Amazing Thailand 16 Days

Upon arrival at Bangkok airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The rich history of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is deeply connected to the Chakri dynasty, which still reigns today. After settling into your hotel, you’ll have free time to relax. You’ll spend the night in Bangkok.

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Grand Palace, a site dedicated to royal ceremonies and one of the most revered landmarks in Bangkok. This majestic complex is home to numerous historical monuments, including temples and official buildings still in use today.

Within the same compound, you’ll discover Wat Phra Kaew, renowned for the Emerald Buddha statue. After exploring the Grand Palace complex, you’ll head to Wat Pho, home to the impressive Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples, lies just south of the Grand Palace on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. The Reclining Buddha, symbolizing Buddha at his moment of passing, is 45 meters long and 15 meters high, with intricately inlaid mother-of-pearl feet.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll stroll through Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s busiest districts, famous for its diverse culinary offerings made with the freshest ingredients. Here, you’ll also visit Wat Traimit, known for its Golden Buddha.

In the afternoon, you’ll board a long-tail boat for a scenic ride along the Chao Phraya River and the lively canals of Thonburi, where you’ll glimpse local life. Stops along the way offer opportunities to snack, shop for trinkets, or take a break. You’ll also visit Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, before returning to your hotel for some free time. You’ll spend the night in Bangkok.

After breakfast, you’ll take a short drive out of Bangkok, where the bustling cityscape quickly gives way to the peaceful greenery of the countryside. This full-day trip to Samut Songkhram Province, just an hour from the capital, allows you to experience the charm of traditional Thai rural life.

Your first stop is the Mae Klong Railway Market, a unique market set up along active train tracks. When a train approaches, vendors swiftly pull back their stalls, only to set them up again once the train passes—a fascinating sight to witness! From here, you’ll continue to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. While it has become more touristy over the years, it still offers a glimpse of what floating markets were like decades ago. You’ll take a leisurely paddle boat ride through the maze of canals, where you can observe the old section of the market and catch glimpses of local life along the waterways.

After the boat ride, you’ll stroll through the vibrant market, filled with boats and vendors selling tropical fruits and local delicacies. If your visit falls on a weekend, you’ll have the option to explore the smaller, less touristy Tha Kha Floating Market, where you can take a short paddle boat tour through the peaceful backwaters and visit a traditional Thai house that produces coconut palm sugar.

Next, you’ll head to Kanchanaburi to visit the World War II memorial, which includes the Cemetery and the famous Kwai River Bridge. You’ll also enjoy a 30-minute train ride along the railway running beside the river. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the city for the night. You’ll spend night in Kanchanaburi.

After breakfast, you’ll head to Erawan Waterfall, a breathtaking seven-tiered cascade located within Erawan National Park. As you hike up to explore each picturesque tier, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit if you’d like to take a dip in the waterfall’s natural pools.

In the afternoon, you’ll travel to Ayutthaya, the ancient city once known as the ‘Venice of the East,’ set along the Chao Phraya River and its surrounding tributaries. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore numerous monuments and historical ruins from the city’s founding in 1350 by King Uthong, during a time when the Thai migrated southward due to pressure from their northern neighbors. You’ll spend the night in Ayutthaya.

After breakfast, you’ll hop on a Kermit tuk-tuk, a unique and charming vehicle found only in two Thai provinces: Ayutthaya and Trang. As you ride, you’ll explore the city’s iconic temples, including Wat Yai Chai Mongkol and Wat Mahathat, where you’ll see the famous Buddha face entwined in tree roots. You’ll also take a stroll through a local market on your way to Wat Phra Srisanphet.

Afterward, you’ll continue your road trip to Sukhothai, stopping along the way in Uthai Thani and Phitsanulok. Sukhothai, Thailand’s ancient capital, is regarded as the birthplace of Thai culture and “Thainess,” brimming with historical significance. Upon your late afternoon arrival, you’ll check in at your hotel and spend the night in Sukhothai.

After breakfast, you’ll head to the bicycle parking area to pick up a bike and explore the Sukhothai Historical Park, home to nearly 200 well-preserved chedis. Your first stop will be the iconic Ajana Buddha statue at Wat Srichum, where you’ll hear the legend of the Buddha’s speech.

Next, you’ll cycle to Wat Prapailuang, which once served as a community hub before the Sukhothai Kingdom’s establishment. You’ll continue your ride, visiting Wat Sri Sawai, Wat Sra Sri, and Wat Trapang Ngoen.

In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to Lampang. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your accommodation and enjoy some free time to relax. You’ll spend the night in Lampang.

After breakfast, you’ll visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of the finest examples of Lanna-style architecture in Thailand. Its viharns, open on all sides, showcase the distinct Lanna style. Unlike many temples restored with modern materials, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang has remained in its original state since its 13th-century construction. The temple’s name translates to “the temple of the Great Relic of the Lampang Buddha,” and its architecture blends Lanna and Thai Lü styles.

After your visit, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute horse-drawn carriage tour through the city and nearby villages. Lunch will be on your own at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue to Chiang Rai, with a stop at Phayao Lake, where you can enjoy a coffee and admire the lake’s serene beauty. You’ll arrive in Chiang Rai by the end of the day. You’ll spend the night in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, you’ll visit the local market to explore the area’s unique products. Next, you’ll visit the renowned Wat Phra Kaew, once home to the Emerald Buddha, followed by Wat Phra Singha, which houses one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images.

Afterward, you’ll take a short drive from Chiang Rai to Baan Dam (Black House), the distinctive creation of national artist Thawan Duchanee. Baan Dam serves as an art studio, museum, and home, blending traditional northern Thai architecture with striking modern designs.

Afer lunch, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise along the Mae Kok River from Chiang Rai to a Karen village, where you can watch and feed the elephants. You’ll also embark on a one-hour elephant trek. Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Chiang Rai. You’ll spend the night in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, you’ll take a ride to visit Chiang Saen, the ancient city located on the banks of the Khong River. Next, you’ll visit the Opium Museum, which showcases the history of opium in Thailand. You’ll have lunch on your own at a local restaurant in the Golden Triangle.

After lunch, you’ll take a boat trip along the Mekong River to see where Thailand, Burma, and Laos meet at the Golden Triangle. In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred directly to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel and stay overnight in Chiang Mai.

Your morning will begin with a walking tour of the old town, including visits to the ancient city wall, the moat, and one of the old town’s gates. You’ll explore Chiang Mai’s most beautiful temples, such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang. Afterward, you’ll stroll along quaint streets lined with traditional houses and enjoy a scenic rickshaw ride. You’ll then visit the bustling Warorot Market before heading to Doi Suthep Hill. In the evening, you’ll have free time to explore the vibrant Night Market. You’ll spend the night in Chiang Mai.

In the morning, you’ll drive for approximately 2 hours to reach Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest peak. Upon arrival, you’ll spend 2-3 hours trekking through the jungle along a narrow mountain trail, leading to a stunning hidden waterfall nestled in the lush greenery.

Along the way, you’ll pass through farmland with coffee plantations, flower farms, and picturesque rice terraces before arriving at the Pagagayaw Karen hill tribe village, where you can sample a cup of locally grown coffee.

Next, you’ll visit Vachiratharn Waterfall, a dramatic 70-meter-high cascade, and enjoy the refreshing air before heading back.

Afterward, you’ll explore the beautiful architecture of Napamaytanidol Chedi and Phra Mahatat Napaphon Bhumisiri, built to honor the 60th birthdays of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. Finally, you’ll be transferred back to Chiang Mai for overnight accommodation.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary for a memorable visit. You’ll journey approximately 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai, passing through rolling hills, forest, and local farming areas. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide and take a short walk through the jungle to the sanctuary. There, you’ll change into traditional Karen clothing and receive an introductory lesson about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

Next, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the elephants, feeding, interacting, and playing with them in their natural environment. You’ll learn about their behavior and history and take plenty of photos. Lunch will be served, featuring traditional Thai dishes and fresh fruit.

In the afternoon, you’ll learn how to make herbal medicine balls before feeding the elephants again. Then, you’ll accompany them to the river for a refreshing bath and brush. Following this, you’ll join the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa, swim in the river, and capture more photos.

Finally, you’ll change back into your clothes, say goodbye to the elephants, and drive back to Chiang Mai, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel and spend the night in Chiang Mai.

In the morning, you’ll have free time until your transfer to the airport for your flight to Krabi. Upon arrival in Krabi, you’ll be picked up and transferred to Ao Nang, where you’ll take a ferry to Koh Lanta Island. Once you check into your hotel, you’ll have free time to relax and enjoy the island at your own pace.

Koh Lanta is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, located just off the coast of Krabi. Its long coastline has nearly a dozen beaches; some considered the finest in the country, and each one with its own charm and atmosphere.

You’ll have the entire day free to enjoy at your own pace. Overnight on Koh Lanta Island.

You’ll have the entire day free to enjoy at your own pace. Overnight on Koh Lanta Island.

In the morning, you’ll be free until your transfer to Krabi airport for your flight back home. End of services.