Treasures of Thailand with Phuket
Treasures of Thailand with Phuket
$6005
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Thailand with the "Treasures of Thailand with Phuket" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Phuket. Discover the grandeur of Bangkok's Grand Palace and the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market. Explore the ancient cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, and pay homage at the historic Bridge over the River Kwai. Engage with local communities in Natonchan and enjoy a traditional meal with a family in Chiang Mai. In Phuket, experience a cultural fusion with a local specialist, exploring the island's rich history and diverse influences. With luxury accommodations, expert guides, and a blend of sightseeing and free time, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy daily breakfasts, select evening meals, and the flexibility of optional experiences, all while traveling in comfort with a luxury air-conditioned coach. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Sawadee ka Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation: Montien Surawong
Accommodation Name: Montien Surawong
Say sawadee ka to the land of smiles, starting your Thai adventure in Bangkok. Transfer to your hotel where this evening, you will meet your Travel Director and fellow guests for a dinner.
Day 2: See the Sights of Bangkok Dive Into Culture
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation: Montien Surawong
Accommodation Name: Montien Surawong
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Rise early and join the locals for a graceful T’ai Chi practice in Lumpini Park to kick-start your day. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely start before joining your fellow travelers on a City Tour, which begins with a visit to Bangkok’s Grand Palace, where you’ll visit the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew. See the largest-reclining Buddha in Thailand in Bangkok’s oldest temple, Wat Pho, and enjoy a traditional Thai massage in the temple’s massage center. Return to your hotel by express river boat, cruising down the Chao Praya past beautiful Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn.
Day 3: Thai Cuisine and Cooking Experience Dive Into Culture
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation: Montien Surawong
Accommodation Name: Montien Surawong
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Immerse your senses in the five flavors of Thai cuisine as you join a Local Specialist for a traditional cooking class in a colonial-style house. Visit a local market nearby to source the freshest ingredients that reveal the sweet, sour, salty, bitter and hot flavors of Thai cuisine. Sample the results later, then spend the afternoon exploring the City of Angels on your terms, or consider joining an Optional Experience to Jim Thompson's House, home to an impressive collection of Asian art.
Day 4: Onwards to Damnoen Saduak and Kanchanaburi Dive Into Culture
Location: Damnoen Saduak, Kanchanaburi
Accommodation: Away Kanchanaburi Dheva Mantra Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Dheva Mantra Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A riot of colors greets us this morning as we embark on a visit to the famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak. Connect with the friendly merchants who paddle along the congested canals in their sturdy canoes, laden with fresh fruit and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. En route, we’ll Dive Into Culture, stopping at a coconut palm sugar plantation where we’ll discover how the farmer extracts the sap from his palm trees to create palm sugar. After lunch in a local restaurant, visit the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai. After a walk along the bridge continue to the Thailand-Burma Railway Museum, revealing insights into the history of the infamous railway line built during WWII by the Imperial Japanese army. Our final stop today sees us pay tribute to the thousands of allied prisoners of war who were laid to rest at the War Cemetery.
Day 5: Railways and Rivers in Kanchanaburi
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation: Away Kanchanaburi Dheva Mantra Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Dheva Mantra Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, we visit Hellfire Pass, a section of the Thailand-Burma “Death Railway”, so named for the tortuous conditions that prisoners of war endured during WWII to build it. After lunch, we embark on a thrilling train ride across wooden viaducts, skirting the winding waters of the Kwai River. We’ll disembark and see the wooden viaducts first-hand walking across one. This evening, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6: On to Ancient Ayutthaya and Sukhothai
Location: Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Sukhothai
Accommodation: Legendha Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we travel to the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya, once the second-most important ancient capital of Old Siam and the largest city in the world. Here, we’ll delve into the trading heritage of a mighty city that was all but raised to the ground by an 18th century Burmese invasion. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then return to Bangkok for our flight to Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital.
Day 7: Explore Sukhothai
Location: Sukhothai
Accommodation: Legendha Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Gain insights into a powerful kingdom that enjoyed its golden age during the 13th and 14th centuries and shaped modern Thailand as we know it today. Start the day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park which reveals thousands of years of history and a 15-meter seated Buddha secreted within its walls. Your choice of exploring will see you engage with the historic complex by bicycle or on the internal tram. This afternoon, visit the home of a local family and learn how to make amulets which are thought to protect the owner from harm.
Day 8: Continue to Chiang Mai Make Travel Matter
Location: Natonchan, Chiang Mai
Accommodation: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Accommodation Name: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Our day begins with a visit to the first of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences today at the village of Natonchan, where our visit supports the community’s eco-tourism project . We’ll interact with the locals and meet one of the villagers to learn about 'gymnastic doll' making and the villagers’ traditional cotton clothes which are soaked in mud to protect them from fading. Arriving in Chiang Mai, we enjoy an evening walk with our Travel Director and visit the colorful Sunday market. Our hotel tonight is located in the old town of Chiang Mai.
Day 9: Meet the Locals of Northern Thailand Connect with Locals
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Accommodation Name: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit Wat Suan Dok where we’ll meet a local monk and learn about Buddhism, against the backdrop of the temple’s magnificent golden chedi. We continue to a small village nearby where we’ll Connect with Locals, joining a family in their typical stilt house for a northern Thai-style Be My Guest lunch. Then admire the delicate hand-painted fans and colorful paper umbrellas that are famously crafted in Chiang Mai’s Sankamphaeng district.
Day 10: A Day to Discover Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Accommodation Name: Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your morning is free to spend as you please. Later, we visit Wat Doi Suthep, one of Thailand's most sacred temples. As the sun sets over this mystical temple, listen quietly to the tranquil sounds of the monks chanting. This evening, we join fellow travelers and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 11: Onwards to Phuket
Location: Chiang Mai, Phuket
Accommodation: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Accommodation Name: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Chiang Mai bound for Phuket, Thailand’s largest island. On arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 12: Enjoy Exploring Phuket
Location: Phuket
Accommodation: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Accommodation Name: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
There’s more to Phuket than its glorious beaches and dazzling nightlife. The island is a captivating fusion of Thai, Chinese, Indian, Arabic and even Portuguese influences, which you’ll have an opportunity to encounter first-hand during your walking tour of Phuket Town with a Local Specialist. Visit the early morning fresh food market, rubbing shoulders with the locals who stop by daily to shop and enjoy a quick breakfast. Continue to the amulet market and learn how these metal charms are worn to protect the wearer from harm or bring good luck. Discover the trading history of the island, admiring the beautifully restored shop-houses along your route. You’ll visit the beautiful Sino-Portuguese-style colonial mansion of Baan Chinpracha and the Thai Hua Museum, which reveals the history of Phuket, before sampling some of the region’s local snacks in a restored coffee house. The walking tour ends with lunch in one of Phuket Town’s restaurants where you’ll have the opportunity to sample local flavors after which you’ll return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon.
Day 13: A Relaxing Day in the Island Paradise of Phuket
Location: Phuket
Accommodation: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Accommodation Name: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day your way—relax at your beachfront hotel or join an Optional Experience. For the foodies, learn to cook authentic Thai dishes like spring rolls, pad Thai or green curry, before enjoying the feast you’ve created. Or for the nature lovers, discover Phang Nga Bay by boat, swimming in crystal-clear waters as limestone islands pass by. Explore hidden sea caves and hongs by kayak, spotting wildlife before a magical sunset and a Thai seafood buffet under the stars.
Day 14: Farewell Phuket
Location: Phuket
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your captivating encounter with Thailand at its end, take a transfer to Phuket International Airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
Hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour package.
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Sightseeing and Extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Transportation
Travel is in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi or alternative transportation like rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
The tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
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Accommodation Flexibility
Hotels of similar standard and location may be used if necessary.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences mentioned in the itinerary are not included and can be purchased separately.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- 9 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- Bangkok: Visit Lumpini Park in Bangkok and join the locals in their daily T'ai Chi practice.
- Bangkok: Enjoy a traditional Thai massage in the grounds of Wat Pho, a center for traditional Thai massage.
- Bangkok: Learn the secrets of Thai cooking and visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients.
- : Stop at a coconut palm sugar plantation and discover how the farmer extracts the sap from the palm trees to be turned into sugar.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, or enjoy alternative transportation options like rail journeys, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience throughout your journey.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels such as Montien Surawong in Bangkok, Dheva Mantra Resort and Spa in Kanchanaburi, Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort and Spa, Movenpick Suriwongse Hotel in Chiang Mai, and Angsana Laguna Phuket, all tried and trusted for comfort and quality.
Dive into Culture
- Bangkok: Visit Lumpini Park in Bangkok and join the locals in their daily T'ai Chi practice.
- Bangkok: Enjoy a traditional Thai massage in the grounds of Wat Pho, a center for traditional Thai massage.
- Bangkok: Learn the secrets of Thai cooking and visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients.
- : Stop at a coconut palm sugar plantation and discover how the farmer extracts the sap from the palm trees to be turned into sugar.
Iconic Experience
- Bangkok: Begin your city tour by visiting Bangkok's Grand Palace, home to the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew. Continue your exploration of the city and its renowned landmarks.
- Bangkok: Embark on an Express River Cruise on the Chao Praya River and admire the beautiful Temple of the Dawn along the way.
- Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Visit the famous floating market at Damnoen Saduak and paddle along the canals laden with fresh produce to sell.
- Kanchanaburi: Discover the "Death Railway" when you visit Hellfire Pass and learn about the horrible conditions of which the prisoners of WWII had to endure when building this landmark.
- Kanchanaburi: Bask in the views of the Kwai River as you make your way across wooden viaducts on your scenic train ride.
- Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya: Delve into the rich trading history of the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya as you embark on your city tour.
- Sukhothai: Visit Sukhothai Historical Park and choose to explore the park by bicycle or tram tour.
- Sukhothai: Spend some time with a local family and learn the art of amulet making and how these jewels protect the owner from harm.
- Chiang Mai: Spend the evening enjoying a walk through the vibrant Sunday market of Chiang Mai with your Travel Director.
- Chiang Mai: See the vibrant paper umbrellas that are famously crafted in the San Kamphaeng District.
- Wat Suan Dok: Visit Wat Suan Dok Temple, marvel at the golden details and meet a local monk.
- Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep: Visit Wat Doi Suthep, which is one of Thailand's most sacred temples and listen closely for the chanting of the monks.
- Phuket: Discover the rich trading history of Phuket and embark on a walking tour around the island. Visit the fresh food markets and the amulet market, where you will learn about the magical properties of this metal charm.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes daily breakfast and up to half of the evening meals. Additionally, there are 5 dinners and 9 lunches included.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized if necessary.
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Are there any cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several cultural experiences such as joining locals for T'ai Chi practice in Lumpini Park, enjoying a traditional Thai massage at Wat Pho, and learning Thai cooking with a local specialist.
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Will there be opportunities to interact with local people during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers opportunities to interact with locals, such as visiting the village of Natonchan to learn about traditional crafts and joining a family in Chiang Mai for a northern Thai-style meal.
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What is the policy on gratuities and tips during the tour?
All porterage and restaurant gratuities, as well as hotel tips, charges, and local taxes, are included in the tour package.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers optional experiences and free time for personal exploration, which can be purchased separately.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Treasures of Thailand with Phuket
14 Days Starting in Bangkok, Thailand and ending in Phuket, Thailand
Visiting: Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Natonchan, Chiang Mai, Phuket ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CSOPN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
