Experience overview
This two-week program offers connoisseurs of elegance a brilliant overview of the aesthetic highlights of Thailand and Burma. Start with five nights in Bangkok, exploring the Grand Palace, the National Museum, the exquisite decor of Jim Thompson's house, and the gem-like Suan Pakkard Palace. The Prasart Museum is an essential stop in Bangkok for any art lover. Tour Ayuthaya, Thailand's capital for four centuries, and one of the highlights of a visit to Thailand. Fly to Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand, and one of Southeast Asia's finest archaeological sites. At one time, Sukhothai was a realm of palaces, temples, and monasteries. Today, the unique sculptural style of sensual, walking Buddhas still adorns the ancient wats. From Sukhothai, drive to Chiang Mai, touring the traditional towns of Lampang and Lamphun en route. Chiang Mai is your base for exploring surrounding villages where superb silver jewelry and distinctive textiles are made. Return to Bangkok, from where you will fly to Yangon. Visit the Shwedagaon Pagoda in the evening, when Yangon's residents flock to the temple to make offerings and socialize. Fly to Bagan, one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Asia. Tour the many temples along the Irrawaddy, as well as Mt Popa, with its sweeping views. Also visit Salay, with its excellent lacquerware workshops. Travel to Mandalay, considered by many to be the center of Buddhism in Burma today. Monasteries and pagodas abound, and splendid views of the city can be enjoyed from the peak of Mandalay Hill. Spend two days touring the city and surrounding highlights such as Amarapura and Mingun. Also visit nearby craft villages famed for puppetry, silver and gold smithing, paper-making, and antique shops. This region is rich in ancient stupas, and offers a window into traditional village life in Burma. Return to Yangon, to tour the city, and the nearby village of Twante, with its excellent pottery workshops. Fly to Bangkok for a final night before your international departure.
Highlights
- Explore Bangkok: Spend five nights in Bangkok, visiting the Grand Palace, National Museum, Jim Thompson's house, Suan Pakkard Palace, and the Prasart Museum.
- Tour Ayuthaya and Sukhothai: Visit Ayuthaya, Thailand's former capital, and Sukhothai, an ancient archaeological site with temples and walking Buddhas.
- Discover Chiang Mai: Drive to Chiang Mai, exploring Lampang and Lamphun on the way. Discover traditional villages known for silver jewelry and textiles.
- Experience Yangon and Bagan: Fly to Yangon to visit the Shwedagon Pagoda, then travel to Bagan to explore its temples and Mt Popa. Visit Salay for its lacquerware workshops.
- Explore Mandalay and Surroundings: Visit Mandalay, a center of Buddhism, and tour monasteries, pagodas, and craft villages. Explore Amarapura and Mingun.
- Return to Yangon: Return to Yangon to tour the city and Twante village, known for pottery workshops.
- Final Night in Bangkok: Fly back to Bangkok for your final night before departing internationally.
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket
Culinary highlights
Beach holidays
Exotic islands
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Bangkok;
Day 2: Morning tour;
Day 3: Full day tour;
Day 4: Day at leisure;
Day 5: Day excursion to Ayuthaya;
Day 6: Fly to Phitsanulok;
Day 7: Tour Sukhothai, drive to Chiang Mai;
Day 8: Morning city tour:
Day 9: Craft village tour ;
Day 10: Fly to Yangon;
Day 11: Fly to Bagan;
Days 12-13: Full days touring Bagan, Mt. Popa, and Salay village;
Day 14: Fly to Mandalay;
Day 15: Mandalay tour;
Day 16: Fly to Yangon;
Day 17: Day trip to Twante;
Day 18: Fly to Bangkok;
Day 19: Depart Bangkok