DISCOVER THE ESSENCE OF BANGKOK, CHIANG MAI AND THAILAND'S NATURE WONDER

DAY 1 : Arrive Bangkok 

Bangkok – Where Timeless Tradition Meets Modern Energy

Set along the shimmering Chao Phraya River, Bangkok is a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern dynamism. Here, gilded temples stand beside gleaming skyscrapers, and the scent of sizzling street food fills the air between them. The capital of Thailand truly has it all — a captivating mix of culture, color, and contrasts.

Step aboard a traditional longtail boat to glide through the city’s intricate network of khlongs (canals). As you drift past waterside homes and ornate temples, experience a side of Bangkok that feels worlds away from its busy streets. Pause at the charming Baan Silapin Artists’ House, a lovingly preserved teakwood home that now showcases captivating photography and local artwork.

Your journey continues to Wat Arun, the famed Temple of the Dawn. Admire its dazzling porcelain towers that glint in the sunlight, wander through its peaceful pavilions, and learn how Buddhism shapes daily life in Thailand. End the day with a short ferry ride across the river to a local restaurant, where a refreshing Thai cocktail and the glowing sunset over the River of Kings await you.

DAY 2: Temple and prayer( B/L) 

A Spiritual Morning in Bangkok

Begin your day before sunrise by joining the local community in the serene ritual of offering alms to saffron-robed monks. This ancient tradition, known as tak bat, holds deep spiritual meaning in Thai culture, as locals present offerings of rice, fruit, and other foods to earn merit. Witness this peaceful ceremony as dawn’s first light bathes the streets in gold.

Continue your immersion into Buddhist life with a visit to a nearby neighborhood temple. Here, you may light incense or a candle, make your own offering, and receive a monk’s blessing. Step inside the tranquil pagoda to discover the art of prayer before taking part in a fascinating hands-on experience: crafting the symbolic alms bowls used by monks in their daily rituals.

After a local breakfast, set out with your expert guide to uncover the spiritual and historical landmarks that define Bangkok. Visit Wat Pho, home to the majestic Reclining Buddha — an awe-inspiring figure stretching 151 feet in length. Then explore Lak Muang, the City Pillar Shrine marking the founding of Bangkok more than two centuries ago.

Your journey continues to the magnificent Grand Palace, the former royal residence from 1782 to 1925, and the adjoining Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) — Thailand’s most sacred shrine.

Savor lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax or wander at leisure, soaking in the rhythm of the city.

DAY 3: Floating Markets -  Chiang Mai ( B/L) 

This morning, set out to explore the world-famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one of Thailand’s most iconic sights. Travel by car and then glide along narrow canals aboard a traditional longtail boat. As you cruise through the maze of waterways, marvel at the vibrant bustle of vendors selling tropical fruits, local snacks, flowers, and handmade crafts directly from their boats — a colorful scene straight out of old Siam.

Continue on foot to the nearby Lao Tuk Lak Market, a smaller, more traditional community market where locals shop for everyday goods. Pause to enjoy a refreshing Thai iced coffee before heading to the extraordinary Maeklong Railway Market, famous for its train that runs right through the middle of the stalls. Stroll along the tracks and witness the remarkable moment when vendors swiftly fold away their awnings and goods as the train approaches — only to set them back in place seconds after it passes.

On your return journey to Bangkok, stop at a family-run coconut palm sugar workshop to see how this sweet staple is crafted using age-old techniques. Sample delicious palm sugar treats fresh from the source before continuing to the airport. After a brief stop to collect your luggage, board your flight to Chiang Mai, where your private transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel.

DAY 4: Chiang Mai's Markets & Monks( B/L) 

Rise early this morning and venture to Chiang Mai Gate Market, one of the city’s oldest and most vibrant fresh-food markets. With your guide, sample authentic Thai snacks as locals begin their day. You’ll also witness monks on their peaceful morning alms rounds — a timeless scene that captures the spiritual rhythm of Thai life.

Return to your hotel for a leisurely breakfast before setting out once again aboard a local songthaew (shared red truck taxi) to the riverside Worarot Market, the largest and most colorful market in Chiang Mai. Wander through aisles brimming with fabrics, herbs, and exotic produce, soaking up the lively atmosphere. Continue to Thapae Gate, one of the city’s four original gates, then explore a trio of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples — Wat Chiang Man, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Suan Dok — where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and chat with an English-speaking monk. Return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon at leisure.

As evening falls, embark on an unforgettable Chiang Mai street food adventure. Travel by songthaew with your local foodie guide to explore several bustling neighborhood markets. Sample an array of Northern Thai delicacies, learn how to order like a local, and uncover the stories and ingredients behind recipes handed down through generations.
 

Day 5: Handicrafts, Heritage & Sacred Hills of Chiang Mai ( B/L) 

Begin your morning with a charming ride on a samlor — a traditional Thai three-wheeled pedicab — as you set off to explore Chiang Mai’s living craft traditions. Follow the path of the city’s old outer wall along Kamphaeng Din Road before arriving at Pradtoo Korm Market, where stalls overflow with fresh produce and local goods. Continue to Wat Nantaram, once the heart of Chiang Mai’s famous lacquerware trade. Pass through the temple grounds en route to one of the city’s oldest lacquerware workshops, where artisans still use techniques introduced more than 200 years ago by migrants from the Shan State of Myanmar. Watch the delicate process that transforms simple wood into gleaming black-and-gold masterpieces.

Cross the moat into the Old City through Suan Prung Gate, heading toward Chiang Mai Gate Market to taste a few local snacks and sweets. Pedal onward to Wat Sai Moon Myanmar, the spiritual heart of Chiang Mai’s Burmese community. Its distinct architecture and tranquil ambiance offer a striking contrast to Thai temples — and few tourists ever make it here. Spend time speaking with a Burmese monk to gain personal insight into this lesser-known side of Chiang Mai’s spiritual life. Conclude your morning at Thapae Gate, where a well-earned local lunch awaits.

In the afternoon, venture by car to the forested slopes of Doi Suthep Mountain, Chiang Mai’s most sacred site. Join local pilgrims in climbing the 308 steps of the Naga serpent staircase to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the city’s iconic hilltop temple. At the summit, soak in panoramic views of Chiang Mai spread out below, listen to the melodic chanting of monks, and breathe in the tranquil, incense-filled air. Wander among gilded pagodas and statues reflecting both Buddhist and Hindu influences, discovering the deep spiritual roots that continue to shape Thai culture and daily life.

Day 6: Chiang Mai to Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise ( B/D)

Fly back to Bangkok today, where you’ll be met for a private transfer to your hotel. After settling in, prepare for an unforgettable evening on the Chao Phraya River, the lifeblood of Thailand’s capital. Step aboard a beautifully restored traditional rice barge for a luxurious dinner cruise along the River of Kings.

As you glide past illuminated landmarks — the Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun), the Grand Palace, and the Royal Barges Museum — admire Bangkok’s glittering skyline and the graceful bridges arching overhead.

Day 7: Thai Cooking Class ( B/L) 

This morning, journey to Nakhon Pathom to meet your expert guide — a passionate food lover and restaurateur known for crafting authentic, beautifully presented Thai cuisine. Begin your culinary adventure aboard a local boat to Don Wai Floating Market, where you’ll select fresh ingredients for your class. As you browse the colorful market stalls, learn about the region’s rich agricultural traditions and the rhythms of daily life along the Tha Chin River.

Cruise downstream to a charming riverside kitchen studio for a hands-on cooking lesson. Under your host’s guidance, prepare two traditional Thai dishes while discovering the secrets of local herbs, spices, and flavor balance. Then, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created, savoring each bite in a serene riverside setting.

After lunch, continue your journey to Hua Hin, where you’ll check into your beachfront hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax by the sea or explore at your own pace.

Day 8: A Day with Rescued Wildlife in Hua Hin ( B/L)
 

Today, visit the inspiring WFFT Wildlife Rescue Centre, home to more than 350 rescued animals. With your private guide, explore the sanctuary grounds and hear the moving stories of the animals who now live in safety and care. Learn how the center works to protect Thailand’s wildlife and rehabilitate victims of exploitation and habitat loss.

Enjoy lunch alongside the dedicated staff and volunteers, gaining firsthand insight into their conservation efforts at both the Wildlife Rescue Centre and the Elephant Refuge and Education Centre. Afterward, join the elephant volunteers for an unforgettable afternoon meeting the resident elephants. Listen to their individual rescue stories, observe their gentle personalities, and learn about the challenges elephants face in Thailand’s tourism and logging industries.

Take a peaceful walk beside one of the elephants on her daily stroll, and help the team feed other rescued animals such as bears, gibbons, and macaques. Later, return to your hotel to unwind and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure — perhaps relaxing on the beach or by the pool.

Day 9: Mangroves, Mountains & Wild Elephants ( B/L) 

Set out this morning to explore Thailand’s largest protected mangrove forest, located near the breathtaking Sam Roi Yod National Park — also known as the Mountain of 300 Peaks. This stunning landscape is defined by dramatic limestone cliffs, tranquil mangrove forests, winding creeks, and pristine white-sand beaches. It’s a haven for wildlife, rare birds, and natural beauty.

Begin your adventure at the Mangrove Forest Nature Trail, a scenic wooden walkway that winds through dense mangrove groves. As you stroll, watch for sea crabs scuttling below, tropical birds perched above, and lizards sunning themselves along the path. During high tide, you might even glimpse schools of colorful tropical fish swimming just beneath the surface.

Continue late in the morning to Kui Buri National Park, stopping en route to enjoy a delicious local lunch. Famed for its successful elephant conservation program, Kui Buri offers one of the best chances in Thailand to see wild Asian elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat. These gentle giants — Asia’s largest land mammals — are now an endangered species, threatened by poaching and habitat loss, with only a few hundred remaining in the country.

Day 10 : Departure ( B)