Grand Thailand

The long tail boat trip is a perfect way to start our exploration of Bangkok. We navigate along the Chao Phraya River and venture into the many lively inner canals which provide some fantastic views of the local life close up. Along the way we make stop over at Wat Arum, the temple of Dawn, before continuing to the Grand Palace. This masterpiece is dedicated to the Thai Royal Family’s ceremony. Nearby are the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew, which is famous for the Emerald Buddha Image and the Vimarnmek Museum, the world’s largest building entirely made of golden teak. We visit this complex and drive through the many vibrant streets of China Town to the Wat Pho, one of the most significant temples in Bangkok. This sacred edifice houses a gigantic gold plated Reclining Buddha. The remainder of the day is free for your own exploration of the town and catching up on many funny shopping areas.

O/N in Bangkok.

Heading out of the town we drive through the scenic countryside to Ayuthaya, the ancient capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767 AD. This glamorous city was all but ultimately destroyed by the hands of Burmese, however it is still fascinating to explore the ruined temples. Among these is Wat Phra Sisanphet, an impressive monument that was used as the royal temple by several kings. The following sight is Wat Chai whose the constructing patterns are very interesting. We continue to Bang Pa In, which was served as the summer palace for many Thai monarchs. This structure has a captivating collection of marvelous pavilions in a variety of Thai, Chinese, Italian and Victorian architectural styles. We board a luxury boat at Wat Potangtai Pier and cruise down the river to Bangkok, a perfect way to observe the rural landscape.

O/N at in Bangkok.

The northbound journey begins as we board a short flight to Chiang Mai. On arrival at airport you are greeted and driven to hotel. The capital of the north, Chiang Mai has rich historical and cultural heritage which is still evident in the architecture with over 300 temples spreading in and around. Today we visit the most famous one set on Doi Suthep Mountain and embark on a walk leading us to Wat Prathat Temple near the summit. At an elevation of over 1,000 m, the temple grounds affords a panoramic view over the surrounding countryside. The tranquil town of Chiang Bang Pa In palace in Bangkok Thailand Mai has been always noted for the exquisite handicrafts made of the hill tribe people’s traditional wares. Upon leaving Doi Suthep we set off on a short drive to the neighbouring villages of Sankampaeng and Borsarng to see the various cottages industries including silk weaving, wood carving, silver ware and umbrellas making. We follow this with a visit to the old and new parts of the town featuring the great diversity. As a highlight of this evening, we visit the vibrant night market which is full of local treasures.

O/N in Chiang Mai.

Today we make our way northwards Pai, stopping en route at Mae Sa to visit an orchid farm which is filled with gorgeous orchid blooms in a blaze of multi-colors. Upon leaving this site we continue driving to a tribal village of Lisu People. They usually wear the most colourful and brightest costume. We follow the zigzagging roads past the emerald green forests, hills and deep valleys before arriving in Pai by mid afternoon. This tranquil town offers plenty of opportunities for adventure fervors. No activities planned for this evening, however our guide is on hand to advise some available options.

O/N in Pai.

The exciting journey continues towards Mae Hong Son. Along the way we make stop at the magnificent Tam Lod Cave and the famous Fish Cave, where thousands of carps live an undisturbed life. We arrive in Mae Hong Son by late morning and board a boat for a leisurely trip along the Pai River, which also provides us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an interesting visit to the Padong hill tribe village. This ethnic group still retains their old age cultural traditions as most of women attempt to have long neck by wearing numerous brass rings around their neck from an early age. The reminder of day will be free to stroll around the town, soak up the pleasant climate and catch our first glimpse. The Burmese influence is prevalent as this town is bordered by the Union of Myanmar to the north and the west.

O/N in Mae Hong Son.

The sightseeing tour of Mae Hong Son would not be complete without a visit to Wat Jong Kham and Wat Jong Klang, just some of the town’s most famous Burmese style monasteries. The first structure was constructed around 200 year ago by the Shan people whilst Wat Jong Klang houses an old glass painting and many wood carvings which depict the various lives of Buddha. A next stop is Doi Kong Moo, which dominates the town and therefore affords a wonderful view of surrounding areas. We then continue to Chiang Mai. On arrival you are greeted and check in to hotel. As a highlight of this evening, we visit the vibrant night market which is full of local treasures.

O/N in Chiang Mai.

Upon leaving the town we set off on our road trips to Chiang Dao. The first stop of our trip is an elephant camp set in lush jungle area. Here, we have a chance to see the colossal animals performing their amazing feats of strength and skill at the command of the mahout. The mountainous region of Chiang Dao is also home of a wide array of hill tribe groups. Today we enjoy through the neighboring jungle, past bamboo trees and hanging creepers upwards a remote village of Lisu People. This ethnic group is originated in Tibet and usually settled in high mountain side. Upon leaving this area we continue drive along the winding roads to Chiang Rai past the scenic mountain scenery.

O/N at Chiang Rai.

The royal capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Saen is nestled on the bank of the Mekong River which is now the border between Thailand and Laos. Today we travel by roads to Chiang Saen and visit some of the major sights including Wat Phrathat Jom Kitti, Wat Chedi Luang and a nearby museum. The journey continues towards the famous Golden Triangle in which powerful warlords have fought for control the opium trade. Here we have time to stroll around and make a stop at the opium museum. The display of pictures and documents feature the opium story dating back to the early last century onwards. We then enjoy a boat trip along the Mekong River to catch a look of the watery border between Laos, Thailand and Burma. Upon leaving this site we drive back to Chiang Rai to board our flight back to the capital city.

O/N in Bangkok.

There is a free time for your own exploration of the town and catching up on some shopping areas. The trip ends after transfer to airport for departure.