Upon arrival at Bangkok airport, you will be greeted and transferred to the hotel. The glorious history of the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is closely linked to the Chakri dynasty that still reigns but does rule in Thailand.

Check in at the hotel and free time for your relaxation.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Bangkok  

Meals: NA

After breakfast at 8:30 am, we will visit Ayutthaya Historical Park, an ancient city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is filled with red brick temples and ruins that showcase the unique architectural style of the region. First, we will see Wat Phu Khao Thong, an impressive pagoda standing in the middle of paddy fields. Built in 1395, it combines Thai and Mon architectural styles and features a striking golden chedi at the top.

Next, we’ll visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the most significant temple in Ayutthaya. It served as a model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. The temple is known for its three towering Ceylonese-style towers, reminiscent of Wat Phra Kaew. We’ll then explore Vihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit, home to a large bronze Buddha statue in the subduing Mara posture. This statue, believed to be one of the largest in Thailand, dates back to the Ayutthaya period. Lastly, we’ll visit Wat Lokaya Sutha, a sacred site known for its intact reclining Buddha statue. It holds great significance for Thai pilgrims, and they often adorn Buddha statues with a golden leaf for protection. 

On the way back to Bangkok, we’ll stop at the Royal Summer Palace in Bang Pa-in district. Originally built in the 17th century and later reconstructed in the 19th century European style by King Rama IV, it served as a favorite retreat for the royal family. Afterward, we’ll return to Bangkok, and the The rest of the day will be yours to explore at your leisure.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast

Early in the morning, we drive southwest of Bangkok, visit the Maeklong railway market, take photos, and enjoy the local snack in the market before driving to Damnoen Saduak, a rural floating market. Stop for a motor boat trip along the waterway to the picturesque floating market of Damnoen Saduak. Enjoy your own lunch. In the afternoon we will transfer back to Bangkok.

Afternoon transfer to the Jim Thompson house, in the heart of Bangkok’s city center: start by learning the story of the American businessman and traveler, who made it his life’s work to bring Thai silks to the world’s fashion houses, and then explore his remarkable home. This is one of the best places in Bangkok to see traditional Thai teak homes, as Thompson assembled his using historic houses shipped to Bangkok from around the country. Find out what is known — and what remains a mystery — about Thompson’s 1967 disappearance in the Malaysian jungle, then explore the collection of art that he assembled during 25 years in Thailand.

Overnight in Bangkok.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Bangkok

Meals: Breakfast

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 the 1770s. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is no longer home of Thailand Royal, most of the national significant events take place there. Wat Phra Kaew is the most out-standing architecture in the 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 the 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. 

In the afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival pick up and transfer you to your hotel in Chiang Mai for your overnight stay.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Chiang Mai

Meals: Breakfast

The morning will be mainly devoted to visiting the old city with a stop at the ancient wall, the moat and a door of the old city. You will see more   beautiful temples in Chiang Mai:   Wat Phra Singh Temple, Wat Phan Tao temple and the temple Wat Chedi Luang. Then you will stroll along streets lined with traditional houses, where you take a rickshaw ride. From there, you’ll be at the large Central Market Warorot. 

Lunch at a local restaurant (on your own).

Afternoon, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most famous pagoda in Chiang Mai. It is reached after climbing a staircase of 290 steps with ramps representing two giant nagas. From the square, you can admire the panorama of the whole Chiang Mai Valley.

Then visit craft villages: lacquer factories, silk weaving, manufacture of umbrellas, wood carvings and goldsmith work.

Then transfer back to the hotel. 

You are free to explore the night market in the evening.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Chiang Mai 

Meals: Breakfast

Morning after breakfast, we drive to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary to visit as the program below:

Itinerary:

08:00 – 08:30  : Pick up from your hotel or accommodation.

08:30           : Drive approximately 1.5 hours South of Chiang Mai through rolling hills, forest, and local farming areas.

10:30           : Arrive at the Sanctuary. Meet your guide and walk for 10-15 minutes through the Jungle to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary. Change into traditional Karen clothing. Enjoy an introductory lesson about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior.

11:00           : Meet the elephants. Feed, interact, and play with the elephants in a natural environment as you learn about their behavior and history. Take photos with the elephants.

12:00           : Enjoy a lunch of traditional Thai food and fresh fruit.

13:00           : Learn how to make herbal medicine balls, feed the Elephants and then walk with the elephants to the river. Bathe and brush the elephants.

14:00           : Join the elephants for a therapeutic mud spa. Swim in the river and take photos with the elephants.

15:00           : Change clothes and say goodbye to the elephants.

15:30           : Leave the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and drive approximately 1.5 hours to Chiang Mai.

17:00-17:30 : Drop off at your hotel or accommodation.

Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Chiang Mai

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, we’ll depart from Chiang Mai and head north towards Chiang Rai. During the journey, we’ll take a break at Mae Ka Chan Hot spring for some relaxation. Then, we’ll continue driving for over an hour to reach the renowned White Temple or Wat Rong Khun. This temple, created by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, is known for its unique and striking design. The artist also contributed to the mural paintings at the Buddha Prateep Temple in London. Next, we’ll visit Wat Phra Kaew, a significant temple where the revered Emerald Buddha image was once enshrined. We’ll also explore Wat Phra Singha, which houses one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images. Our itinerary includes a stop at the statue of King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Rai City.

Finally, we’ll take a short drive from Chiang Rai City to reach Black House, also known as Baan Dam. Created by national artist Thawan Duchanee, Baan Dam is a fascinating blend of traditional northern Thai architecture and unconventional modern designs. It serves as an art studio, museum, and residence.

Afterward, we’ll drive for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Chiang Khong, where we will spend the night.

Accommodation : At the hotel in Chiang Khong

Meals: Breakfast

Free at leisure until our private car picks up from the hotel and transfers to the Thailand – Myanmar border (around 2 hours), crosses the Chiang Khong border to Tachileik – Myanmar.

Our private car and tour guide in Myanmar will wait for us in Myanmar custom and drive to Kyaing Tong (around 3 hours).

Overnight in Kyaing Tong.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Kyaing Tong

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we’ll explore the vibrant local market in Kengtung. This bustling market is frequented by villagers from the surrounding areas who gather to sell their products and engage in bartering. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the traditional dresses and customs of the minority hill tribes.

Next, we’ll embark on a road journey to Pin Tauk village, which marks the starting point of today’s trek. From there, we’ll set off on foot, trekking for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the Akha minority village of Hwe Lon. In this village, we’ll have the chance to immerse ourselves in the local culture, interact with the villagers, and gain insights into their unique customs and daily lives.

After enjoying a picnic lunch, we’ll continue our trek to an Ann Village situated on the slopes of a hill, which will take around 30 minutes. The Ann minority is distinctive for their traditional black attire and blackened teeth. We’ll explore the village, observing their way of life, and then proceed to Lone Tree Hill. From there, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city before returning to Kengtung.

We’ll spend the night in Kengtung, cherishing the experiences and memories of the day.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Kyaing Tong

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we’ll set off on a scenic drive towards Mong La, enjoying picturesque mountain views and passing by tribal villages. After approximately 2 hours (40 km), we’ll reach the starting point of our trek.

The initial hour of the trek takes us through rolling hills and moderate slopes ranging from 20 to 30 degrees. Along this natural landscape, we’ll stumble upon a stunning wooden monastery that dates back over 300 years. Adorned with intricate wood carvings and captivating paintings on both the interior and exterior walls, the monastery houses ancient Buddha images, Jataka stories, and impressive religious artifacts.

Continuing on foot, we’ll make a brief stop at Wan Nat, a remarkable village inhabited by the Loi people who reside in traditional longhouses. Exploring the village, we’ll have the opportunity to learn about the unique way of life, rich culture, and cherished traditions of the Loi community.

For those interested, we can extend the hike by another hour along a flatter and easier trail to reach Wang Seng, another lesser-known Loi village. Here, we’ll discover a magnificent and even larger monastery. A packed lunch will be provided during our trek.

After our enriching visits, we’ll retrace our steps along the trekking trail, return to our vehicle, and drive back to Kengtung, reaching the city in the late afternoon. Once back at the hotel, we’ll freshen up before heading out to a local restaurant for dinner at our own expense.

We’ll spend the night in Kengtung, reflecting on the day’s experiences and enjoying a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Kyaing Tong

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, drive to Lomwe, a charming colonial town known for its diverse tribes. The scenic journey takes about 2 hours, passing through forests, terraced rice fields, and a tranquil lake.

Make stops at different villages along the way. Explore Wan Lun Shan village, witness the traditions of the Ho Lup Akha tribe, and visit the Naung Cho Wa tribe, known for their historical headhunting practices.

Return to Kyaing Tong in the late afternoon for overnight stay. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Kyaing Tong

Meals: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel and free at your leisure time until transfer from hotel to Kyaing Tong airport for the flight to Heho 

Flight time Kyaung Tong – Heho @ ~ 15:50 – 16:50 on Mon or 10:45 – 11:30 on Wed

Upon arrival transfer to NyaungShwe village. Explore workshops showcasing traditional Shanpaper and handcrafted umbrellas. Check-in hotel and relax. Lunch and dinner at your own expense. Overnight stay at Inle Lake.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Inle Lake

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast you will board your wooden motorized boat and begin heading out onto Inle lake, one of Myanmar’s most spectacular and breathtaking sights. Its calm waters are dotted with floating vegetation and fishing canoes, to which scenic hills provide the perfect backdrop. Pay a visit to the lake’s morning market (the market is open every day apart from dark moon and full moon calendar days). The market’s location rotates between the lake’s villages  in a 5 days schedule and is also visited daily by the lake’s inhabitants as well as the surrounding natives who also come to sell and trade their wares. Along the way you will pass several villages that are built on stills over the lake, which are inhabited by the local Intha people. Observe the daily activities of the local leg-rowing fishermen and see their ‘floating gardens’, which are built up from strips of water hyacinth, earth and anchored to the bottom of the lake with bamboo poles. Yet the Buddha images are still worth the visit. Proceed to the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, the lake’s main haven, which contains five sacred images of Buddha decorated in gold leaf. There are also many traditional crafts origininating on Inle Lake and, should you wish, we can stop for a visit to one making incrdible items from lotus silk, bota builders (depending on the time of year), a cigar making workshop, blacksmiths of even silver smiths. If time allows you will also pay a visit to the local silversmith and a pirogue workshop in the village of Nampan. The day will come to a close with a return trip by boat back to your hotel.

Lunch and dinner will be at your own expense. Spend the night at Inle Lake.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Inle Lake

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, we will take about 9 hours drive from Inle to Bangan.

Welcome to Bangan, renowned as one of the most remarkable architectual sites in Asia. During its golden age from 11th to 13th centuries, the rulers of Bangan constructed numerous grand stupas and pagodas, many of which still stand along the Irrawaddy River. The awe-inspiring landscape of Bangan, with over 4,000 red brick temples spread across a vast plain similar in size to Manhattan Island, is a hightlight of any trip to Myanmar.

Arrive Bagan, check-in hotel and relax.

Lunch and dinner expenses will be your own respensibilitiy. You will spend the night in Bagan.

 Accommodation: At the hotel in Bagan  

Meals: Breakfast

OPTION: HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE OVER BAGAN (FROM 20 OCT – 10 APR)

Begin your morning with an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride over the scenic Bagan countryside, witnessing the sunrise over the Irrawaddy River and majestic stupas (available from October 20 to April 10).

=> Optional tours not included on tour price 

Then, explore the serene village of Minnanthu, known for its tranquil atmosphere and lesser-known temples like Payathonzu, Lemyentha, and Nandamannya. Visit the Kyat Kan Cave monastery, a renowned meditation retreat, and observe the traditional way of life in nearby farming villages. In Myinkaba village, discover the art of lacquer ware production and witness skilled craftsmen at work. Explore the remarkable Gu Byaukgyi Temple with its beautiful frescoes, and marvel at the ancient Nanpaya Temple’s Buddha images. Don’t miss the Myazedi (Jade) Stupa, revered for its relics and 12th-century inscriptions in Burmese, Pyu, Pali, and Mon languages. 

Conclude the day by enjoying a breathtaking sunset from a small hill, providing an overview of the magnificent Bagan landscape.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Bagan  

 Meals: Breakfast

This morning, we take a visit to the lively Nyaung Oo Market, where locals gather daily to trade fresh produce and other goods, Then, venture into Old Bagan and start with the renowed Shwezigon Pagoda, built in the early 11th century as a religious memorial by King Anawrahta. Continue to the exquisite Anada Temple, known for its architectural masterpiece and housing two unique Buddha images that appear to change expressions depending on the viewing angle.

After lunch, we’ll embark on a four-hour drive from Bagan to Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar and a former royal capital. While Mandalay is often described as a traditional and alluring Asian destination, it surprises visitors with its bustling and dynamic atmosphere on the banks of the Irrawaddy River. Despite the city’s energetic bussiness scene, it remains the cultural heart of Myanmar, keeping the tradtitons of music, dance, and drama alive. Check-in time at most hotels is 14:00, and early check-in subject to availability. Enjoy an overnight stay in Mandalay.

Please note that lunch and dinner will be at your own expense. 

Accommodation: At the hotel in Mandalay

Meals: Breakfast

Embark on a private boat from Mandalay jetty for a relaxing one-hour journey along the Irrawaddy River to Mingun. Explore the famous Mingun Paya, an unfinished brick building that would have been the world’s largest if not for a prophecy. Despite being partially destroyed by an earthquake, it offers a panoramic view from its flat top. Admire the stunning Hsinbyume Pagoda, an alabaster structure representing Mount Meru in Buddhist cosmology. Don’t miss the Mingun Bell, claimed to be the world’s largest uncracked bell, weighing 90 tons. In the afternoon, continue your Mandalay guided tour with a visit to Mahamuni Pagoda, home to a revered Buddha image adorned with daily applied gold leaves. If time permits, explore craft workshops specializing in gold leaf, tapestries, wood carvings, or marionettes. Next, drive to Amarapura, the former royal capital known as the “City of Immortality.” Visit Mahagandayon Monastery, a center for monastic study with numerous young monks. Then, head to the legendary U Bein Bridge, the world’s longest teakwood bridge spanning Taungthaman Lake. Note that lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Overnight stay in Mandalay.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Mandalay

Meals: Breakfast

Flight time Mandalay – Yangon @ around 15:00 – 16:05 or similar (no morning flight) => we can’t visit Yangon on this day and should move it to the next day in Yangon. So I suggested to change program as below

Our orientation tour of Mandalay begins with a climb up Mandalay Hill, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. We’ll them visit Kuthodaw Pagoga, famous for its collection of 729 marble slabs inscribed with Buddhist teachings, earning it the nicknam “The World’s Biggest Book.” Next, we’ll explore the remarkable Shwenandaw Monastery, the Golden Monastery, which is the sole surviving structure from the 19th-century Royal Palace. Its intricate wood carvings are truly awe-inspiring.

Afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Yangon. Flight time Mandalay – Yangon @ around 15:00 – 16:05 or similar

Yangon, Myanmar’s former capital, is captivating city that serves as the country’s commercial hub. Arrival in Yangon, check-in hotel and relax. Meals on your own account.

Overnight stay in Yangon.

Accommodation: At the hotel in Yangon

Meals: Breakfast

This morning we visit the Kyaukhtatgyi Pagoda to see the impressive reclining Buddha statue. 

Then, make a quick stop at the Royal Lake in Kandawgyi Park to enjoy the view of Karaweil Hall and the iconic Golden Shwedangon Pagoda.

The hightlight of your visit is the lengendary Shwedagon Pagoda, a significant religious site. Experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere as you witness the magnificent golden stupa bathed in the enchanting glow of the setting sun. Explore the stalls at the temple’s base, offering various religious items, while your guide provides insights into Buddhist traditions. Finally, reach the platform to marvel at the stunning 100 mêtr chedi covered in over 40 tons of gold leaf. The visit to Shwedagon Pagoda is a truly memorable and remarkable experience.

Afternoon transfer to Yangon International Airport to take your departure flight home. End of tour services

Accommodation: NA

Meals: Breakfast