Thailand's Temples & Palaces: Bangkok, Ayutthaya & Chiang Mai -7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok

Welcome to Bangkok! Thailand's dynamic capital is known for its ornate shrines and vibrant street life, with the boat-filled Chao Phraya River feeding its network of canals and flowing past the Rattanakosin Royal District. Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel, and you'll have the remainder of the day free to catch your first glimpse of the city. A great place to start is with a climb up the 320 steps to the temple of Wat Saket, where you'll wind your way through ponds and gardens to be rewarded with amazing views of the city while the sun sets. 

After enjoying the panorama of the city, get a bite to eat at the famous Jay Fai— Bangkok's first street food stall to be awarded a Michelin star. Try the crab omelet, and watch as Jay Fai cooks this dish over a charcoal stove, gently bathing the egg and crab meat in hot oil and rolling them together into a cylinder with a practiced flair. Then, head to the famous Khao San Road to grab a beer and enjoy some people-watching.

Day 2: Bangkok's Historical Sites Tour

Explore the highlights of Bangkok today with the help of a knowledgeable guide, starting at the grand Wat Arun. Also known as the "Temple of Dawn," this landmark was built during the Ayutthaya period and is named after Aruna, the Indian god of the dawn. Afterward, take a 10-minute ferry boat ride to the opposite pier to visit Wat Pho. This is the oldest temple in Bangkok and home to the world-famous reclining Buddha. Next, take a short walk to the Grand Palace to witness its beautiful architecture.

After lunch, visit Wat Suthat, one of the oldest and most impressive Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Besides its elegant prayer hall with sweeping roofs, magnificent murals, and exquisite hand-carved teakwood door panels, it's best known for the towering red giant swing standing at its entrance. 

Day 3: Transfer to Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya Half-Day Excursion

In the morning, a driver will be waiting in the hotel lobby to take you to Thailand's ancient capital city, Ayutthaya, a UNESCO-designated archaeological site. Just two hours away, it was one of East Asia's largest and wealthiest cities in the 17th century, thriving as a prosperous international trading port until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. The ruins of the old city now form the Ayutthaya Historical Park, an archaeological site that contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries, and statues.

The park consists of over 300 sites, including an island area surrounded by three rivers; the Chao Phraya, Pa Sa, and Lopburi. Discover palaces, temples, ancient bridges, and an ancient trading center as you stroll the grounds, then see the Ancient Palace and Bueng Phra Ram Park in the afternoon. Finally, tour the Portuguese Archeological Museum, where you'll learn about the Portuguese's role in Ayutthaya's weaponry, skills, and trading history. In the evening, you'll transfer to your hotel and spend the evening in this historic city.

Day 4: Fly to Chiang Mai via Bangkok, City Tour

It's time to head north this morning. Transfer to the airport in Bangkok to catch the 1.5-hour flight to Chiang Mai, where a driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Once you've checked in, take a tour of this culturally-rich northern Thai city. You'll start with a visit to four revered temples, all constructed during the mighty Lanna period and each reflecting the splendors of a rich historical era. In the center of the city lies Wat Phra Singh, first built during the reign of Phra Chao Kham Fu (1328-1335). Visit the small chapel within the grounds to see its intricate gold inlay and naga (serpents) that frame the statue of the Lion Buddha.

 

Continue to Wat Chedi Luang. With a large chedi (a pagoda with Buddha relics) behind the monastery, it was constructed by King Saen Muang Ma around 1401. Not far from there, a small building near the main entrance encloses the Sao Intakin (Spirit of the City). Finally, you'll see Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the city's northern part. Constructed by King Mengrai, it's said that the king spent his last years here. Later on, visit the largest central market, Worarot Market, alive with its daily hustle and bustle. You'll find exotic fresh fruits, clothes, local delicacies, and flowers.

Day 5: Explore the Golden Triangle 

Get ready for an adventure today as you set off to explore the famous Golden Triangle—a lush, mountainous region where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos converge. Your driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you on a wild route via Doi Saket through scenic hills, valleys, and villages. On the way, stop for a quick dip at the Mae Kachan hot springs. Then it's on to Chiang Rai, where you'll stop at the White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun. A privately-owned modern art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple, this is one of Thailand's most creative and unorthodox religious structures.

Later, meet some of the area's locals with a visit to the Long Neck hill tribe of northern Thailand, learning about their daily life and language. Stop for a traditional northern Thai lunch, then take a scenic boat trip along the Mekong River near Laos Island. After a full day of exploring, you'll return to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

Day 6: Day Trip to Lamphun

It's an early start as you leave Chiang Mai early and head 16 miles (26 km) south to Lamphun, once home to the ancient Mon Empire founded in 660 CE and the oldest existing city in the kingdom. As you enter the city, the remnants of the old fortified walls and the surrounding moat, constructed in the 16th century, are still visible. Stop at Wat Prathat Hariphunchai, a royal temple built in 897 by the King of Lamphun. The temple is notable for its massive 167-foot (51 m) Golden Pagoda that enshrines the authentic relic of the Lord Buddha from India. 

Visit Wat Jammathevee, named after Queen Jammathevee, the first ruler of Haripunchai, then proceed to Pa Sang village, a community based around the cotton weaving industry. Stroll around the village and learn how cotton is woven by a traditional wooden loom. Be sure to purchase some fine-quality cotton as a perfect souvenir of Lamphun. A the end of the day, you'll head back to Chiang Mai, where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Day 7: Depart Chiang Mai

Today your Thailand adventure comes to an end as you're transferred to the airport in Chiang Mai for your onward flight. Safe travels!