Thailand

Starting Price:	$6,116.00
Trip Length:	11 days
Includes airfare allowance from New York

Interests:

Historical/Cultural
Tribal Villages
War History
Ancient Ruins

Golden Buddha Srine

Floating Market

Bridge Over the River Kwai

Bangkok with Ayutthaya, Sukhothai and Kanchanaburi

Description Pricing Itinerary Hotels

Begin with an exploration of Bangkok’s beloved palaces and temples. From there the journey will continue up the Chao Phraya River to Ayutthaya, the former capital. Explore the sites of this ancient city before continuing north to Sukhothai and its esteemed historical park. Finally, work your way south to explore the Kanchanaburi region and the remnants of World War II, including the bridge over the River Kwai, Death Railway and the JEATH War museum.

Some of the finest examples of traditional Thai architecture can be found in Bangkok; in the magnificent complex of the Grand Palace and the Chao Phraya River (River of Kings) which supports a waterway lifestyle that has remained unchanged for decades. Additionally, Bangkok offers superb cuisine and an exciting deluge of shopping and entertainment options.

A journey to Ayutthaya, through several towns and finally to Sukhothai will bring you through some of the most powerful sites of Thailand’s imperial past. Ayutthaya, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a former Asian powerhouse and remains unspoiled with ancient ruins, palaces and its own unique charm. Sukothai also flourished as the seat of a Kingdom during the 13th and 14th centuries, which has been deemed the golden age of Thai society. The local art and architecture that date to this period are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles which are exemplified in its historical park that features some 200 ruined temples, lotus ponds and moats covering an area of nine square miles.

With a deep history pertaining to WWII and an inherent natural beauty, Kanchanaburi will impress history buffs and nature lovers alike. Under the rule of the Imperial Japanese Army, prisoners of war from the United States, Australia, Thailand and Holland were pressed into forced labor squads that created the area’s historical landmarks from that era, including the Bridge over the River Kwai, the Death Railway and Hellfire Pass.

This trip can be customized to fit your individual travel dates and any specific requests you may have. Your travel consultant will prepare a customized itinerary for you. We offer a choice of 3 star, 4 star, 5 star and Deluxe hotels where available. Due to limited availability in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, we only offer the best available hotels in each location.

This tour includes airfare allowance from New York, on non-holiday dates. You do not need to fly via New York; Yampu will fly you the most direct way to your city of destination. Depending on your travel dates and proximity of travel, we will quote you the most economical surcharge from your city or country of origin.

Additional information on this trip:

Days of Week the Trip can Start:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Visited Cities:
Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Kanchanaburi, Sankhlaburi

Day 1

Overnight international flight to Bangkok.

Day 2

Upon arrival in Bangkok, airport reception and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 3

Late morning transfer to Maharaj Pier for a short shuttle boat ride to Supatra River House Restaurant for lunch (food only). This two-story traditional Thai house on the banks of the Chao Phraya River was formerly the home of Lady Supatra Singholaga, who was a leading advocate of women’s rights in Thai society. The décor is traditional and the views of the river, Grand Palace and Wat Arun are spectacular.

Proceed from Maharaj Pier by tuk tuk (auto rickshaw) for an afternoon tour. The first stop is the Grand Palace, an architectural wonder of golden stupas, walls and pillars encrusted in shining and colorful mosaics. Previously the residence of the Kings of Thailand, there are multiple Palaces within the complex which were used for different occasions; including the beautiful Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Continue to Wat Po, the most extensive temple in Bangkok with a colossal reclining Buddha and finally the “Chedi of the Kings”. Enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 4

Early morning transfer to visit the fascinating Floating Market at Damnoen Saduak, about 110 km (68 miles) from Bangkok in the Ratchaburi province. The Floating Market has remained untouched by the modern influences of the city. Continue to Nakorn Pathom, the oldest city in Thailand, to see the Phra Pathom Chedi, which is the tallest Buddhist stupa in the world with a gilded dome towering to 116 meters (381 feet).

After the tour, return transfer to Bangkok. This afternoon you may choose from one of the following excursions:

Elephant & Crocodile Show at Samphran

Bangkok Waterways

National Museum (closed Mondays, Tuesdays and public holidays)

In the evening, enjoy a moonlight dinner cruise on a traditional converted Rice Barge along the legendary “River of Kings.” Cruising and dining on Bangkok’s majestic river is a delightfully romantic way to pass an evening. Savor the sights, sounds and incomparable scenery of the Bangkok skyline by night while enjoying a delicious meal as you gently cruise upriver.

Day 5

Morning transfer to board the cruise ship for the journey to Ayutthaya, located in the lower half of northern Thailand. Your luggage will be transferred to await you at the Bang Sai Pier. Cruise upstream along the historical Chao Phraya River and enjoy the everyday scenes of Thai life along the riverbank. Lunch is served on board.

Disembark at Bang Sai and continue to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital city of Siam. You will also visit the Summer Palace of King Rama V. With a mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture, this proves to be a well preserved monument to the former Thai Kingdom. Transfer to hotel for check in.

Day 6

Morning transfer north out of the city to Uthai Thani, a small town on the Sakaerkrang River, which is rarely visited by foreign tourists. Visit the Wat Chantaram, an impressive temple containing the Crystal Hall and Golden Shrine. Enjoy lunch at the Uthai River Lake Country Resort.

In the afternoon, continue driving north to Phitsanuloke, a major regional commerce center that is spread along the banks of the Nan River. Visit the much venerated shrine of Wat Mahathat, which is home to one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images. Then continue to Sukhothai and check in at your hotel for the evening.

Day 7

Morning visit to Sukhothai’s Historic Park to visit the numerous temple ruins and beautiful landscape of lotus ponds and moats. Inside the walls of this old city remain the ruins of nearly two dozen different monasteries that display art and architecture styles of the original Khmer, Mon, Sinhalese and Tai influences.

Continuing your journey north, you will visit the ancient town formerly known as Muang Chaliang, but later renamed Si Satchanalai under the reign of a new government. Ruins of 134 monuments have been discovered within this town’s park, which serves as an excellent contrast to Sukhothai’s Historical Park. There is a sense of history and a mysterious atmosphere among these ruins as they remain largely un-restored.

Day 8

Morning transfer to the Sukhothai Airport for your return flight to Bangkok. Transfer to Kanchanburi Province. Upon arrival, visit the cemetery of allied prisoners of World War II. Then visit the JEATH War Museum that commemorates the prisoners of war that were held captive here by Japanese. Late morning transfer to the Bridge on the River Kwai before experiencing a ride on the infamous Death Railway across the bridge, through local farmland, limestone mountains and finally to Tam Krasae station where you will depart for lunch at a local restaurant.

Continue north to the uniquely scenic borderland of Sangkhlaburi, the western most district adjacent to Myanmar. Enjoy a coffee break at the Groeng Grawia Waterfall before continuing to the Three Pagodas Pass – the mainland route into Thailand since ancient times that holds both Buddhist and historical significance from the Burmese-Siamese War of 1548. The pass is named for three small, crumbling pagodas which were built as symbols of peace. Transfer to your guesthouse for the evening and enjoy a traditional Thai dinner.

Day 9

Morning visit to Mon Temple or Wat Wangwiwekaram, which was built by the people of the Mon Hill Tribe and is highly revered by Mon, Burmese and Thai ethnicities from both sides of the border. Then enjoy a nice walk along the Wooden Bridge on Khao Laem Lake that provides a terrific view of Sangkhlaburi and surrounding landscape. The bridge is over 850 meters (2788 feet) long and considered as Thailand’s longest wooden bridge, stretching over the Song Galia River. Afterwards, enjoy a boat trip on the magnificent Khao Laem Lake to a floating village. On the way, make a brief stop at a sunken temple.

Return to Kanchanaburi for lunch at a local restaurant on the way. Then continue to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, the renowned site at which prisoners of the Second World War were forced to create a pass for the Death Railway. Visit the informative museum and walk along the trail to the site of the Pass. In the early evening depart for a night jungle safari. Upon arrival at the camp, introduce yourself to the resident elephants by playing with them and bathing them in the river. Then embark on a night safari by elephant back through the camp and into the woodlands along the River Kwai. Conclude your night by relaxing during a barbeque dinner on the riverbank before transferring to your hotel for the night.

Day 10

Morning transfer to Elephant’s World, an organization that was created to improve elephant welfare and increase the experience of those taking care of domesticated elephants. Elephant’s World is also a sanctuary for sick, old, disabled, abused, illegal and street elephants who receive the rest and care that they deserve. Situated just 32 kilometers (20 miles) outside of town, the camp is near the river and surrounded by mountains, creating an oasis of tranquility and peace. Upon arrival, meet the staff and feed the elephants by making sticky rice, cutting bana grass, sugarcane and banana plants.

Late afternoon, continue to Nong Kao Village for a village tour (either by bicycle or local truck), visiting the village shrine, a palm orchard and the rice paddies to observe the local livelihoods. Take some time to try the delicious local fruits before receiving a demonstration of a ritual to the Rice Goddess. This performance is meant to strengthen and comfort the spirit of the Goddess and will enhance your understanding of the role of rice plantations in the Thai farming culture.

Day 11

Depart Kanchanaburi for your return to Bangkok and flight home or continue with the Yampu Tours add-on of your choice.

Suggested Hotels by City and Category *

Bangkok
3-star	Le Fenix Sukhumvit, or similar
4-star	Pullman Bangkok Hotel G (PKA: Sofitel Silom Bangkok) , or similar
5-star	The Peninsula Bangkok, or similar
Deluxe	Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, or similar
Ayutthaya
3-star	Krungsri River Hotel, or similar
4-star	Iudia on the River or the Krungsri River Hotel, or similar
Sukhothai
3-star	The Legendha Sukhothai, or similar
4-star	Sukhothai Heritage Resort or Sukhothai Treasure Resort & Spa, or similar
Kanchanaburi
3-star	Felix River Kwai Resort, or similar
4-star	U Inchantree Kanchanaburi Hotel, or similar
5-star	Dheva Mantra Resort & Spa, or similar
Sankhlaburi
Standard	P Guesthouse, or similar

* Subject to confirmation at time of booking

11 days , from $6116

Occupancy Type	3- star	4-Star	5-Star	Deluxe
Double	$6116	$6455	$7022	$7478
Single	$9733	$9200	$11644	$12216

Prices shown above are per person, in US Dollars ($).

Price Includes:

Round trip international airfare from New York to Bangkok

One way river cruise from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

One way domestic airfare from Sukhothai to Bangkok

Accommodations with daily breakfast

All private transfers and activities by air-conditioned car

An English speaking guide to escort all transfers and tours

All entrance fees and activities as mentioned

Meals where specified (food only)

Government tax and services charge

Bangkok afternoon excursions:

Bangkok waterways:

A cruise through the Thonburi canals is an experience that no other Asian capital can offer. The Bangkok water ways show how this bustling fast developing city retains its traditional way of life and why the city has been known as the “Venice of the East”. Beyond the limits of the typical tourist boats, is a world where stilted houses line the banks. See people bathing in the canals, and generally beginning their day, while you meander through areas of lush vegetation dotted with quaint old Buddhist temples. This tour also includes a visit to the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) and the Royal Barges Museum.

Elephant and crocodile show at Samphran:

Situated a mere 1 km from the Rose Garden and 30 km from Bangkok is the Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo. Watch the exciting Elephant Theme Show – the only show of its kind in central Thailand – where kings and princes fight on elephant back and conduct games such as elephant races and elephant football, which are only some of the highlights. Visitors can also stroll around the zoo and see keepers showing off their skills in handling tropical reptiles and crocodiles.

National Museum:

Within walking distance of the Grand Palace, this complex was once a palace consisting of several old beautiful Thai style buildings. It houses a vast and interesting collection of artifacts found in all parts of the country ranging from Neolithic times, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya to the Bangkok period. From every day objects to weapons of war designed for use from Elephant back, the pieces reflect a rich history. The museum is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. and closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays.

Notes:

For Day 3, it is recommended that for religious reasons, ladies have their shoulders covered and do not wear shorts or very short skirts. No sleeveless top and the sleeve have to be part of the top. Gentlemen should wear trousers and short sleeved shirts. Shoes must be removed before entering the Emerald Buddha Temple. Full length trousers and pants are required.
Additional supplements may apply between 23 December – 5 January with a set minimum of consecutive nights required for bookings between 23 – 25 December. Special conditions apply between 28 – 31 December.
If staying in Ayutthaya or Sukhothai during the Loy Kratong Festival (Nov 1), Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, you will be subject to a compulsory dinner at an additional cost.
Citizens of most countries including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and members of the EU staying for fewer than 30 days as a tourist do not require a visa, but passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Thailand.
Malaria is found in rural, forested areas of Thailand that border Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, including the districts of Phang Nga and Phuket. Malaria does not exist in the cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phang Nga and Phuket. If you will be visiting an area of Thailand with malaria, you will need to discuss the best ways to avoid getting sick with your physician.

Although yellow fever is not a disease risk in Thailand, the government requires travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission to present proof of yellow fever vaccination. Besides this, there are no other vaccine requirements, although it is wise to be up to date on your routine inoculations. All travelers should consult their physician or a travel health clinic with plenty of time before their departure date.

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