This journey combines Thailand’s most iconic highlights with authentic local encounters. Begin in vibrant Bangkok, where golden temples and palaces shine along the Chao Phraya River. Travel west to experience the unique railway and floating markets, then continue to Kanchanaburi for World War II history and the scenic Kwai Bridge. Refresh yourself at the emerald cascades of Erawan Waterfall before exploring the ancient capital of Ayutthaya and boarding an overnight train north. In Chiang Mai, wander through old temples, colorful markets, and artisan villages, then enjoy two unforgettable experiences: a full day with elephants at a jungle sanctuary, and a community visit to Mae Kampong village. Blending heritage, culture, and natural beauty, this itinerary showcases the very best of Thailand in one immersive trip.
Arrival, hotel check-in, free time
Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Traimit, Chao Phraya cruise, Wat Arun
Maeklong Railway Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, WWII Memorial, train ride, Kwai Bridge
Erawan Waterfall, transfer to Ayutthaya
Tuk tuk tour: Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Srisanphet, Bang Pa-In Palace; overnight train to Chiang Mai
Old town temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang), rickshaw ride, Warorot Market, Doi Suthep, handicraft villages
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary (feeding, bathing, mud spa)
Local market visit, trek in Mae Kampong, meet villagers, lunch, handicrafts, traditional massage
Free time, airport transfer
Welcome to Bangkok! Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, meet your guide and driver for a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover after your long flight.
After breakfast, begin your exploration at the Grand Palace, once the official residence of the Thai royal family. Within the complex lies Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.
Next, visit Wat Pho, famous for its massive Reclining Buddha, followed by Wat Traimit, which houses the Golden Buddha statue.
In the afternoon, board a long-tail boat to cruise along the Chao Phraya River and nearby canals, where you’ll witness traditional riverside life. Stop at the riverside landmark Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) before returning to your hotel.
Depart Bangkok early for the famous Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors swiftly move their stalls as trains pass through. Enjoy photos and snacks before continuing to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. A motorboat ride takes you through canals lined with vendors selling fresh produce and local goods.
Afterward, continue to Kanchanaburi, where you’ll explore the World War II Memorials, including the JEATH War Museum and the Allied War Cemetery. Later, board a scenic train ride along the River Kwai for about 30 minutes before visiting the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai.
Enjoy breakfast before heading to Erawan National Park, where the stunning seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall awaits. Walk up the trail to admire each level, and if you wish, bring a swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
In the afternoon, drive to Ayutthaya, once the grand capital of the Siamese kingdom and today a UNESCO World Heritage site.
After breakfast, hop aboard a Kermit tuk tuk, unique to Ayutthaya, for a temple tour. Visit Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat (famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots), and Wat Phra Srisanphet. Stroll through a local market along the way.
Later, stop at the elegant Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, featuring a mix of Thai, Khmer, Chinese, and European-style buildings.
Transfer to the railway station for your overnight sleeper train to Chiang Mai. (No guide on board.)
Arrive in Chiang Mai and enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant. Start with a walking tour of the old city, seeing the ancient walls, moat, and gates. Visit Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang, each reflecting Chiang Mai’s Lanna heritage.
Take a rickshaw ride through charming lanes, then stroll around Warorot Market, full of local life.
In the afternoon, head up to Doi Suthep Temple, perched on a hill with sweeping views over Chiang Mai. Later, discover Chiang Mai’s famous handicraft villages, known for lacquerware, silk, umbrella-making, wood carving, and silverwork.
Evening is free to explore the lively Night Bazaar.
08:00 – 08:30: Pick up from your hotel.
08:30: Drive ~1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai through hills, forest, and farmland.
10:30: Arrive at the sanctuary. Meet your guide and walk 10–15 minutes through the jungle to the site. Change into Karen clothing and learn about elephant anatomy and behavior.
11:00: Meet the elephants. Feed, interact, and take photos with them in a natural setting.
12:00: Enjoy a Thai-style lunch with fresh fruit.
13:00: Make herbal medicine balls, feed the elephants, and walk them to the river for bathing and brushing.
14:00: Join in a mud spa and swim with the elephants.
15:00: Change clothes and say farewell.
15:30: Depart the sanctuary and drive back.
17:00 – 17:30: Drop off at your hotel.
After breakfast, your guide will meet you for a scenic drive to Mae On. En route, stop at San Kamphaeng Market to pick up ingredients and fresh fruit. Continue to Mae Kampong, a traditional mountain village known for its tea plantations, coffee, and handicrafts.
Meet villagers, learn about their way of life, and enjoy a short trek around the area. Lunch will be served either at a homestay or as a picnic, depending on the program. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a traditional Thai massage.
Return to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon.
Enjoy free time before your driver transfers you to Chiang Mai Airport for your onward flight.
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