Independent Bangkok & Chiang Mai
Operated by Globus
Tripcode: IAG3
Overview
Destination:
Start:Bangkok, Thailand
Finish:Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration:7 days
Travel Period
January 2025 - March 2026
“Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and this Independent tour of Thailand means you’re free to explore its breathtaking beauty as you please. Start your adventure in Thailand with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs to see family homes and temples and you’ll discover why this beautiful city is called the “Venice of the East.” Visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then stop at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, featuring one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. You’ll also have I-time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions, including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Then fly to Chiang Mai, where you’ll explore temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants!
Traveller Notes
- Transportation: Private vehicle for sightseeing in Bangkok & Chiang Mai; private transfers to/from airport for all intra-holiday flights. Intra-tour flights and taxes not included.
- Guides: Local Host in Bangkok & Chiang Mai; Hospitality desk in Phuket.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - ARRIVE IN BANGKOK, THAILAND
Welcome to Thailand!
Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Today's private guided tour starts with a boat ride through the klongs, Bangkok's famous canals.
Next, stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn, where its 260-foot-tall spire has become a symbol of Bangkok.
Continue to the Grand Palace, comprised of the Funeral Palace, the Reception Palace, the Throne Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Royal Guest House, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Lastly, visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, it houses more than 1,000 Buddha images, including the 49-foot-high and 151-foot-long massive Reclining Buddha. (B,L)
Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Today's I-Time Tips
Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. You may consider a visit to the renowned Jim Thompson House, a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or an excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market. (B)
Day 4 - BANGKOK-CHIANG MAI
Today, drive to Chiang Mai, known as the "Rose of the North." (B)
This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990's to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives.
Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation centre. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park.
After lunch at the sanctuary, return to Chiang Mai. (B,L)
Today, your private guided sightseeing tour takes you to the walled part of the city for the revered Buddha at Wat Phra Singh.
You'll also visit Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps. (B)
Today's I-Time Tips
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps take in a Khantoke dance show with dinner, participate in a cooking class, or simply explore the night market and absorb the lively atmosphere.
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Travel Partner
Seven continents… 71 countries… 12 travel styles and counting… After almost a century of sharing the world with travellers, Globus has set the gold standard for award-winning touring across virtually every continent. If you’re ready to say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to the extraordinary, Globus helps you explore the world’s most iconic sights and uncover towns, villages and coasts without crowds, while engaging in tradition-rich customs, tasting centuries’-old specialties, and discovering you along the way. With the perfect inclusions packed into each Globus holiday, all you have to worry about is packing!