Thailand

Starting Price:	$6,066.00
Trip Length:	11 days
Includes airfare allowance from New York

Interests:

Islands/Beaches

Railay Beach

Reclining Buddha at Wat Po

Elephant orphanage

Bangkok with Kanchanaburi and Krabi

Description Pricing Itinerary Hotels

Although Thailand hosts a plethora of historical sites from ancient times, many significant events from the Second World War also occurred here. The region around Kanchanaburi saw most of the activity during that time and retains many wartime structures including the famous bridge over the River Kwai. Before visiting this area, spend a few days touring Bangkok and finish your tour enjoying the magnificent islands, beaches and crystal clear waters of Krabi.

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.

Enjoy a few days of sun, beaches, spectacular scenery and watersports upon the beautiful waters of the Andaman Sea. From one of Krabi’s fine beach resorts, you will have a multitude of varying activities to explore in the area. Relish in the sheer beauty of the Andaman by taking a tour to the famous Phi Phi Islands for swimming and snorkeling or just lazing on the beach. You’ll have the opportunity to hang out on the beach for the remainder of your days here or try some kayaking, rock climbing, island hopping or a tour of the town itself.

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. Due to limited accommodations in the Kanchanaburi region, we only offer the best available accommodations, including the P Guesthouse, the Dheva Mantra Resort & Spa and the U Inchantree Kanchanaburi Hotel.

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, Kanchanaburi, Sankhlaburi, Krabi

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

Early morning pick up in Bangkok for ground 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 6

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 7

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 8

Depart Kanchanaburi for your return to Bangkok and flight to Krabi. Upon arrival, airport reception and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 9

Visit the famous Phi Phi Islands for swimming and snorkeling or just lazing on the beach. You will go to Phi Phi Lay, Loh Sama with abundant coral and fish, Tonsai Bay for a Thai lunch (lunch included – food only), Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island and Chicken Island. These islands are among the most picturesque and beautiful islands in the world, while the surrounding waters are clear, clean and abundant with tropical fish. Enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 10

Day at leisure or choose one of the following activities:

Sea kayak at Ao Thalen

Rock climbing at Railay Beach

Krabi city Tour

Island hopping and picnic by speedboat

Day 11

Depending on your departure time, spend the day at leisure before transferring to the airport for your connection 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
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
Krabi
3-star	Krabi La Playa Resort, or similar
4-star	Centara Grand Beach Resor & Villas, or similar
5-star	Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, or similar
Deluxe	Rayavadee Resort, or similar

* Subject to confirmation at time of booking

11 days , from $6066

Occupancy Type	3-Star	4-Star	5-Star	Deluxe
Double	$6066	$6958	$8136	$8929
Single	$9075	$10779	$13214	$14560

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

Price Includes:

Round trip international airfare from New York to Bangkok

Round trip domestic airfare from Bangkok to Krabi

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.

Krabi Excursions

Sea Kayak at Ao Thalen

Ao Thalen is a small fishing village, located in the heart of Krabi’s local mangrove ecosystem. By paddling a canoe or kayak through the intricate waterways, you can penetrate the diverse swamps and limestone karsts, highlighted by a lagoon and canyon. The wildlife here is plentiful and includes birds, reptiles and animals. Of the birds frequently sighted in the mangroves there are brown – winged kingfishers, Pacific reef egrets, Asian dowitchers and white bellied sea eagles. The most commonly sighted mammals and reptiles are otters, macaques, gibbons and two-banded monitor lizards.

Rock climbing at Railay Beach

Take a boat out to Railay Beach, home of the famous rock-climbing activities. With a wide range of courses to meet all levels of climbing ability, it doesn’t matter how old, young or unaccustomed to climbing you may be; the local instructors will find something that suits your ability and that you will enjoy climbing.

Krabi city tour

On this tour, explore the Krabi town, including the Tiger Cave Monastery, situated in the heart of a lush hill forest. Then continue to the Shell Fossil Cemetery, where 40 million-year-old fossil shells have formed giant slabs jutting into the sea. Finally, visit the National Park at the scenic “Nopparat Thara Beach”. On this tour you will also have sufficient time to browse the local market and explore the local town life.

Hot spring and spa tour

Take the silk road of Krabi to Trang and visit the hot spring that is surrounded by rainforests and plentiful wildlife. The hot spring thermal pool is rich in mineral salts in a shaded in rainforest area that is ideal for bathing aching muscles. The tiger cave temple is a unique temple and includes a cliff-side monastery high above the surrounding jungle valley, with its limestone rocks and mountainous terrain. The 1,272 steps lead to a magnificent 600 meters look out point, revealing Panombenja in the north. Afterwards, transfer to the spa, which is decorated in Thai style in a house made of teak wood .Your hosts will welcome you upon arrival. Included is 1 hour for you to select one of the best options, such as, Royal Thai Massage or a Relaxing Head, Back & Shoulder massage.

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 19 December – 11 January with a set minimum of consecutive nights required for bookings between 23 – 8 January. Special conditions apply between 28 December – 2 January.
Guests staying at any accommodations on the 24th December are subject to a compulsory Christmas Eve dinner at added 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.

Name:
E-mail:
Phone: