DAY 1 - BANGKOK – CHACHOENGSAO – KHAO YAI
Bangkok – Wat SothornWararamWoraviharn (88.8 km): 1.03 hr Wat SothornWararamWoraviharn – Talad Baan Mai (4.2 km): 5 min Talad Baan Mai – TaladKlongSuan (21.6 km): 22 min TaladKlongSuan - Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital (92.8 km): 1.18 hr Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital – Khao Yai (147 km): 2.23 hr
Escape from the chaotic capital city and take a journey back intoa more traditional Thai era. Start with a short train ride to Chachoengsao, a lesser known historical town east of Bangkok (Note: We sometimes experience delays with trains in Thailand. Should this occur, it may require changes to the program).
Upon arrival at the train station in Chachoengsao, hop on a tuk tuk ride to Wat Sothorn Wararam Woraviharn, the famous temple with its remarkable hall made from Italian marble. After that, continue to Talad Klong Suan, a 100-year old canal-side market which impresses visitors with its simple daily lifestyle, and be dazzled with its old shop houses and stalls selling a variety of items including food, quaint old utensils and ancient tin toys. If a visit falls on the weekends, alternative visit is also Talad Baan Mai, another 100-year old market.
Lunch at the market.
After lunch, depart for Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachinburi. Within this charming yellow colonial building lies a center of traditional herbal pharmacy study and training. Experience the varieties and healing properties of Thai herbs. Continue to Khao Yai via a scenic road that runs alongside Khao Yai National Park. Start a 1km walk through the forest to Nong Phug She Tower, which is located near Nong Phug Shee pond - the main water source for many species of animal.
Continue to the hotel.
Overnight at Khao Yai.
DAY 2 - KHAO YAI
Breakfast at the hotel. Free morning at leisure.
Drive through scenic countryside to the nearby GranMonte Vineyard in the Asoke Valley for lunch at Vincotto, a charming restaurant with a beautiful atmosphere. After that, explore the vineyard and experience wine and grape tasting. Return to the resort.
In the late afternoon, drive to the open rice fields surrounded by lush mountain, where you will experience an amazing phenomenon of zillions of bats flying out of the cave over the paddy fields.
Overnight at Khao Yai.
DAY 3 - KHAO YAI - AYUTTHAYA - UTHAITHANI
Khao Yai – Bang Pa-In Summer Palace (133 km): 2.02 hr Bang Pa-In Summer Palace - Ayutthaya (20.5 km): 27 min Ayutthaya – Ang Thong (34 km): 34 min Ang Thong – Uthai Thani (121 km): 1.30 hr
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive to Ayutthaya, the capital of Thailand for more than 417 years from 1350 to 1776. The first stop is at Bang Pa-In to see the Summer Palace built by King Rama IV at a time of growing European influence in Thailand. See the Italian-inspired palace building and surrounding temples. Also visit Wat Niwet Thammaprawat, a gothic-inspired temple beside the river. Continue to the most important of the ruined temples in Ayutthaya Historical Park, Wat Mahathat and Wat Pra Sri Sanphet by local “Kermit” tuk tuk. Take lunch at a pleasant riverside restaurant before continuing north to Ang Thong province to see the Sukhothai period reclining Buddha at Wat Pa Mok Woraviharn, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, before continuing to Ban Phae village, where various sizes of drum are made. Next, proceed to Uthai Thani.
Overnight in Uthai Thani.
DAY 4 - UTHAI THANI - KANCHANABURI
Uthai Thani – Wat Tha Sung (9.4 km): 13 min Uthai Thani – Kanchanaburi (228 km): 2.57 hr
After breakfast, visit Wat Chantharam (Wat Thasung) with its magnificent crystal hall, before continuing to the local market place for a stroll through the village to experience natural rural life. There is also an opportunity for a bike ride around a small island to meet up with local people.
This afternoon, enjoy a lunch cruise on Sakaekrang River. There are very few tourists passing through this part of Thailand and guests will get a strong feeling for the natural rhythm of Thailand. Following a drive to Kanchanaburi, guests can visit the “Bridge on the River Kwai” and the Railway Museum before transferring to their hotel. After freshening up, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
DAY 5 - KANCHANABURI
Kanchanaburi town – Erawan National Park (87.8 km): 1.07 hr
After breakfast, depart for Erawan Waterfall - a beautiful seven-tiered waterfall. Located in Erawan National Park, the best time to visit is during rainy season from May until September. Walking up to see each of the picturesque falls, it is best to bring good walking shoes. Also, guests should remember to bring their swimming suit if they wish to swim in the fall’s natural pools.
Note:
- Depending on the circumstances the guide will decide whether it is safe enough or not for swimming in the waterfalls. Guests should always respect and follow his decision.
- Erawan waterfall is a famed attraction for locals as well as tourists, hence expect it to be busy during weekends and Thai public holidays
After lunch at a local restaurant, take a short train ride along the infamous ‘Death Railway’ through Kwai Noi gorge.
Return to the hotel and dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Kanchanaburi.
DAY 6 - KANCHANABURI - AMPHAWA
Kanchanaburi – Mae Klong Samut Songkram (109 km): 1.28 hr Mae Klong – Amphawa (16.8 km): 19 min
After breakfast, visit Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park - a Khmer temple complex dating back to the Angkorian period. Walk around the peaceful historical ruins and explore the history and culture of the area, then drive to the garden province of Samut Songkhram in the Mae Klong river delta area. First, *visit a unique country market along the railway tracks. Lunch at a local restaurant. Then continue the afternoon by strolling around the fruit orchards and visiting some interesting temples in the area. Check in at the resort in the afternoon and enjoy an evening dinner in Amphawa.
If the visit falls on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, the upcountry trip will be spiced up with a visit to the weekend evening floating market, which is full of vendors selling local delights. (Note: An optional boat ride along the river to see the glittering fireflies at night.)
Overnight in Amphawa.
DAY 7 - AMPHAWA - BANGKOK
Amphawa – Bangkok (90 km): 1.17 hr
In the early morning, freshen up and ‘make merit’ by giving alms to the local Buddhist monks (by the river or in front of the resort, depending on where guests stay).
Then, visit Tha Kha**, one of the many floating markets in the area where guests can observe authentic local trading. Take a fascinating paddle boat journeying through the maze of klongs (canals), cruising by plantations before stopping to enjoy a glass of palm sugar syrup and a chat with a friendly local family. Following lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to King Rama II Memorial Park which houses a Thai-style pavilion museum displaying artifacts from the early Rattanakosin era and a landscaped garden filled with native flowers. Visit artisans who produce exquisite hand-painted Benjarong porcelain and pottery before returning to Bangkok in the late afternoon.
(Note: The Tha Kha market is held every Saturday and Sunday. Weekday availability is 5-6 times a month depending on the lunar cycle calendar. On the days when Tha Kha is not open, we will head to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Although quite touristy today, the market remains the best example to showcase how a floating market originally was like decades ago.)
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Ther Things to See and Do in Thailand
1. Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho
Thailand’s royal palace was built at the end of the 18th century by King Rama I and is the official residence of the current monarch (though he doesn’t live there anymore; now it’s just used for ceremonies). It’s a striking place filled with numerous temples, including Wat Pra Kaeo, which houses the 15th-century Emerald Buddha. Nearby Wat Pho is famous for two things: a larger-than-life golden reclining Buddha statue and a very relaxing massage school.
2. Visit Khao Sok National Park
Located in the south of Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. You’ll find semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and incredible sunsets. Park entrance costs 200 THB (6 USD).
3. Hop around the ancient capitals
Between Chiang Mai and Bangkok are Thailand’s three ancient capitals – Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya. Visiting them on your way north is a unique way to head from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. You’ll get to learn about ancient Thailand and see rural life at its best. My favorite is Ayutthaya.
4. Relax on tropical islands
Thailand has a million and one beautiful tropical islands. Some are overdeveloped, while others only have a single bungalow on them. You’ll find everything here. Some of the best islands here are – Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang, Ko Tao, Ko Jum, Ko Lipe, Ko Phi Phi, Phuket, the Similan Islands, and Ko Samui.
5. Partake in the Full Moon Party
If you like partying, there’s no better party in the world than the famous Full Moon Party. The Full Moon Party is a giant festival-like party with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint. Sure, it is super touristy but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot of fun and it’s as much a part of Thailand as anything else.
6. Go jungle trekking
There are some great jungle trekking opportunities in northern Thailand. Be sure to go on a multi-day hike. The shorter hikes aren’t as good and the hill tribes you visit are like visiting a rural impoverished Disney World. The biggest departure points are Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Don’t book any tours ahead of time, you can book these sorts of outings through the hostel or hostel you’re staying in closeby. If you book online ahead of time, you will pay more.
7. Go scuba diving in the Similan Islands
Scuba diving here is a popular activity because of the crystal clear waters and majestic sea life. The cheapest place to learn is on the island of Ko Tao, which caters specifically for dive trips. Most people don’t go unless they’re planning on diving. While you can dive all over the country, the Similan Islands offer the best diving. If you dive the Similan Islands, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, and the reef houses plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 3,700 THB (110 USD).
8. Learn to cook
Thai food is delicious and it’s relatively easy to cook. All over the country, you’ll find places to teach you, though the best are in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, at least you get to spend a day making and eating scrumptious food.
9. Explore the Khmer temples in Isaan
There are many temples built throughout the region, all along the ancient roads connecting Angkor to the other villages. The largest of these is Phimai, located at the end of the ancient highway. In the Buriram province are two other magnificent Khmer temples only a few kilometers apart. Phanom Rung built on top of a hill and Muang Tum which is at the base of the hill.
10. Get off the trail in Isaan
One of the most under-visited areas of the country, Isaan is mostly a land of farms and villages. This is a great place to escape the frantic tourist atmosphere of the rest of the country. It is not overrun by tourists, and you get a chance to experience Thai culture in a different, more personal way. I think it’s one of the most interesting places in the country.
11. Take the day train
Taking the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is not only cheaper but a much better way to see the countryside than the night train. Sure, you waste a day but you see the countryside, you experience how Thais take the train, and you’re treated to vendors coming off and on every stop selling meals for 15 THB (0.45 USD). The day trip remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book!
12. The Elephant Nature Park
Sure you can come to Thailand and ride an elephant, but so many of them in this country suffer from abuse. An even better way to get up-close-and-personal to the animals is to volunteer at the Elephant Conservation Center near Chiang Mai. It’s a phenomenal place, allows you to give back to the community, and lets you help and play with these magnificent animals all a once. After coming here, you will know why you should NEVER ride an elephant in Thailand. A one-day visit costs 2,500 THB (75 USD) for adults.
13. Admire Wat Doi Suthep
This stunning Buddhist temple lies in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, 10 miles out of Chiang Mai. A tram or a trek up 300 steps will take you to the summit of Doi Suthep, where the glittering gold temple spire awaits you. The temple dates back to the 14th century and holds rare relics of Buddha. It’s really is too beautiful of a view to miss, so don’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting Wat Doi Suthep. Admission is 30 THB (0.90 USD). It’s open from 6am-6pm.
14. Visit the Golden Triangle
The point where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River is known as the Golden Triangle. You can take a boat and head to the Golden Triangle Park, or check out some of the many Buddha statues and markets.
15. Ko Phi Phi
This is one of the most popular tourist islands in Thailand. From the famous of Maya Bay (made famous in The Beach) to the monkeys on the aptly named Monkey Beach to the diving and nightlife, there are reasons people flock here. Destroyed by the tsunami in 2004, the island has been rebuilt and developed to an even greater extent than before.
16. Ko Lipe
Located in southern Thailand, this semi-off the map island is one of my favorite places in the world. Here on Ko Lipe, the super friendly locals bring in the daily catch for amazing seafood. The beaches are beautiful, the water warm, and the island cheap. I came for three days and then lived here for a month. In the last few years, it has become very developed and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be but it’s still way less developed than many other destinations in Thailand. Moreover, you’re near a pristine and undeveloped national marine park where you can snorkel and enjoy some beaches to yourself!
17. Shop at the floating markets
Thailand is full of markets. Perhaps the most whimsical of these are the floating markets, which can be found throughout the country. Some of the best are Damnoen Saduak, in Ratchaburi, and the Taling Chan Weekend Floating Market in Bangkok. You’ll find rickety boats piled high with colorful goods and eats. You’ll get plenty of great photos! (Although it’s become majorly touristy to go to the floating markets, you’ll not want to miss a morning shopping from boat to boat.)
18. Backpack in Kanchanaburi Province
Here you’ll find a lush forest perfect for trekking, though the history of this area is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway is located here, linking Burma and Myanmar, which were constructed during WWII by prisoners of war. This is also where you will find the Bridge on the River Kwai, built using POW labor and the subject of a both a film and a book. While it is a haunting reminder, it is an essential part of Thailand’s history.
19. Motorbike through Northern Thailand
Around the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai areas, there are lots of great routes. Many people rent bikes and tour the scenery. You can take a day trip, or you can take a couple of days – whatever suits your schedule. The Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop that you can do starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai. Note: Make sure if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it and never (ever) drink and drive.
20. Relax in Pai
Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape some of the craziness of your larger cities. It is a true backpackers town, located in Northern Thailand. It is nestled in rolling green mountains and surrounded by waterfalls and incredible hiking trails. Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves, where you can take a stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on your way there. Stay on the outskirts town in a lovely little bungalow, rent a bike, traverse the hills, and bathe in the cool waterfalls.
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