Iconic Thailand – National Geographic Journeys

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Experience the timeless grandeur of Thailand’s cities, temples, and landscapes on a cross-country adventure. Explore the rich cultural heritage and culinary delights of Chiang Mai, then head south to discover tropical coastlines. Stroll the sun-drenched shores of Ko Samui, and venture to limestone cliffs and sacred caves in Krabi. In each destination, marvel at intricate palaces and monasteries, meet locals in village homes and traditional workshops, and delight in the flavours of authentic Thai cuisine.

Discuss daily life with a resident monk
Explore the temples and palaces of Ayutthaya
Cruise Bangkok’s delightfully chaotic canals
Kayak and snorkel the crystalline waters of Ko Mat Sum and Ko Taen islands
Explore Krabi River aboard a longtail boat before hopping in a tricycle tuk-tuk

TRAVEL STYLE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOURNEYS

Greater exploration, insider access, and the freedom to roam – all without sacrificing comfort.

SERVICE LEVEL: UPGRADED

Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.

PHYSICAL RATING: 2 – LIGHT

Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

TRIP TYPE: SMALL GROUP

Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 12.

AGE REQUIREMENT: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Itinerary

Map of the route for Iconic Thailand

DAY 1 BANGKOK

Arrive at any time; your arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 BANGKOK/KANCHANABURI

After breakfast, travel to the city of Kanchanaburi, situated at the convergence of the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai Rivers. Board a train for a winding journey into World War II history as you cross the bridge made famous by the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai. At the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, learn about the Burma Railway, constructed by imperial Japanese forces to connect Bangkok and Burma; then visit the nearby Kanchanaburi War Cemetery to see where the prisoners of war who worked on the railway were laid to rest.

DAY 3 KANCHANABURI/PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA

This morning, hike into the lush landscapes of Erawan National Park, located high in the mist-shrouded Tenasserim Hills. Take a dip in the turquoise pools of the Erawan Falls—so called because its top tier of cascades resemble the three-headed, mythological elephant known as Erawan. This afternoon, transfer to the historic city of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, a former capital of the medieval kingdom of Ayutthaya, also known as Siam. Sample traditional Thai dishes during dinner on a converted rice barge from the 1930s.

DAY 4 PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA/CHIANG MAI

Set out to explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, centered on the old city which served as the Siamese capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it was one of the largest and most cosmopolitan regions in the world. Stroll down well-planned city streets to view magnificent palaces and Buddhist monasteries that set the standard for Thai architecture for generations to come. Later, return to Bangkok and transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Visit a traditional village in the countryside and enjoy a khantok-style dinner, served on low pedestal trays.

Khantok in the Northern dialect means wooden tray, used for carrying dishes, round in shape and made of teak wood. The host will invite guests to sit on the floor around the khantok. After dinner, enjoy tea time with the opportunity to talk with local people to learn their way of living.

DAY 5 CHIANG MAI

Delve into the bustle of Chiang Mai’s morning markets with a local chef, and learn about colourful fruits and fragrant herbs as you select ingredients for a Thai cooking class. Enjoy your creation for lunch, then set out to visit a historic temple. Sit down with one of the resident monks to discuss daily life and the tenets of Buddhism. Later, clear your mind to the chanting of monks at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most spectacular gilded temples in Thailand.

Monk chats are a great cultural exchange, but also important in helping the young Monks improve their English.

DAY 6 CHIANG MAI

Spend a full day exploring Chiang Mai’s temples and forested hills on your own, or choose between a variety of optional activities. Traverse the rural lanes of Chiang Mai in a tuk-tuk, or opt to take a cycling tour through verdant rice paddies and the elegant historic district. In the evening, choose to visit Chiang Mai’s vibrant night market.

DAY 7 CHIANG MAI/BANGKOK

This morning, fly to Bangkok and board a traditional klong boat for a ride along the winding canals that have earned the city the nickname the “Venice of the East.” Glide past colourful temples, modern skyscrapers, and houses perched above the water. Visit Wat Pho, Bangkok’s largest and oldest temple complex, and often considered Thailand’s first public university—its many inscriptions were intended to instruct visitors. Marvel at the magnificent statue of the Reclining Buddha, glittering with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl.

DAY 8 BANGKOK

Enjoy a free day in bustling Bangkok. Opt to visit the dazzling Grand Palace, formerly the official residence of the Thai royal family, and gaze upon the sacred statue of the Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. Browse the stunning collections of Thai art and artifacts at the Bangkok National Museum, including weaponry, ceramics, textiles, and musical instruments; or hop on a bike to explore the quieter side of the city, pedalling past hidden temples and lush parks.

DAY 9 BANGKOK/KO SAMUI

This morning, transfer to the airport in Bangkok and catch a flight to the tropical island of Ko Samui, bordered by the sapphire waters off Thailand’s southeast coast. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to relax by the pool, stroll along a white-sand beach, or explore the local village.

Off of Thailand’s east coast in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Samui offers everything you could possibly want in a seaside retreat: white sandy beaches, coconut palms, fresh seafood, and warm, clear waters.

Our hotel is located in the vibrant and exciting “Chaweng” district, walking distance to restaurants, entertainment spots, and shopping. Catch a tuk-tuk to the various beaches close to our hotel.

DAY 10 KO SAMUI

After breakfast, board a traditional longtail boat and travel off the tourist trail to the pristine islands of Ko Mat Sum and Ko Taen. Savour a local lunch on the beach, then choose to explore by kayak or snorkel. Glide past green-shrouded cliffs and tranquil lagoons, or don a mask and fins to delve into vibrant underwater worlds.

DAY 11 KO SAMUI/KHAO SOK

Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive to Kao Thep Pitak, a community-owned farm supported by G Adventures. Enjoy a lunch of local specialties and take a stroll through the surrounding fruit orchards. Continue to Khao Sok National Park, where you will settle into a sustainable, community-focused eco-lodge located just outside the park boundary. This evening, venture into the rainforest park on a nighttime walk with a community guide, then gather for a campfire dinner surrounded by the music of the jungle.

Khao Sok is a stunning location with one of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world, surrounded by limestone karst cliffs.

DAY 12 KHAO SOK

Khao Sok National Park is southern Thailand’s largest area of virgin rainforest, encompassing a breathtaking wilderness of karst peaks, turquoise lakes, and tropical rainforest that stretch along the southwest coast. Explore the park on your own today, choosing between a variety of optional jungle activities. Head out for a hike in search of monkeys and tropical birds inhabiting the dense canopy. Soak in steaming hot springs, glide down the sparkling Sok River aboard a canoe, or set out on a cycling tour of the park’s winding trails.

DAY 13 KHAO SOK/KRABI

This morning, drive south to Krabi, situated on Thailand’s tropical southwest coast. Cross the Krabi River by private longtail boat, gliding past mangrove forests and limestone peaks. Venture into the Khao Khanap Nam cave to view prehistoric paintings and fascinating rock formations. Later, head to Ko Klang island and board motorized tricycle tuk-tuks to explore local communities and traditional industries, including a rubber plantation, rice fields, and a batik workshop. Chat with villagers and learn about timeless agricultural and artisanal techniques passed down over generations.

DAY 14 KRABI

Enjoy a full day of free time to relax at the hotel or explore Krabi. Opt to catch a tuk-tuk to Ao Nang beach, overlooked by towering, vine-draped limestone cliffs. Choose to navigate the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea by kayak, or snorkel among colourful tropical fish. Discover the idyllic beaches of the Ko Phi Phi islands by speedboat on an optional day trip.

Stay close to the beach and enjoy some of the beautiful scenic views that have made southern Thailand so famous. In the evening, grab a cocktail and relax at the pool. Your CEO will fill you in on all the other interesting options that are available in the area. This is the perfect place to get active or simply chill out and relax.

Our resort is located a short distance by tuk tuk to Aonang Beach and Noppharat Thara Beach. Enjoy the resort’s excellent facilities including restaurant and bars, three large outdoor swimming pools, and rejuvenating spa (additional cost).

DAY 15 KRABI/BANGKOK

This morning, return to Bangkok, where your trip concludes.

The tour ends at Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok Airport). Please note: your flight must not depart earlier than 15:00 on this day.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Traditional Thai Home Dinner, Chiang Mai
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Meet with Monks, Chiang Mai
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Kao Thep Pitak Farm and Culinary Experience, Ban Ta Khun
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Rainforest Eco-Walk & Dinner, Khao Sok
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Krabi Village Excursion, Krabi
Your G for Good Moment: Kao Thep Pitak Community-Owned Farm & Meal, Ban Ta Khun
Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class, Chiang Mai
Your Discover Moment: Bangkok. Arrival transfer. Entrance to Thai-Burma war museum and train ride. Visit to Erawan National Park. Tour at Ayutthaya Historical Park. Dinner on a converted rice barge. Bangkok boat tour of the klongs (canals) and Wat Pho temple complex. Ko Mat Sum and Ko Taen Excursion. Internal flights. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Images courtesy of G Adventures

GADV – ATHNG

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