Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Koh Lanta
9 Days
from
$3150 per person*
Highlights:
Thailand
(Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Lanta)
Trip Start/End:
Bangkok
/
Bangkok
Embark on this all encompassing and unique tour of Thailand. From the bustle of Bangkok, to the jungles of Chiang Mai, you will catch a glimpse of the culture and landscape that make this country famous. Begin in one of South East Asia's most popular cities, Bangkok - a place where food stalls fill the streets at all hours, and longtail boats ply the Chao Phraya River. Head North to Chiang Mai, where spicy food and elephants are king. Finally, fly South to one of Thailand's more remote islands - a diver's paradise - Koh Lanta. Relax all day in a hammock, or head out onto the water for some fun and excitement!
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Bangkok
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
| Ariyasomvilla (4*)
Studio (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Bangkok
| - Private - Highlights of Bangkok with Lunch (9 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Lunch (included)
| Ariyasomvilla (4*)
Studio (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Bangkok - Chiang Mai
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Air - Bangkok - Chiang Mai [Direct (1hr)] - Economy (Bangkok Air)
- Transfer - Airport - Hotel - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Private - Chiang Mai City Temples Tour (3.5 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
| Tamarind Village (4*)
Lanna Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Chiang Mai
| - Private - Lampang Elephant School and Lamphun with Lunch (7.5 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Lunch (included)
| Tamarind Village (4*)
Lanna Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Chiang Mai
| - Private - Doi Inthanon National Park with Lunch (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Lunch (included)
| Tamarind Village (4*)
Lanna Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Chiang Mai - Krabi - Koh Lanta
| - Transfer - Airport - Hotel - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Air - Chiang Mai - Krabi [via Bangkok (4 hrs)] - Economy
- Transfer - Private - Krabi - Koh Lanta [Airport/Hotel] - Vehicle/Boat/Guide
| Layana Resort & Spa (5*)
Beach Suite (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Koh Lanta
| | Layana Resort & Spa (5*)
Beach Suite (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Koh Lanta
| - Shared - Thai Cooking - Time for Lime - Coach/Guide
| Layana Resort & Spa (5*)
Beach Suite (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Koh Lanta - Krabi
| - Transfer - Private - Koh Lanta - Krabi [Airport/Hotel] - Vehicle/Boat/Guide
- Air - Krabi - Bangkok [Direct (1.5 hrs)] - Economy
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Bangkok
Ariyasomvilla
Day 1: Bangkok
A private vehicle with English-speaking guide and driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. The driving time is roughly 45 minutes.
Accommodation: Ariyasomvilla (4*) Conveniently located in the "heart" of Central Bangkok, entering the AriyasomVilla is like stepping back in time to a more leisurely life style. The Villa was built in 1942 and is still in the hands of the original family who built it. With 25 beautifully appointed Rooms and Suites, "Na Aroon" Restaurant, Room Service, Swimming Pool, Spa, Meeting Room, Library and Meditation Hall, you will be well looked after during your stay.
The Golden Mountain
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. It is considered by many 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 served to educate people on varied subjects such as literature, warfare, archaeology, astronomy, geology, meditation and is considered to be the home of Thai traditional massage. Here, you will enjoy a 30-minute 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. You'll be introduced to a serene, more traditional way of living, away from the high-rise and modern buildings of Bangkok City Centre, as you 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 the day. Located close to the Chao Phraya River, this part of Bangkok brings you to a rural piece of Bangkok where you'll find 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.
Accommodation: Ariyasomvilla (4*) 
Chiang Mai
Wat Chedi Luang
Tamarind Village Hotel Chiang Mai Poolside View
Day 3: Bangkok - Chiang Mai
A private vehicle with English-speaking guide and driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel. The driving time is roughly 45 minutes.
Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai on Bangkok Air.
You will be greeted at the airport by an English speaking guide and transferred by private car between the airport and your hotel.
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.
Accommodation: Tamarind Village (4*) Tamarind Village is set in the heart of Chiang Mai, just 15 minutes from the airport, and close to the local bus and train links. The world famous night bazaar is a short stroll away, along with various temples and cultural points of interest. This boutique property boasts 42 guest rooms and 3 suites reflecting a range of styles accustomed only to northern Thailand. All rooms are decorated with contemporary elegance. On-site facilities include a spa, travel desk and car rental service.
Elephant Conservation Centre
Day 4: Chiang Mai
The two ancient cities of Lampang and Lamphun are located in the Chiang Mai region, South of Chiang Mai. 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 Thai 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 Lamphun. Steeped in a history that dates back to A.D. 700, Lamphun 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.
Accommodation: Tamarind Village (4*) 
Vachiratharn Waterfalls
Day 5: Chiang Mai
This tour starts with a scenic drive through the mountainous countryside to the Doi Inthanon National Park, home to a preserved forest and Doi Inthanon, the highest mountain in Thailand (standing at 8,514 feet above sea level). The tour continues with a visit Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphon Phumisiri, twin pagodas which were built to commemorate the fifth cycle birthdays of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. Both pagodas share similar bases as well as a two-level walking path that surrounds them. The pagodas enshrine Lord Buddha’s ashes and Buddha images, and overlook the magnificent scenery of Doi Inthanon. The tour continues with a visit to the Karen Hill Tribe Village and the Royal Project, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Upon descending, guests will stop at the beautiful Vachiratharn waterfalls then drive to Baan Ta-Wai’ (Hang Dong District) a new cottage industries village that produces everything from woodcarving and pottery to classical Thai artworks. Even though it may be tropical, it is recommend that you bring some warm clothing.
Accommodation: Tamarind Village (4*) 
Exterior
Day 6: Chiang Mai - Krabi - Koh Lanta
You will be greeted at the airport by an English speaking guide and transferred by private car between the airport and your hotel.
Fly from Chiang Mai to Krabi via Bangkok.
You will be picked up and transferred between Krabi airport to your Koh Lanta hotel by private vehicle and car ferry with an English speaking guide.
Accommodation: Layana Resort & Spa (5*) The Layana Resort and Spa is nestled on Koh Lanta Yai Island in Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The resort enjoys a spectacular beachfront location on a 3-kilometer long white sand beach, situated about 2 hours south of Krabi International Airport. Environmentally-conscious design throughout the property results in a simple and elegant Thai atmosphere. The resort features 50 luxurious guestrooms and suites comprising 44 Garden Pavilion rooms, 3 Beach Suites and 3 Ocean Deluxe Suites. All are designed in contemporary Thai style, complete with large balconies, while decor and furnishings are both natural and luxurious, making extensive use of hardwoods, silks and other indigenous materials. The Resort offers the guests one formal restaurant and the beach bar. The recreational facilities include salt Water Pool, large Poolside Jaccuzzi, Spa services and Fitness Room.
Day 7: Koh Lanta
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Layana Resort & Spa (5*) 
Thai Food
Day 8: Koh Lanta
Learn how to cook your favorite Thai dishes at the famous Time for lime cooking school on Klong Dao Beach. Experience the exotic herbs and spices that make Thai cuisine one of the world’s culinary delights. You will practice hands-on approach and will choose your own dishes to cook. The course is around 5 hours long. You will enjoy the food you have cooked while taking break on the beach.
Accommodation: Layana Resort & Spa (5*) Day 9: Koh Lanta - Krabi
Private transfer from Koh Lanta to Krabi Airport or Hotel with an English speaking guide.
Fly from Krabi to Bangkok.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Ariyasomvilla
Ariyasomvilla (4*) - Bangkok
Conveniently located in the "heart" of Central Bangkok, entering the AriyasomVilla is like stepping back in time to a more leisurely life style. The Villa was built in 1942 and is still in the hands of the original family who built it. With 25 beautifully appointed Rooms and Suites, "Na Aroon" Restaurant, Room Service, Swimming Pool, Spa, Meeting Room, Library and Meditation Hall, you will be well looked after during your stay.
- Tamarind Village
Tamarind Village (4*) - Chiang Mai
Tamarind Village is set in the heart of Chiang Mai, just 15 minutes from the airport, and close to the local bus and train links. The world famous night bazaar is a short stroll away, along with various temples and cultural points of interest. This boutique property boasts 42 guest rooms and 3 suites reflecting a range of styles accustomed only to northern Thailand. All rooms are decorated with contemporary elegance. On-site facilities include a spa, travel desk and car rental service.
- Exterior
Beach Suite
Layana Resort & Spa (5*) - Koh Lanta
The Layana Resort and Spa is nestled on Koh Lanta Yai Island in Mu Koh Lanta National Park. The resort enjoys a spectacular beachfront location on a 3-kilometer long white sand beach, situated about 2 hours south of Krabi International Airport. Environmentally-conscious design throughout the property results in a simple and elegant Thai atmosphere. The resort features 50 luxurious guestrooms and suites comprising 44 Garden Pavilion rooms, 3 Beach Suites and 3 Ocean Deluxe Suites. All are designed in contemporary Thai style, complete with large balconies, while decor and furnishings are both natural and luxurious, making extensive use of hardwoods, silks and other indigenous materials. The Resort offers the guests one formal restaurant and the beach bar. The recreational facilities include salt Water Pool, large Poolside Jaccuzzi, Spa services and Fitness Room.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Thailand
VISA/PASSPORT
U.S. and Canadian citizens staying for fewer than 30 days do not require a visa, but must possess a valid passport and may be asked to show an onward/return ticket.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Thailand for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is required. Medical facilities are not widespread and poor quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/thailand.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Bangkok.
Government: Constitutional monarchy.
Language: Thai is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in establishments catering for tourists.
Religion: The vast majority adhere to Buddhism (Theravada form), 5% are Muslim and there are Christian and Hindu minorities.
Time: GMT + 7.
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Two-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +66.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with many international mobile phone companies. There is good coverage, especially around main towns.
Internet: There are plenty of Internet cafes, some even found in remote areas visited by tourists.
What's Included:
- 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
What's not Included:
- 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 $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- 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 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- 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.
- 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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