To the Discovery of the Kingdom of Siam - Nomadays

Thailand

To the Discovery of the Kingdom of Siam

A complete 3-week circuit in 3 parts.

During the first part of our journey, you will start your stay in the Land of Siam with a visit to the city of angels: Bangkok. Then, head to Amphawa, and its still authentic floating market where you can discover the daily life of the Thais, before boarding the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi. A natural stop, where you will discover the elephants and waterfalls of the Erawan National Park. Our stay in the center ends with the cultural visit of Ayutthaya, the ...

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Day 1Welcome to Thailand

Day 1Welcome to Thailand

  • Welcome by our team, then transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.

    Please note, rooms may not be available until 2:00 pm. If you arrive early, you can leave your luggage at the reception and relax by the pool.
    
  • Night at the Silome Serene Boutique Hôtel in a Deluxe double room.

Day 2The "Venice of the East"

Day 2The "Venice of the East"

  • Departure in the morning to reach the pier and take the public boat-buses to the center, on the right bank and the Pak Klong Talad flower market district.

  • We start our day with a visit to the Grand Palace of Bangkok, built in 1782, which includes several magnificent buildings, including the Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which houses a beautiful Emerald Buddha dating back to the 14th century.

  • Our morning continues. We go to Wat Benchamabophit. Often called the "Marble Temple," this architectural gem showcases a beautiful image of Buddha, a copy of the highly revered Phra Buddhajinaraja, as well as a magnificent ceiling of dark red and gold beams.

  • Then, we walk to Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, to see its reclining Buddha.

  • We then cross the river by a small boat to visit Wat Arun, the "Temple of Dawn," located on the right bank.

  • Private traditional long-tail boat taxi ride on the Chao Phraya River, one of the most important rivers in the country. Discover the Venice of the East and the traditional life of the city's inhabitants, half of whom still live by the water.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    

Day 3Bangkok in depth

Day 3Bangkok in depth

  • We start our day with a visit to the Bangkok National Museum. Considered the most important in Southeast Asia, the museum houses a vast collection of antiquities including prehistoric art, murals, bronzes, objects from other Asian countries, and ceremonial carriages used by royal families. (2 hours will be needed for this visit)

  • Visit to the Jim Thompson House to discover Thai interior architecture.

  • Visit to the Yaowarat and Talat Noi Chinatown district; the Temple of the Golden Buddha - Wat Traimitr, and the small but very interesting Yaowarat Chinatown Heritage Museum, which traces the history of Chinese immigration to Bangkok.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
1h 15m-80km
1h-55km
50m-60km

Day 4Maha Sawat and its lotus farm

Day 4Maha Sawat and its lotus farm

  • We hit the road towards the grand Maha Sawat canal, which used to supply the markets of Bangkok. Discover the canal by boat, followed by a ride on a local tractor. We will visit a lotus and orchid farm, among other things.

  • We then head to Nakhon Pathom, home to the Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest stupa in Thailand.

  • Arrival in Amphawa, a small town of 50,000 inhabitants that lives to the rhythm of its markets and its small river trade. Less known and smaller than Damnoen Saduak, the Amphawa floating market is said to be more authentic, with a large majority of Thai visitors. We believe it is a privileged destination to dive into the heart of Thai life.

    Tonight, we head to the docks to taste the local flavors of the floating market, which takes place on weekend evenings. Along the canals, many locals come to dine. Like them, we order our dishes directly from each boat: stir-fried noodles, skewers of shrimp or squid, or why not some pre-cut mangoes.

  • Nightfall, boat trip on the canal. Our boatman picks us up from the quayside, and we set off on a mini-excursion in search of fireflies that illuminate the waters.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
  • Night at the Kanokrat resort.

Day 5The Railway market

Day 5The Railway market

  • This morning, we set out to discover the small floating market of Tah Kah, rich in colors and smells. A real immersion in Thai local life.

  • We start with a quick stop at the Mae Klong Railway Market, where four times a day, fruit and vegetable stalls hurriedly fold away as the train passes through the market.

  • Then, a half-day of discovering life in the mangroves. By boat, we explore this fragile ecosystem. During our excursion, we discover the way of life of the fishermen (here clam fishing is done from a surfboard) and visit a shellfish farm.

    Lunch of specialties.

  • After lunch, we hit the road for Kanchanaburi, where we will take the time to visit the grand temple of Wat Tham Sua, accessible by a short cable car ride (local standards!!).

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
  • Settle in for 2 nights at the Royal Riverkwai Resort Spa, in a superior room.

    Hotel by the river with a pool - Located about ten kilometers after the town and the train bridge.

Day 6Discovering Kanchanaburi and its surroundings

Day 6Discovering Kanchanaburi and its surroundings

  • Departure for the station and boarding around 10:40 am on the famous "Death Railway". made famous by the story of the movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai," for about 1 hour by train to the west and the Sai Yok region, located 70 km west at the end of the train line.

  • After lunch, we stop at Hellfire Pass, a long 4 km trench of the Death Railway cut into a huge rock mass to allow the train to pass. The work carried out by prisoners of Japanese soldiers is said to have cost the lives of more than 100,000 forced laborers and other prisoners of war. Visit the associated museum and an emotional walk along the commemorative trail.

    Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours on site.
    

    Return to Kanchanaburi in the late afternoon.

    Day accompanied by an English-speaking guide
    
1h-60km
3h 30m-220km

Day 7Visit to Erawan National Park

Day 7Visit to Erawan National Park

  • Departure in the morning for the Erawan National Park and Waterfalls (60 km drive). This national park is home to a superb waterfall spanning 7 levels, forming natural pools with emerald blue water inhabited by Mahseer barbs. While you can choose to stay around the first 3 levels, which are the easiest to access and where you can swim, an ascent to the 7th level, although not difficult, is rewarding: La Phu Pha Erawan, the final cascade, is the most majestic of all.

  • After some free time to enjoy the waterfalls, we'll hit the road for Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The day in Ayutthaya will be guided by an English-speaking guide.

  • Overnight at Baan Tye Wang.

1h-25km
Bang Pa-In
25m-30km

Day 8Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the kingdom

Day 8Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the kingdom

  • A day dedicated to exploring Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Siam. In the morning, we'll discover the historic center of the city, including the temple Wat Mahathat, dating back to the late 14th century. We'll then continue to the temple Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which once served as the royal temple and is the largest in the city. Finally, we'll visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon and its reclining Buddha.

    The day in Ayutthaya will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
  • Afterwards, we'll go on a boat excursion to Bang Pa-in from Ayutthaya, where we'll discover the Thai way of life, houses on stilts, convoys of rice barges being towed to Bangkok's warehouses, and temple spires pointing skyward. We'll meet our driver at the pier and visit the palace. We'll return to Ayutthaya in the late afternoon.

1h-65km
3h-257km

Day 9Stop in Monkey City.

Day 9Stop in Monkey City.

  • Early morning departure towards Sukhothai. Along with our guide, we first board a train to Lopburi, the city of monkeys, where we make a stop.

    Departure at 8:38 am for an arrival at 09:42 am.
    
  • This morning, we'll explore the city of Lopburi, famous for its many monkeys roaming the streets.

    Despite being relatively unknown to travelers, this city, which was once the capital of the kingdom on several occasions, has a rich historical past. The numerous ruins and ancient palaces attest to this, making the Monkey City an interesting stop on the way to Sukhothai.

    We'll start our visit with the Phra Prang Sam Yod , a temple with Khmer architecture that was originally a sanctuary of Mahayana Buddhism and is now home to many macaques. We'll then discover the complex architecture of Wat Mahathat before learning about the history at the King Narai Palace, which now houses a national museum.

  • In the afternoon, we'll take the train to Phitsanulok.

    Departure at 4:23 pm for an arrival at 8:35 pm.
    
  • We'll settle into the charming guesthouse of Pao, where you'll be warmly welcomed.

    The day in Phitsanulok will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Baan Tye Wang

Accommodation: Petit Paramata

Day 10Cycling tour in the Sukhothai region.

Day 10Cycling tour in the Sukhothai region.

  • Early wake-up and a short transfer to Sukhothai. From there, we'll start a biking excursion along small canals, passing through small rural communities and rice fields. We'll discover rural life and the importance of canals in their daily lives (agriculture, bathing, laundry, fishing for dinner, etc.).

    We'll eventually reach the city of Sukhothai, the capital of the first Thai kingdom, and the renowned historical park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which we'll explore.

    The day will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Petit Paramata

Accommodation: Le charme

2h 30m-145km

Day 11The historic park of Si Satchanalai

Day 11The historic park of Si Satchanalai

  • We'll continue our journey north, with a must-see stop at the historic site of Si Satchanalai, where we'll see the remains of the ancient capital of the Sukhothai kingdom dating back to the 13th century. We'll explore the site by bike.

  • Then, we'll continue our journey towards Lampang, renowned for its ceramic industry and its famous bowls decorated with roosters that we'll find in restaurants in the evening.

  • We'll start our exploration of Lampang with a visit to Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, an ancient temple dating back to the Phra Nang Cham tewi era, known for its ancient architecture.

  • In the afternoon, we'll enjoy a pleasant walk in the old street of Kad Kong Ta in Lampang, where beautiful teak houses are located, including the Moung Ngwe Zin house.

  • We'll visit the magnificent Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao temple, dating back to the 15th century.

    The day will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
  • Overnight at the Lampang River Lodge in a Lanna Cottage.

Day 12On the way to Chiang Rai

Day 12On the way to Chiang Rai

  • Heading towards Chiang Rai, in the Thai Golden Triangle.

  • On the way, a detour to the magnificent Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat temple, perched atop a mountain. To reach the Chedi, it will require a bit of effort: an ascent of about 800 meters awaits. A metal staircase will lead us to the top (approximately 40 minutes), offering us a breathtaking view.

  • Upon arrival in Chiang Rai, we'll visit the extraordinary Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. It's a contemporary creation by one of Thailand's most famous artists, Chalermchai Kositpipat.

    While the site resembles a religious complex, its purpose is different: the nine buildings house extraordinary works of art, from meditating Buddha statues to idols of pop culture like Michael Jackson, and murals celebrating the doctrines of Theravada Buddhism. Its immaculate white color gives the building a unique and surprising charm.

  • Continuing to Wat Rong Sua Ten, also known as the "Blue Temple," in Chiang Rai. This temple is the work of a disciple of the architect Chalermchai.

    There, you'll observe sculptures of Buddha in lotus position, as well as figures of demons and legendary nagas, half human and half serpent, along with paintings illustrating the events of Gautama's earthly life.

    The day will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
  • Staying at the Nak Nakara Hotel in Chiang Rai for 2 nights.

1h-55km
1h 30m-80km

Day 13The Golden Triangle

Day 13The Golden Triangle

  • In the early morning, we'll meet our team and depart for the Mekong River and the Golden Triangle, the convergence point of the Thai, Burmese, and Laotian borders, following the road along the Mekong River banks.

  • At the port, we board a taxi boat and cruise for about an hour on the waters of the Mekong.

    Continuing along the Mekong banks to a viewpoint overlooking the Mekong and the huge "decadent Sino-Roman style" casino on the Laotian bank of the river.

  • Visit to the superb Hall of Opium Museum, built into the hillside overlooking the Mekong Valley.

  • On the way back, we'll make a stop in small villages of the Yao and Akha communities. If time and inclination allow, we can also stop at a Padaung community, a hill tribe branch of the Karenni people from neighboring Myanmar who have found refuge in Thailand. The Padaung women are known for wearing the famous golden spiral necklaces, which create the impression of long necks.

2h 55m-175km

Day 14First steps in the Rose of the North

Day 14First steps in the Rose of the North

  • Early departure for Chiang Mai, the Rose of the North and former capital of the Lan Na kingdom, which enchants with its way of life, hundreds of temples, gastronomy, smiles, and traditions.

    On the way, we'll stop at the Suan Lahu Organic Farm. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy the superb view of the surroundings over a cup of organically grown coffee.

    Your hosts will introduce you to the organic farm project here before taking you on a tour of the farm. You will witness the production and processing of coffee, tea, and fruits. Depending on the season, you will also witness the harvest.

    Then, we'll visit the rural highland community, where we'll get an insight into the indigenous Lahu culture.

  • Arrival in Chiang Mai, we head to the heights and discover the magnificent Doi Suthep temple, located in the mountains at 1200 meters above sea level.

    This superb Buddhist temple invites you to a pious meditation in an atmosphere imbued with silence and mysticism, where every stone, every statue, every step reveals an aspect of Buddhism.

    On the way, we'll stop at the Wat Pha Lat temple.

  • Finally, we will end our day with a visit to the Wat Umong temple, an underground Buddhist temple from the 13th century. Nestled at the foot of the Doi Suthep mountains, Wat Umong is a haven of peace.

    Discover the history of the monastery, walk through old underground tunnels, and take the time to talk with the resident monks.

    The day will be guided by an English-speaking guide.
    
  • Check in at the De Lanna Hotel for 2 nights, in a Superior room.

Day 15Biking and cooking class

Day 15Biking and cooking class

  • This morning, we'll explore the "Rose of the North" by bike.

    Starting from the famous Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai, with the Doi Suthep mountains as a backdrop, we'll venture into the city's traditional small streets and alleys. You'll discover numerous ancient temples, monks going about their daily routines, lively markets, and the daily lives of the locals, including artisans from mountain communities who will be busy with their tasks as we cycle through their neighborhoods, under their curious eyes.

    This activity will be in a small group accompanied by a local English-speaking guide.
    
  • In the afternoon, we head to a traditional cooking class in the countryside, outside of the city, in an old Lanna-style house.

    On the menu, typical northern dishes:

    • Chicken curry (Aou Kai)
    • Spicy chicken soup (Tom som Kai)
    • Pork stir-fry (Phad Makauyaw Moo)
    • Minced pork (Nam prik Ong)
    • Banana in coconut milk
Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: De Lanna Hotel

Dinner: Homestay

Accommodation: De Lanna Hotel

1h 15m-60km

Day 16Among the Karen people in Doi Inthanon National Park

Day 16Among the Karen people in Doi Inthanon National Park

  • This morning, we hit the road for the mountains overlooking the city of Chiang Mai, in Doi Inthanon National Park, where we will start a guided hike in the mountains, as well as discover the Karen populations of northern Thailand.

    We begin our trek of the hill tribes of Doi Inthanon through the lush rice fields of the region. There is the possibility of swimming in the waterfalls.

    We will visit a Karen village where we will settle for the night and meet the locals.

    The day will be accompanied by an English-speaking hiking guide. The hike will last approximately 5.5 hours.
    
  • Tonight, we are welcomed for dinner and the night by a Karen family in a stunning setting.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: De Lanna Hotel

Dinner: Homestay

Accommodation: Homestay

Day 17In the company of elephants

Day 17In the company of elephants

  • After breakfast at our hosts' home and a morning stroll in the village, we drive to Chi's camp, a young Karen who will show us his elephants and way of life. Upon arrival, we prepare fruits to feed the elephants. We then walk together in the jungle, where the elephants continue to feed and we can interact with them in a natural environment. Our guide provides more information about their behavior. Finally, we witness the elephants bathing in the river.

    The activity is private and in the company of Chi.
    
  • In the afternoon, to cool off, we will take a short bamboo rafting trip down the Mae Wang River.

    The activity is a peaceful ride of about 40 minutes.
    
  • Overnight at Chiang Mai Elephant Friends, a charming lodge on the banks of the Mae Wang River.

Meal and accommodations

Breakfast: Homestay

Day 18Krabi and its coast

Day 18Krabi and its coast

  • Your driver will take you to Chiang Mai Airport, from where you will fly to the south/west of Thailand, to the Andaman coast.

  • You board your flight to Krabi, where you will join Ao Nang, a lively seaside resort. Krabi is known for its stunning landscapes with karst peaks and its many islands surrounded by incredibly beautiful turquoise waters. You will spend the rest of the day enjoying the beauty of the area.

  • You will spend 3 nights at Ban Sainai resort.

Day 19Excursion to the Phi Phi Islands

Day 19Excursion to the Phi Phi Islands

  • In the early morning, we will head to the pier where we will meet our team, including a naturalist guide and the boat captain. Our cruise will first take us to Koh Phi Phi and its steep cliffs plunging into the sea. After a 45-minute boat ride, we will have the chance to swim in Pileh Lagoon, also known as the "swimming pool in the sea." The lagoon, surrounded by limestone cliffs plunging into the emerald sea, is a delight.

    Next, our cruise will take us to Viking Cave, known for its swallow nests. Here, we can also admire marine life by snorkeling in the clear waters.

    We will then spend our afternoon on Bamboo Island, renowned for its long white sandy beach, warm and clear waters where exotic fish swim peacefully in the corals.

    The activity is in a group accompanied by an English-speaking guide. Note that the Phi Phi Islands are very beautiful but attract many visitors. Therefore, you will not be alone on the excursion. Be aware of the situation, and if you wish to avoid the crowds, it is advisable to avoid this excursion.
    
Meal and accommodations

Lunch: Ton Sai Seafood beach restaurant

Accommodation: Ban Sainai resort

Day 20Private cruise in Phang Nga Bay

Day 20Private cruise in Phang Nga Bay

  • After lunch, we will embark on our private long-tail boat. From there, we will set off for a half-day cruise to Koh Hong Island, where we can swim, snorkel (equipment provided), and relax on the island's beautiful white sandy beaches.

    In the evening, we will enjoy a barbecue on Pak Bia Island before swimming, if weather and moonlight permit, among bioluminescent phytoplankton.

    The activity is private with an English-speaking guide.
    
Meal and accommodations

Dinner: Beach barbecue

Accommodation: Ban Sainai resort

1h 15m-750km

Day 21Return to the city of angels

Day 21Return to the city of angels

  • Departure in the early afternoon from the hotel to Krabi Airport (1 hour 30 minutes away).

  • You board your return flight to Bangkok, with the rest of the day free.