool. Immerse in authentic experiences such as almsgiving and Thai cooking classes, enjoy Namkhang Sukhothai restaurant's delights, and witness Thai classical dance shows in the evening. Just minutes away lies the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park, featuring iconic sites like Wat Mahathat and Wat Si Chum.
The Lampang River Lodge is set deep within the stunning nature for which Lampang is renowned, on the bank of the Wang River. Its rooms are tastefully decorated with soft creams and rich dark browns with floor length windows, which offer guests the chance to feel completely integrated with their surroundings. Outside sits a large pool lined with sun loungers and a path for joggers or walkers who wish to explore the dense jungle around the hotel more closely. There are also two restaurants that serve up fresh Thai and Italian food.
Nestled amidst the stunning Northern Mountains and surrounded by the Mekong and Ruak Rivers, The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Saen occupies a unique location where Thailand's borders converge with Laos and Myanmar. With 73 rooms, the resort offers captivating vistas of this picturesque mountainous area. The resort features an outdoor pool, restaurant, and offers various facilities, making it an ideal retreat. Each room boasts traditional teak furniture and a private balcony. The Border View Restaurant offers northern Thai and international cuisine, while the Karaoke lounge and lobby provide drinks and entertainment.
The Legend Chiang Rai is a captivating riverside resort that offers delightful dining venues, a refreshing pool, a herbal spa for rejuvenation, and a fitness center. Wander through serene pathways, encounter lotus-filled ponds, and explore the vibrant gardens. The hotel offers spacious studios and villas which are thoughtfully designed, showcasing luxurious furnishings and distinctive tropical-inspired bathrooms. The opulence extends to outstanding facilities, including an infinity pool that overlooks the river, an outdoor Spa, and the Sala Rim Nam Thai restaurant, where you can savor Thai and Western cuisine.
Discover Banthai Village, tucked away in the vibrant heart of Chiang Mai. Located just off Tapae Road and within walking distance of the Tapae Gate entrance to the old city, the charming retreat offers easy access to Chiang Mai's most renowned attractions, including the Sunday Walking Street market and the Night Bazaar. Choose from a range of chic accommodations, from Superior and Deluxe rooms to Family rooms, Junior Suites, and the luxurious Banthai Suite, all thoughtfully designed with a blend of modern and traditional Thai elements. Unwind by the inviting outdoor pool with a Jacuzzi or savor delectable Thai and Western cuisine at The Pool Bar & Bistro.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Add-on: Chiang Mai airport transfer (one way) from price
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