Follow us to Chanthaburi province for some adventurous river rafting close to the mountains of Soi Dao. After arriving to the mainland we will drive around 1 ½ hours to Phaya Kumpuch Resort. After safety briefing, the 1 1/2 hour rafting adventure down the river begins. Enjoy a Thai lunch and the beautiful scenery before returning back to Ko Chang Island. This tour is available only between end June until end October and is limited to a group size of 4-8 persons.
Jan 9, 2011
Koh Chang Safari
An alternative option to explore the best-preserved National Park. Start off your day with an elephant trekking tour in the undisturbed island rainforest. This is a good opportunity to get to know this friendly creature. Then visit the local temple in Klong Prao followed by a visit to a local family who will give you brief information about the rubber industry on Koh Chang. Next, continue to the scenic waterfall of Klong Phu. You may choose to go for a swim or relax by the waterfall. Afterwards we take you to the colorful fishing village of Bang Bao on the southern tip of the island for lunch at a local restaurant, where you will enjoy a breathtaking view as well as having your meal. The sad part of the day arrives. It’s time to head back to the hotel.
Jungle Trekking
Taxi transfer to Baan Klong Prao. This trekking tour will take you into the area of Klong Plu Waterfall near Baan Klong Prao with the best trekking guide (Mr. Anong) that you can find on Ko Chang Island. Mr. Anong speaks very good English and knows a lot about the jungle from his many years of experience. Along the way, you will have opportunity to swim in the waterfalls and learn more about Ko Chang’s wild life. This trekking tour is for experienced and physically fit trekkers only! Trekking shoes are available on spot (however we recommend that you bring your own trekking shoes) and the trekking guide will bring along food and water for you.
Chantaburi & Oasis Sea World
Famous for its abundance of tropical fruits and a busy gem trading centre particularly noted for sapphires and rubies, Chantaburi is locally known as the “City of the Moon”. Vietnamese-French influence is reflecting on the shophouse architecture.
Our trip starts with a ferry ride to the mainland and a drive to Oasis Sea World to watch the exciting dolphin show. The dolphins are mainly those accidentally caught in fisherman’s nets in the Gulf of Thailand and are trained by Thai experts. Then stop at the local temple where you will have a chance to discuss about the world of Buddhism. After lunch, we take you to visit a gems dealer in town and stop at ROBINSON Shopping Centre before returning to Ko Chang.
Catamaran Sailing Adventure
We will bring you by taxi to White Sand Beach where our sail boat will wait for us. This day offers you a great time on a 13m Catamaran and some good snorkeling. We will explore the area of Ko Klum and Ko Wai in the south end of Ko Chang National Park and the beautiful west side of Ko Chang Island. There will be plenty of time for snorkeling around Ko Klum, Ko Wai and Ko Chang. B.B.Q. lunch will be served on the boat.
4 Islands Boat Trip
We will bring you by local taxi to Bang Bao fishing village in the south of Ko Chang Island. This day offers you the absolute best snorkeling places close to Ko Chang. We will explore the area around Ko Rang that offers a snorkeling paradise meanwhile our guides will serve you drinks and snacks. We will have plenty of time for snorkelingaround the islands of Ko Rang, Ko Yark, Ko Kra and Ko Thong. A typical Thai buffet lunch will be served on the boat as well as a nice B.B.Q on the beach of Ko Rang. Return to Koh Chang in the afternoon.
Thai Massage & Health Dinner
Thai Massage was developed by Buddhist monks in Thailand as a healing modality 2500 years ago. Experience a traditional 1-hour Thai massage at a beautiful massage / spa shop. Then your guide will accompany you to a small local restaurant, located on the banks of Klong Prao River, where a healthy Thai dinner is served.
Koh Chang Fishing Trip
Transfer from your hotel by local song-taew taxi to Bang Bao Pier, where the "Sea Hunter" is anchored. The "Sea Hunter" is 18 meter long and 5 meter wide and is equipped with radio communication, global positioning system (GPS), fish finder, comfortable seating, dining table, large sleeping area, kitchen with equipment, clean toilet, expert captain, guide and friendly staff. Enjoy a day out at sea fishing - lunch is prepared and served on board.
Phuket Shopping & Sightseeing
Enjoy the best places for “shopping” in Phuket. Visit “Rang Hill”, from where you can enjoy the view over the city. Shopping in Phuket town at ROBINSON & OCEAN PLAZA, the best place to buy original brands of clothes, shoes, leather and sports wear. After approx. 2 hours, a short drive brings you to a cashew nut factory. Here you may taste many different kinds of cashew nuts. Then continue the tour to the popular Buddhist Temple in Chalong. Drive to “Gems Gallery”, a jewelry manufactury. In the workshop you can observe the cutting , polishing and setting of gems. In the showroom there are also Thai silk products and silver on sale. Our tour will bring you to Patong, the main tourist centre of Phuket. Along the beach road there are numerous shops selling counterfeit leather and fahsion products, wristwatches, sunglasses, perfumes etc. Don't forget to bargain and remember: Most of the brand name goods sold here are not originals and of lesser quality! At 6:00 pm departure from Patong and transfer back to your hotel in Khao Lak.
Phi Phi Island Deluxe Plus by Speed boat
Discover 6 islands in just one day by speed boat.
This day trip is limited to 20 persons and is great for snorkel enthusiasts! You will be picked up at your hotel between 07:45hrs and 08:30hrs (depending on location of your hotel) and transferred to the port, where your local guide will welcome you and give a short briefing about the day's program. Then depart by speedboat to Khai Nui Island, where you have your first opportunity to watch school of fish in the crystal clear water and explore the coral reef (full snorkel equipment and life vests are provided free of charge). Next is the island of Khai Nai, where you can relax on the white sandy beach, swim and snorkel for about one hour. Just a short ride away is Yao Yai Island, where a BBQ Seafood lunch and Thai buffet is served. Self paddle canoes are available free of charge for those, who want to explore the stunning coast line. Shortly after noon, depart to Bamboo Island, where you spend the next hour on the sandy beach. The tour continues for sightseeing around Phi Phi Don Island, Ton Si Bay, Loh Dalum Bay and Monkey Beach. With some luck you will see monkeys roaming the beach (the speed boat will anchor some distance away from the beach). Sightseeing continues to Phi Phi Lee Island, where the speed boat passes by famous Viking Cave, Pileh ove and Loh Samah Bay. A final stop on this day is made at Maya Bay, where scenes of the movie "The Beach" were filmed. At around 16:30hrs, travel back to Phuket and transfer to your hotel by minivan.
Phang Nga Temple & Cave
From Khao Lak we drive to Krabi, passing the beautiful scenery of Phang Nga province. First stop at Thaput for coffee break. Then continue to Wat Prasat Nalakhiring temple, where we explore the amazing lime stone cave with many stalactites & stalagmites. Continue to Krabi for a visit of Wat Tam Sua, which translates into Tiger Cave Temple. Here you will not only learn about Buddhist believes, we will also walk through a jungle valley consisting of primary forest with trees more than 1000 years old. Buddhist monks live here for meditation. Lunch at Ao Nang Beach, with nice views of islands in the distance. Embark on a tour by long-tail boat along the coast line of Ao Nang and Railey Beaches. Stop at Railey Beach for swimming or climb the steep hill to Princess Cave. Thereafter, we visit “Klong Song Nam”, a natural wonder where fresh & salt water are mixed up. The water is very clear & clean. Of course you can enjoy swimming here. An eventfull day ends with return transfer to your hotel in Khao Lak.
Phang Nga Day Trip by SeaCanoe (from Khao Lak)
During the day, you will travel on a comfortable escort boat, from where guides paddle participants into Phang Nga bay's caves, Hongs, and stunning islands with only two guests in each custom-designed kayak. Throughout the day fresh fruit, tea, coffee and soft drinks are served.
Sample itinerary:
08:30 - 08:50 Hotel Pick-up, daily, rain or shine.
09:15 Arrive at Ao Por pier, north east of Phuket Island.
09:30 Depart from Ao Por by escort boat
10:30 Arrive in Phang Nga Bay. Your guide will give safety instructions
11:00 - 12:00 Paddle the first island, enter caves and 'hongs'.
13:00 Motor to second island, Seafood buffet lunch.
14:00 - 15:00 Paddle second island. Enter caves
15:00 Motor to third stop
15:00 - 16:00 Explore coastline around islands
17:00 Return to Ao Por for transfer to hotel
17:30 Hotel drop-off.
Above timing gives an idea of the type of trip offered. SeaCanoe gives clients the best possible experience within the trip time frame. Time and locales often vary according to tides, weather and decisions of the expedition leader.
Mangrove & Rainforest Adventure
The day starts with a drive to Takuapa, where you explore the amazing flora and fauna of the tropical mangrove forest during a longtail boat ride. Next is a visit to the old town of Takuapa with a history dating back for over 250 years. The town was founded by Chinese merchants and tin miners and the remnants of the old days are still visible. The small lanes with their old Sino-Portuguese style houses and the ancient citywall are a must-see. Lunch will be served in a local Thai restaurant in Takuapa. In the afternoon, visit the lesser-known Sri Phang Nga National Park, which shares border with the more famous Khao Sok National Park. The following 60 minute trek through untouched rain forest is led by a professional guide who will give you information about this fragile habitat and its inhabitants. A refreshing bath beneath an impressive waterfall will revitalize your body and soul. Back at the park entrance, your bus is waiting to bring you back to your hotel.
Krabi Discovery
Pick up at your hotel in Khao Lak, drive along upcountry roads to the Sea Turtle Breeding Center at Thai Muang. Here you can see turtles and many kinds of coral fish. Then we continue our tour to Phang Nga Town, where we will explore “Phung Chang Cave” by canoe and bamboo raft, to see amazing stalactites & stalagmites. The hill, which looks like an elephant body, gave its name to the cave. We visit an old traditional Thai house to get an insight of how people lived about 150 years ago. Time to enjoy a delicious lunch at a seafood restaurant in Pang Nga Bay, with an outstanding view over the mangroves. After lunch, we drive to Ao Luk and take a long-tail boat ride to a cave with 3000 year-old paintings. On the way back, we stop to visit some temples: first the Pagoda Temple Wat Bang Riang and then “Wat Tam Nakarat”, where one can admire big Buddha statues in limestone caves, that can be reached only by climbing steep staircases and ladders.
Jungle Safari Khao Sok (from Khao Lak)
Pick up from hotels in Khao Lak by air-conditioned vehicle and transfer to Khao Sok, that is part of the largest area of rainforest in Southern Thailand. The scenery is spectacular, jungle covered limestone mountains and pure nature. One of the best ways to experience the jungle is on a canoe trip down the Sok River in inflatable canoes. A local river guide paddles the canoe and is expert at spotting any animals along the way. Pass mountains and cliffs covered in exotic tropical vegetation along the banks of the river. Birds such as kingfisher, heron, egret, various reptiles and even wild monkeys live in this area. The scenery is some of the best in Southern Thailand and what better way to see it than from a canoe. A buffet lunch of Thai dishes cooked not too spicy is provided. In the afternoon arrive at an elephant camp. Information on elephants and their conservation will be given. Explore the jungle by elephant. Sitting high on the back of the elephant get a birds eye view of the jungle, a most unusual experience. Return transfer to hotels in Khao Lak arriving in the late afternoon having seen the best natural scenery and real jungle in Southern Thailand. Please wear non-slip shoes, loose comfortable clothes, bring a small bag or pack with a change of clothes in case you get wet and sun protection or a rain coat depending on the weather. If you want to swim in the river please bring swim wear and towel, please note on some days swimming in the river may not be possible due to weather conditions.
Cheow Larn Lake Expedition
Khao Sok National Park is the largest in South Thailand with 4.400 sqkm. Cheow Lan Lake is part of it. The surroundings of the lake offer exciting views of mountains, lime stones and jungle, with plenty of wildlife to be seen. After a 70 min. long-tail boat ride, that offers superb views of the surrounding sceery, we arrive at a ranger station. From here, we start a trek through the jungle. After 1 hour, we will arrive at Namtaloo cave, that we explore with head lamps. A trail leading through the cave is more than 600m long and follows a river running through the cave. We see stalagmites, stalactites, calcite ponds and limestone flow formations. We have to cross 2 waterfalls before we come back to the jungle trail. After lunch at the Ranger station, free time for swimming. By long-tail boat back to the dam and van transfer to Khao Lak with a short stop at Takuapa. A day that will stay in your mind for a long time!
Note: National Park admission fees are not included and will be collected on spot! (200 THB per adult / 100 THB per child below 12 years of age)
4 Islands by Speed boat
See all the beautiful islands off the coast of Ao Nang, a day of swimming and sunbathing on several fine sandy unspoiled tropical beaches. Enjoy Railay Beach and its beautiful marine environment, nature and atmosphere. Also one of the most famous and popular rock climbing areas in the world. Visit Chicken Island, famous for the uprising rock that is shaped like a chicken head. Here you have free time for snorkeling and sunbathing. Enjoy lunch combined with a beautiful view of the two concatenated islands called Tap Islands. This is one of the most famous spots in Krabi featured in numerous photos because of its stunning natural beauty. Poda Island has a beautiful white sandy beach with access to colorful corals and fish. It is the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling.
Note: The itinerary will be adjusted according to the tide and the order, in which the various islands and beaches are visited, will be advised on the day of departure. Timings given below are indicative and subject to change according to tidal conditions.
3 Islands by Speed boat
07:45hrs transfer from hotel to the pier; before bording the speed boat, information on the tour is given and snorkel equipment is distributed to all participants. At around 09:00AM, depart by speedboat to Khai Nok Island, wich takes about 15 minutes. Time at leisure for sun bathing, swimming and snorkel activities. Soft drinks, mineral water, seasonal fruit and biscuits are available free of charge. Continue by speed boat to Khai Nui Island - with its coral reef and colorful fish, the island is a snorkeler's dream! At noon, depart to Khai Nok Island for lunch. Time to relax on the beach, then depart for the final destination of the day, Khai Nai Island. Free time for swimming and snorkeling or just relaxing on the white sandy beach. At around 16:00hrs transfer back to Phuket Island and van tranfer back to your hotel.
Lamkean Explorer
Discover Khao Lak with us. After a short drive, we arrive at Asia Safari Park. From here, we start an exciting elephant ride uphill through the forest, passing through farmland, forest and thick bamboo jungle. Enjoy the view from top of the hill, then return to station, where can feed your elephant. Get refreshments & fruits. Spend some time to visit the Mini Zoo & Orchid Garden. Take a short walk to Tong Pring Waterfall, where a fairly large pool invites you for swimming. Newly refreshed, travel by local pick-up on dirt roads to the village of Ban Lamru, passing many farms on the way. Arrive at the bamboo rafting station and enjoy floating slowly downstream. Take a refreshing bath in the river and admire the beautiful nature around. After a short drive to a local restaurant, lunch or dinner with be served, with a fantastic view over the ocean. Transfer back to your hotel in Khao Lak.
Elephant Riding & Safari Park
Transfer from your hotel in Khao Lak to the “Asia Safari Park” Elephant Village in Lamkaen. See how the Mahouts (elephant caretakers) and elephants live and work together. Information is given about the elephants in general, then embark on an exciting elephant trek along small trails uphills. The ride leads through the vast natural abundance of Khao Lak, dominated by trees, dense bamboo vegetation and along rubber plantations. Back at the station, you may feed your elephant and get refreshments & fruits. After visiting an Orchid Garden & Mini Zoo featuring tropical animals, transfer back to your hotel.
Three Country Tour - Thailand - Myanmar - Laos
The three countries that make up the Golden Triangle are Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Each of the three countries has its own character, traditions and products – this tour is designed to give a taste of each as well give you a unique chance to set foot in three of the world’s most mysterious and sensuous countries in just one day. All you need is your passport and an adventurous spirit. Pick up at your hotel in Chiang Rai or the Golden Triange and transfer to Mae Sai, the border town to Myanmar. After immigration formalities, cross the bridge into Myanmar on foot. Just a few steps away you will notice a dramatic change in cultures and lifestyle. The Burmese border town of Ta Chi Lek is a melting pot of peoples and traditions from across Asia. Take time to explore the market, full of local handicrafts, spices and specialties and a center for the sale of Chinese goods. Take a short rest at the large pagoda atop a hill overlooking the town and surrounding area. Visit the quarter where an enclave of the Shan people live. Then cross the bridge on foot and return to Mae Sai. Enjoy a packed lunch in a nice picnic spot, then continue to Chiang Saen. Chiang Saen, once capital of the Lanna kingdom, was richly endowed with religious buildings. Following victory over Burmese forces in 1804 the town was abandoned for almost eighty years and the important places of worship and defensive walls fell into ruin. These ruins have been preserved by the current administration and some are still worshipped. Particularly important are Wat Chedi Luang and the walls themselves. A visit to the food market is an eye opener; local foods, sweets and gossip are all available – the market even has it’s own ‘forgotten’ ruin at the very back. Take a long-tail boat across the Mekong River to Don Sao, which translates into ‘Island 20’ in the local language. Walk through the small market selling local handicrafts, Laos goods as well as local rice whisky (Lao khao) and the famous Beer Laos. Return to Thailand by boat and transfer to your hotel.
Doi Mae Salong & Mae Sai
Explore the mountainous area of Mae Salong (Santikhiri), which was originally settled by the renegade KMT 93rd regiment that fled to Myanmar from China in 1949. Along the way, visit several villages inhabited by Akha, Yao and Lisu hill-tribes. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Fish and Monkey cave and continue to the northern most point of Thailand on the Thai-Burmese border, Mae Sai. Passing through interesting countryside, visit the interesting border market at Mae Sai and a jade cutting factory.
Chiang Saen and Chiang Khong
Depart for the two small lively towns on the Mekong River bank. Take a boat trip from the Golden Triangle downstream to Chiang Saen. The ruins of the Chiang Saen architecture can be found scattered throughout the town. Continue by minibus along the Mekong River to visit Ban Had Pai, a Tai Lue/Lahu weaving village. Then stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Chiang Khong. Next, visit Baan Kiew Karn, a village of White Hmong located on a hilltop. Return to Golden Triangle mountain viewpoint and transfer back to the hotel.
A World of Many Cultures
Drive through the picturesque northern Thai villages of Baan Mae Ma, Baan Dai to Baan Mae Kham Mai. Follow the scenic mountain road to Doi Mae Salong, which was once settled by the renegade KMT 93rd Regiment. Visit Baan Lao Sib, a Yao hill-tribe village. Then continue to Baan ArLe, an Akha village, where lunch is served at a local restaurant. Next visit another Akha village at Baan He Ko before heading back to your hotel.
Mae Sai
Depart by minibus to the northern most point of Thailand on the Thai-Burmese border, Mae Sai. Passing through interesting countryside, stop at the little handicraft center at Baan Wang Lao. Continue the journey to Mae Sai for shopping and sightseeing, including a visit to a Jade Cutting Factory. It is also a good spot to observe border life, as it is one of the few official land crossings open between Myanmar and Thailand. On the way back to your hotel, visit the fish and monkey cave.
Golden Triangle and Chiang Saen
Explore the “Golden Triangle”, once a center for trading opium. Here the borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meet. Take a one-hour boat trip on the mighty Mekong River. Continue by minibus to Chiang Saen, a small crossroads town on the banks of the Mekong River. Visit the Chiang Saen museum, which houses a remarkable selection of ancient Buddha images and antiques. Then stroll through the nearby Wat Chedi Luang, a temple which features a chedi in the classic Chiang Saen or Lanna style. Visit Wat Pa Sak where the ruins of seven monuments can be seen. The tour ends with a visit to Wat Phra Thaat Jom Kitti, located on a hilltop. On clear days Chiang Saen and the river can be observed from the top of the hill.
Elephant Safari and Boat Trip on the Kok River (half-day)
Board a typical long-tail boat for a one-hour boat ride to small but interesting villages and hamlets along the Kok River. Arrive at the Baan Ruammit, a fair-sized Karen village and elephant camp. The Karen is the largest hill-tribe group in Thailand. Enjoy a one-hour ride on the back of an elephant through the village. Return by boat to Chiang Rai and transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai or Chiang Saen by van.
Doi Tung and the Royal Project
Depart by minibus for Doi Tung, a pilgrimage site for Thai, Shan and Chinese Buddhists and once a cultivating site for opium. Along the way, visit an Ahka village distinctly. The Akha are known for their bright headdresses and are among poorest of Thailand’s ethnic minorities. Then stop at Doi Tung Royal Villa and Doi Tung Development Project of Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother on the slopes of Doi Tung. Take a stroll through a beautifully landscaped flower garden at the villa, which is open to the public. Afterwards drive up to the peak to visit Wat Phra That Doi Tung, the twin Lanna-style chedis purportedly erected in 911 AD. From the walled edge of the temple you can get an aerial view of the surrounding area. Transfer back to the hotels.
Chiang Rai City Tour
The tour starts with a visit of Wat Rongkun, also known as the White Temple. While most temples visited by tourists have a history going back many centuries, this extraordinary place of worship was built only recently. It is the realization of a dream for Thailands noted artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, who designed and is supervising the construction of this beautiful white temple and its many statues of figures based on religious beliefs. Next, visit Wat Phra Singh. This temple was built in the late 14th century during the reign of Chiang Rai's King Kahaphrom. A sister temple to Chiang Mai's Wat Phra Singh, its original buildings are typical northern Thaistyle wood structures with low, sweeping roofs. Continue to the small and exquisite Oub Kham Museum for a guided tour of the private collection of Lanna art from the last 300 years up to the recent past, when the provinces of north Thailand, northwest Laos, parts of northeast Burma, and Yunnan China were ruled by local royal courts independent from the increasing encroachment of Siam. The collection includes objects from the areas once belonging to or affiliated with the Lanna kingdoms. Apart from objects used in rituals the collection mainly consists of objects used at the royal courts including lacquer ware, silver jewelry and clothing. A 15-minute boat ride on the Kok River takes you to a cave, that houses several Buddha statues. Van transfer back to your hotel.
Hua Hin by Night
Depart from the hotel by pedal trishaw for downtown Hua Hin to visit its old and unique railway station, with a special section reserved only for the Royal Family. Then explore the local night market with its bustling atmosphere and ample shopping opportunities. Continue to the fishing pier to watch the incoming boats unload their catch for auction. Stop at a local restaurant on the beach for a Thai dinner before heading back to the hotel.
Snorkel Trip
A two hours drive south of Hua Hin is the small island of Talu with white sandy beaches and a coral reef teeming with colorful fish. Enjoy a day away from the crowds, swimming, snorkeling, relaxinf on the beach or trekking around the island. Lunch is served at a local resort's restaurant on the island.
Samroi Yod National Park
Khao Samroi Yod National Park or “Three Hundred Mountain Peaks” is located about 63 kilometers south of Hua Hin. It occupies an area of 98 sq km with undulating ranges of limestone mountains, mangrove swamps, and beaches. Drive along pineapple plantations to an unspoiled fishing village. Afterwards take a short boat trip to Sam Phraya beach. Walk up a steep, rocky trail to the famous cave called “Tham Phraya Nakhon”. The cave has a big hole through which a shaft of light reaches and permits the growth of various kinds of plants. Phra Thi Nang Khuha Kharuhat, at Thai style pavilion, lends the most attractive sight to the cave and has become the symbol of Prachuap Khiri Khan. It was constructed in 1890 during the reign of King Rama V, who raised the pavilion’s gable tops himself. Enjoy some rest on the beach before lunch, then return by boat to the mainland and transfer back to your hotel in Cha Am or Hua Hin.
River Kwai inclusive Elephant Ride & Bamboo Rafting
Depart by bus to Kanchanaburi, where you will see the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai, built during World War II by prisoners of war. The bridge is located near the town of Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok. You will visit the well-kept cemeteries, which contain the graves of an estimated 9,000 Allied soldiers who lost their lives while building the bridge and constructing the notorious “Death Railway” which the Japanese had hoped to stretch all the way to the Burmese border. Continue by train to Namtok Station where you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. We then take you to ride on an elephant and enjoy bamboo rafting on the Kwai River before heading back to your hotel in Cha Am or Hua Hin.
River Kwai (from Hua Hin)
Fascinating, nostalgic and memorable sums up this day tour to Kanchanaburi province. You will visit the well-kept cemeteries which contain the graves of an estimated 9,000 allied soldiers, who lost their lives while building the bridge and constructing the notorious “Death Railway” which the Japanese had hoped to stretch all the way to the Burmese border. Continue by train to Namtok Station and stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Then head back to Cha Am / Hua Hin and transfer back to the hotel.
Petchburi
Only 50 minutes drive from Hua Hin is the beautiful palace of King Mongkut (Rama IV). It was constructed in 1859 on Phra Nakhon Khiri (Holy City Hill), also known as Khao Wang. The architectural design of the palace buildings is a mix of Neo-classical, Thai and Chinese styles, which is rather unique. In 1988 Phra Nakhon Khiri was declared a National Historical park. Continue to the north of Khao Wang to explore the cave sanctuary of Khao Luang (Great Hill). This cave houses old Buddha images, many of them put in place by King Mongkut. Then we proceed to the next destination, Wat Mahathat. The large white prang of this temple can be seen from a distance – a typical late Ayuthaya / early Ratanakosin adaptation of the Khmer prangs of Lopburi and Phimai. Lunch at Royal Diamond Hotel. We make a final stop in Petchburi town before your transfer back to your hotel in Cha-am or Hua Hin.
Pala U Waterfall
Pick up from the hotel and depart for a one-hour drive by minibus through mountain roads west (63 kilometers) of Hua Hin. Visit the natural 11 tiers of rocks waterfall located within a verdant forest where various kinds of birds and butterflies are found. Pala U Waterfall is part of Kaeng Krachan National Park. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards you may choose to relax by the waterfall or swim. Depart for Hua Hin and transfer back to the hotel at about 15:00 hrs. Note: Please bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen (SPF 15 minimum)
Kaeng Krajarn National Park
Kaeng Krajarn is the most extensive national park of Thailand occupying an area of 2,915 square kilometers and it is still largely unexplored. The area is rich in flora and fauna and has an 18-tired waterfall named Namtok Tho Thip. After spending some time at the waterfall, we then take a 1-hour boat trip around the Kaeng Krachan Dam. After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer back to your hotel.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Petchburi
Depart by minibus to the Floating Market of Damnoen Saduak (1hr 30 min drive). Take a boat trip to the center of the lively floating market, where the timeless lifestyle of native Thai people can be observed along the canals. Continue to Petchburi for lunch, the visit Khao Wang, the summer residence of King Mongkut (King Rama IV). A cable car leads to the top of the hill (closed each year in June for overhaul works) and explore Khao Luang Cave, which houses 170 Buddha statues. After a visit to Wat Mahathad take a stroll and explore the traditional shop houses in the old part of town, before returning to your hotel in Cha Am or Hua Hin.
Bangkok Day Trip from Hua Hin
Pick up from the hotel by minibus to Bangkok (2 hours journey). Arrive in Bangkok and visit Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. Next visit Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon), which features the largest reclining Buddha (46metre long and 15metre high). Then take a boat trip along the Chao Praya River, which gives you an excellent opportunity to watch life along the river. Stop for lunch at a Thai restaurant in the area. Then we take you to a well-known department store in Bangkok, where you can shop and look for bargains. At 16:00hrs depart for Cha Am / Hua Hin. Arrive back to your hotel about 19:00 hrs.
Note: Visitors to Grand Palace should dress decently. Wearing shorts or a sleeveless shirt, slippers and sandals will be refused admission. Sarongs and baggy pants are available for rent at the entry area. Shoes should be removed before entering the main chapel.
Kantoke Dinner
The Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center was set up over 25 years ago to preserve and promote the history and culture of the ancient northern kingdom of Lan Na, its royal tradition of dances and music, its unique food and the folk art of the people of the valleys and of the hill-tribes. You sit comfortably on cushions on the floor and are served a traditional northern meal. You then watch a spectacular performance of traditional northern Thai dances by a renowned troupe of beautiful dancers. After dinner, you can stroll across to the hill-tribe theatre where genuine folk dances and music are performed by Akha, Hmong, Yao, Lahu and Lisu boys and girls who live and work at the Cultural Center. A kantoke dinner at the Old Cultural Centre must be at the heart of any visit to Chiang Mai and will, together with the photographs you take, be a cherished memory of your visit to Chiang Mai.
Dinner at "Just Khao Soy Restaurant" & Night Market
The “JUST KHAO SOY” is a delightful new restaurant aimed at elevating “Khao Soy” from its street food status, to its rightful place as the signature dish of northern Thai cuisine. The restaurant is constructed in a style that highlights the use of local materials (wood, large diameter bamboo poles, traditional clay brick flooring), only 200 meters from the famous night bazaar. The restaurant, aptly named ‘JUST KHAO SOY’ serves only that dish, but in bigger portions, and using a higher quality of ingredients that is used in the street food version. There are 3 different types of chicken dish available, as well as beef and vegetarian options. In addition you choose either flat Chiang Mai, or round Mae Salong style noodles. Each meal is served in specially designed ‘Khao Soy’ sets, consisting of 8 small ceramic condiment dishes, laid around a large ‘Khao Soy’ bowl, and set on an artist’s palette. Itinerary: Transfer from your hotel in Chiang Mai city to “Just Khao Soy” restaurant. Set dinner at the restaurant. After dinner, set off to explore the newly expanded night bazaar area, some 200 meters away (a map of the night market will be supplied). Return to “Just Khao Soy” for a guided minibus transfer back to your hotel.
BBQ Dinner & Hmong Cultural Presentation
Why not get away from the city and enjoy something different? The Hmong Hilltribe Lodge is located 850 meters above sea level with cool and pleasant temperatures year round. Pick up at your hotel in town and transfer to the lodge. Enjoy an all-you-can eat dinner, consisting of barbequed meats, salads and fruit under the stars. The ambience is rustic and romantic. Then watch an authentic presentation of Hmong dances and songs performed by villagers from the nearby village.
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