Compare River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms by Intrepid Travel vs Thai Intro 12 Day by INTRO Travel
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 3 days | 12 days |
| Price From | $ 970 | $ 1,049 |
| Price Per Day | $ 323 | $ 87 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
2B, 4L, 4D |
| Description |
Leave behind the fast-moving streets of the Thai capital and take time out to experience Ayutthaya, a World Heritage-listed wonder near the border of Burma (Myanmar). Explore this ancient Siam capital with a knowledgeable local guide, and bear witness to timeworn temples, bell-shaped chedis and intricately carved relics of Thailand’s golden era. Travel onwards to the shady town of Kanchanaburi and pay tribute to the brave POWs who perished while building the infamous Hellfire Pass and Bridge on the River Kwai. Delve further into World War II history on a visit to the War Museum and Allied Cemetery before this historical sojourn completes the loop back in Bangkok. End the journey amid the buzz of night markets, sidewalk restaurants and colourful, chaotic streets. |
This trip is like the perfect Thai green curry - a little bit spicy, a little bit sweet, and one hell of a culture punch. Over 12 days you’ll see, experience, taste and feel all that Thailand has to offer. From learning the art of Muay Thai boxing, to partying full moon style, to sleeping in floating bungalows, Thai Intro really does do it all (and more). Oh, and did we mention you’ll be doing all this with a knowledgeable Group Leader and an instant crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better… |
Day 1 Bangkok/Ayutthaya/Kanchanaburi
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Around 8 am-9 am this morning you’ll be picked up from the joining point hotel, along with other travellers in your group. If you prefer to be picked up from a different, centrally located hotel in Bangkok, please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before your departure date. Your first stop is the Bang Pa Inn Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings on the Chao Phraya River 65 kilometres north of the capital (approximately 1.5 hours). Admire the magnificent grounds, which are a combination of European and Thai designed buildings and gardens. Next, visit Ayutthaya, one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a World Heritage site. Here, explore Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, a temple that might offer a glimpse into the future, as it’s home to a fortune teller. Continue to Wat Phanan Cheoeng, Ayutthaya's answer to the Taj Mahal (approximately 40 minutes). It’s one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples and home to a 19-metre-high Buddha image. Behind the temple is a small 18th-century shrine built to honour a Chinese Princess, who drowned herself because of the king's infidelity. After lunch, move on to the 13th century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat. The rows of Burmese beheaded Buddhas are very atmospheric, and a Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in all of Ayutthaya. Head west to Kanchanaburi (approximately 3 hours) and check in to your resort, located on the famous River Kwai.
Day 2 Kanchanaburi
In the morning, set off to visit to Erawan National Park (approximately 1.5 hours) where you can explore the famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are considered the most beautiful in the whole country, with glacial blue waters rushing through the forest into bamboo-shaded pools perfect for a refreshing dip. If you want to make the climb all the way from level one to level seven it’s about a ninety-minute hike, with the uppermost level usually quiet and with a stunning view over the jungle below. Be sure to pack your swimming gear, but also appropriate footwear if you’re going to make the walk. After lunch, travel (approximately 1 hour) back towards Kanchanaburi, where you'll learn about a tragic part of the area's history. Hellfire Pass memorial was built to honour the Allied POWs and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway – the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Then you'll travel a short distance (approximately 20 minutes) to Nam Tok Train Station - The end of the original death railway station during the second world war which was constructed by the allied POWs. Take a ride along the historic tracks alongside the Kwai Noi River, passing through Tham Krasae station which is one of the most beautiful panoramic scenes of the Kwai Noi river from the curves of the wooden railway line close to the mountainside. After arriving at Kilen Train Station, transfer back to the hotel (approximately 30 minutes). Tonight there's an option to head into Kanchanaburi's famous night markets and try a variety of Western Thai dishes.
Day 3 Kanchanaburi/Bangkok
After breakfast, head out on a tour of the sights surrounding the town. This will include the WWII War Museum, the Allied War Cemetery, and the Bridge over the River Kwai itself. Travel through magnificent scenery and back to a dark time in the area’s history, and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. You will then end this short adventure with a return to Bangkok (approximately 2 hours), where your trip ends in the afternoon at approximately 2 pm. Notes: There is no accommodation included tonight.
Day1
Arrive in Bangkok
Landing in Bangkok, we'll meet you at the airport and take you to your guesthouse in the heart of the travellers district, Khao San Road. Meet up with your travel crew and get excited for the adventures to come.
Day2-3
Canals, Temples & Tuk Tuks
Today we'll explore the city's legendary canals by long-tall boat, taking in the floating markets and local ways of life. We'll then stop by some Bangkok's most sacred and famous temples, travelling by tuk tuk through the wild and crazy streets, before heading out for some of the best nightlife in the world! if you love thai food, you'll be seriously into what comes the next day as we learn the secrets of Thai cooking with a hands on class.
Day 4-5
Floating Bungalows
Feel like you're having a 'pinch me' moment as we wind through magical limestone cliffs on a traditional long tail boat, reaching our floating bungalow home for the night in the dreamy Khao Sok National Park. Then spend the rest of the day kayaking, tubing and monkey spotting. Next we'll head to Koh Phangan and check in to Sarana, our exclusive beach side bungalows that come complete with infinity pool, gym and yoga space.
Day 6-7
Tropical Paradise
Today you can do as much or as little as you like. Chill on the beach or by pool or explore the island. This afternoon we'll be treating you to a traditional Thai massage. The next day is all about exploring the very best of Koh Phangan, including some of the island's best secret spots and lesser known beaches. Youll spend the day sun bathing and snorkelling, then this evening we'll tuck into a tasty beach BBQ.
Day 8-9
Island Life
All that beach time got you feeling a little lazy? we've got just the thing to get you moving -a Muay Thai boxing class or a private yoga class. Tonight's our last on Koh Phangan, so we'll be heading out as a group for some after dark fun.Swapping one island paradise for another, we'll then wave goodbye to Koh Phangan and say 'sawasdee' to Phi Phi. Arriving late afternoon, we'll check in to our beautiful resort then head out for dinner, drinks and a beach party.
Day10
Island Boat Trip
Don't forget your snorkel and sunscreen today as we'll be heading off on a boat trip around the impossibly beautiful Phi Phi Leh. Snorkelling, kayaking and even an after dark underwater light show are all on the cards, and we'll top the day off with dinner and drinks under the stars. 'There is a possobility we may not be able to enter right into Maya Bay at certain times of year due to government closures.
Day11-12
Viewpoints & More Islands
We'll kick things off with a hike to one of Phi Phi's best viewpoints, followed by a private boat trip to some of the most beautiful islands surrounding ours. at dinner tonight you'll feel salty and satisfied from a day of sun, sea and fun. Your unforgettable 12 day adventure comes to an end the next day.
