Thailand Grand Tour, Small Group Tour (English Only)

Thailand Grand Tour, Small Group Tour (English Only)

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10 Days From

$1801

Thailand Grand Tour, Small Group Tour (English Only)

10 Days Starting in Chiang Rai and ending in Bangkok

Visiting: Thailand

Tour code:

38940

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

10-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $1801

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Join this memorable ten-day tour and see some of Thailand´s most beautiful attractions. Start your adventure in Chiang Mai, the beautiful former capital of the Lanna kingdom, mingle with the locals in the night market, and be amazed by the beauty of the ancient Buddhist temples before continuing to Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that both served as capitals of Siam. Your odyssey ends in bustling Bangkok, the capital known as the ‘City of Angels’. This tour is operated in a small group of up to 8 passengers.

Highlights

  • Chiang Rai: Home of the unconventional and famous white temple, Chiang Rai is also a great place for street food and learning about the hill tribes

  • Chiang Mai: The fragrant ‘Rose of the North’ was capital of the Lanna Kingdom founded by Mangrai the Great in the 13th century

  • Sukhothai: Explore the well-preserved ruins of the former capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom

  • Ayutthaya: Discover the impressive ruins of what was one of the world’s biggest cities during the early modern period

  • Kanchanaburi: Visit the notorious ‘Death Railway Bridge’ that inspired the World War II novel and film, The Bridge on the River Kwai

  • Damnoen Saduak: Immerse yourself in the scents and sounds of Thailand in the colourful floating market – one of the most enchanting images of the country

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Chiang Rai


Arrive at Chiang Rai Airport, where our representative will meet and greet you. Then, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your centrally located hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the beautiful place. Maybe explore the heart of the old town, which dates from the reign of King Mangrai in the 13th century, or wander around the night bazaar to get a flavour of Chiang Rai.

Overnight  in Chiang Rai in selected hotel and board option.

Day 2 : Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle (270 Kms – 6Hrs)


Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to the centre to admire the iconic monument of King Mangrai en route to the Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre. Learn all about the dozens of hill tribes that, for centuries, have lived in the highlands around the city and understand how they have survived the spread of globalisation. Continue to the Mae Chan district to explore the remote hill tribe villages of Yao and Akha peoples, and experience their way of life first-hand. Take to the road for Mae Sai, a small border town with a busy market, before heading into the heart of the infamous Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. This natural wilderness gained an unwanted notoriety in the Sixties because of the abundant opium cultivation in the area. After lunch, continue to Chiang Saen to visit the hilltop Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, which is reached via a 350-step staircase. Return to Chiang Rai with rest of the day free at leisure.

Overnight in Chiang Rai in selected hotel and board option. 

Day 3 : Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai (260 Kms – 4Hrs)


Begin your adventure after breakfast at the hotel, heading towards Chiang Mai. On the southern outskirts of Chiang Rai, stop at the magnificent Wat Rong Khun, a dazzling temple built in the 1990s. Its ornate all-white exterior, with embedded pieces of mirror, makes it one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand. Continue to Chiang Mai and, on arrival, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most revered temples in the country. This sacred location is at the top of a mountain from where you can appreciate stunning panoramic views of the city. To reach the temple you have to climb up a 309-step naga staircase. Alternatively, you can use the cable car. Head to the riverbank and board a boat for a cruise along the scenic River Ping. Stop at a farm to savour a delicious khao soi noodle curry as you enjoy interesting dance performances. After a walk through the local flower and fresh produce market, return to the hotel. The cable car is included

Overnight in Chiang Mai in selected hotel and board option. 

Day 4 : Chiang Mai City And Surroundings (40 Kms – 1Hrs)


Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Elephant Poopoopaper Park, an eco-friendly, naturally built outdoor museum park that introduces and explains the unique steps involved in making our much talked about paper products from elephant poop fibres! The interpretive walking tour through our lush gardens brings visitors through eight different pavilions explaining each stage of our fascinating process from poo collection to rinsing to final product assembly. Visitors are encouraged to pull up a stool, roll up their sleeves and join with our talented artisans and guides and participate in our head-turning process! Complemented by the presence of rich graphics and signage, visitors will also be introduced to Chiang Mai's long and rich history of traditional papermaking and handicrafts production. After lunch in a local restaurant, continue to Chiang Mai for an afternoon exploring this ancient city. Chiang Mai’s old town is still surrounded by remnants of the old defensive walls and a moat. Visit the historic Wat Suan Dok and admire its 48- metre-high Sri Lankan-style chedi, which overlooks the Royal Cemetery. Continue to Wat Phra Sing in the old town and appreciate the beauty of this large complex of more than 60 buildings before visiting 14th century Wat Chedi Luang in the very heart of the old city. In the evening, you can enjoy an optional khantoke dinner (not included). 

Overnight in Chiang Mai in selected hotel and board basis. 

Day 5 : Chiang Mai - Lamphun - Lampang - Sukhothai (380 Kms - 4.5Hrs)


Charge your batteries with breakfast and then depart for Lamphun to visit Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, a golden temple complex whose origins have been traced to the Mon Kingdom in the eighth century. Then, go to the picturesque town of Lampang to visit the historic temple of Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. After a delicious lunch, relax with a scenic drive to Sukhothai Historical Park, arriving in the late afternoon. Explore the park, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site covering the ruins of ancient Sukhothai, which was the first capital of the kingdom of the same name. 

Overnight in Sukhothai in selected hotel and board option. 

Day 6 : Sukhothai - Uthai Thani - Ayutthaya (430 Kms - 5Hrs)


Begin your day in a spiritual manner, as you join locals in offering food to Buddhist monks during their morning alms round. Drive south and stop for a delicious lunch in Chai Nat. Today’s route from Sukhothai via Uthai Thani to Ayutthaya mirrors the southward expansion of Siam, following the kingdom’s historical development. Arrive in Ayutthaya, a former capital of Siam, and go to the Ayutthaya Historical Park to visit the temple of Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the adjacent Viharn Phra Mongkol Bophit. Contemplate the golden Buddha and continue to the eerily enchanting ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat, with its famous statue of Buddha devoured by tree roots. Such a heavenly heritage ensemble has earned this historical park the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Overnight in Ayutthaya in selected hotel and board option. 

Day 7 : Ayutthaya - Kanchanaburi (190 Kms – 2Hrs)


Have breakfast and then drive through pastoral landscapes virtually untouched by the passage of time before arriving at Kanchanaburi, a quiet town at the confluence of the rivers Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai. It is renowned for the beauty of its natural surroundings and the abundant wildlife, but it also holds an unwanted place in history as the location of the notorious World War II ‘Death Railway Bridge’, immortalised in the Hollywood classic, ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’. Visit the war cemetery, the final resting place of thousands of soldiers, and the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre to learn about the appalling conditions in which Allied POWs and Thai slave labourers worked to build a military supply railway. After lunch, enjoy the rest of day at leisure.

Overnight  in Kanchanaburi in selected hotel and board option. 

Day 8 : Kanchanaburi - Bangkok (150 Kms – 2Hrs)


Depart Kanchanaburi after breakfast at the hotel, enjoying a scenic drive towards Nakhon Pathom to visit the temple with the magnificent 127-metre-high Phra Pathommachedi stupa, the tallest of its kind in the world. Continue to Damnoen Saduak, which is famed for its vibrant and colourful floating markets. Breathe in the fragrances of the Orient as dozens of boats glide along, selling fresh fruit and vegetables as well as tasty local delicacies. The buzz of the noise and the bustle of activity are quintessential Thai experiences. Continue to Bangkok for drop off at your hotel in the city. 

Overnight  in Bangkok in selected hotel and board option

Day 9 : Bangkok


Enjoy a full day at leisure, discovering Bangkok on your own. For those who have never been to Bangkok, we suggest a half-day tour of the most popular Buddhist temples. The Royal Grand Palace, a great architectural masterpiece of several buildings was used as a royal residence from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. It is without any doubt a national reference and possibly the most visited royal monument in Thailand. The building houses the "Wat Phra Kaew", Bangkok's most sacred temple, in which is located the famous Emerald Buddha. In the evening we suggest you enjoy an optional Thai and International Buffet Dinner whilst cruising along the Chao Phraya River or River of the Kings. Pass by famous sites such as Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and the Grand Palace. Entertainment is also provided on board, giving you the chance to listen to live music and see an interesting show. The Dinner Cruise is not included. 


Overnight  in Bangkok in selected hotel and board option

Day 10 : Depart Bangkok


Wake up to one last breakfast at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure until transferring to Bangkok Airport, from where you’ll continue with your individual travel plans. 

Breakfast Included.

What's Included

TOUR GUIDE: 

  • Operated with an English-speaking guide

*Different languages can be combined in our vehicles. There will be a separate guide for each language.

ACCOMMODATION: 

  • 9 nights' accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Chiang Rai

Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Laluna or similar 4*

Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Imperial River House Resort or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Chiang Mai

Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*

Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*

Day 5 Sukhothai

Standard Hotel Category = Sukhothai Treasure or similar 4*

Superior Hotel Category = Legendha or similar 4*

Day 6 Ayutthaya

Standard Hotel Category = Krungsri River or similar 4*

Superior Hotel Category = Kantary or similar 4*

Day 7 Kanchanaburi

Standard Hotel Category = Pung Waan Resort Kwai Yai or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Felix River Kwai or similar  4*

Day 8-9 Bangkok

Standard & Superior Hotel Category = Royal @Chinatown or similar 4*


MEALS:

  • 9 breakfasts
  • 7 lunches (day 2-8)

TRANSPORT:

  • Arrival and departure shared transportation
  • Air-conditioned transportation, transfers as stated in the programme

ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:

  • All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: All entrance fees as indicated: Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre, Wat Phra That Chom Kitti and Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai; Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, River Ping cruise, farmhouse lunch, elephant poopoopaper park, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phra Sing and Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in Lampang; Sukhothai Historical Park and food offering in Sukhothai; Ayutthaya Historical Park; Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery in Kanchanaburi; and Phra Pathommachedi in Nakhon Pathom

What's Not Included

  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme
  • Gratuity for driver and guide
  • Optional tours 
  • International or domestic flight tickets and airport taxes or visa fees.

Requirements

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.

Please Note

  • Day 1: On arrival at Chiang Rai Airport please collect your luggage and proceed to the exit of the Customs Hall. You will be met by a representative who will be holding a sign with your name on it. For clients wanting a pick up from an outer Bangkok hotel an extra surcharge will be applied.
  • Day 10: Drop off at Bangkok International airport
  • Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents.
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • In many hotels in Thailand, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Chiang Rai

  • Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Laluna or similar 4*
  • Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Imperial River House Resort or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Chiang Mai

  • Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*
  • Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*

Day 5 Sukhothai

  • Standard Hotel Category = Sukhothai Treasure or similar 4*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Legendha or similar 4*

Day 6 Ayutthaya

  • Standard Hotel Category = Krungsri River or similar 4*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Kantary or similar 4*

Day 7 Kanchanaburi

  • Standard Hotel Category = Pung Waan Resort Kwai Yai or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Felix River Kwai or similar  4*

Day 8-9 Bangkok

  • Standard & Superior Hotel Category = Royal @Chinatown or similar 4*

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Chiang Rai

  • Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Laluna or similar 4*
  • Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Imperial River House Resort or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Chiang Mai

  • Standard Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*
  • Superior Room | Superior Hotel Category = Empress Chiang Mai or similar 4*

Day 5 Sukhothai

  • Standard Hotel Category = Sukhothai Treasure or similar 4*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Legendha or similar 4*

Day 6 Ayutthaya

  • Standard Hotel Category = Krungsri River or similar 4*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Kantary or similar 4*

Day 7 Kanchanaburi

  • Standard Hotel Category = Pung Waan Resort Kwai Yai or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Felix River Kwai or similar  4*

Day 8-9 Bangkok

  • Standard & Superior Hotel Category = Royal @Chinatown or similar 4*

Check out our Q&As

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes, we will inform you about the confirmed hotel's list with a personalized welcome letter sent to your own email address

  • What is the maximum group size?

    25 people

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Operated with English, Italian, German, French and Spanish-speaking guide on shared basis***

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: All entrance fees as indicated: Hilltribe Museum and Education Centre, Wat Phra That Chom Kitti and Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai; Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, River Ping cruise, farmhouse lunch, elephant poopoopaper park, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phra Sing and Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in Lampang; Sukhothai Historical Park and food offering in Sukhothai; Ayutthaya Historical Park; Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and Allied War Cemetery in Kanchanaburi; and Phra Pathommachedi in Nakhon Pathom

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Arrival and departure shared transportation

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No, not international nor domestic flights to/from Thailand are not included

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, any age

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Low

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If a solo traveler is allowed for the tour, a single room with a specific rate will be available for you to book. If single room should not show available, solo traveler booking is on request

  • Is a Meet & Greet Service provided by a company representative included in the tour?

    yes, Meet and greet on Day 1 at meeting point

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

Reviews of this operator

Emma  

Super!!

04-Oct-2022

Tour guide war super nett! Hotels wurden aufsteigend immer besser. Hätten uns über mehr ortstypisches essen gefreut und nicht nur touristische restaurants mit an europäer angepassten speisen. Alles in allem war es eine schöne reise mit toller route :)

Lucas  

Fabolous company and staff

15-Dec-2022

Fabulous company and English-speaking guide. Great Tour minibus. Your every wish is considered.

Gabrielle  

Shear pleasure

18-Nov-2022

Taking this tour with Destination Services Thailand was a shear pleasure. The response time before and during our trip was phenomenal. Our request of having two single beds and German speaking tour guides throughout was met without any problems. One minor hiccup in Bangkok was remedied immediately after our arrival in Chiang Mai.(Our included transportation from the hotel to the airport in Bangkok didn't show up on time. Therefore, we had to take a taxi and paid ourselves for the fare. Upon our arrival in Chiang Mai, our local tour guide reimbursed us immediately). Again, excellent service! Except for this one, all the pick ups occurred on time. The included meals were always freshly prepared, delicious and plentiful and the hotels met the 4* standard. To sum it all up: my brother and I had a memorable, wonderful experience and would recommend Destination Services Thailand to anyone without hesitation. Thank you to all that contributed to our marvelous trip.

Pavel R.  

Awesome experience

26-Nov-2022

Grear tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable, had great English and was very helpful at every stage of the tour. Having AC on the bus, cold water and cool towels by our driver was super comfortable.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Thailand requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services thailand charges.

    Up to 16 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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