Explore Thailand Highlights 12 Days
Day 1: Welcome to Thailand – Bangkok Arrival
Your journey begins with your arrival in Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital city. A private driver and guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to recover from your journey. Spend your free time exploring Bangkok’s lively streets, colorful markets, and mouthwatering street food at your own pace.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 2: Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple (B)
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide for a day of cultural exploration. Visit the iconic Grand Palace, Thailand's most important and magnificent royal residence. Discover its various sections, including the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, and the sacred Emerald Buddha Temple, home to the most revered Buddha image in the country.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 3: Bangkok to Kanchanaburi – Death Railway (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Kanchanaburi, a town steeped in World War II history. Begin your visit at the World War II memorials, including the Jeath War Museum and Cemetery, learning about the area's historical significance. Continue to Wang Pho to board a train for a scenic 30-minute ride along the river to Ban Kao station. End the day at the famous River Kwai Bridge, a poignant reminder of the past.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Day 4: Trek to Erawan Waterfall (B)
Prepare for a day of adventure in Erawan National Park, spanning over 212 square miles. Hike through lush forests to the stunning Erawan Waterfall, named after the multi-headed elephant from Hindu mythology. Bring your swimsuit to take a refreshing dip in the waterfall’s natural pools and enjoy the park’s tranquil beauty.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
Day 5: Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya – Night Train to Chiang Mai (B/L)
Depart for Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, located just over an hour away. Explore the city’s historical highlights aboard a unique Kermit tuk-tuk, exclusive to Ayutthaya. Visit landmarks like Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat (famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots), and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
Next, head to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, an eclectic blend of European, Thai, Khmer, and Chinese architecture, and the favored summer retreat of Thai kings. In the evening, board a night train to Chiang Mai.
Overnight on the train (without guide).
Day 6: Chiang Mai Arrival – Early Check-In & Leisure Time (B)
Arrive in Chiang Mai early morning, where a private driver will transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to explore. Discover Chiang Mai’s art galleries along the Ping River, visit the unique Silver Pagoda (Wat Sri Suphan), or unwind with a traditional Thai massage. You might also enjoy a "monk chat," where you can converse with monks and learn about their way of life.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 7: Doi Inthanon National Park Adventure (B/L)
Start your day with a scenic drive through rice fields and mountains to Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand's highest peak. Visit the King and Queen Pagodas and admire breathtaking mountain views. Continue to a Karen hill tribe village to observe local life and shop at a hill tribe market.
In the afternoon, embark on the Mae Klang Luang Nature Trail. Follow a serene forest path alongside a river, passing the beautiful Pa Dok Siew Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip. End the trail amidst coffee plantations and rice paddies, stopping at a local coffee house to savor freshly brewed coffee.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 8: Visit an Elephant Sanctuary (B/L)
Begin your day early with a visit to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, located about 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai. Learn about the elephants’ lives and traditions, change into Karen attire, and prepare herbal medicine for the elephants. Spend the morning feeding, bathing, and interacting with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
After enjoying a traditional Thai lunch, bid farewell to the elephants and return to your hotel by early afternoon.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Day 9: Travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket (B)
Enjoy your final moments in Chiang Mai before your private driver transfers you to the airport for your flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, a driver will escort you to your accommodation. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring Phuket’s stunning beaches and lively nightlife.
Overnight in Phuket.
Day 10: Phuket Leisure (B)
Take a day to unwind and enjoy Phuket at your own pace. Lounge on the beach, explore the Old Town’s colonial architecture, or indulge in water sports like snorkeling or kayaking. For a cultural experience, visit the Big Buddha or Wat Chalong Temple.
Overnight in Phuket.
Day 11: Phuket Leisure (B)
Another day to soak in the beauty of Phuket. Consider an optional excursion to nearby islands such as Phi Phi or James Bond Island, or simply relax at your resort.
Overnight in Phuket.
Day 12: Time to Say Goodbye – Phuket Departure (B)
On your final day, savor breakfast before checking out. If time allows, do some last-minute shopping or enjoy a final stroll along the beach. Your driver will transfer you to Phuket Airport for your departure flight.
Trip Ends