Thailand Classic & Cruise River Kwai 12 Days 11 Nights

Duration: 12 Days

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey that will leave you mesmerized by the wonders of Thailand. Join us for a romantic dinner cruise along the majestic Chao Phraya River, where the sparkling lights of Bangkok create an unforgettable backdrop for an enchanting evening.

As we delve deeper into the heart of Thailand, we’ll set sail on the River Kwai Cruise, venturing into the historic regions of Kanchanaburi and its surroundings. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this captivating land, exploring upland villages inhabited by the Akha and Yao ethnic-minority groups. Traverse tranquil waters on a traditional long-tailed boat and witness the convergence of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, a sight that showcases the diverse mosaic of Southeast Asia.

Prepare to be amazed as you witness elephants in their natural habitat, observing their morning bath and witnessing their remarkable skills. Feel the thrill of a bamboo raft trip along the river, immersing yourself in the rush of the water while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

This extraordinary journey promises an immersive experience, brimming with awe-inspiring moments and profound connections to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage. Embark on this adventure of a lifetime, and create memories that will forever hold a special place in your heart. Let the wonders of Thailand captivate your senses, and allow yourself to be transported to a world of beauty and enchantment.

Highlights

• Join a romantic dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River
• Spend some nights on sharing River Kwai Cruise, visiting Kanchanaburi and the areas nearby Bangkok
• Explore the upland villages of the Akha and Yao ethnic-minority groups, board on a long-tailed boat to see the meet between Thailand, Laos and Myanmar
• Watch the elephants taking their morning bath and demonstrating some their skills, experience a bamboo raft trip along the river

Itinerary in Brief

Day 1: Bangkok Arrival – Dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River (D)
Day 2: Bangkok Full Day City Tour (B)
Day 3: Bangkok – Railway market + Amphawa Floating Market (B)
Day 4: Bangkok – Embark River Kwai cruise – Bangkok – Kanchanaburi- Thong Phap Phum- Ban Hin Dad (B, L, D)
Day 5: River Kwai boat- Ban Hin Dad – Sai Yok Yai – Sai Yok (B, L, D)
Day 6: River Kwai boat- Sai Yok – Ban Kao (B, L, D)
Day 7: Ban Kao-Kanchanaburi – Bangkok (B, L) River Kwai disembark cruise
Day 8: Bangkok – Flight to Chiang Rai (B)
Day 9: Chiang Rai- Golden Triangle – Chiang Mai (B)
Day 10: Chiang Mai city- Doi Suthep Hill (B)
Day 11: Chiang Mai- Chiang Dao Elephant Riding & Rafting (B)
Day 12: Chiang Mai – Bangkok Depart (B) No guide in Bangkok

Full Itinerary

  • Day 1: Bangkok Arrival – Dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River (D)

    Warmly welcome you on arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. We will pick you up with a comfortable vehicle to the center of Bangkok to check-in your hotel, then take your time to have a rest after a long flight. In the evening, our driver will come and take you to the meeting point to take a dinner cruise

    19:00: Check-in at Counter, River City Shopping Complex.

    19:20: Boarding the cruise on the Chao Phraya River. Welcomed by our crew in typical ceremonious Thai culture with warm smiles and offering our own welcome cocktail.

    19:30: Depart from River City Pier while you enjoy your drinks, take in the beautiful night-lit scenery on both side of the river. Our captain will pilot the boat up-river.

    We will ensure the opportunity for you to take snapshot of the two most magnificent night views of Bangkok: Wat Arun – Grand Palace with Wat Pra Kaew. After that, we will return to The River City Shopping Complex, enjoying the beautiful decorations and awesome sight of colored light on the riverside.

    20:00: Dinner is served under the moonlight, with “Live Music” in a serenade atmosphere and a Thai Classical Dance Show. You must be delighted with the Thai and International cuisine offered in a sumptuous buffet.

    21:30: Arrival at the River City Pier and return you to the hotel.

    Accommodation:           At the hotel in Bangkok  
    Meals:                           Dinner  

  • Day 2: Bangkok Full Day City Tour (B)

    Today, we will take the whole day to explore Bangkok – the city of golden temples.

    The first destination is the Grand Palace. 

    This huge architecture complex is over 2 sq. kilometers, including 3 main sites: Royal Palace, Royal Office and pagodas (Wat) built in 1770s. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is no longer home of Thailand Royal, most of national significant events takes place there. 

    Wat Phra Kaew is the most out-standing architecture in complex, built in 1785 when King Rama I moved the capital to Bangkok. The pagoda is famous not only for its beauty of unique Thailand Buddhism architecture but also for the sacred jade Buddha statue.

    Nearby Grand Palace is Wat Pho – the oldest and biggest pagoda in Bangkok with more than 1000 Buddha statues and the huge one sit-back Buddha in gold.

    This pagoda is also famous for being a birthplace of traditional Thai massage, since there is a traditional medicine school established in 1982, educating the arts of Thai massage.

    After having lunch on your own arrangement, we visit the last destination of the day: Wat Traimit. This pagoda is famous for its unique and historic beauty, and also for the huge golden Buddha statue. Thai people believe that the statue represents for prosperity and purity, as well as strength and power.

    We will board on a boat to pay a visit along the Chao Phraya River, watching the life of local people close by.

    On route, we stop at Wat Arun, known as the most beautiful pagoda in Bangkok not only for its location on the Chao Phraya’s riverbank but also for the different architecture from other pagodas. The pagoda was decorated with glass pieces and Chinese ceramic, in a complicated style.

    Return to the hotel and you are free to explore Bangkok by night.

    Accommodation :           At the hotel in Bangkok  
    Meals:                           Breakfast  

  • Day 3: Bangkok - Railway market + Amphawa Floating Market (B)

    Early in the morning, after having breakfast, we pay a visit to Meaklong Railway Market – a local market has grown up along the rail tracks. When a train pulls in or out of the station, the sellers quickly clear their stalls, and set them up again when the train has passed.

    We continue our trip to explore a temple hidden within the roots of banyan tree – Wat Bang Kungwhich has been buried for years in thick foliage; step through trailing vines into its intimate shrine, and pay your respects to a gleaming golden Buddha statue.

    The temple reminds a war between Burmese and Siamese in the 18th century on a landscape that serves the battleground. Today, the temple and nearby area is preserved as a memorial to those heroic warriors of the past.

    Located 50 km from Bangkok, Amphawa Floating Market apparently already present since the mid-seventeenth century. It has become such a magnet for Thai weekenders that food stalls have grown from the riverbanks and stretched far into the surrounding streets. 

    Here, you can buy plenty of unique and cheap traditional Thai snacks, which is such an ideal gift for your family/friends.

    When the night falls, you will get the motorboat and cruise along the canal as you see the villagers spend their daily life by the river. And if you are lucky enough, you will get to see fireflies light up the night like stars in cloudless sky.

    We get on the transport to back to hotel in Bangkok.

    Accommodation :           At the hotel in Bangkok  
    Meals:                           Breakfast  

  • Day 4: Bangkok – Embark River Kwai cruise - Bangkok – Kanchanaburi- Thong Phap Phum- Ban Hin Dad (B, L, D)

    06:00: On this day the RV River Kwai Cruise staff will pick up at the hotel Lobby.  Depart from Bangkok by van / coach to Kanchanaburi via Nakorn Pathom.

    09:00: Short stop to visit the highest Chedi in Thailand called “Phra Pathom Chedi” which is the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

    10:30: Visit to Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi) located on the west bank of the river.  The monastery was constructed on a hill, decorated in the form of Chinese architecture and cultural art. 

    From the top of the monastery observe the beautiful scenery of Kanchanaburi and its mountainous horizon. 

    Also visit to Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) nearby, built in the form of Thai cultural art.  The great Buddha image and pagoda placed in the temple are respected by all Buddhists.

    11:30: Continue to Kanchanaburi.

    12:30: Lunch at Sommai Restaurant.

    13:30: Proceed to Hell Fire Pass, a part of the Death Railway cut through the Stone Mountain.  Trails lead to Hin Tok Bridge and Konyu Cutting where a plaque commemorates the ordeal of Australian and British POW’s who undertook the hazardous work in precarious conditions at the aptly named pass. 

    The memorial complex (Hin Lek Fai) is intended to honor the Allied Prisoners of War and conscripted people from India, Burma, Malaysia and other countries who died during construction of the railway, as well as all who suffered as a consequence of the hardships.

    16:00: Embark RV River Kwai at Daowadung Bridge and cruise downstream on Kwai Noi River

    19:30: Dinner and overnight on board at Sai Yok Yai Waterfalls

    Accommodation: On River Kwai Boat
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 5: River Kwai boat- Ban Hin Dad – Sai Yok Yai – Sai Yok (B, L, D)

    Breakfast on board while cruising downriver

    08:30: Visit a boarding school nearby the bank of Kwai Noi River built under the patronage of H.R.H. Crown Princess Sirindhorn for refugee children.

    09:45: Continue by coach to visit Hin Dad Hot Spring, formerly called Kui Mang.  It was accidentally discovered by Japanese soldiers who were supervising the construction of the Death Railway. 

    The natural hot spring features two large pools and private baths.  The mineral in the spring is believed to cure many diseases, e.g. beriberi (lack of vitamin B), arthritis, etc.

    10:30: Visit to Pha Tad Waterfall located in the western zone of Si Nakharin Dam National Park.  It originates from a small stream called Huai Kui Mang.  Pha Tad is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kanchanaburi Province and flows into the Kwai Noi River.

    11:30: Board RV River Kwai at Kaeng Pa Lorm

    13:30: Lunch on board while cruising downriver to the Floatel Jungle Raft

    15:00: River rafting or canoeing downstream on Kwai Noi River.  If time allows, visit nearby Mon Village.

    (Optional: Enjoy one hour Thai traditional massage – Extra: Baht 650.- per person)

    19:30: Dinner and overnight on board near the Resotel.
    (Optional: Enjoy 45 minutes Mon dances performance – Extra: Baht 300.- per person)

    Accommodation: On River Kwai Boat
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 6: River Kwai boat- Sai Yok – Ban Kao (B, L, D)

    Breakfast on board while cruising downriver.

    10:15: Short visit at Sai Yok village located right on the river bank.

    11:45: Lunch on board while cruising downriver to Wang Pho Bridge.

    13:00: Board the coach to visit the Krasae Cave situated on the bank of the Kwai Noi River, an excellent view point.  The cavern houses a Buddha image. 

    13:36: Take a 3rd class train to Tha Kilen Train Station passing over the long wooden viaduct.

    13:51: Arrive Tha Kilen and continue by coach to “Prasat Muang Singh”, historical park with Khmer architecture from the late Lopburi period, some 700-800 years ago. 

    The extensive ruins of the temple beside the River Kwai Noi are a potent reminder of the vast expanse of the  Khmer empire.  The ancient border town of Muang Singh, “City of the Lions”, was probably established as a trading post.

    15:00: Return to the RV River Kwai at Prasat Muang Singh and cruise downstream.

    Afternoon at leisure on the boat.

    19:00: “Farewell Dinner” and overnight on board, near Ban Kao.

    Accommodation: On River Kwai Boat
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 7: Ban Kao-Kanchanaburi – Bangkok (B, L) River Kwai disembark cruise

    08:00: Breakfast on board while cruising downstream to Wat Tham Khaopoon.

    09:00: Visit to Wat Tham Khaopoon, a Buddhist temple which served as a big camp of World War II.  There is a middle cave containing stalactites and stalagmites and many remarkable Buddha images.  Behind the temple enjoy a marvelous view down the valley of the Kwai Noi River.

    09:30: Continue by coach to Kanchanaburi to visit the world-famous bridge over the River Kwai.  The sturdy Iron Bridge spanning the River Kwai Yai, which was a crucial part of the Death Railway, was built in some 16 months by Allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts. 

    The bridge was destroyed in Allied bombing raids towards the end of World War II and was later rebuilt by the Japanese as war reparations.

    Continue to the Thailand-Burma Railway Center Museum, an interactive museum which provides a remarkable research and information centre dedicated to presenting the story of the Thailand-Burma Railway. 

    Finally, visit to the Donrak War Cemetery which contains the remains of 6,982 Allied prisoners of war who perished during the construction of the “Death Railway”. 

    12:30: Rejoin RV River Kwai at Saphan Mai and lunch on board while cruising towards Nong Ya dock.

    15:00: Disembark RV River Kwai at Nong Ya dock and return to Bangkok by coach.

    18:00: Arrive Bangkok and transfer to your hotel in Bangkok downtown.

    Accommodation: At the hotel in Bangkok
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Day 8: Bangkok – Flight to Chiang Rai (B)

    You have free day until we pick up and transfer you to Chiang Rai.
    Night in Chiang Rai

    Accommodation: At the hotel in Chiang Rai
    Meals: Breakfast

  • Day 9: Chiang Rai- Golden Triangle – Chiang Mai (B)

    Today we will depart for Mae Chan and then explore the upland villages of the Akha and Yao ethnic minority groups. The people here are very welcoming to visitors and eager to show you the way of their life.

    We then continue to Chiang Saen, a small ancient town on the banks of the Mekong River followed by the Golden Triangle, strategic point from which you will contemplate a unique landscape, shared between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.

    In the afternoon a long drive through the jungles and over the moutains of Northern Thailand awaits for us. Arrive in Chiang Mai in the late evening and check-in at the hotel for your overnight.

  • Day 10: Chiang Mai city- Doi Suthep Hill (B)

    After breakfast, we have a walking tour to the old town. You will see the most beautiful temples of Chiang Mai including of Wat Phra Singh temple, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Chedi Luang

    Wat Phra Singh is one of the most sacred temples in Chiang Mai with Lanna style architecture. And it is well-known for the name”The temple of the Lion Buddha”

    We then continue to Wat Phan Tao, an ancient temple with beautiful garden area sitting right next to the sacred Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai town.

    Next to Wat Phan Tao is Wat Chedi Luang a Buddhist temple in the historic centre of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Its chedi is one of the tallest structures in the old city. There are a lots of important Buddhist holidays take place here

    Then you will stroll along small streets lined with traditional houses, where you will take a rickshaw tour.

    After that, you will take a walking through the central market of Warorot, which is a great spot for travelers wanting to experience the true Thai culture and daily life.

    In the afternoon we cannot miss the Doi Suthep hillThe mountain’s temple is one of the most historically and spiritually significant places in Thailand. We drive up the scenic mountainous terrains and pass by lush landscapes on your way to the base of the complex.

    We then climb up for more than 300 staircase and finally take an elevator to the top. Here get your chance to admire the picturesque panorama views of Chiang Mai City.

    Return to the hotel and you can relax or enjoy going to the night market by your own.

  • Day 11: Chiang Mai- Chiang Dao Elephant Riding & Rafting (B)

    Today start our day to Chiang Dao, a hidden gem in Northern Thailand. With plenty of activities and only a short distance from Chiang Mai, this destination is well worth a visit.

    When you visit an elephant camp, you can watch the elephants taking their morning bath and demonstrating some their skills. You will also learn how to properly ascend the elephant and lumber along a trail in the dense, leafy forest and along the Mae Ping River

    After lunch (on your own arrangement), experience a bamboo raft trip along the river. You will have chance to admire the traditional teak houses high on stilts along the lush banks. Bidding farewell to chilled-out Chiang Dao and its gentle people won’t be easy.

    Soften the blow with a stop at an orchid farm on your return to Chiang Mai. Revel in the assortment of colors and designs from stripped to dots. At the end of the day, you’ll have seen that Thailand’s natural bounty is an open-air art museum.

  • Day 12: Chiang Mai – Bangkok Depart (B)

    Say goodbye to Chiang Mai, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Bangkok and then connect with your international flight. End of our service  

Price

Private tour price
Price in USD per person based on group size of private tour - Validity from 01/04/2024 - 31/10/2024
2-3 pers. 4-6 pers. 7-10 pers. Single Suppl.
Superior
1st class
Deluxe
- Child under 3 year old shares bed with their parents - ----> free of charge
- Child from 3 to 12 year old share rooom with their parents --------> 50% of adult price
Private tour price
Price in USD per person based on group size of private tour - Validity from 01/11/2023 - 31/03/2024
2-3 pers. 4-6 pers. 7-10 pers. Single Suppl.
Superior
1st class
Deluxe
- Child under 3 year old shares bed with their parents - ----> free of charge
- Child from 3 to 12 year old share rooom with their parents --------> 50% of adult price

Accommodation

Superior
Location Accommodation name Star Room Type
Bangkok True Siam Rangnam Hotel Superior
Chiang Rai Laluna Hotel & Resort Garden Bungalow
Chiang Mai White Boutique hotel Deluxe
1st class
Location Accommodation name Star Room Type
Bangkok Le D’tel Hotel Deluxe
Chiang Rai Le Patta hotel Superior
Chiang Mai Bohdi Serene Superior
Deluxe
Location Accommodation name Star Room Type
Bangkok Pullman Bangkok Hotel G Premium Deluxe
Chiang Rai The Riverie Chiang Rai Deluxe Garden View
Chiang Mai NA Nirand Romantic – Boutique – Resort Lanna Deluxe

Trip Note

Tour includes:

  • Accommodations based on twin/Double Room
  • Private Transfer as private air-con vehicle
  • Private Tour as mention as above itinerary
  • Meals as mentioned (B=breakfast)
  • English  speaking Guide
  • Service charge & Government tax
  • Entrance fee
  • 4 Days 3 Nights on River Kwai boat 
  • Dinner cruise on Chao Phraya River 

Tour excludes:

Other meals, tip, drinks, airport tax, single room supplement, personal expenses, travel insurance, visa, flight in/out Bangkok, domestic flights, any optional additional tours or activities during free time.

Refreshment in Myanmar Thailand beach 26D25N
Refreshment in Myanmar Thailand beach 26D25N
Duration: Days

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the captivating wonders of Southeast Asia. The tour kicks off at the awe-inspiring Kyaiktiyo, where a sacred balancing boulder defies gravity on the edge of a cliff, serving as a remarkable pilgrimage site for devoted Buddhists. Prepare to be enchanted as you venture into the ancient city of Bagan, […]

Heritage Exploration in Myanmar – Thailand 17 Days 16 Nights
Heritage Exploration in Myanmar – Thailand 17 Days 16 Nights
Duration: 17 Days

Embark on an enthralling odyssey through the enchanting realms of Myanmar and Thailand, where an amalgamation of ancient wonders, vivacious traditions, and resplendent vistas beckon the intrepid traveler. Commencing in the illustrious city of Mandalay, one delves deep into the labyrinthine corridors of time, traversing a tapestry woven with opulent cultural heritage and paying homage […]

Spiritual Journey in Myanmar & Thailand 19 Days 18 Nights
Spiritual Journey in Myanmar & Thailand 19 Days 18 Nights
Duration: 19 Days

Embarking on an extraordinary expedition through the captivating realms of Thailand and Myanmar promises an incomparable and indelible experience. The journey unfolds against the backdrop of Bangkok’s dynamic urban landscape, where ornate temples, bustling markets, and vibrant street scenes interweave in a symphony of sights and sounds. The path then leads to Ayutthaya, a revered […]

Temples and Tides in Thailand & Myanmar 21D20N
Temples and Tides in Thailand & Myanmar 21D20N
Duration: 23 Days

Immerse in an extraordinary expedition that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the captivating lands of Thailand and Myanmar. Prepare to be enchanted as you traverse a tapestry of cultural treasures, natural wonders, and breathtaking moments that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Deep yourself into the tropical paradise of Phuket, […]

Gastronomy in Thailand & Indochina 19D18N
Gastronomy in Thailand & Indochina 19D18N
Duration: 19 Days

Welcome to Gastronomy in Thailand & Indochina 19D18N! This comprehensive tour will take you on an exhilarating expedition across the majestic lands of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Traverse the rich history and culture of each region through a carefully curated itinerary that offers an array of stimulating activities and unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the […]

Symbol Exploration from Thailand-Singapore-Malaysia 17D16N
Symbol Exploration from Thailand-Singapore-Malaysia 17D16N
Duration: 17 Days

The tour begins with a visit to Sentosa Island in Singapore, where travelers can enjoy its beautiful beaches and thrilling rides at Universal Studios. The journey then continues to Chinatown in Singapore and then to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, where tourists can explore the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the Batu Caves.   Next, the […]

Customer Reviews