Thailand History and Angkor Wat Vacation Package


12 DAYS - Activity Level : Easy
  • Siem Reap - 2 Days
  • Bangkok - 4 Days
  • Kanchanaburi - 2 Days
  • Chiang Mai - 4 Days


Detailed Itinerary

All tours are not created equal. If you are searching for great value on an excellent tour that includes top rated boutique lodging, we strongly recommend that you take the time to read the detailed itinerary below.

Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Many flights arrive either in the evening or at night/early morning, and if this is the case with your flight, we strongly recommend that our guests consider arriving a day earlier. Even if your flight arrives on time, this allows you to recuperate from jetlag, and serves as insurance against international flight delays and cancellations. The additional night’s hotel stay can be added during the reservation process.
You are greeted at the airport by a Travel Facilitator and ushered to a chauffeur driven vehicle. You are then driven to your hotel where you are assisted with your check in, if it is past 2 PM. If your arrival is earlier in the day, you will drop your bags off with the bell desk and use the hotel facilities until check-in can be facilitated
Evening: you will enjoy the spectacular sunset from the ancient temple of Pre-Rup. This is a good alternative to Phnom Bakheng Hill, which receives throngs of tourists for sunset.




Day 2: Siem Reap. Rising before dawn, proceed for your exploration of the Mother of all temples, Angkor Wat. Believed to be the world's largest religious building, this temple is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Khmers. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, this is most famous temple at Angkor. Arrive at the monument as the sun rises and then proceed into the great structure to discover its intricacies, as described by your guide. You are driven back to the hotel afterward for breakfast and some time to freshen up.
Next, pay a visit to the immense walled city Angkor Thom that was the masterpiece of King Jayavarman VII. Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the new king decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. The scale is simply staggering and you will be awed by the achievement of King Jayavarman as you enter the city’s gates. The causeway is lined by an intricate bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the Devas (gods) and Asuras (devils) are engaged in tug of war with a naga (seven-headed serpent) to obtain the elixir of immortality. Begin your visit at the Terrace of the Leper King. This intricately carved platform was the royal crematorium and the statue that was originally thought to be the leper king is now believed to be Yama, the god of death.
We continue along the Terrace of Elephants, originally used as a viewing gallery for the king to preside over parades, performances and traditional sports. At the southern end lies the Baphuon, once of the most beautiful temples at Angkor, dating from the reign of Uditayavarman 1 in the 11th century. It has undergone a massive renovation by the French and is now once again open for viewing.
Then proceed to the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia's most celebrated king. Its 54 towers are each topped off with the four faces of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion), all of which bear more than a passing resemblance to the king himself.
There is a break for lunch. 
Next up is the mystical Ta Prohm, which has been abandoned to the elements, a reminder that while empires rise and fall, the riotous power of nature marches on, oblivious to the dramas of human history. Left as it was ‘discovered’ by French explorer Henri Mouhout in 1860, the tentacle-like tree roots here are slowly strangling the surviving stones, man first conquering nature to create, nature later conquering man to destroy. This was one of the settings for Lara Croft’s adventures in “Tomb Raider”.
Complete your exploration of the Angkor ruins with a visit to another temple that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time - Preah Khan. This large temple is left unrestored for the most part and is a fascinating maze of narrow passageways and windows that each offer their own unique view into the past. You are driven back to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Evening: You may want to have your hotel arrange for a tuk-tuk to take you to the night market downtown this evening. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available downtown to bring you back to the hotel at your leisure.




Day 3: Siem Reap - Bangkok. After an early breakfast, proceed to explore Tonle Sap Lake. During the dry season (November to May) the lake loses most of its water to the Mekong River flowing toward the river delta in Vietnam. When the rains come in summer, the lake fills up and rises over 30 feet (10 meters). You will explore the lakeside fishing community of Kampong Khleang, the largest town on the lake, and no doubt be impressed by the network of houses on stilts, raising them up to 30 feet (10 meters) off the ground. You are driven back to the hotel for assisted check-out at noon. You are driven to the Siem Reap airport and assisted in boarding your mid-afternoon flight to Bangkok.
Arrive in Bangkok. You are greeted at the airport by an Easy Tours Facilitator or your guide and ushered to a chauffeur driven vehicle. You are then driven to your beautiful luxury riverfront hotel where you are assisted with your check in, which is available from 2 PM onwards. The next day’s plans are briefly reviewed and you are presented with your welcome package. Among other things, this package includes travel documents such as your air tickets and hotel vouchers, as well as copies of documents (such as our General Travel Guide) that were sent to you earlier.
The giant metropolis of Bangkok is a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers, congested traffic, beautiful and ornate Wats (temples), incredible street food, and a lot more. The colorful Thai culture and the easygoing local lifestyle make this unique city even more interesting.




Day 4: Bangkok - Kanchanaburi. After an early breakfast, begin your exploration of Thailand with a visit to the iconic floating market of Damnoen Saduak. Located 67 miles to the southwest of Bangkok, the picturesque market is a treasure trove of photo opportunities; from little pirogues overloaded with fruits, vegetables and orchids, to serene Thai women gracefully paddling their way to the banks where they will sell their goods. Your guide will first escort you on the banks of the canals and will give you insights into all the goods that are offered. Then, you will board a small boat to make your way to different vendors whose products you may want to sample.
After the floating market you will continue on the drive to the region of Kanchanaburi, and you will observe the landscape changing from relatively flat farmland to the semi-karst mountainous jungle often found along the Thai-Burmese border. This region was once the theater of tragic episodes during WWII, and it was here that prisoners of war built the iconic bridge over the River Kwai. Arrive in Kanchanaburi and proceed to the Namtok station to board the train for an amazing trip along the infamous Death Railway. Enjoy the scenery as the train snakes around hills alongside the River Kwai, while passing through dense bamboo forests and jungles. After an approximately 30 minute journey, disembark from the train at a station where lunch awaits you at a nearby restaurant overlooking the River Kwai.
After lunch, it is time to head into the countryside of Kanchanaburi Province, to visit the famous Hell Fire Pass. This man-made railway cutting in the mountain was carved using primitive and inadequate tools by Allied soldiers, most of whom were Australian. They worked in horrible conditions under the whip of the Japanese soldiers, who were desperate to complete the Thai-Burma railway. A lot of lives were cruelly sacrificed to complete this project. The name Hell Fire Pass comes from one soldier’s description of the site, as workers toiled through the night by firelight. There are memorials and a small museum at this site as well. You will walk along the tracks and admire the scenery from the path of the railway.
After this exploration you will proceed to your resort on the banks of the River Kwai. Arrive at the pier and your baggage is transferred to a long-tailed boat. Relax and enjoy the scenic 15 minute boat ride down the river, as the sounds of the jungle echo from the cliffs above you. Land at the hotel pier and you are assisted with check-in.




Day 5: Kanchanaburi. After waking up to the sounds of the jungle, we recommend that you enjoy a stroll around the lush natural environment of the resort. This will be your first daylight view of the jungle that surrounds you. After breakfast, join your guide and board a long-tailed boat for a short cruise down the River Kwai. Doi Suthep Kanchanaburi’s physical beauty is sometimes overshadowed by its history, and the scenery along this part of the river is majestic. Disembark and proceed for a tour of a Mon village, which is hidden in the jungle. The Mon people are one of Southeast Asia’s most ancient races. Originally from Burma, they are integrated into Thai society, but deeply cherish and honor their heritage. Enjoy a walk around the village area and visit the village school, as well as their temple & gold chedi. You will also have the opportunity to spend some time with the elephant members of the tribe, both riding them and feeding them bananas, if you are so inclined. If you wish, you can take a 30 minute (each-way) hike to see an impressive jungle cave.
Board your boat again and enjoy the scenery as you continue north up the river to Hintok River Camp. You will be mesmerized by the magic of this unique spot, as you enjoy lunch on top of a cliff, overlooking a twist of the River Kwai.
After lunch, you will visit Erawan National Park, famous for its series of waterfalls. Arrive at the National Park and begin your exploration of the forests, waterfalls, and other natural wonders of the park. You may want to bring your swimsuit, as there are many idyllic natural pools to swim in along the waterfall path. Don’t forget your camera - The scenery and beauty of this jungle is exactly what a person visualizes while daydreaming about Southeast Asia. You are escorted back to your hotel in the late afternoon.




Day 6: Kanchanaburi - Bangkok. Check-out after breakfast and proceed for a visit to the Bridge Over the River Kwai. Explore the famous bridgewhich was built in about 16 months by allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts, then later destroyed Kanchanaburi Famous Bridge during allied bombing raids. It was later rebuilt by the Japanese, as war reparations. These events were the basis for one of Hollywood’s all-time great movies.
After this you have the option to visit the JEATH Museum, or to return to your fascinating riverfront jungle lodging for a short while, before checking-out. The name JEATH refers to the nationalities of people who were responsible for constructing the Thai-Burma Railway - Japan, England, Australia, America, Thailand, and Holland. This interesting museum features depictions of the building of the Death Railway, and of the quarters, and other living aspects, of the POW’s.
You are assisted with your check-out and then there is a break for lunch.
After lunch you are driven back to Bangkok and assisted with check-in to your hotel.




Day 7: Bangkok. After breakfast, begin your exploration of Thailand’s exciting capital city with a visit to the historical area. The Grand Palace complex has been the official residence of Thai royalty since 1782, and is still used for official events. Your guide will show you some of the more interesting highlights Vimanmek Palace of the complex. The collection of buildings serves as a nice introduction to Thai architecture and provides many great photo opportunities. Just one of the several stops you will make within the complex is Wat PhraKaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in all of Thailand. Except for the Thai King, no other person is allowed to touch this statue. The King changes the statue’s cloak three times each year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons.
Next, you will visit Wat Pho, known also as The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, adjacent to the Grand Palace. This large statue is 50 feet (15 meters) high and 140 feet (43 meters) long and is covered in gold leaf. The bottoms of the feet are inlaid with mother of pearl, divided into 108 panels depicting the 108 auspicious symbols used by Buddha.
There is a break for lunch.
Afternoon: Enjoy an urban excursion by long-tailed boat to discover the canals of Thonburi. The people of Thailand, and particularly the residents of Bangkok, have always lived a riparian lifestyle. You will now explore the intricate network of canals, or Khlongs, and get a great insight into just how this giant metropolis is a fascinating blend of modern businesses and skyscrapers, mixed with traditional Thai lifestyles. You will enjoy a visit to the hidden Museum of Royal Barges, followed by an up-close visit to beautiful Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), a striking monument that will have caught your attention earlier as you cruised Bangkok’s waterways.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at your leisure.




Day 8: Bangkok - Ayutthaya - Bangkok. After breakfast, depart for your private tour of Ayutthaya, the last capital of the kingdom of Siam. Before being sacked by the Burmese army in the late 18th century, Ayutthaya was a glorious city, one of the most important capitals in all of South East Asia. During its golden age, Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya had strong diplomatic and commercial relationships with existing world powers such as Japan, Portugal and France. It is located about a 90 minute drive (each way) from Bangkok.
On the way to Ayutthaya, you have the option to stop at the Summer Royal Residence in Bang Pa In. Depending upon your pace, and interest in the sights at Bang Pa In, this visit will take anywhere between 1 hour and 2.5 hours. Please note that this will reduce your time in Ayutthaya, and an extended stop could result in a very long day, especially due to Bangkok traffic, which is bad all day, and horrible in the evenings.
At Bang Pa In you can admire some of the original pavilions that formed the rich architectural compound. You will also be able to view an unusual Neo Gothic Buddhist temple that was built under King Rama V. The architecture has an obvious European influence.
Arrive in the ancient capital of Ayutthaya by early afternoon (mid-late morning if you do not stop at Bang Pa In), and start your exploration of the area with a visit to the site of the Royal Palace, which served as home to 33 kings of Siam between 1350 and 1767 A.D. The three large bell shaped chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet (the Royal Chapel), which were constructed in the 14th century, stand proud and tall even today, and are perfect examples of Ayutthaya style architecture.
Lunch today is included at a restaurant on the banks of the river.
After lunch you will drive a short distance to the site of the royal monastery, known as Wat Mahathat. This surreal spot is replete with ancient Buddha statues that range from being in excellent condition, to some that have deteriorated significantly. They are spread throughout the towering Khmer-style ruins, and exploring here is an ethereal experience. This site also boasts the much photographed stone carving of the Buddha’s head that has been wrapped by the roots of an ancient banyan tree.
The next stop is Wat Lokayasutharam, the site of Ayutthaya’s largest Reclining Buddha statue, at over 100 feet (31 meters) long and 25 feet (8 meters) high.
The last stop, and perhaps the most magical and photogenic in Ayutthaya, is the 17th century Wat Chaiwatthanaram. With its Khmer-style tower and surrounding prangs, it bears a resemblance to Angkor Wat, and may have been built to commemorate the king’s victory over Cambodia.
After you are finished with your exploration of Siam’s antiquities, you are driven back to your hotel in Bangkok.




Day 9: Bangkok - Chiang Mai. After breakfast you are assisted with check out from your hotel and driven to the airport to board the flight to Chiang Mai. Located on the Ping River, Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, which flourished in northern Thailand between the 12th - 15th centuries. Doi Suthep The city is the second largest city in Thailand, and the cultural capital of the north. Possessing great natural beauty and a host of outdoor activities and parks on its outskirts, the city itself is a fascinating combination of unique architecture, ancient history and its associated rituals, and a modern metropolis. Chiang Mai is one of Asia’s best cities to explore on foot, with a bustling street food scene.
You are welcomed to northern Thailand by our staff at the airport and then you begin your exploration of Chiang Mai. Start by exploring one of the larger and most interesting markets in Chiang Mai, Warorot Market. As is usually the case with markets, this is not only a great place to shop, but also to take-in the local Thai lifestyle.
Next, you will explore the historic walled city of Chiang Mai. Included is a visit to some of the old temples of ancient Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man. This tour often gives you an opportunity to be present at a religious discourse, and also demonstrates the architectural diversity and blending of styles that the Lanna were known for. It is also a great way to get familiar with the city, should you decide to go out during the evenings and explore on your own.
There is a break for lunch and then you are assisted with check-in at your hotel.
Afternoon: Proceed on a drive up Doi Suthep, the mountain on the edge of the city that dominates the Chiang Mai skyline. Once at the top, you will find the 309 stairs up to Wat Doi Suthep, which are flanked on each side by beautiful Naga’s who run the entire length of the stairs. You also have the option of taking a tram up to the Wat. Once at the top, enjoy the spiritual ambience of one of Thailand’s most holy places, as well as some superb views of the city.
You are driven back to the hotel in the late afternoon.
In the evening, your guide will escort you to Chiang Mai’s exciting and extensive night market. This market is probably the best place you will encounter in all of Thailand to get souvenirs to bring home.




Day 10: Chiang Mai - Doi Inthanon National Park. After breakfast, you will proceed for a guided visit to Doi Inthanon National Park. Doi Inthanon is the highest mountain in Thailand and has been famous in the country since the 1960s. During that time, poppy fields were widespread in the mountains of Northern Thailand, and hill tribe villagers were working as laborers for opium producers and smugglers. King Bhumibol (Rama IX) initiated drastic reforms in the region to put an end to it. It was the beginning of the Royal Projects. Golden Triangle These projects were highly profitable to the whole region, including the ethnic communities who literally were slaves of the drug barons, while being addicted to opium. The Royal Projects were actually articulated around 3 main axes, in accordance with the King’s philosophy of self-sufficiency:
1. Get Opium out of Thailand
2. Get villagers free from opium
3. Handle the forest ecologically
These days Doi Inthanon is a massive, superb national park, full of majestic waterfalls, lush green valleys, terraced paddy fields, and fruit, flower and vegetable crops. The hill tribe villagers now live a relatively prosperous life, free, and happy in their natural environment.
This excursion allows you to discover the incredible beauty of rural northern Thailand and its natives. You will stop at hill tribe villages to observe the lifestyles of the locals and get photo opportunities at beautiful waterfalls. Other stops will include various scenic view points, as well as opportunities for walks through this natural paradise.




Day 11: Chiang Mai - Elephant Camp.

* Notes *

1: You may want to bring some water sandals and swimwear. This is a join-up tour, which means that transfers to and from the hotel are provided by the elephant camp, and that there will be other guests joining you throughout the experience.

2: For guests who prefer an elephant experience that does not involve any elephant riding, an experience at the Elephant Nature Park can be substituted.

You will spend this day at one the finest elephant camps in northern Thailand, taking part in a hands-on experience that will allow you to truly interact with these majestic animals. How interactive this experience is depends on you, and the camps guides will structure your experience to your preferences. Elephant Group Sketch You can immerse yourself completely, or choose to spend time learning, while not being very hands-on. Tea, coffee, and water are provided throughout the day, as well as lunch.
The Mahout Training Course is an interactive and personalized program that aims to spread knowledge about elephant conservation efforts, while creating a unique and special experience for everyone who joins. You are picked up by the Baan Chang Camp staff and driven North through the Thai countryside. Arrive at the about one hour later, and now you will learn how to be a Mahout (Elephant caretaker). At the park, the Elephant Mahout Guide will first give you a quick and interesting introduction to Thai Elephants. You get instructions for guiding and riding your elephant, and at the same time you are able to feed the gentle giants.
There is a break for lunch at the camp.
After lunch you will get an opportunity to demonstrate (under the Mahout Guide’s watchful eye) what you learned in the morning, as you sit on the back of the Elephant and control him during the ride through the hills and country side for about 90 minutes. Arrive at the river and then you are taught how to guide your Elephant into the river (not hard, your elephant knows the schedule, and is eager for a bath).
Next you will acquire new skills, which are bathing and washing your Elephant in the river. From the river bank, the guide will take some pictures of you while you interact with your Elephant. Next you will return to the main camp, where you have the option to take a shower before leaving the camp. Around 3:30 pm it is time to say goodbye to your new pachyderm friend.




Day 12: Chiang Mai - Bangkok - International Flight. You are at leisure in the morning to enjoy your last few hours in Chiang Mai, during which time you can choose to explore on your own, or enjoy the facilities at your upscale hotel. You are assisted with your check-out from your hotel at noon and driven to the airport to board the afternoon flight to Bangkok. Arrive at Bangkok and connect with your international flight.
Our services end at the Chiang Mai airport.




Inclusions
* Breakfast daily
* Lunch every day except days 1, 3, 10 & 12
* Ground transportation via A/C van or coach
* Representative for assistance on departure / arrival transfers per the itinerary
* Services of the best English speaking guides per the itinerary
* Applicable monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
* Bottled water during sightseeing
* Hotel accommodation as listed above
* All Boat Fees/Fares per the itinerary

Not Included
* International Travel
* Any expenses of a personal nature, such as tips, laundry, phone calls, drinks etc.
* Meals other than those specified on itinerary
* Travel insurance, visas, etc.
* Camera fees - still & video


Lodging

Siem Reap Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort - Superior Room
Bangkok The Peninsula Bangkok - Deluxe Room
Kanchanaburi
The Float House - Float Villa
Chiang Mai Na Nirand Boutique Hotel - Romantic Lanna Deluxe
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