“Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and this Independent tour of Thailand means you’re free to explore its breathtaking beauty as you please. Start your adventure in Thailand with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs to see family homes and temples and you’ll discover why this beautiful city is called the “Venice of the East.” Visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then stop at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, featuring one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. You’ll also have I-time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions, including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Then fly to Chiang Mai, where you’ll explore temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. End your stay in Thailand with a three-night stay at a beachfront resort in Phuket. Explore the area at your leisure or simply relax at the beach!
Bangkok to Phuket trip; 10 days
Highlights:
- Cruise through Bangkok’s charming canals, known as the “Venice of the East.”
- Visit Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), with its iconic 260-foot spire.
- Explore the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
- See the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha, one of Thailand’s largest Buddha statues.
- Enjoy free time in Bangkok to shop, dine, or visit optional attractions like the floating market or Ayutthaya.
- Discover Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North,” nestled in the mountains.
- Spend a day at an elephant sanctuary, learning about conservation and watching these gentle giants in their natural surroundings.
- Visit Chiang Mai’s sacred temples, including Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep, with its sweeping views and dramatic staircase.
- Relax with a three-night stay in Phuket, Thailand’s most famous beach destination.
- Enjoy plenty of free time to soak up the sun, explore, or unwind at your leisure.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN BANGKOK, THAILAND
Welcome to Thailand! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in
Day 2: BANGKOK
Today’s private guided tour starts with a boat ride through the klongs, Bangkok’s famous canals. Next, stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, where its 260-foot-tall spire has become a symbol of Bangkok.
Continue to the Grand Palace, comprised of the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Lastly, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, it houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: BANGKOK
Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 4: BANGKOK–CHIANG MAI
Today, fly to Chiang Mai, known as the “Rose of the North.”
Meal: Breakfast
Day 5: CHIANG MAI
This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990’s to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives.
• Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation center. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.
• After lunch at the sanctuary, return to Chiang Mai.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: CHIANG MAI
Today, your private guided sightseeing tour takes you to the walled part of the city for the revered Buddha at Wat Phra Singh.
• You’ll also visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 7: CHIANG MAI-PHUKET
Today, fly to Phuket, Thailand’s most popular beach area. Transfer to your beachfront resort.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 8: PHUKET
Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 9: PHUKET
Enjoy another full day at your leisure.
Meal: Breakfast
Day 10: PHUKET
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Meal: Breakfast
Please contact our Travel Advisors for details.
Tour Code: GJ
