Tour Detail

10 Days-9 Nights PANORAMA PVT

DAY 1 - BANGKOK - KANCHANABURI, River Kwai: War Museum, Allied Cemetery, Train Ride, Prasat Muang Singh. (B.L.)

DAY 2 - KANCHANABURI: Erawan National Park - AYUTTHAYA (B.L.)

DAY 3 - AYUTTHAYA - SUKHOTHAI: Bang Pa In, Ayutthaya Historical Park, Sukhothai Historical Park (B.L.)

DAY 4 - SUKHOTHAI - SRI SATCHANALAI - PHAYAO - CHIANG RAI: Si Satchanalai Historical Park, Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkol Khiri, Vonburi House, Phayao Lake (B.L.)

DAY 5 - CHIANG RAI - CHIANG MAI: Golden Triangle, Wat Phra That Pu Khao, Opium Museum, White Temple, Mae Krachan (B.L.)

DAY 6 CHIANG MAI: Elephant Sanctuary Doi Suthep. (B.L.)

DAY 7 - CHIANG MAI MAE HONG SON: Doi Inthanon (Wachirathan Waterfalls, Ang Kha Trail, Pagodas, Mae Chaem) (B.L.)

DAY 8 MAE HONG SON PAI: Local Market, Long Neck Women, Fish Cave, Lod Cave (B.L.)

DAY 9 PAI CHIANG MAI: Santichon Village, Pai Canyon, Pong Duet Geyser, Mae Malai Local Market (B.L.)

DAY 10 CHIANG MAI: Transfer. (B.)

Day 1

DAY 1 - BANGKOK - KANCHANABURI, River Kwai: War Museum, Allied Cemetery, Train Riding, Prasat Muang Singh. (L.)

Departure on a private basis around 06:30. At 06:30, meet the guide and depart for Kanchanaburi, with an expected arrival around 09:30. Begin the visits. Kanchanaburi is a city in western Thailand, famous for the Death Railway built during World War II. The line crosses the Khwae Yai River via the Death Railway Bridge. Exhibitions at the JEATH War Museum honor the prisoners of war who died building the bridge. The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre explores the broader history of the railway. Nearby, thousands of Allied soldiers are buried in the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery. At 10:45 - Board the train for a scenic ride to Tham Krasae. Stop for lunch and time to visit the area with the Tham Krasae Bridge next to the namesake cave. In this area, the train slows to a crawl as it crosses the precarious-looking bridge known as the Wang Pho Viaduct. A wall of rock towers is a short distance to the right, with a steep drop to the river and phenomenal views to the left, another highlight of the trip. After lunch, visit the Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park, where we find traces of the once-flourishing Khmer Kingdom in one of the most well-known religious structures in Thailand. Historians estimate that Prasat Mueang Singh and its surrounding architectures on the bank of the Kwai Noi River were built between 857 and 1157 as a religious temple of the Khmer Kingdom. Subsequently, the temple was abandoned until the reign of King Rama I when the area of Mueang Singh became one of Kanchanaburi's border towns. However, the restoration of the structures was not completed until 1987. The main remaining structure is the Prasat Mueang Sing itself (the Tower of the Lion City), an architecture in Khmer style with influences of Lop Buri arts. It is framed by city walls of 800 x 1,500 meters. During excavations, historians found valuable artifacts, antiques, ceramics, and religious ornaments with over 2000 years of history. Around 15:00, transfer to the hotel. Check-in. The rest of the evening is at leisure.

Day 2

DAY 2 - KANCHANABURI: Erawan National Park - AYUTTHAYA (B.L.)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Meet the guide around 08:30 and head for a visit to Erawan National Park. Upon arrival at the Erawan Waterfalls, we will start our exploration. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes suitable for a short trek, bringing your swimsuit and towels. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant or in takeaway format. Erawan National Park holds significant importance as one of Thailand's major national parks. Located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, the park has received numerous awards, the most prestigious of which was the award in the natural attractions category at the sixth Thailand Tourism Industry Awards in 2006. Here you will discover the largest and most impressive waterfall in Kanchanaburi, Erawan Waterfall, which flows from a mountain 2,100 meters above sea level, originating from the Huai Mong Lai River. The waterfall stretches over a length of 1,500 meters and comprises seven levels, each offering a spacious and safe area for swimming and relaxing. Additionally, you can take a 30-minute walk along the Erawan Nature Trail to appreciate the beauty of the evergreen hills and deciduous forests. Around 15:00 - 15:30, we will start our journey to Ayutthaya, with an estimated travel time of 3-3.5 hours. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel for the overnight stay.

Day 3

DAY 3 - AYUTTHAYA - SUKHOTHAI. Bang Pa In, Ayutthaya Historical Park, Sukhothai Historical Park (B.L.)

At 07:00, meet with the local guide and depart to discover the Ancient Capital of Thailand. Proceed to the Ayutthaya Historical Park, the city was founded around 1350 and became the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai. It flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries, during which it became one of the largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas in the world and a center of global diplomacy and commerce. Ayutthaya was strategically located on an island surrounded by three rivers that connected the city to the sea. This site was chosen because it was above the tide of the Gulf of Siam as it existed at that time, thus preventing attacks on the city by maritime warships of other nations. 13:00-13:30 LUNCH BREAK In the afternoon, arrive at the Sukhothai Historical Park. The park is open daily and also offers tram service and bicycles for rent to explore the vast area. Main points of interest include: The city walls are located in the center of the Historical Park and are surrounded by bastions. The rectangular city measures 1330 meters in width and 1800 meters in length. The walls contain four main gates. A stone inscription mentions that King Ramkhamhaeng placed a bell at one of the gates. If his subjects needed help, they could ring the bell, and the King would come out to make decisions on disputes and dispense justice. Inside the city, there are 35 monuments, including Buddhist temples and many other structures, such as the Royal Palace and Wat Mahathat. Arrive at the hotel in Sukhothai around 17:30. Overnight stay.

Day 4

DAY 4 - SUKHOTHAI - SRI SATCHANALAI - PHAYAO - CHIANG RAI. Si Satchanalai Historical Park, Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkol Khiri, Vonburi House, Phayao Lake (B.L.)

07:00 Meet with the local guide and depart for Chiang Rai, with pleasant stops along the way. The Si Satchanalai Historical Park is located on the bank of the Yom River. The ancient city, formerly called Muang Chaliang, was named Si Satchanalai during the reign of Phra Ruang when a new administrative center was established to replace Chailang. The ruins of 134 monuments have been discovered within this park. Although not an ancient temple, Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkol Khiri has beautiful architecture inspired by traditional styles, such as the Ubosot (Ordination Hall) and Lanna style, with a teak building. The Vonburi House, built in teak in the late 1800s and early 1900s in European colonial style, is now an interesting and well-preserved house museum. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Phayao Lake is very popular among local tourists and is also an important fishing resource. Early in the morning, fishermen go out and return mid-morning to supply the lakefront restaurants that prepare for another day of dining, with grilled lake fish as a highlight on the menu. The lakeside is a popular recreational area with afternoon aerobics classes, families picnicking, couples strolling in the evening along the walkway among the adjacent cafes and restaurants. Here you can choose from various activities (not included in the quotation, to be paid directly on-site), including renting a boat to tour the waters to Wat Tilokarum or renting a bicycle to wander around the lake. Arrive in Chiang Rai around 18:00. Check-in at the reserved hotel. Evening at leisure.

Day 5

DAY 5 - CHIANG RAI - CHIANG MAI. Golden Triangle, Wat Phra That Pu Khao, Opium Museum, White Temple, Mae Krachan (B.L.)

Today we start exploring this northernmost province of Thailand, beginning with the famous Golden Triangle, the point where the borders of Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, and Laos meet. The visit includes Wat Phra That Pu Khao, which offers a wonderful view of the Golden Triangle, the Mekong River, and the forested mountains. Two large multi-headed Naga serpents at the base of the stairs protect the temple. Continue to the Opium Museum, which educates visitors about the production of opium and its use in the lives of the hill tribe people. From the visit, we can learn much about the history of opium from when it developed in this notorious locality. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. On the way to Chiang Mai, we stop at the famous White Temple, Wat Rong Khun, one of Chiang Rai's numerous religious sites. Created by the great devotion of the famous Thai artist Chalermchai Kosipipat, the temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha with the intention of building a reachable paradise on earth that represents justice and the encouragement of good karma. Stop also at the Hot Springs of Mae Krachan. Arrive in Chiang Mai in the evening. Check-in at the reserved hotel. Evening at leisure.

Day 6

DAY 6 – CHIANG MAI – Elephant Sanctuary – Doi Suthep. (B.L.)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we have a beautiful day at an elephant sanctuary, to learn more about these pachyderms, a half-day visit offering visitors a pleasant experience with the opportunity to spend time with elephants in their natural environment, and gain insight into their history and behavior, thus creating pleasant memories for their time spent with these wonderful animals that will accompany them for a lifetime. APPROXIMATE ITINERARY 06:30-07:00 Pick up from your hotel or accommodation by the Elephant Sanctuary. Drive for about 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forests, and local agricultural areas. 08:30 Arrive at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Meet the elephants and change into traditional Karen clothing. 09:00 Meet the elephants. Feed them, interact and play with the elephants in a natural environment while learning about their behavior and history. Take photos with the elephants. 09:45 Mud Spa with the elephants 10:30 Walk with the elephants to the river and bathe with them. 11:30 Lunch with a traditional meal and then farewell to the elephants. 12:00 Leave the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and drive for about 1.5 hours back to Chiang Mai. In the afternoon, we complete the day by visiting the most famous temple in Chiang Mai, Wat Pratat Doi Suthep, located on a mountain from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the hilly area of Chiang Mai. Built in the early 19th century Buddhist era (now we are in the 26th), the beauty of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is marked by seven-headed serpent statues flanking the steps to the temple where there is a golden pagoda in Chiang Saen style and all its exquisite Lanna architecture. The view of Chiang Mai from here is simply phenomenal. Return to the hotel around 16:30, time to relax.

Day 7

DAY 7 - CHIANG MAI – MAE HONG SON. Doi Inthanon (Wachirathan Waterfalls, Ang Kha Trail, Pagodas, Mae Chaem) (L.)

07:00 Meet with the Italian-speaking guide. Departure for Mae Hong Son. Along the way, observe beautiful mountain landscapes, passing through Doi Inthanon National Park and beautiful waterfalls, to small rural centers like Mae Cham and Khun Yuam. Arrival in Mae Hong Son is expected in the evening. 08:30 Arrive at Wachirathan Waterfalls, time available. 10:00 Arrive at the summit of Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand, just over 2,500 meters. Time available for a walk in the evergreen forest. 11:30 Visit the Pagodas dedicated to the King and Queen. 12:30 Lunch at a local restaurant. 15:30 Pass through the small rural town of Mae Chaem. 18:30 Arrive in Mae Hong Son. Check-in at the selected hotel. Rest of the evening at leisure, overnight stay. DOI INTHANON NATIONAL PARK Located in Chiang Mai province, Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand, with a height of 2,565 meters above sea level. The Doi Inthanon National Park has many surprising variations in its lush geography and forest. It is home to the rainforest, mixed forest, and pine forest. The climate is cool throughout the year, especially in the cold season when there will be almost constant fog cover all day and an extraordinary Mae Kha Ning (frost) phenomenon in the early morning. The main attractions of the park are the summit of Doi Inthanon for its spectacular early morning views, several waterfalls, a few trails, and the two chedis (stupas) dedicated to the King and Queen on their sixtieth birthday anniversaries. Most of the waterfalls within the park have a relatively good water flow all year round, but the best season is during the rainy season from May to November. One of the park's seasonal attractions is the flowering of the Thai sakura, which colors the trees pink during late January and February. The park is also one of the country's main destinations for bird lovers. MAE HONG SON Bordering Burma, in northern Thailand, is the idyllic town of Mae Hong Son. Mountains and some of Thailand's highest waterfalls surround the town. The easiest way to get here from Bangkok is by bus or plane. Many passengers arrive from Chang Mai. The climate ranges from very hot in summer to zero degrees in winter. April is statistically the hottest month, while January is the best time to visit. The province's population has long lived isolated from the outside world and is composed of a variety of ethnicities. Mae Hong Son has a couple of nicknames: "The Land of Three Mists" and "The Switzerland of Thailand." Both are appreciated, but the latter better immerses into the scenery of this romantic hidden refuge on the Burmese border. Mae Hong Son is one of the nation's most forested provinces, attractive to those who love cooler climates and slightly more mountainous terrain. It is one of the few places in the country that can reach 0 degrees Celsius during cold evenings, so it is advisable to come armed with warmer clothing during November-January. The cooler temperatures are one of the reasons for the aforementioned mists, which appear throughout the year, most often in the early morning.

Day 8

DAY 8 – MAE HONG SON – PAI. Local Market, Long-Neck Women, Fish Caves, Lod Caves (B.L.)

Breakfast at the hotel. At 08:00, meet the guide and start exploring this beautiful green province. Begin with the morning local market, then visit the 2 city pagodas, Wat Chong Kham, Wat Chong Klang, followed by Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu. Then visit the village of the so-called "Long-Neck Women" of Ban Huay Sua Tao. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. On the way to Pai, stops at the Fish Caves and Lod Caves, including a brief bamboo raft ride. Arrive in Pai in the evening. Time available to relax in this magical little town. Overnight stay in Pai. MORNING MARKET The morning market is near Wat Hua Wiang on Sihanatbamrung Road, this lively market is crowded from early morning until 9:00. Here visitors can see the lifestyle of the people and purchase various local food products and produce. WAT CHONG KHAM This is an old temple on the shore of Nong Chong Kham Swamp. It was built in 1827 by Thai Yai craftsmen. The pillars are gilded with gold flakes. The temple houses a large Buddha statue with a lap width of 4.85 meters prepared by Burmese craftsmen. Another statue is a replica of the Buddha image in Wat Suthat in Bangkok. WAT CHONG KLANG Wat Chong Klang, next to Wat Chong Kham, is a temple where a replica of the Phra Phuttha Sihing is on the altar. There are several interesting wooden objects depicting humans and animals described in the Phra Vejsandon Jakata (pronounced Cha-dok, which means one of the strange stories of the Buddha's former incarnations) created by Burmese craftsmen and brought here in 1857. The paintings on the glass concern the Jakata and Prince Siddhartha, as well as representing the lifestyles of the time. The captions are in Burmese. There are also notes that the paintings were made by Thai Yai craftsmen from Mandalay. WAT PRATAT DOI KONG MU Wat Phrathat Doi Kong Mu, erected by the first governor of Mae Hong Son, reflects a strong Burmese influence. The highlights of this attraction are the two richly decorated pagodas. Additionally, this hilltop temple offers an exceptional aerial view of the city and the surrounding mountains and valleys. THAM PLA - PHA SUEA NATIONAL PARK Tham Pla (Fish Caves) is located about 17 kilometers from the city on Highway No. 1095 (Mae Hong Son-Pai), Tham Pla is a popular attraction in Mae Hong Son. The surrounding areas are streams and cool forested hills suitable for relaxation. A special feature is the hollow cave filled with numerous freshwater fish known as Pla Mung or Pla Khang, which is from the same family as carp. The fish, being considered sacred, are safe from being caught. THAM LOT Tham Lot is a huge cave system, once home to prehistoric men. Archaeologists have discovered ancient clay pottery and a number of carved wooden coffins inside the cave chambers. Tham Lot is located about 77 kilometers from the city. Here nature has created an exotic underground wonder of darkness and mystery. A stream flows from the cave's mouth to the other side of the mountain. It is a route where visitors can take a raft or walk, allowing exploration of the approximately one-kilometer-long cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 9

DAY 9 – PAI – CHIANG MAI. Santichon Village, Pai Canyon, Pong Duet Geyser, Mae Malai Local Market (B.L.)

Breakfast at the hotel. At 08:00, meet the guide and depart for Chiang Mai. Along the way, stops to visit Santichon Village, in Chinese style, the Pong Duet Geysers, Pai Canyon, and the Mae Malai local market. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. Arrive in Chiang Mai in the evening. Check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay. SANTICHON VILLAGE The village of Santichon, or Yunnan Chinese Cultural Center, was colonized by Chinese who fled Mao Tse Tung's Chinese revolution. After all these years, the descendants still living here, adhering to traditional ways, have managed to profit from Pai's economic revival. Santichon Village has a population of 2000 souls mixed with Yunnan ethnicities, Thai hill tribes, and former Chinese Kuomintang soldiers. Once opium was still the village's linchpin, and old Chinese soldiers roamed the streets in their old republican uniforms, automatic rifles in hand. Today it has become a popular center among Thai tourists, with a large tea tasting area that has replaced opium as the main crop and offers a souvenir market at the village entrance. PAI CANYON Pai Canyon, known locally as Kong Lan, is described in some tourist brochures as Thailand's answer to the Grand Canyon. The geological and topographical features of the Canyon are quite surprising. This unique geographical area has been continuously eroded for decades to reach its current conditions. The ledges and narrow slabs carved by the erosive actions of the elements have steep cliffs of 30 meters and a series of narrow passages cut along the ridges of giant rock walls that wind into the densely forested valley. The panorama up there is majestically beautiful and the view impressive; you would not expect such nature behind the hills. The landscape is quite original, the panoramic area offers a fantastic 360° view to admire at sunrise or sunset. The best times for a walk are before sunrise or at sunset. The entire panorama is very picturesque when the sun hits the mountain top. PONG DUET HOTSPRING Pong Dueat Pa Pae Hot Spring is a geyser hot spring. To be precise, it is the largest geyser hot spring in Thailand! The water is about 99 degrees Celsius and will gush about 2 meters high every 30 seconds. It is a beautiful sight. You might smell sulfur, which is in the water, but don't worry, the smell won't be bad. You should find three separate ponds on the spot. The hot spring is the largest. There are also bathhouses for tourists who want to enjoy bathing with hot mineral water. You know that natural hot water is good for your skin? Yes. It will stimulate blood circulation. Moreover, it can also cure some types of diseases. Anyway, it will make you feel comfortable.

Day 10

DAY 10 – CHIANG MAI. Transfer. (B.)

Breakfast at the hotel. Room available until 12:00. 2.5 hours before the flight, meet with the driver and transfer to the airport. End of services.