THAILAND ANCIENT CAPITALS
& COUNTRYSIDE
14 DAYS FROM $1,549 US
Details below or click here for more information INQUIRY FORM
Phone: 1-888-682-6449/1-303-670-5640
Fax: (425) 984-7676
From admiring the resplendent Reclining
Buddha in vibrant Bangkok, to cruising into Laos on the Mekong River,
this 14-day journey through Thailand offers you endless moments of
wonder and discovery. See elephants enjoying their morning bath and
playing at the Maesa Elephant Camp. Test your bargaining skills at
Chiang Mai’s famous Night Market. Explore the exotic and ornate Grand
Palace, the royal residence built in 1782, and where school teacher
Anna Leonowens lived, whose story inspired "The King and I."
DEPARTURE DATES
February
April
14 DAYS FROM $1,549 US
Details below or click here for more information INQUIRY FORM
Phone: 1-888-682-6449/1-303-670-5640
Fax: (425) 984-7676
From admiring the resplendent Reclining
Buddha in vibrant Bangkok, to cruising into Laos on the Mekong River,
this 14-day journey through Thailand offers you endless moments of
wonder and discovery. See elephants enjoying their morning bath and
playing at the Maesa Elephant Camp. Test your bargaining skills at
Chiang Mai’s famous Night Market. Explore the exotic and ornate Grand
Palace, the royal residence built in 1782, and where school teacher
Anna Leonowens lived, whose story inspired "The King and I." Day 1: Overnight Flight
Your tour begins with an overnight flight to Thailand.
Day 2: Arrive Bangkok, Thailand - Tour Begins
You arrive in Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Day 3: Bangkok
A vibrant city, today Bangkok is a central economic hub for Southeast Asia. Blending with its modern-day might is a captivating history that more than 10 million inhabitants call their own. A city tour of Bangkok provides you with insight into the fascinating religious composition of this area during visits to two of Bangkok's famous temples: The Golden Buddha, clad in plaster centuries ago to hide its value from marauders, was rediscovered by a fortunate accident in 1957; The Reclining Buddha is about 150' long and is clad in pure gold. Visit the Grand Palace, an ornate royal residence built in 1782. Tonight you will be treated to a dinner cruise on a rice barge along the Chao Phraya River.
Day 4: Bangkok
Travel to the colorful and bustling floating market of Damnoen Saduak and take an exciting long tail boat cruise through the legendary canals, known as Klongs. Later, you travel to Kanchanaburi to visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. The original bridge inspired the movie about its construction by Allied prisoners of war during WWII who were coerced into building it by Japanese troops.
Day 5: Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Phitsanulok
A trip through the countryside brings you to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. Founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, Ayutthaya's Golden Age of over 400 years of prosperity came to an abrupt end when the Burmese invaded and ravaged it before abandoning the city for the jungle. The Ayutthaya Historical Park, located on the ruins of the ancient city, is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds spectacular ruins dating from the 14th century. After a moving visit, continue to Phitsanulok for the evening.
Day 6: Phitsanulok - Sukhothai - Lampang
Journeying north to Sukhothai, which presided as Thailand’s capital from 1238-1376, you'll explore this walled city that created a legacy of a unified nation of Thai people and has a phenomenal artistic heritage. The impressive assembly of elegant ruins is one of the most visited ancient sites in Thailand. Later, arrive in Lampang, the north's second largest town and an important center for the teak industry. Lampang is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Relax this evening at your hotel located on the banks of the Wang River, a popular hideaway for nature lovers.
Day 7: Lampang - Chiang Saen
Travel through the countryside to the northern most tip of Thailand in the heart of the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Burma meet. Arrive in Chiang Saen, an important trading crossroads since the seventh century, coveted for its strategic location guarding the Mekong. Chiang Saen was passed back and forth between the kings of Burma and Thailand for nearly three hundred years. Under the reign of Rama I, King of Thailand, the city was destroyed as a sign of dominance over the Burmese who formerly used it as their home base. The present village was established in 1804.
Day 8: Chiang Saen - Doi Tung - Chiang Saen
A visit to the Hall of Opium takes you on a journey into this mysterious world. Using state-of-the-art multimedia, the exhibition depicts more than 5,000 years of use and abuse of opiates, its spread throughout the world, and international efforts to control it. You will then travel to the highest peak on the Thai-Myanmar border…en route, you have the opportunity to view many different Lahu and Akha villages as well as picturesque terraced farming areas. Her Royal Highness, the Princess Mother of Thailand, realized that education was critical in the reduction of opium cultivation. Her Doi Tung "Flag Mountain" Development Project was created to help improve the lives of the local villagers by offering alternatives to opium agriculture and use. Next, take a leisurely stroll through the spectacular Mae Fah Luang Foundation, "Mother to Us All Garden," inspired by the much-loved Princess Mother's living in Switzerland. Learn about many traditional local crafts at the Cottage Industries Center and Outlets, where you will find woven textiles, hand-made mulberry bark paper and mountain-grown coffee beans.
Day 9: Chiang Saen - Laos - Chiang Saen
The best way to enjoy the picturesque landscape along the Mekong River area is by long tail boat. Cross the river on this unique vessel to Laos. You will have time to wander through a small village town, send a postcard, get your passport stamped or do some shopping. Return to Chiang Saen for an afternoon at leisure.
Day 10: Chiang Saen - Chiang Mai
Begin the day traveling south to Chiang Mai, known as the "Rose of the North". This city is famous for diverse cuisine, dialects and architecture, as well as the celebration of many festivals. Tour the cottage industries area and see the local artisans at work. You may shop there for silk, silver and lacquer at bargain prices.
Day 11: Chiang Mai
A scenic drive to the hills of Chiang Mai brings you to the heart of the Teak Forest where you will witness elephants at work & play at Maesa Elephant Camp. Your next stop is a beautiful orchid farm to see many varieties of the national flower of Thailand. Shop for umbrellas, silk, and celadon, the distinctive Thai green stoneware. Tonight, enjoy a Hill Tribe cultural show and witness the traditions and dance of the Hill Tribe people.
Day 12: Chiang Mai
This morning you will visit one of the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phrathat Dio Suthep, which is situated 3,520 feet above sea level. This temple is said to have been founded in 1383 and is a sacred site to many Thai people. Visit a jade factory and learn the history of this luminescent stone. A short film explains the basics of the process of turning jade into jewelry and other products before you watch the craftsmen at work and learn how to tell jade from its imitations. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy strolling, shopping and bargaining at the Night Market.
Day 13: Chiang Mai - Bangkok
A short flight* brings you back to Bangkok. Today you may wish to take an optional tour of legendary American businessman Jim Thompson’s house. This magnificent Thai-styled home contains an extensive collection of art objects and antiques. Thompson single-handedly revived the Thai silk industry after WWII and then mysteriously disappeared. This evening, join your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner.
Day 14: Bangkok - Tour Ends
Today your tour concludes in the city of Bangkok.
Your tour begins with an overnight flight to Thailand.
Day 2: Arrive Bangkok, Thailand - Tour Begins
You arrive in Bangkok, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
Day 3: Bangkok
A vibrant city, today Bangkok is a central economic hub for Southeast Asia. Blending with its modern-day might is a captivating history that more than 10 million inhabitants call their own. A city tour of Bangkok provides you with insight into the fascinating religious composition of this area during visits to two of Bangkok's famous temples: The Golden Buddha, clad in plaster centuries ago to hide its value from marauders, was rediscovered by a fortunate accident in 1957; The Reclining Buddha is about 150' long and is clad in pure gold. Visit the Grand Palace, an ornate royal residence built in 1782. Tonight you will be treated to a dinner cruise on a rice barge along the Chao Phraya River.
Day 4: Bangkok
Travel to the colorful and bustling floating market of Damnoen Saduak and take an exciting long tail boat cruise through the legendary canals, known as Klongs. Later, you travel to Kanchanaburi to visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai. The original bridge inspired the movie about its construction by Allied prisoners of war during WWII who were coerced into building it by Japanese troops.
Day 5: Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Phitsanulok
A trip through the countryside brings you to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. Founded in 1350 by King U-Thong, Ayutthaya's Golden Age of over 400 years of prosperity came to an abrupt end when the Burmese invaded and ravaged it before abandoning the city for the jungle. The Ayutthaya Historical Park, located on the ruins of the ancient city, is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds spectacular ruins dating from the 14th century. After a moving visit, continue to Phitsanulok for the evening.
Day 6: Phitsanulok - Sukhothai - Lampang
Journeying north to Sukhothai, which presided as Thailand’s capital from 1238-1376, you'll explore this walled city that created a legacy of a unified nation of Thai people and has a phenomenal artistic heritage. The impressive assembly of elegant ruins is one of the most visited ancient sites in Thailand. Later, arrive in Lampang, the north's second largest town and an important center for the teak industry. Lampang is located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Relax this evening at your hotel located on the banks of the Wang River, a popular hideaway for nature lovers.
Day 7: Lampang - Chiang Saen
Travel through the countryside to the northern most tip of Thailand in the heart of the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Burma meet. Arrive in Chiang Saen, an important trading crossroads since the seventh century, coveted for its strategic location guarding the Mekong. Chiang Saen was passed back and forth between the kings of Burma and Thailand for nearly three hundred years. Under the reign of Rama I, King of Thailand, the city was destroyed as a sign of dominance over the Burmese who formerly used it as their home base. The present village was established in 1804.
Day 8: Chiang Saen - Doi Tung - Chiang Saen
A visit to the Hall of Opium takes you on a journey into this mysterious world. Using state-of-the-art multimedia, the exhibition depicts more than 5,000 years of use and abuse of opiates, its spread throughout the world, and international efforts to control it. You will then travel to the highest peak on the Thai-Myanmar border…en route, you have the opportunity to view many different Lahu and Akha villages as well as picturesque terraced farming areas. Her Royal Highness, the Princess Mother of Thailand, realized that education was critical in the reduction of opium cultivation. Her Doi Tung "Flag Mountain" Development Project was created to help improve the lives of the local villagers by offering alternatives to opium agriculture and use. Next, take a leisurely stroll through the spectacular Mae Fah Luang Foundation, "Mother to Us All Garden," inspired by the much-loved Princess Mother's living in Switzerland. Learn about many traditional local crafts at the Cottage Industries Center and Outlets, where you will find woven textiles, hand-made mulberry bark paper and mountain-grown coffee beans.
Day 9: Chiang Saen - Laos - Chiang Saen
The best way to enjoy the picturesque landscape along the Mekong River area is by long tail boat. Cross the river on this unique vessel to Laos. You will have time to wander through a small village town, send a postcard, get your passport stamped or do some shopping. Return to Chiang Saen for an afternoon at leisure.
Day 10: Chiang Saen - Chiang Mai
Begin the day traveling south to Chiang Mai, known as the "Rose of the North". This city is famous for diverse cuisine, dialects and architecture, as well as the celebration of many festivals. Tour the cottage industries area and see the local artisans at work. You may shop there for silk, silver and lacquer at bargain prices.
Day 11: Chiang Mai
A scenic drive to the hills of Chiang Mai brings you to the heart of the Teak Forest where you will witness elephants at work & play at Maesa Elephant Camp. Your next stop is a beautiful orchid farm to see many varieties of the national flower of Thailand. Shop for umbrellas, silk, and celadon, the distinctive Thai green stoneware. Tonight, enjoy a Hill Tribe cultural show and witness the traditions and dance of the Hill Tribe people.
Day 12: Chiang Mai
This morning you will visit one of the most interesting temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Phrathat Dio Suthep, which is situated 3,520 feet above sea level. This temple is said to have been founded in 1383 and is a sacred site to many Thai people. Visit a jade factory and learn the history of this luminescent stone. A short film explains the basics of the process of turning jade into jewelry and other products before you watch the craftsmen at work and learn how to tell jade from its imitations. The remainder of your day is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy strolling, shopping and bargaining at the Night Market.
Day 13: Chiang Mai - Bangkok
A short flight* brings you back to Bangkok. Today you may wish to take an optional tour of legendary American businessman Jim Thompson’s house. This magnificent Thai-styled home contains an extensive collection of art objects and antiques. Thompson single-handedly revived the Thai silk industry after WWII and then mysteriously disappeared. This evening, join your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner.
Day 14: Bangkok - Tour Ends
Today your tour concludes in the city of Bangkok.
INCLUSIONS,
ACCOMODATIONS, HIGHLIGHTS & EXPERIENCES
Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, Laos, Hall of Opium, Chiang Mai, Elephant Camp, Night Market
Experience a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
Spend one night relaxing in a river lodge located on the banks of Wang River, a hideaway for nature lovers.
Visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai.
Traveling by long tail boat, visit a small village in Laos.
14 days, 27 meals
ACCOMMODATIONS
Imperial Queens Park Hotel
Thailand
Amarin Lagoon Hotel
Thailand
Lampang River Lodge
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Mai
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Mai Hotel,
Chiang Mai
Imperial Queens Park Hotel
Thailand
Imperial Queens Park Hotel,
Bangkok
On some dates alternative hotels may be used.
Optional Excursions for Thailand Ancient Capitals & Countryside. Plan Ahead, Reserve Now!
Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While we are known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation – your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour!
Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Balloon Flight of Chiang Mai
City: Chiang Mai
There is no better way to view the beauty of Chiang Mai than a gentle free-floating balloon flight over the mysterious countryside. Depart prior to sunrise this morning to a field where you will view the hot air balloons being filled for your trip. At the first rays of sunshine, your balloon will be lifted. You will view wide plains of the Ping River Valley and enjoy a champagne breakfast at your landing site.
Balloon flight is one hour in duration and is weather permitting.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 4 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Doi Inthanon National Park
City: Chiang Mai
Visit the Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand’s highest mountain. Drive to the top where you will see twin chedis commerating the birthdays of the King and Queen of Thailand, as well as take a walk to see the unique flora of the area. Because of the high altitude the flora is noticeably different from that at lower altitudes. On the way down the summit stop to see the Mae Klang waterfall and a Karen hilltribe village. Also, explore the local agricultural research station which grows and experiments with crops that can be grown in the area.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
Elephant Camp and Banboo Raft at Chiang Dao
City: Chiang Mai
This is sure to be the hightlight of your trip! At the elephant camp the elephants are trained to work the jungle using their weight and trunks to build. Climb into the wooden bench saddle and see how mahouts move the elephants by tickling the base of their ears with their toes as you enjoy an elephant ride through the nearby jungle. Your visit ends with a leisurely float down the river on a bamboo raft.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Thai Massage Bangkok $45
City: Bangkok
After a long day sightseeing in Bangkok, take some time to relax and be pampered in a traditional Thai spa. Enjoy a wonderful foot, back and shoulder massage to help you unwind from a busy day.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Thai Massage Chiang Mai
City: Chiang Mai
After a long day sightseeing in Chiang Mai, take some time to relax and be pampered in a traditional Thai spa. Enjoy a wonderful foot, back and shoulder massage to help you unwind from a busy day.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Traditional Thai Small Puppet Show
City: Bangkok
Enjoy a puppet performance that you cannot see anywhere in the world but Thailand. During the performance, you will see the puppeteers will not stay behind the scene but be part of the scene as well. Traditional puppets give the performance of the Ramayana – the Indian epic tale. See the incredible lifelike human movements of each puppet and see how the puppeteers bring their puppets to life.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, Laos, Hall of Opium, Chiang Mai, Elephant Camp, Night Market
Experience a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
Spend one night relaxing in a river lodge located on the banks of Wang River, a hideaway for nature lovers.
Visit the famous Bridge on the River Kwai.
Traveling by long tail boat, visit a small village in Laos.
14 days, 27 meals
ACCOMMODATIONS
Imperial Queens Park Hotel
Thailand
Amarin Lagoon Hotel
Thailand
Lampang River Lodge
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Mai
Thailand
Le Meridien Chiang Mai Hotel,
Chiang Mai
Imperial Queens Park Hotel
Thailand
Imperial Queens Park Hotel,
Bangkok
On some dates alternative hotels may be used.
Optional Excursions for Thailand Ancient Capitals & Countryside. Plan Ahead, Reserve Now!
Add a touch of personalization to your vacation by selecting from our well-researched list of options. While we are known for our many inclusions, we also want to be sure you have adequate free time and options to enhance your vacation – your way. And now, you can reserve your options in advance of your tour!
Availability is limited and reservations are on a first come, first serve basis. Payment must be received no later than 15 days prior to departure. Prices are subject to change. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
Balloon Flight of Chiang Mai
City: Chiang Mai
There is no better way to view the beauty of Chiang Mai than a gentle free-floating balloon flight over the mysterious countryside. Depart prior to sunrise this morning to a field where you will view the hot air balloons being filled for your trip. At the first rays of sunshine, your balloon will be lifted. You will view wide plains of the Ping River Valley and enjoy a champagne breakfast at your landing site.
Balloon flight is one hour in duration and is weather permitting.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 4 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Doi Inthanon National Park
City: Chiang Mai
Visit the Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand’s highest mountain. Drive to the top where you will see twin chedis commerating the birthdays of the King and Queen of Thailand, as well as take a walk to see the unique flora of the area. Because of the high altitude the flora is noticeably different from that at lower altitudes. On the way down the summit stop to see the Mae Klang waterfall and a Karen hilltribe village. Also, explore the local agricultural research station which grows and experiments with crops that can be grown in the area.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
Elephant Camp and Banboo Raft at Chiang Dao
City: Chiang Mai
This is sure to be the hightlight of your trip! At the elephant camp the elephants are trained to work the jungle using their weight and trunks to build. Climb into the wooden bench saddle and see how mahouts move the elephants by tickling the base of their ears with their toes as you enjoy an elephant ride through the nearby jungle. Your visit ends with a leisurely float down the river on a bamboo raft.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Thai Massage Bangkok $45
City: Bangkok
After a long day sightseeing in Bangkok, take some time to relax and be pampered in a traditional Thai spa. Enjoy a wonderful foot, back and shoulder massage to help you unwind from a busy day.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Thai Massage Chiang Mai
City: Chiang Mai
After a long day sightseeing in Chiang Mai, take some time to relax and be pampered in a traditional Thai spa. Enjoy a wonderful foot, back and shoulder massage to help you unwind from a busy day.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Traditional Thai Small Puppet Show
City: Bangkok
Enjoy a puppet performance that you cannot see anywhere in the world but Thailand. During the performance, you will see the puppeteers will not stay behind the scene but be part of the scene as well. Traditional puppets give the performance of the Ramayana – the Indian epic tale. See the incredible lifelike human movements of each puppet and see how the puppeteers bring their puppets to life.
Your transportation is included.
Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required.
Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
DEPARTURE DATES
February
April
PRICES
from approx $1,549 US per
person,
based on double occupancy
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A-Z Tours International - Company Profile
Phone: 1-888-682-6449/1-303-670-5640
Fax: (425) 984-7676
tours@a-ztravel.com