Itinerary
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Day 1
Bangkok Bangkok is a frequently chaotic jumble of traffic, temples, savory food and entertainment. Over the last few years, the opening of a slick new elevated tramway that enables visitors to glide over the chaotic scenes below, coupled with the cheap and frequent river boats and the reasonably priced air-conditioned taxis, have made tourism in the city newly appealing. Within the city limits is a wealth of over 300 Buddhist temple and shrines. Most famous are Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). One of the largest temple complexes in the country is Wat Pho. Altogether, there are over 30 individual temples scattered here, of which the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the largest. The Buddha's statue is enormous, an amazing 47.5m (156ft) long and 15m (49ft) high. Wat Phra Kaeo is a temple complex that houses the Emerald Buddha. A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. The Mandarin Oriental was founded in 1876 on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The hotel is regarded as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels and has accommodated royalty, dignitaries and distinguished travelers for more than a century. The Mandarin offers lavish rooms and suites, exquisite restaurants and bars, and one of the most beautiful spas in the world. It is rich in history and is filled with the stories of celebrated guests who have made this hotel an essential stop on their world travels. Enjoy genuine teak and traditional Thai silks in the elegant rooms with clear views of the River and take advantage of a personal butler that is available at all times to cater to your every need. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental (5*). |
 Bangkok |
 Mandarin Oriental |
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Day 2
Bangkok A visit to the Royal Grand Palace, the nation’s landmark and most praised royal monument in Thailand, with the enclosed and dazzling Wat Phra Keo with its revered Emerald Buddha, the Golden Chedi, the Pantheon of the Chakri Kings and the Eight Coloured Towers, is a must. In Thailand by many, it is considered to be a living example of classical Siamese Court, being the former residence of the kings of Thailand. Wat Pho is also regarded as the first centre of public education and is sometimes called ‘Thailand’s first university’. Mural paintings, inscriptions, and statues found in the temple-educated people on varied subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and to be considered, home of the Thai traditional massage. Here, you will enjoy a 30-minutes’ Thai massage as an excellent break after a morning sightseeing. Experience an afternoon trip along the bustling Chao Phya River and the quiet Klongs (canals) in a long tail boat enjoy scenes of life by water. We bring you to a more traditional way of living, more serene and traditional, away from all the high-rise and modern buildings of Bangkok City Centre, as we gently pass Thonburi residential areas. A stop will be made at the “Temple of Dawn” (officially named Wat Arun). Finally, a visit to the Flower and vegetable market will round off this day. Located close to the Chao Phraya River, this part of Bangkok brings you to a rural piece of Bangkok where they have a vast selection of all kinds of flowers, especially orchids and tropical flowers and see how the merchants create very special flower garlands. The end of this Bangkok day ends at the Golden Mountain. Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and in the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple, but not inside the buildings. Note: Please dress respectfully by not wearing sleeveless, shorts or sandals, when visiting the Grand Palace and temple complex. The Palace may be closed without prior notice during Royal ceremonies and officials/head of state visits. The inner courts of Grand Palace are frequently closed on Sundays; we recommend not to book this excursion on Sundays to avoid disappointment. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental (5*). |
 Golden Mountain |
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Day 3
Chiang Mai Chiang Mai in the far north is Thailand's second-largest city and a center for excursions to the region's ancient and beautiful temples, the teak forests and their working elephants, caves and waterfalls, and journeys to visit the northern hill tribes. The main attractions are the Doi Suthep temple and elephant trekking. Doi Suthep is one of the most famous temples in northern Thailand. Perched high on a hilltop, it offers fine views over the city on clear days. The trip up can either be made via a funicular or a grand staircase with 400 steps. The banisters alone are worth a visit: a giant green-and-red glazed serpent winds its way down to end in a magnificent dragon's head. A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai today. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi is spread over 60 acres of untouched landscape in the beautiful Thai province of Chiang Mai. The hotel is nestled between rice paddies and thick jungle. Each of the suites and villas have been decorated and furnished with distinct Lanna style, making this one of the most desirable hotels in Northern Thailand. Enjoy a variety of marvellous culinary settings inspired by the history of Lanna and cuisine that has gained both an international and highly valued local reputation. Contained within the hotel are facilities for beauty therapy and wellness treatments, as well as a cultural museum detailing the history of the Lanna kingdom. The Dheva Spa is the pinnacle of relaxation, while the Kids’ Club will keep youngsters entertained. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (5*). |
 Chiang Mai |
 The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi |
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Day 4
Chiang Mai A private vehicle will pick you up from the Mandarin Oriental Dhava Dhevi and take you on one of the most unique experiences in Thailand, a visit to a Buddhist temple to offer alms to the Buddhist monks. Each morning before dawn (pick-up from your hotel is at 06:00 hrs), the monks put on their distinctive saffron robes and quietly pad in their bare feet along the streets, carrying alms bowls and receiving boiled rice and condiments from the citizens of Thailand In return people receive the monks’ blessings. You can participate in this very special Thai custom by personally presenting alms; a brief exploration at the Sri Soda temple may be made as well, religious festivals permitting, including see the monks pray in the early morning. From the Mandarin Oriental Dhava Dhevi, this amazing sightseeing tour takes guests around the famous city for an up-close and personal look at some of its most notable temples, as well as stops at its old city walls, gates and moat, and the local market and Tapae Gate. Highlight of this trip include Wat Chiang Man, the city’s oldest temple and famed for a Chedi supported by rows of elephantine buttresses; Wat Phrasing home of the beautiful Lai Kham chapel with its exquisite woodcarving and northern style murals; Wat Chedi Luang and its enormous Pagoda (which was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1545); and Wat Suan Dok, which dates back to the 14th century when it served as the pleasure gardens to the Thai monarchy. Nowadays it houses several white Chedi’s, containing the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former Royal family. The last temple also houses one of the most famous Monk Schools in the whole of Chiang Mai. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (5*). |
 Buddhist Monks |
 Wat Chedi Luang |
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Day 5
Chiang Mai The two ancient cities of Lampang and Lampoon are located in the Chiang Mai region, south of Chiangmai. They offer a different experience for the visitor and are in total contrast to the beaches and sea resorts of the South. One of the interesting highlights of this tour is a visit to the Lampang Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC). TECC, founded in 1993 under Royal Patronage, cares for more than 50 Asian elephants in a beautiful forest with a relaxed non-commercial feel. Here you will learn how to care for an elephant and experience a one-hour jungle ride on top one of these majestic beasts. After a delicious local lunch, the tour heads back towards Chiang Mai, stopping at Lampoon. Steeped in a history that dates back to A.D. 700, Lampoon is famous for several ancient and revered temples. Among them is Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, built in A.D. 1044 at the site of the ruins of the Royal Palace, and Wat Jamathevi, named after a 7th century queen and founder of Lampoon. Her ashes are interred in the main stupa of the Wat. The trip concludes with a fascinating ride along the old Lampoon-Chiang Mai Road. Overnight at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (5*). |
 Elephant Conservation Centre |
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Day 6
Luang Prabang Luang Prabang has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Located between the Mekong and Khan River, it is the cultural and religious center of the country, boasting 32 large temple complexes. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most impressive temples, decorated with colored glass and gold. Testament to the fact that it had been the royal capital until 1975, the royal palace there contains fine artwork and gifts made for former kings. Nearby, in the town center, visitors can ascend Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding rivers. Also worth seeing is the Palace Museum (the former royal palace), easily recognizable by its golden-inspired stupa, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from old rulers of the Kingdom of Lane Xang. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Fly from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang via Bangkok. Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle. Take a traditional wooden boat upstream to visit the famous caves of Pak Ou. The caves are perched on the sheer face of the cliff, offering impressive and stunning views of the Mekong and surrounding mountains. Inside the cave, there are more than one hundred Buddha images which have been attracting local people since the early 14th century when the cave was discovered. On the way, a short stop at Ban Xanghai, enjoy the taste of the local rice wine. Distilling rice wine and weaving are important economic activities for the majority of people in the village. As a luxury spa hotel with breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding World Heritage town of Luang Prabang, La Residence Phou Vao offers a unique and peaceful atmosphere with a warm and hospitable staff. From the comfort of your private terrace, in your spacious and elegantly furnished room, take in the breathtaking views of the forest canopy and distant mountains dotted with pagodas and stupas. Experience delicious Laotian cuisine at the renowned Phou Vao Restaurant and sip on an exotic cocktail while enjoying the breathtaking mountain views. Amongst flourishing birds of paradise flowers, Bougainvillea, Papyrus and Frangipani trees, La Residence Phou Vao is an absolutely stunning place to stay when visiting this region. Overnight at La Residence Phou Vao. |
 Luang Prabang |
 Pak Ou Buddha Cave |
 La Residence Phou Vao Pool |
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Day 7
Luang Prabang Explore Luang Prabang by minivan. Visit the former royal temples, Wat Visun (where one can see the biggest statue), and Wat Xieng Thong (the most beautiful temple in Luang Prabang with its mosaic decoration and former royal carriage). Visit the Museum (former king’s palace), then climb up Mt Phousi for a beautiful view overlooking the city of Luang Prabang. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Photisak silver shop, and Minority Art Centre, learn to know different types of minority groups in Laos, their ways of living, and their survival. Overnight at La Residence Phou Vao. |
 Luang Prabang |
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Day 8
Siem Reap Siem Reap is famous for the magnificent temples at Angkor. This ancient and astounding temple complex is what remains of the capital of the once mighty Khmer civilization. Angkor Wat itself, built AD 879-1191 to honor the Hindu god Vishnu, is often hailed as one of the most extraordinary architectural creations ever built, with its intricate bas reliefs, strange acoustics and magnificent soaring towers. Airport transfer with private guide, driver and vehicle. Fly from Luang Prabang, Laos to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide. Note: departure tax leaving Siem Reap is not included in the tour price (USD$25 per person). Spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying traditional high tea at the Raffles Hotel. For over 75 years, a visit to the ancient Angkor temples has been synonymous with a stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor. Now sensitively restored, the hotel's renewed elegance and modernity complement the mystery and grandeur of Angkor as never before. This award-winning hotel has tastefully appointed guest rooms with art-deco, country-style furnishings and Cambodian objects d'art, as well as a wide array of distinctive restaurants and bars to choose from. A 35-metre lap pool and a family fun pool provide a focus of activity for residents to enjoy the tropical ambience of the resort. A destination unto itself, this hotel is a residence of choice for connoisseurs visiting mystical Angkor. Overnight at Raffles Grand Hotel d`Angkor (5*). |
 Siem Reap |
 Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor |
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Day 9
Siem Reap Enjoy a scenic flight over the Angkor Wat temple complex aboard one of Helistar Cambodia's advanced and comfortable helicopters. Meet your private guide at your hotel and set off for a day of memorable Cambodian sightseeing. Visit the South Gate of Angkor Thom, the Bayon temple complex, as well as Takeo and Ta Prohm temples. The walled and moated city of Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. It was built to protect against invaders in the 12th century. The Bayon is a state temple, erected in the center of the city. In the afternoon enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue with a visit to Angkor Wat temple complex and watch the sun set on Phnom Bakheng. Travel from the South Gate of Angkor Thom to Bayon temple by elephant. Afterwards you will be transferred back to your hotel. Overnight at Raffles Grand Hotel d`Angkor (5*). |
 Helicopter Flight |
 Bayon Temple |
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Day 10
Siem Reap - Bangkok Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English speaking guide. Note: departure tax leaving Siem Reap is not included in the tour price (USD$25 per person). Fly from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Bangkok, Thailand. Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary. Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport). |
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Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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