Ancient Thailand & River Kwai

Saturday. 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?

Bangkok - Hintok River Camp. Today begins with a historical exploration tour to the Kanchanaburi province, where we will learn about the region's wartime history.

Our first destination is the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that commemorates the infamous 'death railway.' Continuing our journey, we pay our respects at the Allied War Cemetery, a solemn resting place for over 6,000 prisoners who sacrificed their lives during the railway's construction.

The next stop is the world-famous Bridge on the River Kwai. After lunch, we visit the chilling Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum. Exhibits and audio displays within the museum pay homage to the workers and their sacrifices.

Then, we walk along Hellfire Pass itself, a challenging section of rock cutting that stands as a symbol of peace amidst the jungle. As the day winds down, enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Overnight at Hintok River Camp, in Safari-style tents.

Hintok River Camp - River Kwai Jungle Rafts. This morning, we enjoy a long-tail boat ride to the River Kwai Jungle Rafts, where we will spend the night in unique floating hotel rooms. After checking in, we visit an ethnic Mon Tribal village where we can immerse ourselves in their culture and traditions.

The afternoon is at leisure to relax and explore. At night, enjoy dinner at the hotel, followed by a 45-minute traditional and colourful Mon dance display.

River Kwai Jungle Rafts - Bangkok. After a morning at leisure, we will take another long-tail boat ride down the River Kwai.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we will take a journey on the infamous 'death railway,' - the actual train link built by the Allied prisoners during World War II. The train ride along this historic route gives us a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those who built it.

As the day draws to a close, we bid farewell to the River Kwai and make our way back to Bangkok. A transfer will take you back to your hotel in the bustling city.

Bangkok - Phitsanulok. Rise and Shine! This morning we leave bustling Bangkok and take a journey back in time to Thailand's ancient past.

Our first stop is the historic Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. We will then visit Wat Pranangcherng and the three ancient pagodas at Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch.

Next, we will visit Aranyik Knife Village, which dates back to the early Rattanakosin period. This village is home to generations of skilled craftsmen that have perfected the art of crafting knives and other items by hand.

Our adventure leads us to Angthong, where we'll visit the Ban Bang Sadet Court Doll Centre. Housed within a charming traditional Thai-style wooden house on stilts, we'll witness the intricate process of crafting Thai dolls. Afterwards, prepare to be amazed at Wat Muang, home to Thailand's largest sitting Buddha image.

As we continue towards our overnight destination, Phitsanulok, we'll make a pit stop in Lopburi for lunch. Don't miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the ancient Khmer temple, Pra Prang Sam Yot.

Upon reaching Phitsanulok, we'll visit Wat Pra Sri Rattana Maha Dhat, a temple that houses the beautiful Phra Buddha Chinnarat.

Phitsanulok - Lampang. Today will be a mix of culture and history, as we embark on a day trip to Lampang.

We begin with a visit to the Sgt. Maj. Thavee Folk Museum, a fascinating attraction with a collection of antiques that mirror Phitsanulok's past. Afterwards, we visit a Buddha statue factory and observe skilled craftsmen as they fashion the iconic spiritual images.

Our adventure continues to the renowned Sukhothai Historical Park, aptly named the 'dawn of happiness.' Prepare to be mesmerized by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 45 sq km and boasting 193 artifacts, including palaces, temples, city gates, walls, and villages.

Following lunch, we'll make our way to Lampang. Along the route, we'll stop to explore a ceramic manufacturer. Here, you'll gain insights into the making of the blue and white signature ceramic bowls.

As we arrive in Lampang, get ready for a walking tour of the elegant colonial houses that line Talad Gao Street. These stylish houses showcase the historical and architectural charm of the area.

Lampang - Chiang Rai. Rise and shine with an early morning visit to a nearby temple. The temple visit provides an opportunity to engage in an act of 'merit' by offering food donations to the monks. Merit is believed to be a protective force that arises from performing good deeds. This sacred experience also creates a harmonious start to our day!

After our temple visit, we'll head back to the hotel for a delicious breakfast. Then, we begin our journey to Chiang Rai with a few stops along the way.

First stop is a pineapple plantation. Here, try the delicious tropical fruit and learn about its cultivation process! We'll also pause at the breathtaking Phayao Lake for a well-deserved coffee break.

Next on our list is the captivating Doi Mae Salong, a mountain located a mere 6 kilometers from the Thai-Myanmar border. This area holds a rich history as it once housed a Chinese military division back in 1961.

Chinese influences still echo throughout this region, and you'll find several tea plantations and charming tea houses dotting the landscape. The elevation of 1,800 meters lends itself to the production of superior tea leaves, thanks to the cooler climate.

The area also boasts open-air bazaars and shops that offer an array of Chinese specialties. Take your time to browse through these offerings before we head to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai. Today, we leave behind Chiang Rai's tranquil charm, and set our sights on the lively Chiang Mai.

Our morning kicks off with a visit to the renowned Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Afterwards, enjoy a short cruise along the mighty Mekong River, soaking up its surrounding landscapes and rugged mountains.

Returning to Chiang Rai, we'll pay a visit to Wat Rong Khun, often referred to as the White Temple. Prepare to marvel at its unique sculptures and artistic wonders.

After lunch, it will be time to head for Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, we'll delve into the local craftsmanship with visits to handicraft factories. Here, you'll witness the skillful creation of traditional products such as Thai Silk and intricate paper umbrellas.

As the evening approaches, get ready for a truly unique Chiang Mai tradition—a khantoke dinner. This captivating experience combines delicious food, traditional dance, and musical performances. Served in charming small bowls known as khan, the meal is enjoyed while seated at low tables called toke.

Chiang Mai - Bangkok. 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.

We will then drive 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, we 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, as well as Chiang Mai's rich culture and history.

After lunch, our journey leads us up the Serpentine Road to Wat Pra Dhat Doi Suthep. Perched 1,676 meters above sea level, this mountaintop temple dates back to 1383 and holds immense significance. It's Chiang Mai's most sacred shrine and offers stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai City and the sprawling Ping Valley below.

As the day winds down, we'll head to the Chiang Mai Railway Station, and board an overnight air-conditioned sleeper train (second class) that will transport us back to the vibrant capital, Bangkok.

Monday. Wake up to the gentle sway of the carriages as we arrive in bustling Bangkok. Peer out the windows, take in the mesmerizing sight of verdant landscapes, charming towns, and picturesque villages passing by on this final leg of our train journey.

Upon arrival into Bangkok this morning, we'll transfer back to the hotel where our touring arrangements will come to end. Depending on your onward plans, why not consider a Krabi beach break or a Phuket Beach Break?