Essential Thailand: Tradition & Relax

Breakfast at the hotel. Our first visit of the day will be the city of Ayutthaya, ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam and archaeological centre of the country. Upon arrival, visit its temples and remains of the ancient fortifications. Next, head to the town of Ang Thong to visit the Wat Muang Temple, famous for housing the largest seated Buddha figure in Thailand and the ninth-largest in the world at nearly 330-ft high. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to the city of Nakhon Sawan to visit the Pa San bridge, constructed at the point where the Ping and Nan tributaries converge giving birth to the famous Chao Phraya River, which flows down into the Gulf of Thailand. To wrap up this exciting day, visit the exterior of Wat Kiriwong atop a hill and reach a beautiful pagoda, where you’ll enjoy privileged views of the entire region. Overnight stay in Nakhon Sawan.

Breakfast at the hotel and departure to the city of Sukhothai. Today's highlight is the city's Archaeological Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its incredible beauty. A true example of prosperous Thai civilisation, raising monumental cities and sophisticated temples. After this visit, pass through Lampang, a small town surrounded by forests and abundant nature where you can enjoy the wonderful views along the way as well as the splendorous Phayao Lake. Enjoy lunch en route. Arrival in the mountainous province of Chiang Rai in the afternoon, transfer to the hotel and rest of the day at leisure to start exploring this incredible city. Overnight stay in Chiang Rai.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, visit the "Golden Triangle" of the Mekong River, which includes areas of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar formerly dedicated to the opium trade. Upon arrival, take the opportunity to visit the Opium Museum located in the town of Chiang Rai. From there, and before stopping at the White Temple, one of the most renowned temples in Thailand, head to the new and striking Wat Rong Suea Ten or Blue Temple. Find paintings with a similar style to those at White Temple as it was there where the same architect trained for many years. Stop at the spectacular and contemporary Wat Rong Khun, where white signifies purity and glass signifies the wisdom of Buddha. Lunch en route. Finally, we make our way to the fascinating city of Chiang Mai. Upon your arrival, visit the beautiful mountainside temple of Doi Suthep, a sacred site to many Thai people, and contemplate its beauty and intricate architecture.  Overnight stay in Chiang Mai.

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day at your leisure in charming Chiang Mai. Check out the city's vibrant cafe scene in the trendy Nimmana Haeminda neighborhood, explore the surrounding rainforest, or even take a Thai cooking class. We recommend an optional full-day excursion to the amazing Doi Inthanon National Park.* Overnight stay in Chiang Mai.

*Full-day Doi Inthanon National Park excursion: Head to Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand. Explore this fertile natural treasure trove, popular among bird watchers for its diversity. Visit the Vachirathan waterfall, climb to the top of the mountain, and see the royal pagodas and gardens. Stop at the market of the Hmong tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. Lunch at a local restaurant. Next, trek for approximately 2 hours by the hand of a local guide through jungle, terraced rice fields, and waterfalls in an epic natural environment. Meet another ethnic group, the Karen, and finally stop in the Mae Klang area to visit our guide's village, learn about their way of life, and taste fresh local coffee.

Important note: We recommend bringing a raincoat during the rainy season and appropriate walking shoes, mosquito repellent and sunscreen.

After breakfast at the hotel*, say goodbye to beautiful Thailand as you transfer to the airport for a flight back to Canada. Night on board.

*If your return flight departs early in the morning, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast.