Explore some of the most interesting cultural sites in Thailand during this five-day tour centred on Bangkok. Wander through the awe-inspiring Grand Palace, as well as through various fascinating temples in which you can admire gigantic statues of Buddha. Be enchanted by the dreamlike quality of Damnoen Saduak, the floating market, and the vibrant intensity of the Maeklong Railway Market. A trip to remember. Discover the Kanchanaburi province, and take a trip on the historic Death Railway Train, passing over the original wooden viaduct constructed by allied prisoners of war.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Bangkok: explore the cities most renowned temples, as well as the magnificent Grand Palace and enjoy the temple tour.
Damnoen Saduak: watch the congested canals filled with sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruits and vegetables at this unforgettable market.
Maeklong Railway Market: yet another unique setting for a market, in this case, on top of an active railway track.
Allied War Cemetery: a memorial to some 6000 allied prisoners of war who perished along the death railway line and were moved post-war to this eternal resting place.
Day 1: ARRIVAL BANGKOK
Arrive at Bangkok International Airport, meet and greet and transfer to your hotel (transfer unescorted). Rest of the day at leisure (own expense) Perhaps you could indulge yourself with a traditional Thai Massage, surprise your taste buds with the amazing local flavours and cap off the day by enjoying the sunset in any of the stylish rooftop bars which have blossomed in the city’s skyscrapers in recent years… the options are limitless.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 2: HALFDAY ROYAL GRAND PALACE & TEMPLE TOUR
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Today’s tour includes three of the most important Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Wat Traimit is also known as the temple of the Golden Buddha houses a 3-meter-tall statue made from solid gold and weighing 5.5 tons. You will then pass through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, the temple of the Reclining Buddha and home to the Chedis of the Kings. At 46 meters in length and 15 meters high the Buddha is the largest in Bangkok and illustrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The Grand Palace is one of the most beautiful samples of an ancient Siamese court. It used to be the residence of the Kings of Bangkok. Here you will see palaces which were used for different occasions: the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and Wat Phra Keo, the beautiful Emerald Buddha Temple. To round off the tour, we call in at a local lapidary factory and showroom where you will be able to get locally made jewellery, handicrafts and silk at competitive prices.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 3: RAILWAY MARKET AND DAMNERN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET
Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Bangkok and head to Maeklong Railway Market, also known as Talad Rom Hoop. Upon arrival, the guide will introduce you to the history of this area. See the action in several minutes before the train passing through the market. The process happens so quick it will amaze you for the unique moment. Then go to the world-famous floating market of “Damnoen Saduak”, there are countless floating markets throughout the country, the colourfully clad merchants at these lively markets paddle along congested canals in sturdy canoes laden with fresh fruits and vegetables to sell to shoppers on the banks. This is an exciting and fun way to see the local like and to go bargain hunting. Transfer back to Bangkok.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 4: FULLDAY RIVER KWAI EASY
Early morning, enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel. Pick-up between 6:00 - 6:30 am, and depart to Kanchanaburi province (128 km). Visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre - an interactive museum, with information and research facilities, dedicated to present the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway. The fully air-conditioned centre offers the visitor an educational and moving experience. Continue to visit the Allied War Cemetery, which is a memorial to some 6000 allied prisoners of war who perished along the death railway line and were moved post-war to this eternal resting place. After lunch at a local restaurant (included), take a trip on the historic Death Railway Train, passing over the original wooden viaduct constructed by allied prisoners of war. Journey back to Bangkok. Arrive at Bangkok and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Day 5: DEPARTURE BANGKOK
Feast on a reinvigorating breakfast and time at leisure until you are transferred to Bangkok International Airport for onward travel to your selected destination (transfer unescorted).
Especially during the dry, cool season (December to February), a warm jacket and long trousers are recommended. Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Thailand. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
