Central Thailand Highlight

Highlight
Bangkok’s Iconic Temples
Ayutthaya Historical Par
Floating & Railway Markets
Bridge over the River Kwai

Discover the highlights of Central Thailand with carefully planned day trips from Bangkok. Visit the city’s most iconic temples, explore the ancient wonders of Ayutthaya, experience the vibrant energy of floating markets, and uncover the history of Kanchanaburi’s Bridge over the River Kwai. This 7-day tour is designed for travelers who want to see Thailand’s top cultural and historical sites without changing hotels, offering a comfortable and enriching experience.

Destination	Bangkok
Start City	Bangkok
End City	Bangkok
Tour Type	Private Tour
Duration	7 Days & 6 Nights
Depart	mtwthfsasu
Condition	Easy Moderate Strenuous
Tour Code	BKK03

Highlight
Bangkok’s Iconic Temples
Ayutthaya Historical Par
Floating & Railway Markets
Bridge over the River Kwai

Benefit

Day Trip from Bangkok
No Hotel Changes

Central Thailand Highlight

DAY 1: ARRIVE BANGKOK

Itinerary

: Upon arrival at Bangkok International Airport, our airport representative will be waiting at the exit, holding a sign with your name for a warm welcome.
You will then be escorted to your private air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable transfer to your hotel in the city. The drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic, allowing you to relax and enjoy your first glimpse of Bangkok.
Check-in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal:

DAY 2: GRAND PALACE / WAT PHO / WAT ARUN / MARBLE TEMPLE

Itinerary

: Begin your tour as your private guide warmly welcomes you in the hotel lobby, ready to accompany you on today’s journey. Before setting off, your guide will provide a brief overview and review of the planned itinerary, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Once everything is set, depart in the comfort of your private air-conditioned vehicle to explore Bangkok’s fascinating sights.
Visit:
: - Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), founded in the 16th century, the oldest and biggest temple with the largest number of pagodas (95 in all) in the city. Wat Pho was the first open university of Thailand which offered courses in several branches of knowledge like literature, astrology, medicine and massage. It’s well known for its huge Reclining Buddha, 46 m. long and 15 m. high.
: Visit Wat Phra Kaeo, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-see for any visitor to Bangkok. Explore the intricate decorations and marvel at the beauty of this important Buddhist temple. Admire the intricate details of the temple architecture, and learn about the history and significance of the temple and the Emerald Buddha statue it houses. Take your time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the stunning craftsmanship on display.

Next, visit the Grand Palace, an impressive complex of buildings that once served as the official residence of the Thai monarchy. Surrounded by walls built in 1782, explore the grand halls and buildings within the palace grounds and admire the intricate details and intricate architecture. Take a stroll through the palace and learn about the history and significance of this important cultural and historical site, a true representation of Thai royalty and culture.
: Lunch
Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant, where you can taste the authentic flavors of Thailand and recharge for the afternoon’s adventures. We prioritize dining at high-quality restaurants known for their excellent food and service, ensuring a superior culinary experience. Unlike many tours, we avoid crowded tourist-oriented eateries and instead select venues that offer a more refined and comfortable atmosphere.
[If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please inform your guide, who will be happy to accommodate your needs.]
: Hop on a public ferry and glide across the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun. Marvel at the temple’s striking towers, especially stunning at dawn or dusk. Explore the peaceful monastery grounds, a hidden gem filled with architectural delights and tranquil spots.
: - Wat Arun or The Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok’s best know landmark. It stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thon Buri. Wat Arun is best seen from the opposite bank of the river; it glistens in the sunlight during the day and stands dark and noble at dawn or dusk. A visit to the beautiful, peaceful monastery complex surrounding the familiar towers is very worth-while. These towers, the Phra Prang, although best known, the only part of Wat Arun. It also contains narrow lanes; elegant, old white buildings; shrines, pools of turtles; and two fine giants, Yuk Wat Jaeng, mortal enemies of the Yuk Wat Po across the river.
: Continue to drive past and stop for photos at magnificent frescoes and the Giant Swing out front. Located in front of Wat Suthat, it was formerly used in an old Brahmin ceremony.
: - Marble Temple or Wat Benchamabopit, one of the most modern works of Thai religious architecture. Graceful and tranquil, it is famous for its main chapel built in white Carara Italian marble to house a replica of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha image, Phra Phutthachinarat.
: Transfer back to hotel. Free time at your leisure

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal: Lunch

DAY 3: DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKET / MAE KLONG RAILWAY MARKET / PHRA PATHOM CHEDI

Itinerary

: Depart for Damnoen Saduak, situated 110km west of Bangkok. Your journey begins with a scenic drive through rice paddies and salt fields, providing a glimpse of the rural life in Thailand.
: Visit Talad Rom Hoop or or Maeklong Railway Market, a unique market that is held on the rail tracks. Experience the hustle and bustle of the market as vendors quickly pack up their goods and clear the tracks for the train’s arrival. Watch as the train passes by and the market swiftly returns to normal, showcasing the locals’ nonchalant attitude towards this daily occurrence.
[Train arrival time: 11:00 / 14:30 / 17:30]
: On the way, we visit a farmhouse to witness the production of sugar from coconut, giving you an insight into the local way of life.
: The tour continues with a 30 minutes speedboat trip along fruit plantation to see Thai houses and the traditional way of life.
: We arrive at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Be amazed by the boats of various shapes and sizes used by merchants to ferry their goods. You can also hire a small boat to board along the market and shop for local products.
: Lunch at local restaurant.
Visit:
: Phra Pathom Chedi
On coming toward the city, the first glimpse of the towering Phra Pathom Chedi is overpowering. lt is one of the largest pagodas in the world and in Thailand, by far the most holy of all Buddhist structures. The original pagoda was constructed more than 2,000 years ago in the stupa design of an upside down bowl shape.
: Transfer back to hotel. Free time at your leisure

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal: Lunch

DAY 4: AYUTTHAYA ANCIENT CITY & HISTORICAL PARK

Itinerary

: Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Ayutthaya, setting the stage for a full day of historical exploration in Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital.
: Wat Yai Chaimongkon
Begin your journey into the past at Wat Yai Chaimongkon, renowned for its towering stupas and serene Buddha statues. This site offers a glimpse into the Buddhist influence on the ancient kingdom.
: Continue to Ayutthaya Ancient Palace, which was originally built by King U-Thong in the 14th century and was expanded over the years. These pavilions were completely destroyed in 1767, leaving only the brick foundations, porticos, and walls.
: Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Visit Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, a sanctuary containing a large bronze cast Buddha image that was originally enshrined in the open area outside the Grand Palace and later covered by a building during the reign of King Songtham. The building was badly damaged by fire during the fall of Ayutthaya, and the one currently seen was reconstructed but does not have the same level of craftsmanship as the previous one.
: Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the most important temple within the Royal Palace compound and the original from which the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok was copied. Three outstanding Ceylonese style pagodas were built in the 15th century to enshrine the ashes of three Ayutthayan kings.
: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Ayutthaya, sampling traditional Thai dishes and savoring the flavors of the ancient capital.
: Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Across the Rivers to the south of the Island to visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram, one of Ayutthaya’s most beautiful temples, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Its stunning architecture, inspired by Angkor Wat, provides a perfect end to your day of exploration.
: Leave Ayutthaya and pass through green paddy fields, villages, and temples on the way back to Bangkok. (1.5-2 hour)

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal: Lunch

DAY 5: BRIDGE OVER THE RIVER KWAI

Itinerary

: Begin your day with an early departure from Bangkok, setting off on a comfortable journey westward to Kanchanaburi, a province of immense beauty and historical significance nestled in the mountains bordering Myanmar. (2.5-3 hours)
: Visit JEATH War Museum, offers a vivid window into WWII history, with reconstructed POW living quarters and powerful photographs capturing the essence of life along the Death Railway. A poignant visit that brings to light the enduring spirit of Allied prisoners, this museum is a must-see for travelers seeking to connect with Kanchanaburi’s rich historical tapestry.
: Visit to the serene Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the final resting place of thousands of Allied soldiers. Pay your respects to the souls commemorated here, each a story of bravery and sacrifice.
: Explore the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai, a symbol of resilience and history, part of the Death Railway built by Allied POWs during WWII. Wander around this historic landmark, absorbing its poignant story, and capture memorable photos against the backdrop of the majestic river and lush landscapes. This visit offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and profound historical significance, deeply enriching your travel experience.
: Board the train for a memorable journey on the Death Railway, an experience that combines stunning landscapes with a poignant reminder of the past. Travel over the original wooden viaducts, marveling at the engineering feat and the breathtaking views of the river and jungles below.
: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring flavors that capture the essence of Thai cuisine.
After lunch, experience a heartfelt encounter with elephants at the Sai Yok Elephant Camp, offering food to these majestic creatures and learning about their care and conservation.
: As the afternoon wanes, embark on the drive back to Bangkok, passing through picturesque countryside, paddy fields, villages, and temples—a mosaic of Thailand’s rural beauty. (3-4 hours drive)
Conclude your journey with a return to your hotel, bringing back memories of a day filled with historical insights, natural wonders, and the gentle giants of Kanchanaburi.

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal: Lunch

DAY 6: ANCIENT CITY (MUANG BORAN) / ERAWAN MUSEUM

Itinerary

: Depart from Bangkok to Samut Prakarn Province. [1 hrs. drive]
Visit :
: Erawan Museum: A Journey Through Time and Belief
Explore the Erawan Museum, housed within a colossal three-headed elephant structure. This unique museum is a fusion of Eastern and Western spiritual symbols and showcases a rich collection of ancient religious artifacts. The museum’s structure is a marvel itself, featuring a bronze elephant atop a vibrant, mosaic-tiled base. Inside, discover three levels representing distinct worlds: the underwater world on the lower floor, the earth (Kao Prasumain) on the middle, and a celestial heaven above. Experience this blend of art, spirituality, and architecture, where myth and history intertwine.
: Ancient City (Muang Boran Museum): Thailand’s Historical Marvel
Step into Thailand’s past at the Ancient City, a remarkable hub of replicated historical sites from across the country. Explore the grandeur of bygone eras through meticulously crafted models of iconic landmarks. These replicas showcase Thailand’s rich heritage, with structures categorized by region. Visitors can leisurely stroll or drive through this vast area. Discover famous sites like Khao Phra Wihan, Prasat Hin Phanom Rung, and more, beautifully recreated in various scales.
The Ancient City not only offers a glimpse into Thailand’s history but also preserves fading local arts and culture. It’s a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and researchers.
: After an enriching tour, return to your hotel for relaxation or further independent discovery.

Overnight: Bangkok
Meal:

DAY 7: DEPART BANGKOK

Itinerary

: Enjoy your free time at leisure before your departure. Relax at your hotel or explore nearby at your own pace. When ready, your private driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to Bangkok Airport.

Meal:

Meals

Day	Breakfast	Lunch	Dinner
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7

FIT Group All

Rates: Central Thailand Highlight

Service Class	FIT				Group
Service Class	1 Person	2 Person	3-4 Person	5-8 Person	9-16 Person	17-32 Person	33+ Person
Land Only	$ 1,261	$ 703	$ 600	$ 533	$ 488	$ 470	$ 439

Note: Price/Person in $ USD - US Dollar (1 USD = 33 THB - Thai Baht)

Inclusions:

All transfers air-conditioned vehicles within the journey, including pick-up at airport
A local English-speaking guide (other languages available upon request)
All admission fees as mentioned in the program
All meal as mentioned in the program

Exclusions