Highlights of Thailand
SKU:
$2,297.00
$1,997.00
$1,997.00
On Sale
per item
Prices are in US Dollars
(is also part of Grand South East Asia)
(is also part of Grand South East Asia)
THAILAND HIGHLIGHTS
From Bangkok to the Golden Triangle
Start in Bangkok, it's chaotic, it’s crazy yet it’s fascinating history and exquisite temples lure the explorer’s spirit. Discover the famous floating markets and the nearby city of Ayutthaya; once the former capital of Siam. Head north to the famous Chiang Mai Region. Visit an elephant camp and take bamboo rafts down the river. Visit the Golden Triangle where the mighty Mekong River separates its borders between Laos and Burma. You have the option to extend this trip in any direction: Take a short flight over to explore Cambodia's Angkor Watt or head south to the pristine waters of the Andaman Sea. Here beaches are superb, splendid snorkeling and diving possibilities and plenty of sunshine. This is a great way to end this trip in Phuket or in Krabi.
Highlights:
Bangkok, the floating markets of Thailand, elephant camps in the jungles of the North. The Golden Triangle of near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Discover ‘unspoiled rural cultures’. Phuket and Phi Phi Islands (optional).
Major Cities/Towns:
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket (optional)
Variety of Transport:
Bus, van, local taxi, elephants, long tail boat, bamboo rafts. Options are available for biking and motor scooters.
Variety of local food:
A large variety of local cuisines (Thai & Kantok)
Activity:
Easy: Walks in the towns and bazaars. Short hikes in the jungles and national reserves, moderate walk along the trails. Take Bamboo rafts to discover rural backwaters.
Unique Local Experiences:
From big cities to small towns the tour is packed with a number of experiences that will give you a better understanding of its diverse culture and customs. As you encounter its natural wonders, amazing wildlife, dances, music and a variety of local food, you will experience Thailand as nowhere else.
D-01Arrive in Bangkok
D-02 Bangkok – full day tours
D-03 Train & Floating Market - Ayutthaya – Chiang Mai
D-04 Arrive Chiang Mai – Visit Dui Suthep
D-05 Elephant Camp
D-06 Chiang Mai – Mae Sai – Golden Triangle
D-07 Chiang Rai – Departure
DAY 01 ARRIVE - BANGKOK
Upon arrival at Bangkok’s International Suwarnabhumi airport, proceed through immigration to obtain your Visa-on-arrival. Claim your luggage and proceed to the arrival hall. Our Representative will meet you here holding an Off The Map Adventures sign. Transfer to your hotel for check in, free at leisure. You have the option to explore Bangkok at night. Bangkok is famous for its markets, restaurants and its nightlife. Ask your guide to for suggestions. Overnight in Bangkok
DAY 02 TEMPLE TOUR –GRAND PALACE & EMERALD BUDDHA
Breakfast at hotel and then sightseeing tour to visit: Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, the temple is famous for its 900-year- old five-and-a-half-ton solid gold image. Then continue to visit Wat Arun, perhaps better known as the Temple of the Dawn, is one of the best known landmarks and one of the most published images of Bangkok. After that, a visit to Wat Po, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, as well as the largest single Buddha image: The Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas), also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The temple is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Our guide will assist you to a local restaurant for lunch. We continue to visit the most famous tourist places in Bangkok: The Royal Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace adjoins Wat Phra Kaew in a common compound. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai style Wat Phra Kaew and the more European inspired designs of the Grand Palace (the roof being the exception). Overnight in Bangkok
Optional Tours: Dinner Cruise on the Chayo Pharya:
The Chao Phraya Cruise departs from the River City Pier, where you will begin a timeless journey up the river to witness the historic attractions and 19th-century buildings lining the two riverbanks. Behold the marvelous Temple of Dawn, The Grand Palace, Rama VIII Suspension Bridge and a delightful collection of waterfront hotels and landmarks. All of these and a sumptuous buffet dinner, complemented with live music and a Thai classical dance show. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the unforgettable experience with your friends or family. Overnight in Bangkok.
DAY 03 VISIT FLOATING MARKETS & AYUTTHAYA
At Damnoen Saduak, visit the gardener's house and see how the sugar is made right from the coconut tree. Damnoen Saduak is also Thailand’s most famous and one of the most colourful Floating Markets. We will take a long tailed speedboat to the main market area. Take part in an experience that connects ancient traders with present day vendors. Now is your chance to try various kinds of exotic Thai fruits such as rambutans, mangoes, and papayas. Purchase genuine Thai handicrafts at this unique spot. See people haggle with each other from boat to boat. Envy the customers of the food vendors who prepare dishes on board their narrow crafts. Return to Ayutthaya for your overnight train to Chiang Mai.
DAY 04 CHIANG MAI -- DOI SUTHEP TOUR
Arrive at Chiang Mai, meet the tour guide and then transfer to the hotel. After check-in start the tour with a visit to the famous Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep which is considered to be the most sacred stupa in Chiang Mai. Located on a hilltop, that overlooks the Chiang Mai Valley, in traditional Northern-Thai style construction, the Wat contains a holy relic of Buddha. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Valley from here. Return to the hotel to relax or visit the famous Chiang Mai’s night bazaar. In the evening enjoy the famous dinner "Khantoke Dinner" also known as the Northern welcome dinner including hill tribe dancing. Overnight in Chiang Mai
DAY 05 ELEPHANT SAFARI - OX-CART RIDING - BAMBOO RAFTING
After breakfast embark on an exciting adventure to a nearby Elephant Camp. Here you see elephants showing off their various skills like dancing, moving heavy object and even painting. You will learn how these elephants are trained and how they create a lifelong bond with their trainer. It is time for an exciting elephant ride along the jungle trails followed by an Ox-Cart ride back to the camp (the elephant ride is optional). Lunch at the elephant camp. Afternoon, enjoy a thrilling bamboo raft ride along Mae Taeng river. Return to Chiang Mai with an additional stop at the Orchid Nursery. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
DAY 06 CHIANG RAI & THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE
After breakfast, drive to Tha Ton Temple to see the largest Buddha image in a seated position on top of the summit of Tha Ton. Proceed to Mae Sai Border Market, one of the largest border markets of Thai (Thai - Myanmar Border). Here you can get your passport stamped at the border for a small fee and you can officially get in to Myanmar for a few hours. Here you see several products such local foods, clothes, jewelry, silverware, stones etc. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Golden Triangle where the 3 borders of Laos, Myanmar & Thailand meet along with the mighty Mea Kong River. With its close proximity with China the river was used as a highway for trade. Along with the merchandise came opium. Later on, visit the Opium House, which is located nearby. You will learn about the trade routes of Opium along with interesting facts about the history of this area. After our tour we will return to our hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai
DAY 07 CHIANG RAI – DEPARTURE (or continue to take an exciting Island Break)
After breakfast take a train or a flight to Bangkok and to your next destination.
From Bangkok to the Golden Triangle
Start in Bangkok, it's chaotic, it’s crazy yet it’s fascinating history and exquisite temples lure the explorer’s spirit. Discover the famous floating markets and the nearby city of Ayutthaya; once the former capital of Siam. Head north to the famous Chiang Mai Region. Visit an elephant camp and take bamboo rafts down the river. Visit the Golden Triangle where the mighty Mekong River separates its borders between Laos and Burma. You have the option to extend this trip in any direction: Take a short flight over to explore Cambodia's Angkor Watt or head south to the pristine waters of the Andaman Sea. Here beaches are superb, splendid snorkeling and diving possibilities and plenty of sunshine. This is a great way to end this trip in Phuket or in Krabi.
Highlights:
Bangkok, the floating markets of Thailand, elephant camps in the jungles of the North. The Golden Triangle of near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Discover ‘unspoiled rural cultures’. Phuket and Phi Phi Islands (optional).
Major Cities/Towns:
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket (optional)
Variety of Transport:
Bus, van, local taxi, elephants, long tail boat, bamboo rafts. Options are available for biking and motor scooters.
Variety of local food:
A large variety of local cuisines (Thai & Kantok)
Activity:
Easy: Walks in the towns and bazaars. Short hikes in the jungles and national reserves, moderate walk along the trails. Take Bamboo rafts to discover rural backwaters.
Unique Local Experiences:
From big cities to small towns the tour is packed with a number of experiences that will give you a better understanding of its diverse culture and customs. As you encounter its natural wonders, amazing wildlife, dances, music and a variety of local food, you will experience Thailand as nowhere else.
D-01Arrive in Bangkok
D-02 Bangkok – full day tours
D-03 Train & Floating Market - Ayutthaya – Chiang Mai
D-04 Arrive Chiang Mai – Visit Dui Suthep
D-05 Elephant Camp
D-06 Chiang Mai – Mae Sai – Golden Triangle
D-07 Chiang Rai – Departure
DAY 01 ARRIVE - BANGKOK
Upon arrival at Bangkok’s International Suwarnabhumi airport, proceed through immigration to obtain your Visa-on-arrival. Claim your luggage and proceed to the arrival hall. Our Representative will meet you here holding an Off The Map Adventures sign. Transfer to your hotel for check in, free at leisure. You have the option to explore Bangkok at night. Bangkok is famous for its markets, restaurants and its nightlife. Ask your guide to for suggestions. Overnight in Bangkok
DAY 02 TEMPLE TOUR –GRAND PALACE & EMERALD BUDDHA
Breakfast at hotel and then sightseeing tour to visit: Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, the temple is famous for its 900-year- old five-and-a-half-ton solid gold image. Then continue to visit Wat Arun, perhaps better known as the Temple of the Dawn, is one of the best known landmarks and one of the most published images of Bangkok. After that, a visit to Wat Po, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, as well as the largest single Buddha image: The Reclining Buddha (Phra Buddhasaiyas), also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The temple is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. Our guide will assist you to a local restaurant for lunch. We continue to visit the most famous tourist places in Bangkok: The Royal Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace adjoins Wat Phra Kaew in a common compound. Despite the proximity of the two, there's a distinct contrast in style between the very Thai style Wat Phra Kaew and the more European inspired designs of the Grand Palace (the roof being the exception). Overnight in Bangkok
Optional Tours: Dinner Cruise on the Chayo Pharya:
The Chao Phraya Cruise departs from the River City Pier, where you will begin a timeless journey up the river to witness the historic attractions and 19th-century buildings lining the two riverbanks. Behold the marvelous Temple of Dawn, The Grand Palace, Rama VIII Suspension Bridge and a delightful collection of waterfront hotels and landmarks. All of these and a sumptuous buffet dinner, complemented with live music and a Thai classical dance show. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the unforgettable experience with your friends or family. Overnight in Bangkok.
DAY 03 VISIT FLOATING MARKETS & AYUTTHAYA
At Damnoen Saduak, visit the gardener's house and see how the sugar is made right from the coconut tree. Damnoen Saduak is also Thailand’s most famous and one of the most colourful Floating Markets. We will take a long tailed speedboat to the main market area. Take part in an experience that connects ancient traders with present day vendors. Now is your chance to try various kinds of exotic Thai fruits such as rambutans, mangoes, and papayas. Purchase genuine Thai handicrafts at this unique spot. See people haggle with each other from boat to boat. Envy the customers of the food vendors who prepare dishes on board their narrow crafts. Return to Ayutthaya for your overnight train to Chiang Mai.
DAY 04 CHIANG MAI -- DOI SUTHEP TOUR
Arrive at Chiang Mai, meet the tour guide and then transfer to the hotel. After check-in start the tour with a visit to the famous Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep which is considered to be the most sacred stupa in Chiang Mai. Located on a hilltop, that overlooks the Chiang Mai Valley, in traditional Northern-Thai style construction, the Wat contains a holy relic of Buddha. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Valley from here. Return to the hotel to relax or visit the famous Chiang Mai’s night bazaar. In the evening enjoy the famous dinner "Khantoke Dinner" also known as the Northern welcome dinner including hill tribe dancing. Overnight in Chiang Mai
DAY 05 ELEPHANT SAFARI - OX-CART RIDING - BAMBOO RAFTING
After breakfast embark on an exciting adventure to a nearby Elephant Camp. Here you see elephants showing off their various skills like dancing, moving heavy object and even painting. You will learn how these elephants are trained and how they create a lifelong bond with their trainer. It is time for an exciting elephant ride along the jungle trails followed by an Ox-Cart ride back to the camp (the elephant ride is optional). Lunch at the elephant camp. Afternoon, enjoy a thrilling bamboo raft ride along Mae Taeng river. Return to Chiang Mai with an additional stop at the Orchid Nursery. Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Chiang Mai.
DAY 06 CHIANG RAI & THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE
After breakfast, drive to Tha Ton Temple to see the largest Buddha image in a seated position on top of the summit of Tha Ton. Proceed to Mae Sai Border Market, one of the largest border markets of Thai (Thai - Myanmar Border). Here you can get your passport stamped at the border for a small fee and you can officially get in to Myanmar for a few hours. Here you see several products such local foods, clothes, jewelry, silverware, stones etc. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Golden Triangle where the 3 borders of Laos, Myanmar & Thailand meet along with the mighty Mea Kong River. With its close proximity with China the river was used as a highway for trade. Along with the merchandise came opium. Later on, visit the Opium House, which is located nearby. You will learn about the trade routes of Opium along with interesting facts about the history of this area. After our tour we will return to our hotel.
Overnight in Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai
DAY 07 CHIANG RAI – DEPARTURE (or continue to take an exciting Island Break)
After breakfast take a train or a flight to Bangkok and to your next destination.