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This East Coast itinerary is valid for departures between May-Oct. To view THAILAND ENCOMPASSED – WEST COAST ISLANDS click here.
Thailand Encompassed – East Coast Islands
23 days, Bangkok to Ko Tao
Itinerary
Day 1Bangkok
Arrive at any time.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2Bangkok/Kanchanaburi
Enjoy a klong boat tour of Bangkok including a visit to Wat Pho. Travel to Kanchanaburi and head to your floating rafthouse accommodation.
Klong Riverboat Tour
Travel by longtail boat on the busy Chao Phraya River and through the small canals of western Bangkok's Thonburi district. Observe colourful scenes of everyday life along the river banks.
Wat Po Visit
This temple is known for its reclining Buddha, its feet covered with mother-of-pearl engravings of Buddhist symbols. Explore the large grounds and other compounds to see other Buddha figures, murals and the chedis that contain the ashes of Buddha. This is also the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Local Living Moment: Overnight Rafthouse Excursion
Enjoy a unique homestay experience aboard a floating rafthouse on the famous River Kwai. Relax, swim, and mingle with locals in the community.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 3Kanchanaburi
Enjoy a day of sightseeing at Erawan Falls and the Bridge on the River Kwai.
Private Vehicle
Enjoy a short drive to view the beautiful Erawan Waterfalls. (1-2 hours per direction)
Erawan Waterfalls
Visit one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. Its seven tiers offer a unique experience at every climb, reaching up to 1,500m (4921 ft). Swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, and opt to hike in the jungle to spot monkeys.
Bridge on the River Kwai Visit
Take in a piece of World War II history on this visit. We're sure you've seen or at least heard of the famous movie "Bridge on the River Kwai." Well, now you can tour the real thing. It's massive, majestic, and imposing, offering fabulous views of the river below.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya
Explore the Allied War Cemetery and the Thai-Burmese Railway Centre to learn more about the area's history. Travel to Ayutthaya and visit the historical sites of the old capital city. Opt to visit Chan Kasem National Museum and Chao Sam Phraya Museum.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Temple Ruins Tour
Visit the ruins of Ayutthaya, which served as Thailand’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it ranked as one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Located 86km (53 mi) north of Bangkok, the ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site include stunning pagodas and Buddha images.
Thai/Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery Visit
Visit the Thai-Burmese Railway Museum to learn about the Death Railway's dark history, and the Allied War Cemetery where more than 6,000 prisoners are buried.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Chan Kasem National Museum Visit
Take a step back in time at this historically important museum that was once Chan Palace and home to many kings. Tour its pavilions and towers, and admire the extensive collection of antiques and artifacts, including ancient weapons, sculptures, Buddha images, and King Rama IV’s personal belongings.
Chao Sam Phraya Museum Visit
Enjoy looking at objects excavated at Wat Racha Burana and Wat Maha That in the 1950s, including images of the Buddha. The second building displays artifacts from the 6th to the 19th centuries and is a great chance to learn about Thai history.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai
Spend a full day exploring Ayutthaya before boarding an overnight train to Chiang Mai.
Free Time
Enjoy free time exploring all Ayutthaya has to offer.
Basic Overnight Train (beds)
Experience overnight travel like a local. Sit back and get some well-earned (and likely much-needed) rest en route to your next stop.
Day 6Chiang Mai
Arrive in Chiang Mai and explore the city. Visit Doi Suthep in the afternoon.
Chiang Mai is a vibrant city with heaps to see and do. Famous for its night market, it's a feat to fit it all in.
Free Time
Use free time here to make the most of your time in Chiang Mai.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Doi Suthep Temple Visit
Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden Buddhist temple outside of Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics at this sacred temple and visit the white elephant shrine. Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times before dying on the spot. Also, with a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market
Pick up a a souvenir at this shopper's paradise. Wander through the market to find music, food, and local artists selling handmade crafts.
Day 7Chiang Mai/Ban Pha Mon
Drive from Chiang Mai to the trailhead. Trek through farmland and bamboo and teak forests. Learn about bush food and medicinal plants. Enjoy lunch en route before continuing through rice fields and valleys to reach the first village of a Lahu tribe. Assist with food prep and cooking, learn about weaving and embroidery or check out a local Lahu massage.
Tucked away in the hills of northern Thailand is where the most colourful and unchanged traditional communities can be found. Trek through forests and rural terrains to visit some of these diverse hilltribe villages; often, each will have their own unique language, clothing style, and belief system that differs significantly from those of neighbouring tribes. You are well looked after by your CEO and local guides, who take the responsibility of preparing all meals and carrying food supplies.
The exact itinerary of the walking on this trip may change from time to time, taking into account the weather and local conditions. Also, please note there may be times when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate -- your CEO and guides will be able to advise you. Be prepared for the accommodation to be basic; remember, it's all about an authentic and unique experience!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hilltribe Trek Day 1
Hit the road early in the morning to head to the trailhead. Start the trek through forests and rugged terrain that winds itself around various hilltop villages. Trek from Huay Nam Dung National Park to Ban Pha Mon, a Lahu village.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 8Ban Pha Mon/Ban Muang Pam
Trek between villages, over farmlands and grasslands, and ascend to the ridge line. Learn about bush medicine and seasonal fruits as you make your way to the lunch stop. Go for a swim and help the local guides prepare lunch. Continue on to the Karen village and spend the night. Opt to learn about medicine from a shaman or play football with the locals.
Trek for about six hours and between villages, over farmlands and grasslands and acend to the ridgeline. Learn about bush medicine, seasonal fruits and plants and seeds. Slip on your wet shoes and descend to the Huew Hin Poon Creek for lunch.
Here, go for a swim and help the local guides make a friction fire and prepare lunch. Continue another hour and a half to the jungle Buddhist temple outside the second village. Spend the night in the Karen village learn about wood carving, weaving and cooking. Opt to learn about medicine from a shaman or play football with the locals.
Hilltribe Trek Day 2
Trek to reach the lunch stop, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way. Enjoy lunch before carrying on to the Karen village of Ban Muang Pam. Here, discover more about local life, help prepare dinner, or learn about weaving and wood carving.
Meals included:
Breakfast | Lunch | DinnerDay 9Ban Muang Pam/Chiang Mai
After breakfast, leave the village and continue on, stopping at other villages along the way. Arrive at Tham Lod, a 1666m deep cave. Enter by bamboo raft and move to different chambers - a truly unique experience. After lunch, drive back to Chiang Mai for some free time to explore.
Hilltribe Trek Day 3
After breakfast, leave the village and continue on, trekking beside the Pam River through lush jungle. Arrive at Tham Lod, a 1666m deep cave. Bamboo rafts are required to enter the cave and move to different chambers - a truly unique experience.
Pickup Truck
Hop into the back and ride along to the next destination.
Free Time
Check out more of Chiang Mai.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 10Chiang Mai
Enjoy free time to explore Chiang Mai. Opt for a bicycle tour, a visit the Mae Sai waterfall, shopping at the night market, or getting a traditional Thai massage. Enjoy a local cooking class with dinner.
Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class
Pick out the best ingredients at a local market and learn how to make delicious Thai dishes.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Chiang Mai, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a visit to the Mae Sa Waterfall, or learning about Thai cuisine with a cooking class. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow
Street Food Walk at Chiang Mai Night Market
Pick up a a souvenir at this shopper's paradise. Wander through the market to find music, food, and local artists selling handmade crafts.
Mae Sai Waterfall Visit
Admire the eight tumbling tiers of this waterfall located in the lush forest of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Opt to pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing and swimming in this refreshing environment.
Massage
Lie back and soothe aching travel muscles with a famous Thai massage. Affordable and amazing—don't miss out!
Chiang Mai Cycling Tour
1500THB per personThis Chiang Mai half-day ride takes you on a memorable tour of the countryside's most interesting sights. You'll go beyond the city to see local Buddhist temples, markets, organic farms, rice paddy fields and more. Get a sense of how the locals live, stop when you want for photos, and check out the nature along the city's main river, the Ping.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 11Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai
Travel to Chiang Rai and start exploring.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy some time to explore the area.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Chiang Rai
Visit the town of Mae Sai and the Opium Museum.
Mae Sai Visit
Visit Thailand’s northernmost town, situated on the border with Myanmar. Meet local Burmese traders and pick up some souvenirs. Opt to visit the Tham Pla caves or climb the hill to Wat Phra That Doi Wao for an incredible vista.
Opium Museum Visit
Located in the Golden Triangle, once known for its opium trade, the Hall of Opium Museum tells the 5,000-year history of the substance. Learn about the drug’s first uses and how it spread across the world through interesting and educational exhibits.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Chiang Rai/Lampang
Continue on to Lampang and enjoy a homestay in a traditional Lanna village. Participate in craft demonstrations and opt to help prepare a local meal.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Local Living Moment: Village Homestay
Experience life in a traditional village with a homestay. Take in idyllic views of mountains and rice fields. Get to know your hosts and enjoy participating in activities including weaving, carving, and farming. Savour fresh local meals with the group and opt to lend a hand in the preparation.
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Horse Cart Ride
Take a trip to the past in a charming horse-drawn carriage. This ancient mode of transportation has survived the ages and is still commonly used by Lampang locals.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 14Lampang/Sukhothai
Take in traditional morning activities, followed by lunch in the village. Travel to Sukhothai and enjoy a free afternoon.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Get out and explore.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 15Sukhothai
Take a half-day guided bike tour of Sukhothai Historical Park and explore the area with some free time.
Sukhothai Bicycle Tour
Cycle through this ancient royal capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a half-day tour. Get a close-up look at the remains of numerous temples, a royal palace, and Buddha figures dating back to the mid-13th century.
Free Time
Opt to visit a nearby village, Wat Saphan Hin, or Sukhothai Historical Park. It's Thailand—make time for a massage!
Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow
Massage
Lie back and soothe aching travel muscles with a wonderful Thai massage. Affordable and amazing—don't miss out!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 16Sukhothai/Bangkok
Travel to Bangkok and enjoy some time for last minute shopping.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 17Bangkok/Ko Samui
Catch a flight to Surat Thani and board a ferry to the tropical island of Ko Samui. Relax on the beach or visit the bustling little town.
With tons to do in the area, spend the next couple of days enjoying this tropical paradise.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 18Ko Samui
Relax on the beach or visit the bustling little town. Opt for a snorkelling trip in Ang Thong Marine Park.
Free Time
Kick back and relax on the biggest of the eastern islands. Feel like meeting the local fish? Opt for snorkelling trip in Ang Thong Marine Park.
Optional Activities - Day 18 HideShow
Ang Thong Marine Park Island Hopping Tour
Take in the gorgeous panorama of this marine park on an island hopping tour. Made up of 42 islands, Ang Thong National Park is known for its incredible biodiversity. Swim in the park's clear waters, photograph the lush islands rising out of the sea, and opt to snorkel if the tide is right.
Stand Up Paddleboarding at Koh Samui
50USD per personGlide your way along Ko Samui's coastline on a stand-up paddleboard. The water in this area is generally calm and always warm, you'll be tempted to jump off for a swim.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 19Ko Samui/Koh Pha Ngan
Take a ferry to nearby Ko Pha-Ngan, with time to explore the island's waterfalls, swim in lagoons, hike, or relax. If it's the right time, opt to take part in the island's famous Full Moon Party.
Free Time
Don't waste a minute— start exploring on arrival.
Ferry
Transfer to the ferry terminal and board for the short ride to Ko Pha-Ngan.
Optional Activities - Day 19 HideShow
Koh Pha-Ngan Waterfalls Exploration
Hike to some local waterfalls and marvel at their beauty.
Swimming
Jump in and enjoy the turquoise waters around Koh Pha Ngan.
Yoga and Meditation Courses
Get your inner Om on and take part in some of the more relaxing activities offered on the island.
Hiking
Head out on some trails to explore the island at your own pace.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 20Koh Pha Ngan
Enjoy free time to make the most of Ko Pha-Ngan.
With everything from yoga and meditation courses, natural beauty, and its famous full moon parties, Ko Pha-Ngan has something for everyone.
Free Time
Get out and explore— the day is yours.
Optional Activities - Day 20 HideShow
Swimming
Jump in and enjoy the turquoise waters around Koh Pha Ngan.
Koh Pha-Ngan Waterfalls Exploration
Hike to some local waterfalls and marvel at their beauty.
Yoga and Meditation Courses
Get your inner Om on and take part in some of the more relaxing activities offered on the island.
Hiking
Head out on some trails to explore the island at your own pace.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 21Koh Pha Ngan/Ko Tao
Travel by ferry to Ko Tao, in English known as ‘turtle island’. While most of the visitors spend their days in the water, in the evening the beach bars and hotels spill over with people looking to share their tales of the days activities and a cold beer or two.
Want to discover the fascinating coral and marine life inhabiting the area? Pre-book the Open Water Half Day Dive Experience extra to take two dives, guided by the experts.
Ferry
Transfer to the ferry in Ko Pha-Ngan and on the other end in Ko Tao.
Free Time
Get to know the island with some free time.
Optional Activities - Day 21 HideShow
Open Water Half Day Dive Experience
The Open Water Half Day Dive Experience is perfect for first-time divers or even those who want to experience one of the world's most famous diving locations. Join your professional instructor on board your boat as they share their knowledge on how to have a safe and unforgettable experience while also familiarising yourself with the equipment. Once you're all set, take the plunge into the beautiful underwater world and discover the varied coral and marine life that inhabit the area. The program includes one dive, but if you're eager for more then the good news is that you can use the second dive as credit towards your Open Water Certification!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 22Ko Tao
Enjoy an included snorkelling trip from Ko Tao through Ko Nang Yuan.
Snorkelling Excursion
Get up close and personal with the local marine life during this snorkelling excursion from Ko Tao through Ko Nang Yuan.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 23Ko Tao
Depart at any time. If booking a flight out of Ko Samui airport, the earliest departure time should be 11:00 am
Want to take the hassle out of getting back to Bangkok? Book the Bangkok Express, a two-day post-tour Extra. Speak to your Global Connection Officer or travel agent to book.
Add the “Bangkok Express: Ko Tao to Bangkok” to your adventure and make your way back to bustling Bangkok with the guidance of a CEO. This nifty post-tour Extra includes a ferry to the mainland where you’ll board an overnight train to Bangkok arriving in the city early the next morning. Speak to your Global Connection Officer or travel agent to book.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Optional Activities - Day 23 HideShow
Bangkok Express: Koh Tao to Bangkok
Want to take the hassle out of getting back to Bangkok? Book the “Bangkok Express: Koh Tao to Bangkok” post-tour Extra and make your way back to bustling Bangkok with the guidance of a CEO. On the final day of the tour, hop on a ferry back to the mainland and board an overnight train to Bangkok, arriving the next morning.