10 Days Thailand Discovery Tour: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya & Chiang Mai

Sawatdee Krap/Kha! Welcome to Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand! Upon your arrival at the airport in Bangkok, the tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Bangkok. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Bangkok with your guide the next day.

Bangkok means the "City of Angels" in translation from its ceremonial Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. It is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delicious Thailand street food. You can indulge in Bangkok's diverse culinary scene, from street eats to upscale dining. Shop till you drop in luxury malls or explore local markets. Enjoy the city's lively nightlife, rooftop bars, and live music venues. Bangkok offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an exciting and captivating destination.

Free Time Ideas：
1. You can watch a Thailand boxing game at Rajadamnern Stadium.
2. Unwind with a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment.

Arrival Ideas:
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, serves as a significant international hub with direct flights from various cities worldwide. Major cities offering direct flights to Bangkok include London, Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Doha, Taipei, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, Paris, Helsinki, Beijing, New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Sydney. Many cities in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai (Chiang Mai International Airport), Phuket (Phuket International Airport), Krabi (Krabi International Airport), and Koh Samui (Samui International Airport ), also have direct flights to Bangkok's main airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK). Flight availability and routes can vary based on airlines, seasons, and other factors. It is recommended to consult airlines or our travel consultant for the most up-to-date information regarding direct flights to Bangkok from your specific location.

Today, you will explore the Top 6 must-visit places in Bangkok: Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chinatown, Wat Traimit, and Wat Arun. You see “Wat” means “Temple” in Thai language. You will also experience a Thai tuk-tuk, take a ferry or boat ride on the Chao Phraya River, and indulge in local food in Chinatown. This is a classic Bangkok trip, allowing you to witness 3 treasures of Thailand: the jade Buddha, the reclining Buddha, and the golden Buddha.

In the morning, head to Wat Phra Kaew which was built in 1782 and is located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Covering one-fourth of the Grand Palace's area, Wat Phra Kaew is the most famous royal Buddhist temple in Thailand. This temple is renowned for enshrining one of three national treasures of Thailand, the Emerald Buddha, which is carved from a single block of Emerald. Each year, the Thailand King personally changes the Buddha's robes according to Thailand's three unique seasons. Each season changes with a certain robe: a gold robe embedded with rubies for the hot season, a gold robe embedded with sapphires for the rainy season, and a pure gold robe for the cool season. Don’t forget to check which robe the Emerald Buddha wears when you are there.

On the walls surrounding the cloisters of Wat Phra Kaew, there are a total of 178 murals (1,000m in length). Painted during the reign of King Rama I, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty in 18th-century Thailand (Bangkok Dynasty), the murals depict scenes from the Indian mythological epic "Ramayana," which narrates the story of King Rama joining forces with the monkey deity Hanuman to defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue the exquisite princess Sita. It is said that the story of the "Journey to the West" is also based on this legend. All the murals were created by royal court painters and the golden pigments used were made entirely from gold, resulting in exquisite and unparalleled artwork.

With the guidance of your tour guide, you can learn about the mythical creatures within Thai Buddhist architecture. For example, there is the Garuda, a mythical bird and guardian deity of Buddhism, perched on the rooftops. At the entrance of the temple, you'll find Yaksa, a protective deity, and outside the halls, there are statues of Kinaree, a mythical half-bird, half-human creature. The base of the pagoda is adorned with statues of Hanuman, the monkey deity.

After visiting Wat Phra Kaew, you can go on a visit around the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace, which was first established in 1782, was constructed as a replica of the old palace in the former capital city of Ayutthaya. It serves as a symbol of the Bangkok Dynasty and is the most well-preserved, largest, and most distinctive palace in Thailand. The Grand Palace is currently used for coronation ceremonies, royal celebrations, and hosting foreign dignitaries. From King Rama I to King Rama VIII, all the monarchs of the Bangkok Dynasty resided in the Grand Palace. However, after an assassination incident in 1946 involving King Rama VIII, King Rama IX moved to a new residence. The Bangkok Dynasty has continued to the present day, with the current monarch being King Rama X.

The Grand Palace complex consists of 22 buildings and is elegantly situated along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The main structures are four distinct palaces (Borombhiman Hall, Amarindra Hall, Chakri Mahaprasat, Dusit Hall), showcasing the essence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture, and interior decoration. It is often referred to as the "Encyclopedia of Thai Art". By the way, the Thai King is considered the incarnation of the god Vishnu, and Garuda is Vishnu's guardian. As a result, sculptures of the Garuda (stepping on 2 serpents) can be found on door lintels, eaves, and walls, with a total count exceeding several hundred. Witnessing the changing of the guards' ceremony is a bonus when visiting the Grand Palace.

Then, visit Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) which is a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace. As the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and the highest number of Buddha images and stupas in the city. The reclining Buddha, one of three national treasures of Thailand, is 46 meters tall and 108 meters long, depicting the scene of the Nirvana of Gautama Buddha. Within the temple grounds, there is a Bodhi tree, believed to be the spot where the Buddha meditated. The temple is adorned with about 100 stupas, with the most magnificent being the four stupas which are decorated with blue, white, yellow, and green ceramic tiles. In the courtyard, you can also see many Chinese-style stone sculptures, such as door guardians and lions, which were traditionally used on ships for ballast and protection against evil spirits.

Wat Pho is regarded as Thailand's first university and is considered the birthplace of Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage. It still houses a private school established in 1957 that teaches traditional Thai medicine and offers authentic Thai massages (optional, self-pay).

Head to Chinatown Bangkok for lunch. Chinatown Bangkok (Yaowarat) is renowned as one of Bangkok's liveliest and most bustling commercial areas, with reportedly 70% of the city's gold shops located in Chinatown. It is also home to Wat Traimit, the world's largest solid gold Buddha statue. The entire street of Chinatown stretches for about 2 km, lined with numerous shops, and thousands of businesses proudly displaying eye-catching Chinese signs. You may have watched the film Detective Chinatown, which was filmed in Chinatown Bangkok which has a history of over 200 years. You can search for the hidden shops that appeared in the film while enjoying the food in Chinatown, a haven for foodies. The restaurants and food stalls here provide a rich selection of Chinese, Thai, and other Asian delicacies. From classic pad thai to exotic grilled meats, there's something for everyone.

After lunch, visit Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). Built in 1785, it is renowned for housing the world's largest gold Buddha. The gold Buddha (one of three national treasures of Thailand) inside the temple weighs 5.5 tons and stands at a height of 3 meters. It was constructed with the contributions of 3 Chinese individuals, hence it is also known as the Three Chinese Temple or Three Friends Temple. The royal family holds annual ceremonies here to welcome the New Year. Unlike other temples, photography is allowed inside the temple hall in designated areas(video recording is not permitted). From fourth floor of the Wat Traimit, you can enjoy a distant view of the tallest building in Thailand (314m), the King Power Mahanakhon (Pixel Tower).

In the afternoon, take a tuk-tuk ride to the pier via a quick stop at Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market, also known as Bangkok Flower Market, which is one of the top 9 flower markets in the world. Then, take a ferry or boat (cruise; optional) on the Chao Phraya River to view Wat Arun (outside view). The Chao Phraya River divides Bangkok into two parts, and many famous temples are concentrated along its banks. The Wat Arun, is one of the most prominent temples that stands on the river's edge, complementing the Grand Palace on the opposite side. (Note: Due to the hot weather and the presence of numerous steps at Wat Arun, many of our guests opt to take a boat trip and enjoy the view of Wat Arun from the outside, either from the boat itself or from the opposite side.)

Built in 1809, Wat Arun was established to honor King Taksin (郑信), the 41st monarch of Thailand (1767-1782) and a national hero. During the invasion of the Burmese army, King Taksin led the Thai people in a brave resistance, successfully driving out the Burmese and establishing the Thonburi Kingdom. To commemorate this Chinese-Thai king (from Guangdong), the temple was named Wat Arun, meaning "Temple of Dawn", as the battle took place at dawn. The main stupa of the temple stands at a height of 79 meters and is often referred to as the Thai version of the Eiffel Tower. In contrast to many other magnificent temples adorned with gold, Wat Arun stands out with its elegant white structure, attracting numerous visitors who come to rent traditional Thai costumes for photography. Situated by the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) also offers a captivating view of the sunset, which is another reason why people flock to this location.

After that, you can enjoy your free time such as paying a visit to the Khao San Road for the night markets that offer a dazzling array of street food, souvenirs, and clothing.

Warm Tips:
1. When entering the Grand Palace or temples, it is prohibited to wear shorts or skirts that do not cover the knees. Shoulders and midriffs should be covered, and clothing should not be excessively tight or have holes.
2.Upon entering a temple, remove your hat and shoes. Photography is prohibited inside the temple halls. The use of drones is strictly prohibited within the royal grounds.
3. Do not enter unauthorized areas or areas marked with warning signs. Unauthorized photography or videography is prohibited in restricted areas.
4. The lights of Wat Arun usually turn on around 7 PM. For sunset, it is recommended to arrive Wat Arun around 5:30 PM, do double check with your guide for the sunset time based on your travel schedule. It is said that the best spot to capture the beauty of Wat Arun is in the alley across from Wat Pho, where a restaurant is located.
5. Opening Hours for Temples (Wat):
Wat Phra Kaew : 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wat Pho: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Wat Traimit: Thursday to Sunday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wat Arun : 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

On this day, you will depart Bangkok to Samut Songkhram (80 km,1.5h), to explore the railway & floating markets and unveil the Thai countryside life.

First, visit Maeklong Railway Market (20km, 0.5h) which is famous as the most dangerous market in the world. This is a railway market with a history of over 100 years. The stalls, filled with vegetables and meat, are set up right beside the train tracks. When the train whistle sounds and the train approaches, the vendors swiftly fold their stalls within 10 seconds. The train then passes by closely, allowing you to greet the passengers onboard with joy. You will see tourists rushing around to find the best spot for photos, while the nearby vendors continuously remind you of the best places to stand. It's a moment filled with excitement and happiness. Once the train has passed, the train market’s stalls return to their original state.

Warm tips for Maeklong Railway Market:

1. It's advisable to check the train arrival times in advance to avoid missing them.
2. Train arrival times: 8:30 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:40 PM
3. Train departure times: 6:20 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM
4. According to the above schedule, wait at the stalls beside the railway tracks 5 minutes before the designated train time.
5. It is livelier on weekends, with a greater number of stalls.

Later, you will come to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. As the largest and most well-known floating market among Thai and foreign tourists, this water market has a history of over a 100 years, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of local life. Enjoy your time watching vendors sell fresh products (fruits, vegetables, flowers), local handicrafts, souvenirs (locally-made bags), and delicious Thai street food from boats on canals. Be sure to try some local snacks such as coconut ice cream, coconut pancakes, pad thai, boat noodles, mango sticky rice, fresh spring rolls. It's photographers' heaven to capture a scene often depicted in movies (Detective Chinatown) and postcards. Take a long-tailed speedboat or a more relaxed paddle boat ride (optional and recommended) through the canals, immerse yourself in the bustling trading boats, experience the joy of shopping on the boat, and navigate through the traditional buildings of Siam people, as if traveling through time, which is enchanting. It is the only market still preserves the traditional Thai water market style today! If you prefer not to take a boat, you can also explore the market under the sheltered walkways on land.

Warm Tips for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

1. The market can get crowded, so it's recommended to wear your backpack in front to prevent theft.
2. Be cautious not to drop your belongings into the river.

This afternoon, you'll continue your trip to Kanchanaburi, about a 2-hour drive (114km) from Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Upon arrival in Kanchanaburi, your first stop is the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway. Walk to the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, a solemn memorial dedicated to the thousands of Allied prisoners of war who lost their lives during the Death Railway construction.

Next, you'll visit the Bridge over the River Kwai. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bridge stands as a powerful reminder of the hardships endured by prisoners of war during World War II. The bridge gained further fame from the Oscar-winning movie of the same name. Walk across the bridge and learn about how World War II affected Thailand. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere here.

In the late afternoon, you'll check in to your hotel and enjoy a free day at your leisure.

After breakfast, get ready for an exciting adventure! Erawan National Park, famous for its magnificent Erawan Waterfall, is a great escape for families and children. This seven-tiered cascade tumbles down through lush rainforest, creating a series of turquoise pools perfect for swimming and cooling off.

Each tier has its own unique charm. For most travelers, we recommend exploring the first to the third tier to relax.

• First Tier - Phra That: The first tier is the easiest to reach and features a shallow pool, perfect for families with young children.
• Second Tier - Wang Macha: The second tier offers a deeper pool with a small cave behind the cascading water.
• Third Tier - Phala Dat: The third tier is known for its long, curved pool and cascading waterfall.

For advanced hikers interested in continuing, you can explore tiers four to seven with a local mountain guide (additional fee applies). Let us know if you're interested!

• Fourth Tier - Phu Pha Tok: The fourth tier, also known as the Emerald Pool, is considered to be the most beautiful tier. It features a deep, turquoise pool surrounded by lush greenery.
• Fifth Tier - Sapote: The fifth tier is a bit more challenging to reach, but it rewards visitors with a stunning view of the surrounding rainforest.
• Sixth Tier - Dong Pruk Sa: The sixth tier, also known as the Crystal Pool, is another challenging but rewarding hike. The pool here is known for its crystal-clear water.
• Seventh Tier - Mae Yaz: The seventh tier is the highest tier of the waterfall and is the most difficult to reach. However, the views from the top are truly breathtaking.

Travel Tips for Visiting Erawan Waterfall:

• Go early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you can swim in.Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit.
• A sightseeing bus is available if you'd like to use it to get to the first tier of the waterfall.
• Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water. Note that picnicking is only allowed around the first and second tiers.
• Be respectful of the environment and leave no trace.

For those travelers who only visited the first three tiers of the waterfalls, you will have time to explore the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum. It serves as a memorial to the thousands of Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and forced laborers who died during the construction of the 'Death Railway' during World War II. Through exhibits, survivor testimonies, and artifacts, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the railway's construction, the brutal working conditions, and the human cost involved. You can also step onto the walking trail, the original path of the railway through Hellfire Pass. This experience allows you to appreciate the challenging terrain and gain a deeper appreciation for the scale of the project. (Note: The hike today may be tiring for some. You'll be covering the most essential part of the trail.)

Late afternoon, you'll return to Kanchanaburi, where you can enjoy a stroll along the Heritage Walking Street. This street is lined with buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing a unique blend of Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Sino-Portuguese architectural styles. Every Saturday evening, the street transforms into a vibrant night market. Stay overnight in Kanchanaburi.

This day, you will be depart from Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya (170km, about 2.5 hours’ drive). Welcome to Ayutthaya, founded in 1350, the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom. It flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries, during which time it grew to be one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas and a center of global diplomacy and commerce. Today, the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a sprawling archaeological site with the ruins of temples, palaces, and monasteries, offering a glimpse into the city's glorious past.

Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, we'll enjoy an amazing exploration. Our first stop is Wat Chaiwattanara, a temple known for its unique row of prang towers lining the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River. The temple's design is said to be influenced by Khmer architecture, and it boasts breathtaking river views.

Next, we head to Wat Lokaya Sutha, where you'll witness the awe-inspiring Phra Buddhasaiyart statue. This colossal reclining Buddha stretches an impressive 42 meters in length and 8 meters in height. It's a magnificent depiction of the Buddha entering Nirvana, a state of perfect peace and enlightenment.

Our journey continues at Wat Phra Sri Sanpet, the largest temple ruin in Ayutthaya and its most recognizable landmark. This former grand royal temple complex is now a powerful symbol of the city's past glory, dominated by three ruined prang towers.

Our exploration then takes us to Wat Maha That. Here, one of the most photographed sights awaits: the head of a stone Buddha image embraced by the roots of a fig tree. This evocative image stands as a testament to the enduring presence of Buddhism despite the passage of time.

Our last stop is Wat Yai ChaiMongkhol, renowned for its colossal 28-meter reclining Buddha draped in saffron robes. A towering stupa also graces the temple grounds. This site is further enriched by a collection of Buddha statues, with their heads and bodies sculpted in different eras, showcasing the artistic evolution throughout history. As we wander through these ruins, we appreciate the craftsmanship and design of a bygone era.

Optional Experience: In this late afternoon, explore Ayutthaya Night Market, located near Wat Ratchaburana and is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 4 pm to 9 pm. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of street food, souvenirs, and clothing. You can also find traditional Thai performers and entertainment here.

After breakfast, head to the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum to explore its remarkable collection of artifacts. The museum houses treasures unearthed from the ruins of the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom, which flourished from the 14th to the 18th centuries. These artifacts offer a tangible connection to the kingdom's grandeur, artistry, and daily life. Prepare to be awestruck by the museum's crown jewels – the gold offerings found in the crypts of prominent temples like Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Mahathat. Witness the exquisite craftsmanship and wealth that once adorned these sacred spaces.

After your museum tour, you'll drive back to Bangkok. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore Bangkok at your own pace.

Free Time Ideas:

1. You can watch a Thailand boxing game at Rajadamnern Stadium.
2. Unwind with a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment.

After breakfast, you'll take a flight to Chiang Mai (approximately 1h 15m). Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport, your local guide will be waiting to welcome you. After a smooth transfer, you'll check in to your hotel in Chiang Mai, conveniently located just 3 km from the Ancient City.

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and was the capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom until 1558, the first kingdom in Thai history. It is renowned for its rich history, numerous temples, and unique culture. Chiang Mai is also known as the "Rose of the North" and offers a slower pace of life. People from all over the world flood here to get close to elephants through various Elephant Sanctuaries, experience local life through Thai Cooking Classes, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere through its Walking Street Market and Night Bazaars around Chiang Mai Old City.

Suggested Route for Half-day Citywalk in Chiang Mai Old City:

In this afternoon, you will spend half day Citywalk in Chiang Mai Old City exploring Chiang Mai’s stunning Temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao), vibrant culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. It's a place for Architecture and culture lover. After your Chiang Mai trip, you may understand why Chiang Mai was Teresa Teng's (邓丽君) favorite city.

First, enter Chiang Mai Old City by the Tha Phae Gate, which is the landmark of Chiang Mai. The Old City is a square measuring 1.5 kilometers in length and 1.5 kilometers in width, surrounded by a moat. It is the most complete and well-preserved city gate, constructed in the early 13th century, remaining from the ancient walls that once surrounded the Old City. It served as a defensive structure against invaders and a gateway to the Lanna Kingdom. The area around the gate is always bustling with activity, especially during festivals like Loy Krathong and Yee Peng Lantern Festival (Sky Lantern Festival; Nov. or Dec.).

There are around 30 temples within the Chiang Mai Old City walls today. You will visit Wat Phra Singh, one of the three major temples in Chiang Mai, is the largest and most revered temple in the ancient city. It was originally built in 1345 when the fifth king of the Mangrai dynasty constructed a stupa to enshrine his father's ashes. Over time, it was expanded to its present scale. The temple, named after a famous Buddha image called Phra Singh (Lion Buddha), showcases stunning Lanna architecture, a unique blend of Thai, Burmese, and Mon styles. In the center of the temple stands a large golden pagoda, approximately 20 meters high, built in the 16th century, which is said to house the relics of Gautama Buddha. Wat Phra Singh is also one of the main locations for locals to celebrate the Songkran Festival (held annually from April 13th to 15th, Thai New Year).

Then, visit Wat Chedi Luang (Temple of the Big Stupa) which was located at the center of Chiang Mai Old City. The temple has a history of over 600 years and holds the same esteemed status as Wat Phra Singh, making it one of the three major temples in Chiang Mai. The centerpiece of the temple is the Lanna-style square-shaped great stupa, originally standing at a height of 98 meters, which was once the tallest structure in northern Thailand. It was built by King Saen Muang Ma of the Lanna Kingdom in 1411 AD. Throughout history, it has endured wars, and earthquakes, leaving only the 42-meter-high base and the ground level, bearing witness to the storied and profound history of Chiang Mai. Currently, new Buddha images have been placed on the four sides of the great stupa. On the southern wall, there are six elephant sculptures, with five of them being replicas restored with cement, and only the rightmost one being the original piece that has been preserved. It is worth seeing.

Later, hop to Wat Pun Tao which is 100 meters away from Wat Chedi Luang. Wat Phan Tao, also known as the Teakwood Temple, is entirely constructed from teakwood provided by the royal family. With a pure Lanna-style design, built in the late 1870s, making it a treasured sanctuary within the city of Chiang Mai. It is also one of the few remaining wooden structures in the area. Every year during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (mid Nov., Thai Lantern Making & Releasing), Wat Phan Tao holds a lighting ceremony, attracting photographers from both domestic and international locations.

If time permit, you can visit Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. It is the first Buddhist temple in the ancient city and was personally supervised and built by King Mengrai, the first king of the Lanna Kingdom, in 1297.

In this evening, you can enjoy your free time in one of the night markets in Chiang Mai Old City, do feel free to ask your guide for advice.

Free Time Ideas for Chiang Mai Night Markets:

1. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (Chang Klan Road; Everyday: 5pm-12pm)
2. Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street on Ratchadamnoen Road (1km, Sunday only, 5pm-10pm)
3. Wua Lai Walking Street on Wua Lai Road (Saturday only, 5pm-11pm)
4. Do double-check with your local guide for the market opening time.

Chiang Mai is a popular destination to see elephants up close in a wide open space. Today, you will enjoy a half-day morning visit to Elephant Nature Park (9:30 am to 1:00 pm), which is approximately 50km away from Chiang Mai Old City, requiring a 1.5-hour drive. Afterward, you can freely relax for the rest of the day, perhaps by taking a Chiang Mai Cooking Class (15:30-19:00; optional) or trying out Lila Thai Massage near the Tha Pae Gate (optional). This offers a delightful opportunity to experience the real local life in Chiang Mai.

Thailand is known as the "Land of the White Elephant". Although actual white elephants do not exist in Thailand, Asian elephants do. Elephants are deeply woven into Thai mythology and religious stories for their strength and intelligence. According to legend, on the eve of Buddha's birth, his mother dreamt of a white elephant approaching her and offering a lotus flower. Since then, white elephants have been considered sacred by the Thai people, symbolizing wealth, peace, and prosperity. Throughout history, Thai people have had a close relationship with elephants, utilizing them as warriors on the battlefield and as beasts of burden for transporting agricultural goods and logs from the forest. Nowadays, numerous elephant sanctuaries offer Eco-tourism experiences throughout Thailand. As the national animal of Thailand, there is still much work to be done to ensure the well-being and future of elephants.

Elephant Nature Park (ENP), established on the edge of a rainforest near Chiang Mai in 2003, is one of the leading ethical elephant sanctuaries and a pioneer in prioritizing the well-being of elephants. With over 130 elephants roaming freely within its premises, ENP provides a natural environment, proper care, and a chance for rescued elephants to recover from past abuse. During your visit, you will have an unforgettable experience with elephants, as well as other rescued animals such as buffaloes, dogs, cats, horses, goats, and birds. Accompanied by a guide, you will learn about how the cost of your ticket contributes to the elephants' well-being, including the purchase of their food: corn stalks, sugarcane, watermelon, and bananas. It's fascinating to note that an adult elephant consumes 200-400 kilograms of food per day! You will also have the opportunity to learn more about the founder, Lek, the daily lives of the elephants, the unique stories of each elephant, and how elephants bathe themselves. While keeping a certain distance (hands off; Let Elephants be Elephant is), you can enjoy the company of these majestic and wise creatures and witness their happiness as they now live freely in a peaceful and natural environment where they are loved and respected.

After a vegetarian lunch in the park, head back to your hotel and enjoy your relaxing day freely. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Warm Tips:

1. There are many Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, if Elephant Nature Park (Hands-off) is not available during the high season, or you prefer more activities with elephants, you can also choose Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

2. It is optional to do a full-day tour of Elephant Nature Park (9:30 am - 3:30 pm; return to Chiang Mai City at 4:30pm-5:00pm) if you are an Elephant fan and would like to skip the Thai Cooking Experience.3. If you are interested in local markets or Night Bazaars, be sure to note that some markets are only open on Saturday or Sunday. Ask your guide for advice.

On this day, you will go for a half-day foodie adventure by participating in a Thai cooking class and learn the secrets behind some of Thailand's most beloved dishes.

Most Thai cooking classes in Chiang Mai offer a hands-on learning experience, allowing you to actively participate in the creation of these flavorful dishes. You'll typically be guided by a skilled chef who will introduce you to essential Thai ingredients, their unique flavors, and traditional cooking techniques.

A typical Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai might involve:

Step 1: Market Visit: Many classes begin with a visit to a local market where you'll learn about essential Thai ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and various chilies. Your instructor will explain how to select the freshest produce and essential spices.

Step 2: Cooking Demonstration: The chef will demonstrate the preparation of several popular Thai dishes, such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum Soup, or Mango Sticky Rice. Watch closely as they explain each step and the reasoning behind the techniques used.

Step 3: Get Cooking!: This is where the fun begins! Guided by the chef, you'll get to work in a small group setting, preparing your chosen dishes. Grind spices, stir-fry vegetables, simmer curries, and experiment with the various flavors.

Step 4: Feast on Your Creations: Once all the dishes are prepared, gather around the table and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Savor the delicious meal you created, appreciating the newfound knowledge and the unique blend of flavors.

Useful Tips for Cooking Class in Chiang Mai:

There are many Chiang Mai Cooking Schools that offer various cooking classes (appetizer, stir-fry, dish, soup, curry, dessert), from farm to table or from market to table, enjoy the famous Thai Dishes cooked by yourself (Thai tea, Tom Yam Soup, Pad Thai and more).

Other Recommended Activities for Your Free Time:

Try Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution Lila Thai Massage (Optional, self-pay). It is located near the Tha Pae Gate.

Foodie Experiences in Chiang Mai: Explore local markets around the Chiang Mai Ancient City such as Warorot Market (Everyday: 4am-6pm), Jing Jai Market (Everyday: 8:30am-9pm), Coconut Market (Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 8am-2pm), White Marke (Nimmanhaemin Road; 3pm-10pm; Closed on Weds & Thur.). Do double-check with your local guide for the market opening time.

It is time to end your 10-day Thailand tour. You will have some free time in Chiang Mai and explore more on your own till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Asia tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!