11 Days Jewels of Thailand
Overview
Discover the rich cultural heritage, ancient capitals, and breathtaking landscapes of Thailand on this unforgettable 11-day journey from vibrant Bangkok to the misty mountains of Chiang Rai. Cruise the Chao Phraya River, explore the historic Bridge over the River Kwai, walk among UNESCO World Heritage ruins in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, and immerse yourself in the traditions of northern Thailand in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Along the way, enjoy authentic culinary experiences, luxury riverside resorts, spiritual encounters, and immersive cultural activities that reveal the true heart of Thailand.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic Chao Phraya River cruise with visits to hidden temples and cultural villages
- Explore the historic Bridge over the River Kwai and stay at a unique floating river resort
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai
- Enjoy a hands-on Thai farming experience in the Sukhothai countryside
- Savor a traditional Khantoke dinner with Northern Thai cultural performances in Chiang Mai
- Participate in a meaningful monk alms-giving ceremony and visit the iconic Doi Suthep Temple
- Marvel at Chiang Rai’s masterpieces – the White Temple and the Black House
- Stay in hand-picked boutique and deluxe hotels throughout your journey
What’s Included
- 2 nights in Deluxe Pool View Room at The Salil Hotel Riverside
- 1 night in a Floating Villa at The Floathouse River Kwai Resort
- 1 night in a Superior Room at Sala Ayutthaya Boutique Hotel
- 2 nights in a Superior Room at Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa
- 2 nights in a Lanna Deluxe Room at Na Nirand Resort Chiang Mai
- 2 nights in a Guest Room at Le Meridien Chiang Rai
- 25 Meals: 10 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 7 Dinners
- All transfers, sightseeing tours and cultural performances as mentioned in the itinerary
- Hotel taxes and service charges
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Gratuities, porterage, travel insurance, and visa fees
- Meals, beverages, and optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, drinks, local camera/video fees, and medical expenses
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local taxes (when applicable)
Itinerary
Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and time to relax after your journey.
Accommodation: The Salil Hotel Riverside (Deluxe Pool View Room)
After breakfast, enjoy a full day exploring Bangkok’s iconic landmarks and hidden cultural gems. Begin with a scenic waterway adventure along the Chao Phraya River. Your first stop is a historic Chinese Shrine near Wat Anongkharam, dating back to the Thonburi period. Continue to the former residence of the Queen Mother, set within a peaceful park that houses a memorial museum detailing the local community’s history. Visit the riverside Portuguese Catholic Church of Santa Cruz, followed by a stroll through the charming alleyways of Kudi Chin Village. Here, stop at a local bakery to sample European-style cakes. Continue to Wat Rakang, the “Temple of Bells,” an Ayutthaya-era shrine believed to bring good fortune to those who ring its massive bell. This evening, enjoy an authentic Thai dinner, featuring traditional low seating, hand-carved teak architecture, and live Thai music and dance performances.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: The Salil Hotel Riverside (Deluxe Pool View Room)
Depart early this morning on a scenic 88-mile journey northwest to Kanchanaburi Province. Visit the Thailand–Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that provides powerful insight into the conditions endured by Allied POWs during the construction of the infamous “Death Railway” in World War II. After lunch and check-in at your unique floating river resort, enjoy a long-tail boat journey on the River Kwai to visit a Mon tribal village and temple. Learn about the traditions and simple lifestyle of this ancient community.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: The Floathouse River Kwai Resort (Floating Villa)Begin with a visit to the JEATH War Museum for deeper historical insight into the construction of the Death Railway and the hardships endured during the war. Continue onward to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, with lunch en route. Upon arrival, explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park by tuk-tuk. Highlights include Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat with its iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the former royal chapel, and the Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam. Sample Ayutthaya’s famous roti sai mai (cotton candy crepes), with an opportunity to try making this local delicacy yourself. Check in at your riverside hotel, enjoy a sunset cocktail, followed by dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Sala Ayutthaya Boutique Hotel (Superior Room)
Travel north to Sukhothai, the cradle of Thai civilization and Thailand’s first capital. Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai represents the golden era of Thai culture, language, and governance. En route, pass through scenic countryside before arriving at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ruins, royal palaces, moats, and temples spread across a vast 17-square-mile historical park. Visit Prang Sam Yod and the Monkey Temple before continuing to additional ruins later in the day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa (Superior Room)
After breakfast, visit an organic Thai farming village where you’ll participate in traditional rice-farming activities, such as planting, harvesting, and milling (season-dependent), as well as plowing with water buffalo. After lunch at the farm, continue to Sri Satchanalai to explore Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Jet Thaew before returning to the resort.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Sriwilai Sukhothai Resort & Spa (Superior Room)
Depart for Chiang Mai, the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, nestled among mountains and fertile valleys. En route, stop in Lampang to visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, home to a revered Emerald Buddha image. Visit a local rice cracker factory before stopping at Kad Ban Ta Market. Arrive in Chiang Mai and check into your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Northern Thai Khantoke dinner with folklore performances and cultural presentations by local hill tribe members.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Na Nirand Resort (Lanna Deluxe)
Begin early with a monk alms-giving ceremony, an important Buddhist ritual believed to bring blessings and merit. After breakfast, travel up the mountain road to Wat Doi Suthep for panoramic views of Chiang Mai and the Ping Valley. Continue to Talat Warorod Market, then travel by rickshaw to Wat Chedi Luang. After lunch, visit a local handicraft village before dinner at a restaurant on the Ping River.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Na Nirand Resort (Lanna Deluxe)
Travel north to Chiang Rai, gateway to Thailand’s Golden Triangle. Founded in 1262, the city showcases a unique blend of Lanna culture and mountain scenery. Visit the striking White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a contemporary masterpiece blending religious symbolism with modern art. After lunch, tour the Black House (Baan Dam), an eclectic collection of art buildings created by Thawan Duchanee.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Le Meridien Chiang Rai (Guest Room)
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Optional visits include Wat Phra Kaew, the Navel City Pillar, or the Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park. Guests may also relax at the hotel’s spa, swimming pool, or fitness center.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Le Meridien Chiang Rai (Guest Room)
Transfer to Chiang Rai Airport for your onward journey. Your journey through Thailand’s most treasured cultural, historical, and scenic destinations concludes today.
Meals: Breakfast

