Ancient capitals hiding untold magnificence, stunning countryside settings with quaint villages and lush fields and even metropolis settings such as Bangkok will all be on display along Thailand – Ancient Capitals & Countryside. Prepare for fourteen days of discovering the riches of the unique and historic culture!
Day 1 – Overnight Flight
Board an overnight flight* to Bangkok, Thailand and prepare for an immersive view into the ancient capitals and countryside of Thailand.
Day 2 – Bangkok, Thailand
Spend the day recouping from your flight at the Amari Atrium.
Day 3 – Bangkok, Thailand
Today will be your first thorough look into the setting of Thailand. Tour the city of Bangkok for a glimpse into the sumptuous landmarks of the area. From the shimmering gold that covers the 150-foot long Reclining Budha to the royal setting of the Grand Palace, you’re sure to be impressed as you experience the regal landmarks of the capital city. You’ll be treated to a dinner cruise later tonight as you enjoy the sights of the Chao Phraya River.
Day 4 – Bangkok, Thailand
Explore the markets and waterways of the Bangkok area on day four! First, visit the floating market of Damnoen Saduak for a unique shopping locale that can offer products every bit as unique as the market itself. Next, travel the canals of the area by long tail boat before eventually making your way to Kanchanaburi to visit its famous bridge that crosses the River Kwai.
Day 5 – Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Phitsanulok, Thailand
Your first stop on day five will be Ayutthaya, the one-time capital of Thailand. While the city may not exhibit the same grandeur it did during its Golden Age, it is still inhabited and certainly offers a glimpse into its regal past. Venture into the ruins of the city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and then make your way towards Phitsanulok to check-in at the Amarin Lagoon Hotel.
Day 6 – Phitsanulok, Sukhothai and Lampang, Thailand
Start your day by journeying to another one-time capital of Thailand, Sukhothai. Sukhothai was the country’s capital from 1238 – 1376, and features a walled setting famed for its artistic history. Lampang will be your next stop. It is the second largest town in northern Thailand and set amidst a stunning display of valleys and mountains. Tonight’s lodging will be the Lampang River Lodge.
Day 7 – Lampang and Chiang Saen, Thailand
Awake to an exciting day of sightseeing through the area’s Golden Triangle, the area where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Burma touch. You’ll eventually arrive in Chiang Saen, and important city in terms of Thailand’s historical commerce and military strategy. Once in Chiang Saen, you’ll check-in at the Imperial Golden Triangle Hotel and rest from the day’s travels.
Day 8 – Chiang Saen and Doi Tung, Thailand
Day eight delves into the darker aspects of Thailand culture as you visit the Hall of Opium. Through various forms of multimedia you’ll experience the 5,000 year history of opium in Thailand and both the positive and negative effects it has had on the country. After taking in the multimedia experience, travel to the highest peak on the Thai-Myanmar border. Here, learn more about the Doi Tung ‘Flag Mountain’ Development Project instituted by the Princess Mother of Thailand. Her plan attempted to offer local farmers alternatives cash crops to help stunt the production of opium. The next half of the day will offer a lighter look into Thailand as you visit the Mae Fah Luang Foundation, ‘Mother to Us All Garden.’ The afternoon will also see you visiting the Cottage Industries Center and Outlets to browse and purchase woven textiles, mulberry bark paper, mountain-grown coffee beans and more.
Day 9 – Chiang Saen and Laos, Thailand
Cruise the picturesque Mekong River by tail boat during the morning of day nine. Eventually, arrive in Laos with time to explore the village on your own. The afternoon will see you returning to Chiang Saen with more leisure time to experience the city as you please.
Day 10 – Chiang Saen and Chiang Mai, Thailand
The ‘Rose of the North,’ Chiang Mai, will be your destination today. Once you arrive, the time spent will be at your leisure to explore the architecture, cuisine and craftsmanship of the area exactly as you choose. Tonight’s lodging is at the Imperial Mae Ping Hotel.
Day 11 – Chiang Mai, Thailand
Today, travel outside Chiang Mai to visit the Teak Forest. The forest’s Maesa Elephant Camp presents unprecedented views of elephants at work and play, while the orchid farm will offer a unique look into the national flower of Thailand. Tonight, experience the Hill Tribe cultural show for rich understanding of the culture of the area’s Hill Tribe people.
Day 12 – Chiang Mai, Thailand
Day twelve will take you to the impressive temple of Wat Phrathat Dio Suthep, set 3,520 feet above sea level. You’ll also visit a jade factory to learn how jade is processed. The rest of the day will be spent in Chiang Mai at your leisure.
Day 13 – Chiang Mai and Bagkok, Thailand
You’ll board a flight* from Chiang Mai to Bagkok in the morning of day thirteen. Once back in Bangkok, you’ll have one last farewell dinner with your travel partners before resting at the Amari Atrium.
Day 14 – Bangkok, Thailand
Your look into the ancient capitals and countryside of Thailand comes to a close in Bangkok.
*Airfare not included in total price
