-
Destination
-
Trip duration
11 days, 10 nights
Day 1
Bangkok
Discover some of Thailand’s most famed sights on this extensive 11-day excursion that takes in Bangkok’s hidden attractions, ancient Ayutthaya, the splendour of the Sukhothai Historical Park and the great northern cities of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Our tour starts with a transfer from the airport in Bangkok to the Salil Hotel. This luxury property, alongside the Chao Phraya River, has extensive facilities to enjoy a day of leisure, including the city’s first-ever rooftop aquatherapy pool featuring hydromassage stations. There is also a conventional swimming pool and a fitness centre. F&B options include a riverside glass-fronted restaurant for afternoon tea and an elegant seafood restaurant serving the freshest daily catches. Overnight at Salil Hotel Riverside.
Food
-/-/-
Accommodation
Salil Hotel Riverside
Day 2
Bangkok
Our first full day of activities involves discovery of some of Bangkok’s landmark buildings, plus hidden sites off the tourist trail. After a leisurely breakfast in the hotel, our discovery gets underway at 9 am with a waterway adventure on the Chao Phraya River. Our first stop is the Chinese Shrine near Wat Anongkharam. This was built when Thonburi was the capital. We continue to the former home of the Queen Mother. This is in a pretty and tranquil park and it contains a memorial museum which details the history of the Wat Anongkharam community. Next, is the riverside Portuguese Catholic Church of Santa Cruz. We then soak up the atmosphere in the small alleyways of nearby Kudi Chin village where we stop at a local bakery to sample European-style cakes. Our journey continues to Wat Rakang. Otherwise known as the Temple of Bells, this shrine dates back to the Ayutthaya era. The temple’s large bell is thought to bring good luck to those who ring it. Dinner is at Thara Thong Restaurant, an authentic Thai dining venue with a hand-carved teakwood pavilion and traditional low seating. The evening includes Thai music and dance performances, followed by a transfer back to the Salil Hotel where we overnight. Overnight at Salil Hotel Riverside.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Salil Hotel Riverside
Day 3
Bangkok - Kanchanaburi
Today is packed with exploration of the great outdoors. After breakfast, the adventure commences with a 7 am pick-up from centrally located Bangkok hotels, followed by a 143-km road trip north-west to Kanchanaburi province. The route follows a scenic route and on arrival we head to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive and privately funded museum which provides an illuminating insight into conditions prisoners of war (POWs) endured when they were forced to build the ‘Death Railway’ between Siam and Burma during World War Two. After absorbing this history, we head to the resort to check-in and enjoy lunch. Our accommodation is a unique wooden property positioned directly over the river. In the afternoon, we take a long-tail boat ride on the River Kwai to visit an ethnic Mon Tribal village and temple where we will view the simple lifestyle of this indigenous group who are the earliest people to reside in South-East Asia, bringing their civilization to the region over 1,200 years ago. Then dinner and overnight at the Floathouse River Kwai. Dinner and overnight at Floathouse River Kwai.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Floathouse River Kwai
Day 4
Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya
Pristine countryside is swapped for ancient heritage today as we head to Ayutthaya. After breakfast, we leave the hotel and take a 170-km drive east. Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1350 until 1767. During its heyday, merchants came from afar to trade. The resultant wealth financed the magnificent architecture and the ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries and statues can be seen on a 4-km wide island at the confluence of three rivers. We start our exploration of the Ayutthaya Historical Park by tuk-tuk. Our first stop is Wat Mahathat which contains a famed Buddha head encircled by tree roots. Next, is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Lokayasutharam. We then sample Ayutthaya’s famed specialty dessert roti sai mai (cotton candy wrapped in thin crepes) and we can try our hand at making this local delicacy. Lunch is at a riverside restaurant, followed by a stroll around the fisherman’s market at Talad Klang Pue Kaset Tagon and then participation in a meditation session at Wat Maheyong. After checking-in to the hotel, we enjoy a sunset cocktail and dinner and overnight at Sala Ayutthaya. Overnight at Sala Ayutthaya.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Sala Ayutthaya
Day 5
Ayutthaya – Sukhothai
We take a journey back in time today with exploration of ancient temples and heritage sites in the Sukhothai Historical Park. After breakfast, we set off at 7 am on a 354-km drive north. Sukhothai, meaning the ‘dawn of happiness,’ was the capital of the first Thai kingdom which flourished from the mid-13th to the late 14th centuries. It laid the cultural and political foundation for the realm that became Thailand and this time is viewed as the golden era of Thai civilisation. For example, the Thai alphabet was created by King Ramkhamhaeng the Great in this city. The remains of this kingdom can be seen in a 45 sq-km World Heritage Site containing 193 antiquities of royal palaces, temples, city gates, walls, moats and dams spread amid ponds, rice paddies and villages. Our exploration starts with Prang Sam Yod (the Sacred Three-Spired Pagoda) and then the Monkey Temple. After lunch, we head to Sukhothai Historical Park to view the vast antiquities. Dinner and overnight is at the Sriwilai Resort.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Sriwilai Resort
Day 6
Sukhothai
A different perspective of Sukhothai is viewed today with exploration of sprawling countryside. After breakfast at the hotel, we leave at 8 am for the Sukhothai Organic Agriculture Farm where we will help plant, harvest, or mill rice, depending on the season, and plough paddies with a water buffalo. This is seriously good fun and highly educational as we get an insight into organic farming practices. After lunch at the farm, we drive to our final destination of Sri Satchanalai, the northern outpost of the Kingdom of Sukhothai where we visit Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Jet Thaew. We then return to the resort for overnight. Overnight is at the Sriwilai Resort.
Food
B/L/-
Accommodation
Sriwilai Resort
Day 7
Sukhothai – Chiang Mai
Our journey of adventure continues with a road trip to Chiang Mai. This former capital of the Lanna Kingdom is nestled between a rolling, mountainous backdrop and lush, fertile farmland. Known as the ‘Rose of the North’, it is famous for Thailand’s highest mountain, abundant temples, the famed night bazaar and a thriving handicraft industry. After breakfast at the hotel, the trip commences at 8 am with a drive north, via Lampang, where we visit Wat Phra Dhat Lampang Luang, home to the only emerald Buddha statue, besides the one at Wat Phra Keo in Bangkok. After working up an appetite, we get to sample rice crackers during a visit to a domestic factory. Our last stop is at the Kad Ban Ta Market, ahead of our arrival in the provincial capital of Chiang Mai. We check-in at the hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure. In the evening, we enjoy a Northern Thai dinner, enhanced with folk dances and talks from hill tribe members, at Benjarong Khantoke. Overnight at Na Nirand Chiang Mai.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Na Nirand Chiang Mai
Day 8
Chiang Mai
Today’s activities involve a fine blend of spirituality and cultural pursuits. An early start is rewarded with participation in a solemn monk alms offering in which we ‘gain merit’ by donating food in return for a blessing. Buddhists believe this ritual is rewarded with happiness. We return to the hotel for breakfast and then drive up Serpentine Road to Wat Doi Suthep Temple. This mountain-top shrine, which dates back to 1383, affords spectacular views of Chiang Mai city and the sprawling Ping Valley. We then head to Chiang Mai’s biggest market, Talat Warorod and continue by rickshaw to the city’s oldest temple, Wat Chedi Luang. After lunch, we visit a handicraft village, where we can buy excellent souvenirs. We enjoy dinner at The Gallery Restaurant Chiang Mai. This was built in 1892 and it is situated on the banks of the Ping River. The front building houses an art gallery and the rear teak wood building features a quaint riverside restaurant. We then head back to overnight at the resort. Overnight at Na Nirand Chiang Mai.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Na Nirand Chiang Mai
Day 9
Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai
Our diverse exploration continues to the far northern city of Chiang Rai. Known as the gateway to the Golden Triangle border area of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, this is positioned at the heart of some spectacular mountainous scenery. Founded by King Mengrai in 1262 as part of the Lao-Thai Lanna kingdom, it did not become Siamese territory until 1786. Chiang Rai’s rich past is evident in the city’s cultural heritage, unique language, arts and historical sites. After breakfast, we set off at 7 am on a 186-km drive north. On arrival, we visit Wat Rong Khun. Also known as the White Temple, this was created by celebrated Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. It features a fine blend of traditional Buddhist art and contemporary themes and the exterior is decorated with small pieces of mirrored glass that add to its dramatic beauty. After lunch, we drive to Black House, Baan Dam, an impressive structure created by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee. The multifunctional building is an eclectic mix of traditional Northern Thai buildings, interspersed with modern designs in a combined art studio, museum and home. We then check-in at the hotel for overnight. Overnight at Le Meridien Chiang Rai.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Le Meridien Chiang Rai
Day 10
Chiang Rai
Today is free at leisure to explore the splendid attractions of Chiang Rai. Prominent sites include Wat Phra Kaew, a royal temple that once housed the jade Emerald Buddha, but it now displays a replica. Nearby is the Navel City Pillar, a monument made of over 100 Khmer-style pillars. Another option is Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park. This contains an interesting museum showcasing Lanna, mostly teak, artifacts. The expansive and meticulously landscaped compound also houses antiques, art and Buddhist shrines. A highlight of this site is Haw Kham, a temple-like tower built in 1984 from the remains of 32 wooden houses. The huge size of the structure, with its Buddha image seemingly hovering over white sand, is very impressive. For those keen to relax in the hotel, the facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool and spa. Overnight is at the Le Meridian Chiang Rai, with lunch and dinner to our own arrangement. Overnight at Le Meridien Chiang Rai.
Food
B/-/-
Accommodation
Le Meridien Chiang Rai
Day 11
Chiang Rai
Our 11-day discovery of the jewels of Thailand concludes today, with a transfer to Chiang Rai Airport. This is the perfect multi-day tour for those keen to absorb spectacular scenery, ancient heritage and history, with all the experiences enhanced with the selection of the best hotels and premier dining at multiple venues.
Food
B/-/-
Create the experience of your dream with our travel experts
Make your own trailIncluded
- Tours and transfers with licenced English / German-speaking guiding services / assistance. Other languages are on request and are subject to availability;
- Accommodation in sharing twin / double room with air-conditioning;
- Transportation for tour and transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, unless otherwise stated;
- All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the program;
- All applicable taxes and service charges;
- All meals as indicated in the program (food only).
Not Included
- Voluntary Carbon Offset Compensation: USD 1.50 per person per day;
- Personal expenses such as other meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours/ visits, unless otherwise stated;
- Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement;
- Any domestic / international airline tickets, airport taxes, visa fees, specific camera / video fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general pick-up / drop-off regions (such as airports, out-of-town resorts, ports, harbours and accommodation in surrounding towns);
- Any accommodation expenses of a personal nature. This includes (compulsory festive) meals and drinks, mini-bar consumption, laundry, room service, any telephone or other communication cost not mentioned in the program;
- International travel and medical insurance coverage for customers.
Payment and Cancellations
- Full payment is due 30 days prior to departure. We reserve the right to release all services in case of payment default.
- Intermediate bank charges and fees are the responsibility of the client.
- Cancellation policy: In case of cancellation, the following cancellation fees will apply:
• Between 30-15 days prior to departure - 25% of total price
• Between 14-7 days prior to departure - 50% of total price
• Less than 7 days prior to departure – 100% of total price
You are booking
11 Days Jewels of Thailand
-
Destination
-
Trip duration
11 days, 10 nights
About your trip
RESERVATIONS
All tours and services can be booked directly with our office in China
A TRAILS CHINA / DAOCHENG
Beijing Office
Suite 810, SunFlower Tower
#37 Maizidian Street Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District
Beijing 100022, P.R. China
Tel: (86-10) 6515 9259
Fax: (86-10) 6515 9293
Email: info@atrails.cn
CONFIRMATIONS
All reservations are confirmed by return with the up-dated booking status within 2 working days. Due to occasional delays in communication with more remote destinations, it may take a few days longer to get confirmation.
RATES AND AVAILABILITY
All rates are quoted in RMB and are subject to change without prior notice. Inclusions and exclusions in the tour packages are indicated at the end of each itinerary. Commonly our package tour rates include accommodation, transfers, certain meals, and other tour related services. Domestic or international airfares are included where mentioned. Our tour itineraries do not include visa fees and expenses of a personal nature. The validity of our rates is November 01, 2018, until October 31, 2019, unless otherwise specified.
SERVICES
Local English speaking guides are accompanying tours and transfers in each destination. German, French, Italian, Spanish and Russian and Chinese speaking guides are available on request in major cities and subject to confirmation.
DELIVERY FEES
A delivery fee will be charged according to the distance traveled, if any train tickets are required to be delivered to clients’ hotel.
PAYMENT
Full pre-payment by bank transfer is required 30 days before the commencement of services.
Our bank account details are:
Bank Name: Bank of China Beijing JianGuoMen Wai Sub-Branch
开 户 行：中国银行北京建国门外支行
Account Name：ATC TRAVEL SERVICES (BEIJING) LTD.
账 户 名：北京道成国际旅行社有限公司
Account No.：3259 6908 9747
账 号：3259 6908 9747
Swiftcode : BKCH CN BJ 110
For itineraries operated outside China
Account Name：BEIJING GLORY INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL SERVICE CO, LTD.
账 户 名：北京千乘假期国际旅行社有限公司
Account No.：3211 6010 0100 1577 67
账号：3211 6010 0100 1577 67
Bank Name: Industrial Bank Co., Ltd Sanyuanqiao Sub-Branch
开 户 行：兴业银行三元桥支行
CHILD POLICY
For children aged between 2 and 11 years following rates will apply:
- Child in shared adults’ room with extra bed will pay 80% of the total package price
A maximum of two children per party is granted such a discount. Besides this general policy, specific conditions may apply case by case.
CANCELLATIONS
For cancellation of confirmed reservations, following general cancellation charges apply :
- Between 30 and 15 days prior to arrival : 20% of the total amount
- Between 15 and 7 days prior to arrival : 50% of the total amount
- Less than 7 days prior to arrival : 100% of the total amount.
Special conditions apply for cruises, beach resorts as well as for some of the boutique and landmark hotels. Expeditions and specific products may have different conditions.
Domestic and international air tickets are non-refundable once issued. You are obliged to pay full airfare (inclusive of any tax and fuel surcharge) of any cancelled tickets based on the contract rate.
PROGRAM CHANGES
We reserve the right to re-arrange the order of any tour program, to cancel or substitute elements of any tour itinerary without notice, when local conditions require such changes. All itineraries depending on domestic flight confirmations are subject to changes.
Any increase in taxes or fuel surcharges imposed by the authorities will be advised as soon as we are informed of them, and they will be added to the invoice.
Flight and train details mentioned in our itineraries are for indicative purposes only.
CONFIDENTIALITY
This agreement, its contents and all related documentation sent over to the customer/tour operator are strictly confidential and must not be disclosed to any third parties.
COMPLAINTS AND IRREGULARITIES
We consider complaints as valuable feedback to improve service delivery levels. We request that service delivery failures or customer concerns, be reported during the customer’s stay, to one of our representatives. It is the aim of the company to solve any irregularity on the spot. The company reserves the right to refuse to take action on perceived irregularities submitted to the company 14 days after the customer returns back home.
FORCE MAJEURE
During the term of this agreement, neither party shall be in default of its obligations to the extent that its performance is delayed or prevented by causes beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to, acts of God, natural disasters, bankruptcy of a vendor, strikes and other labor disturbances, acts of war, or civil disturbances, or other equivalent or comparable events.
INDEMNITY
The client agrees to indemnify and to save A Trails – Daocheng from harm and against all damage or injury (including death) to property or person(s) resulting from intentional or negligent acts or omissions from their respective officers, employees, agents, contractor or subcontractor in connection with the performance of this agreement.
LEGAL NOTE
This agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of China (and/or applicable in relation to the country it is legally represented) for the time being in force and the parties agree to submit any dispute arising between the parties under this agreement to arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the respectable Arbitration Institute, Office of the Judiciary applicable at the time of submission of the dispute to arbitration and the conduct of the arbitration thereof shall be under the auspices of the specific Arbitration Institute accordingly.
IMAGES
Images displayed on the website have a promotional intent only and are not necessarily reflecting the actual destinations and service conditions. These may belong to ATrails staff, customers, photographers we are collaborating with or retrieved from websites such as Pexel, Pixabay, Unsplash or Originoo. While trying to be the most accurate as possible, is agreed that those images do not necessarily depict the actual services promoted.
LIABILITY
We act as an intermediary between the concerned airlines, hotels, all transport operators and local tourist offices providing the services. The Company is therefore not responsible for any loss, injury or damage sustained by the tourists, including those occurring outside the touring programs. Additional expenses incurred due to delay, accidents, natural and disaster, political actions and unrest must be borne by the tourists. Programs and prices, services and conditions are based on those valid at the time of printing and are therefore subject to change without advance notice before or during the tour. Acknowledgment and confirmation of the above-mentioned conditions is active, once clients participate in one of the provided services via us. The itinerary of the excursion, package and/or tour cannot be altered or changed without prior permission from us. We cannot be held liable if you amend the excursion and its content in your brochures or give wrong descriptions to clients that are travelling.
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING AUTONOMOUS REGIONS IN CHINA
The Company is not responsible for any last-minute closure of specific regions or tourism sites caused by decisions taken by local or national authorities to restrict access hereto. We will provide alternative itineraries where necessary and reduce cancellation fees to a minimum, however, such imposed closures are beyond our control and constitute a case of force majeure.
The areas concerned include but are not restricted to : The Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Tibet Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, minority regions in Qinghai and Gansu provinces.
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
Travel breaks down borders and brings people together: The nearly 900 million people who travel every year make the sector one of the biggest in the world, a major employer and a key element in the global economy. But this has its downside, too: increasing pollutant emissions from the tourist traffic, loss of coastlines and other landscapes through excessive building development and sexual exploitation of children are just some of the negative consequences of the growth in global tourist travel. In order to minimize the negative impacts and enhance the positive ones, our Corporate Responsibility Strategy focuses on four prime issues:
- We increase efforts to ensure that children and adolescents in tourist areas are protected against sexual exploitation, one of the worst forms of abuse of young people today.
- We promote fair working conditions and sensibly service provider partners to social and environmental concerns.
- The supply and saving of clean water is a further key issue.
- We develop our own projects to meet the growing threat posed by climate change. Indeed, helping counter the adverse effects of global warming is one of the biggest challenges faced by the world tourist.