Timeless Thailand – An Adventure of History and Paradise

• Bangkok: Grand Palace, Wat Po, Chao Phraya River Cruise, Floating Markets, Night Markets
• Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple, Elephant Nature Park, Lanna Culture, Hill Tribe Villages
• Koh Samui: Beautiful Beaches, Snorkeling, Island Hopping

Day 1: ARRIVE INTO BANGKOK

Welcome to Bangkok, also known as Krungthepmahanakorn, the vibrant capital city of Thailand. Established as the capital in 1782 under the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty, Bangkok serves as the country’s cultural, political, and economic hub.

Rich in history and tradition, Bangkok offers an abundance of sightseeing and entertainment options. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, alongside a myriad of temples and historic sites. The city's intricate canal systems and the Chao Phraya River have earned it the nickname “Venice of the East.” Explore bustling markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market, visit Jim Thompson’s House, and unwind at the famous Wat Pho and Wat Benjamabophit. For shopping enthusiasts, the Mahboonkrong Shopping Centre is a must-visit.

Upon clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Meals included: None

DAY 2: BANGKOK SIGHTSEEING TOUR: GRAND PALACE & WAT PO

Immerse yourself in the heart of Bangkok's history and culture with a visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Po. Marvel at the intricate golden spires, dazzling mosaics, and architectural grandeur of the Grand Palace, a former royal residence. Continue to Wat Po, home to the colossal Reclining Buddha, a serene and awe-inspiring sight.

Enjoy a delightful Thai meal at the Supatra River House Restaurant, overlooking the scenic Chao Phraya River.

Explore Bangkok from a different perspective with a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River and the tranquil canals of Thonburi. This serene journey reveals a picturesque contrast to the bustling city life. Known as the “Venice of the East,” Bangkok’s waterways allow you to glimpse traditional family homes and charming temples. On your return, stop at the iconic Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), renowned for its stunning spire adorned with colorful porcelain. This is the perfect opportunity to capture unforgettable photos of this architectural masterpiece.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 3: DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET AND MAE KHLONG RAILWAY MARKET

This morning, embark on an overland journey to the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, located 110 km from Bangkok in Ratchaburi province. As Thailand's most famous floating market, it offers a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of old Siam. You’ll witness colorful vendors navigating bustling canals in sturdy boats filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies, all while the lively atmosphere invites lively bargaining. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the market at its peak, before the crowds and heat of the day set in.

After exploring the market, we’ll head to Mae Klong Station to experience the unique railway market. Be captivated as a train approaches and vendors swiftly clear their stalls from the tracks. Following this exciting visit, we’ll return to Bangkok, where the rest of your day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Optional: Experience a paddle boat ride at an additional cost.

Evening Adventure: Bangkok Night Light Tour (19:00 - 23:00 HRS)

Experience the magic of Bangkok after dark on a captivating tuk-tuk tour. Glide through the city streets, weaving through traffic as you admire illuminated temples and bustling markets. Indulge in delectable street food, savor the vibrant atmosphere, and create lasting memories of this enchanting city.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 4: BANGKOK – CHIANG MAI

Later today, you will transfer to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. We recommend the following flight option (airfare details provided separately).

Flight: Bangkok to Chiang Mai – TBA

Chiang Mai, affectionately known as the "Rose of the North," boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Established in 1296 by King Mengrai the Great, it became the capital of the Lanna Thai kingdom, uniting various city-states in the region. Today, Chiang Mai serves as the cultural, economic, and tourism hub of Northern Thailand.

Upon your arrival in Chiang Mai, you will be warmly greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Please note that the standard check-in time is 14:00.

This afternoon, immerse yourself in a Lanna Dinner experience from 16:30 to 20:30.

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken south to Bandoo in the Hangdong district, where you will visit the home of the Raunkaew-Yanon family. This Lanna family has deep roots in the area, possibly arriving by elephant nearly 150 years ago. They continue to uphold traditional customs, building their homes from teak wood and preserving the natural beauty surrounding them.

During your visit, you'll gain insight into the simple yet enriching Lanna way of life, exploring the family orchard filled with bananas, mangoes, and coconuts, as well as a garden abundant with cooking herbs. You'll have the chance to join in cooking activities alongside the family.

Dinner will be served on the terrace of the Raunkaew-Yanon home, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the village. This tour offers an authentic experience of Lanna culture, highlighting the traditions, architecture, and the harmonious relationship between the community’s spirituality, their ancestors, and nature.

Note:  Thai cooking and Lanna cooking meals will be served during dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5: CITY AND TEMPLES WITH WAT PHRA THAT DOI SUTHEP

Discover the rich heritage of Chiang Mai through its stunning and historic Buddhist temples on this captivating tour. A standout experience is a visit to the 600-year-old Wat Pra That Doi Suthep, perched near the summit of Doi Suthep mountain. After a scenic drive along winding roads, you'll ascend the breathtaking Naga staircase, featuring 306 intricately designed steps. At the temple, you'll find an impressive copper-plated chedi topped with a five-tiered golden umbrella, which houses relics of Lord Buddha. On clear days, the panoramic views of Chiang Mai are simply unforgettable.

Additionally, you'll explore other significant temples, including Wat Suan Dok, known for its large central stupa that contains the ashes of Chiang Mai's royal family; Wat Chedi Luang, where the revered Emerald Buddha was once enshrined; and Wat Phra Singh, home to a sacred 1,500-year-old Buddha image. Join us for a spiritual journey through these architectural marvels!

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 6: ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE IN CHIANG MAI

Embark on a captivating full-day journey at Elephant Nature Park, where you’ll gain deep insights into the lives of Asian elephants. Discover their challenges and hear the heartwarming stories of our resident elephants as you observe them from our viewing platform, watching them roam and interact with their families.

Your adventure begins in the morning with a visit to a local market in Chiang Mai. After being picked up from your hotel or guesthouse around 8:00-8:30 am, you’ll join our staff to load food for the elephants into our trucks. Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Thai countryside until you arrive at the picturesque Mae Taeng Valley and Elephant Nature Park, where you'll be warmly welcomed by our friendly rescue dogs, eager for a scratch behind the ears.

Throughout the day, our expert guides will share the personal stories of our rescued elephants. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch "Vanishing Giants," an award-winning National Geographic documentary that highlights the vital work of Lek Chailert for Asian elephants in Thailand. Learn about the pressing issues these magnificent creatures face in Southeast Asia and the positive changes advocated by the Elephant Nature Foundation regarding their care and treatment. Be prepared for delightful interruptions as you watch the elephants interact, making every moment even more special.

A standout moment of your visit will be bath time! A couple of hours after your arrival, the elephants, along with their mahouts, will make their way to the Mae Taeng River for a refreshing dip. You’ll learn how to safely bathe an elephant and can even join them in the river to put your skills to the test. Our guides and volunteers will be on hand to capture your experiences, so you can focus on enjoying this unforgettable moment. If you prefer to stay dry, you can still enjoy the playful antics of the elephants from the sandy shore.

While you’re at the river, our volunteers and mahouts will prepare fresh fruits and vegetables for feeding time—a highlight of the day! After bath time, you’ll return to the main hut where you can feed the elephants from the viewing platform, creating perfect opportunities for memorable photos.

After the elephants have had their fill, it’s time for you to enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our kitchen staff. Dine on fantastic Thai cuisine while surrounded by the elephants and engage in conversations with your guide and Park volunteers to learn even more about these incredible animals.

As the day winds down around 5 pm, it will be time to say goodbye to the elephants and Elephant Nature Park. After a heartfelt farewell, you’ll embark on an hour-long drive back to Chiang Mai, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or guesthouse, carrying unforgettable memories from your day.

What to Bring: In addition to your camera and sunscreen, consider bringing a change of clothes for after your bath time—something dry and comfortable. Please remember that due to Thailand’s conservative dress traditions, bathing suits and bikinis aren’t suitable; shorts and t-shirts are typically worn by volunteers and staff in the water.

Depending on the season, you might also want to pack rain gear. Additionally, bringing a bit of spending money for our gift shop is a great idea; all proceeds go directly to supporting our elephants and the mahouts who care for them.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: CHIANG MAI - SAMUI

Later today, you will transfer to Chiang Mai Airport to catch your flight to Koh Samui. We recommend the following flight (airfare is provided separately).

Flight: Chiang Mai to Samui – TBA

Upon your arrival in Koh Samui, our representative will greet you and assist you with your transfer to your hotel. Please note that the standard check-in time is 14:00.

Koh Samui, Thailand's third-largest island after Phuket and Koh Chang, is renowned for its stunning beaches and lush coconut plantations, creating a true tropical paradise. Located on the eastern side of the peninsula in the Gulf of Thailand, the island’s main town, Nathon, features a bustling pier for boats to various destinations, along with a variety of restaurants, shops, cafes, internet services, banks, and a post office. Local taxis, known as 'songthaews,' are available for convenient travel around the island.

Enjoy the sandy shores of Chaweng Beach, which offers dining and vibrant nightlife, or explore nearby Lamai Beach, Choeng Mon Beach, Bo Phut village, and Mae Nam Beach, each with its own unique charm and dining options.

Meals included: Breakfast

DAY 8: VISIT KOH TAO & KOH NANG YUAN BY SPEEDBOAT (JOIN-IN)

Join us for an exhilarating speedboat adventure to Koh Tao, famously known as Turtle Island due to its turtle-shaped coastline. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun on this stunning island. The crystal-clear waters off the beach are perfect for snorkeling, offering vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish to admire.

Our first stop is Sairee Beach on the west coast, renowned for its 1.7-km stretch of pristine white sand, punctuated by dramatic boulders. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before we head to Koh Nang Yuan. There, we'll hike up a small hill to a breathtaking viewpoint, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Soft drinks and snorkeling gear will be provided for your convenience.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: SAMUI

Free time at leisure

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10: DEPARTURE FROM SAMUI

Spend your free day at your own pace. Later, you'll be picked up and taken to Samui International Airport for your return flight to Bangkok.

Flight from Samui to Bangkok - TBA

Upon your arrival in Bangkok, you can connect to your homebound flight to the USA, departing at TBA (under your own ticket).

Meals included: Breakfast

SERVICES INCLUDED

• Accommodation at selected hotel with daily breakfast included
• All transportation by private air conditioned vehicle for all included sightseeing 
• Services of local English speaking guides (Except day free at leisure without transportation and guide as mentioned) 
• All  entrance fees to sites 
• Water & cool towels on vehicle during tour

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

• Visa for Thailand
• Airport fast track services
• Meals are not mentioned 
• International flights to/from Thailand
• Optional Tour.
• Camera/video entrance fees if applicable 
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, telephone, tips for the guide, etc) 
• Other services not clearly indicated in the package inclusions above