14 Days Trip

Thailand Essence: River Kwai, Temples, and Hilltribe Adventure

Cultural ToursFamily ToursRiver Cruise
From 3,350 US$ PP
Discover the essence of Thailand on an adventure-packed journey. Cruise along the River Kwai, explore ancient temples, encounter hilltribes, and visit the Elephant Nature Park

Destinations

Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi

Tour Highlights

  • A Cruise Journey on the River Kwai uncovering Kanchanaburi’s main highlights
  • Visiting the Historical City of Ayutthaya
  • Bangkok temples tour
  • Staying at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
  • Elephant Experience in Chiang Mai
  • Uncovering the Main Highlights of Chiang Rai
  • Historical and Cultural Visits in Chiang Mai
Starting from $3,350 PP
This Tour is Customizable & Can be Modified

Tour Overview

Riverkwai Cruise
River Kwai Cruise
RV River Kwai Cruise
Riverkwai cruise Thailand
Death Railway Kanchanaburi
Wat Tham Khao Noi Temple
Wat Tham Khao Noi
Tham Khao Noi Temple
Waterfall Kanchanaburi
Sayok Village
Sayoke Village
Cave Kanchanaburi
Chiang Mai Tour 2
White Temple Chiang Rai Thailand
Elephants Highlands
Elephants Highlands Chiang Mai Thailand
Hmong hill tribe Lodge
Hmong Hilltribe Lodge Chiang Mai

Discover the essence of Thailand on an adventure-packed journey. Cruise along the River Kwai, explore ancient temples, encounter hilltribes, and visit the Elephant Nature Park. Uncover the beauty and culture of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai in this 14-day tour.

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Tour Itinerary

Day by Day
Day 1
Bangkok and Sky Dining in Vertigo
  • Arrive in Bangkok and Transfer to your hotel. Check in and freshen up.
  • In the Evening, get ready for your Sky dining experience.
  • Head to the Vertigo Restaurant, which is located on the rooftop of the Banyan Tree hotel. Enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the stunning views of the Bangkok skyline.
  • After enjoying your dinner, Return to your hotel and get some rest

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 1
Day 2
Bangkok -Kanchanaburi - Ban Kao
  • 06:00: Depart from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi via Nakhon Pathom by van.
  • 09:00: Short stop in Nakhon Pathom to visit "Phra Pathom Chedi," Thailand's tallest pagoda.
  • 10:30: Explore Khao Noi Cave Temple and nearby Tiger Cave Temple, showcasing beautiful architecture and revered Buddha images.
  • 11:40: Visit the poignant JEATH War Museum, displaying historical artifacts from World War II.
  • 12:45: Board RV River Kwai at Nong Ya dock, enjoy lunch while cruising on Kwai Noi River.
  • Afternoon: Free time to relax and explore.
  • 19:30: Dinner and overnight on board.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2
Day 3
Ban Kao -Sai Yok
  • Breakfast on board while cruising up the Kwai Noi River to Muang Singh.
  • 08:00: Visit a nearby boarding school patronized by H.R.H. Crown Princess Sirindhorn for refugee children.
  • Explore "Prasat Muang Singh," a historical park with Khmer architecture from the late Lopburi period, showcasing the grandeur of the ancient Khmer empire.
  • 11:00: Coach journey to Tha Kilen Train Station.
  • 11:47: Take a scenic 3rd class train to Saphan Tham Krasae, passing over the charming wooden Wang Pho viaduct.
  • 12:02: Visit Krasae Cave, an excellent viewpoint with a Buddha image, situated by the Kwai Noi River.
  • 12:30: Coach ride with a short stop at Sai Yok Village, nestled along the riverbank.
  • 13:00: Enjoy lunch on board while cruising.
  • Afternoon: Leisure time on the boat.
  • 19:30: Dinner and overnight on board.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3
Day 4
Sai Yok -Sai Yok Yai - Ban Hin Dad
  • Start the day with breakfast on board.
  • 08:00: Walk uphill to visit the enchanting Kaeng Lava Cave, renowned for its splendid stone draperies and natural formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
  • 10:30: Continue by coach to the historic Hell Fire Pass, a significant part of the Death Railway, where a memorial complex pays homage to the POWs and laborers who endured hardships during its construction.
  • 12:30: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the scenic Sai Yoke National Park, near the picturesque Sai Yok Yai waterfalls.
  • 15:30: Return to RV River Kwai for a leisurely afternoon on the boat.
  • 19:00: Indulge in a heartfelt "Farewell Dinner" and spend the night on board, cherishing the memories of your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4
Day 5
Ban Hin Dad - Kanchanaburi - Bangkok
  • 06:00: Experience a traditional Buddhist merit-making ritual by offering food to monks at a nearby temple.
  • Enjoy breakfast on board.
  • 09:15: Disembark and return to Kanchanaburi by coach.
  • Visit Wat Tham Khaopoon, a historic Buddhist temple with remarkable stalactites, stalagmites, and Buddha images. Enjoy a scenic view of the Kwai Noi River valley from the temple's rear.
  • Explore the interactive Thailand-Burma Railway Center Museum, honoring the story of the Thailand-Burma Railway. Pay respects at the Donrak War Cemetery, a resting place for Allied prisoners of war who perished during the railway's construction.
  • Visit the iconic bridge over the River Kwai, an enduring symbol of the Death Railway, constructed by Allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts during World War II.
  • 12:00: Lunch at Rabiang FA Restaurant, near the confluence of Kwai Yai and Kwai Noi rivers.
  • 13:15: Depart for Bangkok.
  • 18:00: Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your downtown hotel, concluding a memorable journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 5
Day 6
Bangkok Temples and Canal Tour
  • Pick-up from the hotel in Bangkok at around 8:00 AM
  • Visit Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), one of the most important temples in Thailand, and the Grand Palace, a stunning architectural masterpiece and former residence of the kings of Thailand
  • Continue to Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), the largest temple in Bangkok and home to a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue
  • Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant
  • In the afternoon, take a long-tail boat ride along the canals (klongs of Bangkok), also known as the "Venice of the East" to explore the city's hidden waterways and traditional way of life. See the local houses built on stilts, markets, and temples along the canals.
  • Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and known for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the river and the city
  • Return to the hotel by around 5:00 PM

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6
Day 7
Full Day Tour to Ayutthaya from Bangkok
  • 7:30 AM: Pick-up from the hotel in Bangkok
  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin the tour of Ayutthaya's temples and historical sites, including Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wat Mahathat.
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch break at a local restaurant (included in the package) and a chance to sample traditional Thai cuisine.
  • 1:30 PM: Continue the tour and visit other iconic temples, such as Wat Lokayasutharam, which features a giant reclining Buddha statue, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, known for its beautiful Khmer-style architecture.
  • 4:30 PM: Return to Bangkok and drop-off at the hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 7
Day 8
Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and Hmong Exploration
  • Enjoy breakfast at your Bangkok hotel and prepare for check-out.
  • Our driver will pick you up for your transfer to Bangkok airport to catch a domestic flight to Chiang Mai.
  • Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, we'll greet you and depart in a comfortable off-road vehicle.
  • Visit the hilltribe museum to learn about the diverse ethnic groups in Thailand, including the Hmong, Yao, Lisu, Akha, Musers, and Karen.
  • Explore the orchid farm and proceed to The Chang Village (formerly Maesa Elephant Camp) in Mae Rim to observe elephants in their natural jungle habitat, without demonstrations or riding.
  • Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before visiting Hmong Villages of Ban Nong Hoi Kao, Ban Nong Hoi Mai, and Ban Mae Khi.
  • Check in at Hmong Hilltribe Lodge for an overnight stay.
  • During dinner, enjoy a delicious spread of barbecued meats, Thai dishes, salads, pasta, fruits, and desserts in the cool mountain air. The evening will be enriched with captivating Hmong cultural presentations.

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 8
Day 9
Nature Walk, Suan Kularb, Ban Tawai & Proceed to Chiang Mai City
  • After breakfast, leisurely explore the area around Hmong Hilltribe Lodge with a rainforest trek to Ban Mae Khi, a charming Hmong Village.
  • Check out from the lodge and proceed to Hang Dong via Samoeng, stopping at Suan Kularb (Rose Garden) of Royal Project for lunch.
  • Visit Ban Tawai, Chiang Mai's famous handicraft center, observing skilled local artisans at work.
  • Return to Chiang Mai and transfer back to your hotel for Check in, concluding an enriching day.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9
Day 10
Doi Suthep and Chiang Mai City Tour
  • Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your Chiang Mai hotel.
  • Meet your designated driver for a tour of Doi Suthep, including the famous Doi Suthep temple.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Explore Chiang Mai's highlights, including the ancient city walls, Tha Phae gate, Three Kings Monument, and Wat Chedi Luang temple.
  • End your day with a visit to a bustling local market, experiencing the vibrant street food and diverse souvenirs.
  • Return to your hotel and enjoy free time in the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 10
Day 11
Full day Visit to the Elephant Nature Park
  • Enjoy breakfast at your Chiang Mai hotel and join our driver to head to the Elephant Nature Park.
  • Arrive at the park's Visitor Center for a warm welcome and orientation on conservation efforts. Learn about the elephants and their rescue stories.
  • Observe and interact with the elephants safely, understanding the park's ethical approach to elephant tourism.
  • Relish a vegetarian buffet lunch at the park's restaurant.
  • Take a guided tour to see the elephants in their natural habitat, participate in feeding sessions, and learn about their dietary needs and herbal medicine.
  • Witness the elephants bathing and playing in the river and have the chance to interact with other rescued animals.
  • Engage in hands-on activities, contributing to the park's efforts.
  • Depart from the Elephant Nature Park with a deeper understanding of elephant conservation and responsible tourism.
  • Return to your Chiang Mai hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore the city.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11
Day 12
Travel from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, Temples Visit
  • Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your Chiang Mai hotel and complete the check-out process.
  • Our driver and guide will pick you up from the hotel lobby as you proceed to Chiang Rai.
  • En route, take a fascinating stop at Mae Kachan Hotspring, observing how locals use the natural springs to boil eggs.
  • Arrive in Chiang Rai and begin your exploration with a visit to the White Temple, an iconic architectural marvel cherished not only in Thailand but also in Asia.
  • After enjoying the serene ambience of the White Temple, head to a local restaurant for a delectable lunch.
  • Following lunch, continue your journey by visiting the Blue Temple in Chiang Rai, another captivating temple offering unique beauty and cultural significance.
  • Having savored the experiences, we will transfer you to your Chiang Rai hotel for check-in, allowing you to enjoy free time for the remainder of the day, exploring the city at your leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12
Day 13
The Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai and the Opium Museum
  • Enjoy breakfast at your Chiang Rai hotel and prepare for pick-up.
  • Meet your driver and guide in the hotel lobby and head to Chiang Saen District at the Golden Triangle Area.
  • Experience a scenic longtail boat ride on the Mekong River, surrounded by Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
  • Visit the House of Opium Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through the history and impact of opium in the Golden Triangle region.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Return to your Chiang Rai hotel and have free time in the evening to explore at your leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 13
Day 14
Chiang Rai Departure
  • Enjoy your breakfast at the Hotel in Chiang Rai and get ready for Check out
  • Pick up from the Hotel Lobby by our driver and Proceed to Chiang Rai Airport for Final Departure

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14

Accommodation

Deluxe Accommodation

3/5
Hmong Hilltribe Lodge
Chiang Mai
3/5
Hotel De Bangkok
Bangkok
4/5
RV River Kwai Cruise
Kanchanaburi
4/5
The Rim Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
4/5
The Legend Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai
$3,350 / Person

Luxury Accommodation

Luxury Accommodation Available Upon Request

Tour Details

Tour Includes

Accommodation including breakfast
Tours and sightseeing as mentioned in the Program with English Speaking Guide
All attraction fees as mentioned in the program
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
All Transfers As mentioned in the Itinerary
Taxes and Service Charges
Domestic Flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
River cruise in Kanchanaburi - Sai Yok on Full Board Basis

Tour Excludes

All Meals not mentioned above
Visa fee (if Required)
Personal expenses such as telephone bills, minibar, laundry etc.
International Flight Ticket
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Contact a local Expert

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