Thailand: Ayutthaya and Khao Yai
An itinerary to explore Thailand’s capital and key sites such as Khao Yai National Park and Ayutthaya, the country’s ancient capital. Continue the journey by discovering the Golden Triangle, with the possibility of enjoying the beaches of any Thai island as the final part of the itinerary.
Día 01
Arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok), customs procedures, baggage collection, and meeting with the guide who will accompany the traveler on a private transfer to the selected accommodation.
We will begin our visits with a private ride in a traditional Thai boat, accompanied by the guide. We will cross the Chao Phraya River, the backbone of Bangkok, with its canals where numerous temples and pagodas dot the city on both sides of the river. Among them, the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) stand out, with its spires making it the most recognizable symbol of the capital.
We will stop at the Temple of Dawn, built in the 18th century. Our journey through the canals will continue to Kudi Chin, located in the Thon Buri neighborhood, founded by the Portuguese after the fall of Ayutthaya. This area, with its narrow alleyways and winding houses, seems frozen in time, forming an authentic Thai neighborhood with Portuguese influences. We will stop at Santa Cruz Church, a place that preserved European traditions in this small corner of Bangkok.
Día 02
A full day dedicated to exploring the city with the guide. We will start at Wat Traimit, located at the edge of Chinatown. This temple houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha, nearly five meters high and weighing five and a half tons.
We will continue to the busiest part of the neighborhood, walking through its narrow, bustling streets filled with food stalls, flowers, seasonal vegetables, and fruits. The next stop will be Wat Pho, Bangkok’s largest temple, home to the Reclining Buddha and the Royal Chedis. Nearby, we will visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, featuring a massive 46-meter-long, gold-covered Buddha.
Next, we will visit the city’s largest and most popular wholesale market for flowers, vegetables, and fruits: Paklong Talad. A tuk-tuk will then take us to the Grand Palace, the most iconic monument in the city, built in 1782. For 150 years, it was the residence of the King of Thailand, the royal court, and the seat of government. Within the complex, we will visit Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses a Buddha carved from a single block of jade.
We will end the day with a food tour, venturing beyond the tourist areas to explore Bangkok’s streets in a tuk-tuk, sampling the most typical dishes. Between bites, we will visit different areas of the old city and temple district, enjoying a nighttime view.
Día 03
Private transfer by road to Khao Yai National Park, where we will check into our accommodation and have free time to enjoy the facilities and surroundings.
Día 04
A full day to explore the National Park. Walking along the trails, we will discover different points of interest such as Haew Narok Waterfall and its stunning views. From this point, we will continue along the cliffside to the Visitor Center to learn about the park’s history and attractions. Another stop will be at the KM 30 viewpoint on the Thanarat Road.
At sunset, we will embark on a nighttime safari in a 4×4 with lighting equipment, offering the chance to discover the park’s wonderful nocturnal wildlife.
Día 05
In the morning, private transfer to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital, located 90 kilometers from Bangkok at the confluence of the Lopburi, Prasak, and Chao Phraya Rivers. The historic city of Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and served as the capital of what would become the precursor to the Siam Empire and present-day Thailand.
We will begin our visit at the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, known as the Summer Palace, which features a fascinating blend of European, Chinese, and Thai architecture. We will take a cable car to visit Wat Niwet, the only temple in Thailand designed in a European architectural style, situated on an island in the Chao Phraya River.
We will continue to other key sites of the ancient capital: Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in Ayutthaya, and Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, home to one of Thailand’s largest Buddha images.
In the afternoon, we will enjoy a cruise around the island, taking in a dreamlike sunset with Wat Chaiwatthanaram as a backdrop. This Buddhist temple, whose name means “long and grand,” was built by King Prasat Thong in honor of his mother.
Día 06
Return to Bangkok for a flight to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival, transfer to the Golden Triangle (approx. 1 hour). Check-in at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort. The stay includes one activity per person per day. We suggest the Walking with Giants experience, a guided jungle walk with elephants.
Día 07
Breakfast at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, followed by a morning activity with elephants. In the afternoon, we suggest a Mekong River cruise, a visit to the Opium Museum, a sidecar ride through a rural area, or a Muay Thai class. The stay includes full board and one activity per person per day.
Día 08
Departure from the Golden Triangle on a scenic route through the mountains to Chiang Mai, a journey of approximately four hours. En route, we will make a short stop at the White Temple, where famous Thai artists and architects have left their unique artistic imprint. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. It is recommended to plan the stay for a Saturday or Sunday to enjoy the city’s night market.
Día 09
A full-day city tour, starting at the Warorot Market, one of the most authentic in Thailand, filled with the distinctive scents and colors of Thai culture. We will take a trishaw ride through the city’s streets.
Next, we will visit Wat Phra Sing Woramahawihan, one of the largest and most beautiful temples in the city, which houses the sacred Phra Sing relic. We will then head to Wat Doi Suthep, magnificently perched atop a forested mountain at 1,000 meters above sea level, offering a spectacular view of the city.
Finally, we will visit Wat Palad, where we will receive a blessing from Buddhist monks. To end the day, we will enjoy an afternoon tea.
Día 10
Private transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for a flight to the desired beach extension: Koh Samui, Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi, Yao Noi, Koh Phangan, Koh Lanta, or Koh Yao Yai, depending on the season.
