This morning, pay a visit to Wat Pho – the oldest operating centre for public education in Thailand – known as the ‘Temple of the Reclining Buddha’. The awe-inspiring namesake is a 46-metre-long golden statue, humbling in its majesty.
Continue to the Grand Palace for a glimpse at the ancient Siamese court. Marvel at the colourful construction and finely detailed flourishes dating back over 200 years. Follow the many pilgrims to Wat Phra Kaew, known as the ‘Temple of the Emerald Buddha’. Here, Thailand’s most sacred statue of Buddha resides, whose dress is changed seasonally by the King himself.
Sit down for delicious lunch at a local restaurant, then hop aboard a longtail boat as you glide along Chao Phraya River on your way to Wat Arun, the ‘Temple of the Dawn.’ This riverside pagoda is a mind-boggling architectural feat dating back to the 17th century. Stand in awe of the incredibly detailed ceramic tiling and dizzying spires of this historic Buddhist temple, the tallest of which was built to resemble the legendary Hindu Mount Meru.
Later, return to your hotel for an evening spent freely.
Wave farewell to bustling Bangkok and transfer to the airport for an onward flight to Sukhothai – the first ancient capital of Siam. Check in at your welcoming hotel and settle in before tucking into an evening meal.
Wake to a day of exploration – spend your morning uncovering the historic ruins of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Historical Park. Jump on your provided bike as you peddle between Sukhothai’s most captivating sites, from its distinctive moat and city walls to the wondrous temples of Wat Sri Sawai, Wat Mahathat and the enormous, seated Buddha of Wat Si Chum.
Pay a visit to Ban Na Thon Chan, a local community village focused on balancing natural and cultural heritage. Learn the history and daily customs of the community, many of whom are descended from the ancient Lanna kingdom. Enjoy a lunch of delicious Sukhothai dishes, then hop aboard an e-tan for a tour of the village and the chance to see local craftsmen as they make furniture, wooden dolls and traditional desserts. Walk through the beautiful green rice paddies and soak up the scenic serenity.
Later, return to your hotel for a peaceful evening at leisure.
After a hearty breakfast, make your way to Si Satchanalai Historical Park on the bank of the Yom River. Discover a staggering 134 monuments spread among the ruins of this ancient town, including numerous temples and the fascinating Celadon Kiln Site Study, thought to date as far back as the 14th century.
Enjoy a local lunch before driving north to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, one of Thailand’s best-preserved wooden temples, showcasing the steep-roofed Lanna-style design. Continue your journey to magical Chiang Mai, where you’ll check in at your centrally located hotel for an evening at leisure.
Gather your energy over breakfast, then drive up the nearby mountains to the astounding Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Climb the magnificent 306-step staircase, bounded by striking depictions of dragon-headed serpents known as ‘Naga’. At the top, spend your time admiring the glittering gold stupa, then turn your gaze outward for sweeping views of the city below.
Visit the 14th-century Wat Umong, a forested temple covered in moss and rich greenery and make an offering to the resident Buddhist monks, then enter the complex’s mysterious tunnels.
After a filling lunch at a local restaurant, carry on to dazzling Sri Suphan for a look at the numerous local artisans who operate from inside the temple. As a centre for handicrafts and silverwares, shining Sri Suphan plays host to those preserving traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations. Try your hand at producing lacquerware under the guidance of the experts and create the perfect souvenir to take home.
Today, take the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the rural life of northern Thailand as you travel through the picturesque countryside to the mountain village of Mae Kampong. Meet with the residents of this small community and follow your local guides on a stroll through the forest town, passing peaceful waterfalls and carefully cultivated fields of tea and coffee.
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with your hosts, then continue on to a relaxing Thai massage. Explore the tea and coffee plantations of the region and learn about the different harvesting practices for each crop.
Later this afternoon, travel to Baan Hongnual for an invigorating Thai cooking class. Listen to your experienced teacher as you learn to prepare the distinct sauces and flavourful spices that transform each dish into something truly special. Savour your simmering creations, then spend some time strolling the herb and vegetable farm, spotting countless tropical fruits from longan to guava to the versatile jackfruit.
Rise to a refreshing breakfast, then transfer to Chiang Mai Airport (CNX) for your onward flight to the picturesque island of Phuket on southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast.
Once you arrive in this tropical paradise, you’ll be transferred to your premium accommodation to check in for an evening at leisure. Soak up the easy-going atmosphere and admire the lush scenery, from turquoise waters to towering rock formations.
Enjoy two days of absolute beach bliss, dipping into the warm and tranquil waters and reclining on Thailand’s most beautiful beaches, feeling the soft sands beneath your toes.
Choose to step out for a stroll through the colourful town, sampling Phuket’s finest seafood at a local restaurant. During your stay, be sure to set aside some time to truly unwind with an included Thai massage at your hotel.
Continue your rejuvenating experience with a day free to explore or relax as you desire. Perhaps decide to visit the beautiful Great Buddha of Phuket, a serene statue overlooking the idyllic town below.
In the evening, join your fellow travellers at your hotel for a sumptuous farewell dinner and drinks, reminiscing on your adventure over southern Thai dishes.
After one final breakfast at your beachside haven, it’s time to wave goodbye to its white sands and transfer to the airport (HKT), where your journey ends.