36 Days Best of Indochina with Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

ITINERARY

Day 1: Bangkok | Arrive in Bangkok

International Flight: Excluded
Welcome to Thailand! Upon arrival in Bangkok, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel for check-in. Then you are at leisure to explore the Chao Phraya riverfront, go shopping, or visit a Muay Thai boxing gym on your own.

Accommodation: Mandarin Oriental

Day 2: Bangkok | Bangkok by Long-tail Boat

Meals: Breakfast
In the early morning, take a traditional longtail boat to Wat Arun – the Temple of the Dawn to enjoy a stunning view and explore the gem of Bangkok.

Continue to one of the must-see sights, the spectacular Grand Palace, undoubtedly the city’s most famous landmark. Built-in 1782- and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government – the Grand Palace of Bangkok is a grand old dame indeed, that continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail, all of which is a proud salute to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people.

Temple of Dawn at dusk – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Within its walls were also the Thai war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Thai Kingdom. Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small, very famous and greatly revered Emerald Buddha that dates back to the 14th century. The robes on the Buddha are changed with the seasons by HM The King of Thailand and forms an important ritual in the Buddhist calendar. Thai Kings stopped living in the palace around the turn of the twentieth century, but the palace complex is still used to mark all kinds of other ceremonial and auspicious happenings. Then return to the hotel for some leisure time in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Mandarin Oriental

Day 3: Bangkok | Ayutthaya Cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Ayutthaya used to be the flourishing and prosperous capital of Siam. During its 417 year reign, there arose a great deal of construction. Among them were numerous palaces and temples. As more than 30 monarchies ruled over Ayutthaya, innumerable events occurred, some of which were recorded in history, while others became exciting legends. Time-worn and tattered in war, the ruined temples and palaces are no doubt ancient relics reflecting a golden and glorious past.

The full-day tour will commence in the morning. After being greeted at your hotel’s lobby you’ll be escorted to Ayutthaya – the Ancient City, Wat Maha That – the heart and soul of the Ayutthaya people, Wat Na Phra Mane – still in perfect condition, as it was used as the Burmese headquarters, and Wat Lokayasutharam – a mysterious past, whereby its origins are unknown. You will then commence the Grand Pearl Cruise.

At embarkment, you’ll enjoy a full menu of Thai and European cuisines, desserts, seasonal fruits, coffee and tea for a buffet lunch on the Chao Phraya River. While taking your lunch on-board the cruise, you may enjoy the exotic flora and sites along the banks. Both air-conditioned and open aired seating is available, depending on your preference. Either view, you will get an amazing view of the daily life of the inhabitants that dwell along the river. Arriving at the city, you will pass the Grand Pearl, followed by Wat Arun – (the Temple of Dawn) the temple was the former palace when the Thai capital of Ayutthaya was replaced by Thonburi.

As the sun is setting, you’ll arrive at the River City Complex, Si Phraya. Then return to your hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: Mandarin Oriental

Day 4: Bangkok – Yangon | Flight to Yangon

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning is at your leisure to relax or explore the rest in the city.

Board an afternoon flight to Yangon. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

In the evening, enjoy a Myanmar royal style welcome dinner on a floating marble boat.

Yangon Floating Marble Boat – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Accommodation: Belmond Governor’s Residence

Day 5: Yangon | Burma’s Capital City

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, visit the downtown area to see the Old City Hall and Maharbandoola Park. Then take a stroll along the old street ending at the old Strand Hotel. Next, drive to Botahtaung Pagoda which features golden decorations inside the pagoda.

Continue to Bogyoke Market which sells many Burmese traditional handicrafts including stone carving, wood carving, bronze carving, painting, etc.

In the afternoon, visit Kandawgyi Park for a stroll near Chaukhtetgyi Reclining Buddha Image – one of the largest in Yangon. Continue to the highlight of Yangon: the golden Shwedagon Pagoda, which has been described as one of the wonders of the world. Shwedagon plays a very important role in the Old Burmese History and also is an important Buddhist icon. Enjoy the sunset over the pagoda.

Ordination Ceremony at Shwedagon Pagoda – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Accommodation: Belmond Governor’s Residence

Day 6: Yangon – Inle | Flight to Heho | Scenic Inle Lake Excursion

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, board a flight to Heho. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your resort next to Inle Lake for check-in.

Your Excursion today will be made by private longtail boat to see the life of the In-tha tribe(name of local ethnic people live on the lake), to discover their unique floating farms and life on the water. You will also witness local fisherman who fishes while using only one leg to paddle the boat. Then you’ll visit the Long Neck Ladies who were relocated from the Myanmar and Thailand border.

Intha Tribes at Inle Lake – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Accommodation: Sofitel Inle Lake Myat Min

Day 7: Heho – Inle | 3rd Century Kakku Temple

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, you’ll transfer to visit the 3rd-century Kakku Pagoda complex Firstly you’ll stop on the way for a visit at “ Ayetharyar Wine “ where you’ll taste Myanmar’s local wine and view the beautiful landscape of the vise yards and the hills. Then you’ll go on to Taung Gyi, the capital of Shan State and visit Kakku Pagoda. There you’ll see a large white pagoda surrounded by 2548 pagodas set on the square in packed and closely together. You’ll be wandering through marvelous pillars and stupas of Kakku. Each stupa is intricately crafted with delicate images and sculptures that are beautiful and in detailed.

Kakku Pagodas – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

After your exploration, you’ll be escorted to a local restaurant for lunch. After taking a rest, you’ll return back to Heho and visit Pa-O village and you could stop for the photos of the countryside and see the local farm along the way back.

Accommodation: Sofitel Inle Lake Myat Min

Day 8: Heho – Bagan | Flight to Bagan | Bagan’s Valley of a Thousand Temples

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, take a flight to Bagan. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Today you’ll explore Bagan, where you will see its thousands of Buddhist pagodas spread in the valley of the Ancient City of Bagan. These pagodas used to own by individual families during prosperous times. You will visit the Nyaung Oo Market where locals buy and sell produce. Then you’ll visit the Shwezigon Pagoda which is the largest pagoda in Bagan painted with real gold.

Have a rest in the hotel during the afternoon. Then you’ll enjoy a Horse Cart Ride first to the small village of Taung Phi where rests a worn teak monastery awaiting the rare tourists who are lost. You’ll continue by horse cart around temples and winding roads as the sun makes it’s a way to the sky’s edge casting curious shadows from the temples across the plain. Continue to Shesandaw Pagoda. From your vantage point, you’ll watch one of the best sunsets in Southeast Asia. Then you’ll take a horse cart ride back to your hotel.

Bagan’s Valley of a Thousand Temples – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Accommodation: Aureum Palace Hotel

Day 9: Bagan – Mandalay | Flight to Mandalay | Explore Mandalay Highlights

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast
In the morning, take a flight to Mandalay. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, you’ll go to see the Highlights of Mandalay, you’ll start off your day with an opportunity to learn about the distinct Buddhist culture unique to Burma. You’ll visit the Mahamuni Image where you’ll have an opportunity to watch locals pray and place the gold paper on the statue of Buddha for a blessing. You can participate as well if you like for a small donation to the temple(only men are allowed to place the gold on the statue).

You’ll also visit a gold paper factory to see how golden leaves are made, a staple in Burmese religious practices. Then you’ll visit the 19th-century Shwenandaw Monastery (Golden Palace Monastery) famous for its teak carvings of Buddhist mythology.

Next, you’ll see the Kuthodaw Pagoda which is a Buddhist stupa that contains the world’s largest book of Buddhism.

At the end of your day, you’ll enjoy a gorgeous sunset from the top of Mandalay Hill.

Accommodation: Hilton Mandalay

Day 10: Mandalay | Old Capital of Amarapura

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning: Transfer by private vehicle to Sagiang, the capital of Sagiang Division located on the Irrawaddy River. You’ll cross the Inwa Bridge, which was built by the British in 1934. Then you’ll visit the Maha Ganayon Kyaung Monastery to see hundreds of monks line up for daily meals. Then visit the U Bein Bridge which is 1.2 kilometers long and is the longest teakwood bridge in the world.

Next, you’ll see Kaung Mu Taw Pagoda: a dome-shaped pagoda which rises up 46 meters. At the base of the pagoda, there are 812 stone pillars, each one with a hollow and image of a Nat inside. Continue with a visit to Sagaing Hill. The hill has a number of small pagodas with many meditation centers along with Soon U Ponya Shin Pagoda – pagoda painted with gold. You can stop at monasteries and nunneries to speak with monks while enjoying hot green tea.

Lunch at a restaurant.

Sunset at U Bein Bridge – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Then continue to visit with a visit of Amarapura,”City of Immortality”, the old capital of Myanmar. At the end of the day, visit the ancient temple of Pahtodawgyi which was built in 1820.

Return to Mandalay and the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hilton Mandalay

Day 11: Mandalay – Chiang Mai | Flight to Chiang Mai

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast
Morning is at your leisure to relax or explore the rest in the city.

Board an afternoon flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

The old city walls still stand verdantly against the course of time, inviting pilgrims to come rest, and explore the lost treasures of the Lanna Kingdom. Established as the capital in 1296AD of the vast “Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields”, Chiang Mai carries a heritage lurking around every quiet cobble-stone alley and corridor. These days, cafes, boutiques, pubs, and spas are auspiciously peppered throughout, while colorful Meo and Akha hill tribes make their daily ritual visit to the valley to offer their handmade tapestries and handicrafts to curious adventurers. The Ping River weaves through the valley to the East of the Old City while a peaceful moat surrounds the time-worn walls.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Day 12: Chiang Mai | Alms Giving | Tea Plantations & Hmong Hill Tribe

Meals: Breakfast
Rise early morning to join locals in visiting a Buddhist monastery. You can watch or participate in offering alms to Buddhist monks at Wat Srisodain. Return to the hotel for breakfast.

Chiang Mai Tea Plantation – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Then take a trip up in the hills and visit a tea plantation. Take a seat above the terraces flowing with arched rows of green tea shrubs while you sip on a fresh cup of hot Oolong. Explore the tea plantation to learn a little about the process of cultivating and harvesting tea. Then continue to a Meo hill tribe village. Have the opportunity to see their unique apparel and simple way of living. Meo families take a great deal of pride in their herbal gardens. After seeing their home and making a new friend, return back to Chiang Mai.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Day 13: Chiang Mai | Befriending the Gentle Giants of Asia

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, you will join in a tour to an elephant sanctuary in the jungles near Chiang Mai by 4WD truck. First, you’ll learn about the project and hear the amazing stories of each rescued and orphaned elephant. Learn how they became a proud herd free from abuse and misuse. Then have an opportunity to feed them. Next, enjoy a picnic spread. Then take a stroll with the herd to the nearby river. Here you will have the opportunity to observe or participate in bathing the elephants with the sanctuary staff.

After you have said your farewells, return back to the hotel for some leisure time.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Day 14: Chiang Mai | Temples of Lanna Kingdom

Meals: Breakfast
In the morning, visit the most prominent temples in Chiang Mai. Start with Wat Phra Singh which houses the famous Phra Singh Buddha image. It features Lanna art throughout and illustrates many famous Buddhist stories. Continue on to Wat Chedi Luang, which once contained the Emerald Buddha. The temple is partially in ruins due to an earthquake in the 1500s. Then stop at Wat Chiang Man which is the oldest temple in Chiang Mai and also houses one of Thailand’s greatest treasures: the Crystal Buddha.

Then continue to Wat Suan Dok, which houses many of the remains of generations of the old Chiang Mai Royal Family. Finally, visit Wat Jet Yot – this peaceful temple is surrounded by green and was built in the Mahabodhi style from India to house the Eighth World Buddhist Council in 1453. You’ll return to your hotel for some leisure in the afternoon.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Day 15: Chiang Mai – Luang Prabang | Leisure | Flight to Luang Prabang

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast
Morning is at your leisure.

In the afternoon, take a flight to Luang Prabang. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Feel free to explore the beautiful city of Luang Prabang on your own to discover night markets selling local tapestries and souvenirs.

Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 16: Luang Prabang | Boat Trip to Pak Ou Cave

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, we embark on a cruise upstream on the Mekong River, which also gives us a breathtaking view of the tranquil countryside. Along the way, we stop at the village of Ban Xanghai, where they make Laos rice wine and rice whiskey. You’ll be able to try some and see the process they use to make it. Then we’ll reach the mysterious Pak Ou Caves, two linked caves crammed with thousands of gold lacquered Buddha statues of various shapes and sizes left by pilgrims.

Pak Ou Cave – 36 Days Best Indochina Phuket Tropical Island Retreat

Lunch will be served nearby the caves. During lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to try a local dish called “Orlam” which is a soup with vegetables and features a spicy wood that is partially edible. On return, we disembark the boat to visit a traditional weaving village of Ban Phanom, which is famous for its hand weaving.

Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 17: Luang Prabang | Buddhist Ancient City and Temples

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the early morning, you can join in the alms giving ceremony where a procession of monks pass the hotel as participants solemnly give sticky rice and other objects into their bowls. Then start your full day tour with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum (closed on Tuesday), which hosts a range of interesting artifacts. We then enjoy a short-guided tour seeing the city’s oldest temple of Wat Sene and the magnificent Wat Xiengthong with its roofs sweeping low to the ground, which represents classical Laotian architecture. You’ll also visit the impressive stupa of Wat Visoun and the shrine of Wat Aham.

Following lunch, we visit the Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about Laos’ many ethnic cultures before we head out of town to see the weaving villages of Ban Xiengkhong and Ban Xienglek. We then return to the city for a visit to Wat Mai. We then climb up to the top of Mount Phousi for an enjoyable exploration of the sacred, gilded stupa as well as a panoramic view of the city at sunset and the Mekong River.

Wat Xieng Thong Temple

The tour ends after a visit to the famous Night Market, where you can find a lovely selection of handmade textiles made by local and hill tribe people surrounding Luang Prabang.

Accommodation: Belmond La Residence Phou Vao

Day 18: Luang Prabang – Hanoi | Kuang Si Waterfalls | Flight to Hanoi

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast
Laos is also known for its traditional crafts, and today you will visit local villages of Lao ethnic minority groups at Ban Ouay, a Hmong village, Ban Ou a Laoloum village and Ban Thapene, Khmu villages.

This then takes us to the beautiful Khouang Si Waterfall where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the pools or walk along the forest trails. We then return to Luang Prabang.

Kuang Si Water Falls

In the evening, take a flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

After check-in, enjoy a stroll on your own around Hoan Kiem Lake outside your hotel. Feel free to also pick up a souvenir at the night markets or at one of the many trinket shops in the alleys and small roads of this historic part of town.

Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 19: Hanoi | Best of Hanoi

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, you’ll be escorted to see the Tran Quoc Pagoda. This 1,400-year-old temple features ten tiers surrounded by gardens and which also hosts a bodhi tree grown from a cutting of the original Buddhist tree under which Buddha sat. Next, you’ll take a stroll around the Hoan Kiem Lake where you can see the Tortoise Tower sitting on the water. Then you’ll enjoy a half hour cyclo tour through the Old Quarter in Hanoi. The cyclo is a historic mode of transportation in the cities of Vietnam where a cyclist escorts you while you sit in a seat affixed to the front with a canopy over top.

Next, you’ll visit the One Pillar Pagoda – a pagoda situated on a pillar made of a single stone, in the middle of a lotus pond. This pagoda was built by a 9th-century emperor who saw it in a dream and regarded this as a divine inspiration to recreate the structure in the vision.

You’ll pass by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum before visiting the highlight of this tour – The Temple of Literature. This ancient university was erected almost a millennium ago and has hosted many of the most prominent scholars through Vietnamese history. The site features many gardens, pools, buildings, and ancient trees where the best and brightest of Vietnam studied under the guidance of Confucius teachings.

Vietnam Cuisine and Traditional Show

The evening will start with a Water Puppet Show performed by the world-renowned Thang Long Opera House. This performance features a talent unique to Vietnam. You’ll watch as water puppets perform the folklore legends of Vietnam while live ethnic music sets the mood.

After the show, you’ll enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Home Restaurant – a historic French colonial residence restored in between the Old Quarter and the serene West Lake. Enjoy fine Vietnamese cuisine. Once you finish your dinner, you’ll be escorted to your hotel.

Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Day 20: Hanoi – Halong Bay | Voyage Halong Bay with Cruise by Orchid

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, your guide and driver will transfer you to Halong Bay. Upon arrival, enjoy refreshments at Private Lounge until boarding. Then board Orchid Cruise.

Receive a safety briefing and check in your cabins. The boat sets adrift for Da Chong islet, home to an old French lighthouse. Enjoy a sumptuous feast in the panoramic dining hall while en route to the isles of Con Vit and Gia Luan. The bay opens up to you with stunning green karsts towering above the water. This area receives very few cruise ships as it has just been newly opened up. Continue to Ba Trai Dao beach of Lan Ha Bay. A paradise with perfect beaches and natural beauty. Stop at one of the beaches for swimming or kayaking during the afternoon.

Halong Bay Isles

As dusk approaches, welcome the sunset with a local specialty – “Ba Kich”(a liquor made from Noni fruit). Back on board, you’ll join a cooking demonstration to learn a few Vietnamese culinary secrets. Enjoy your creation! Then time for supper in the dining hall. Delicious Vietnamese cuisine and seafood in a romantic setting. After dinner, you may enjoy watching the stars from the sundeck, watching a movie in the restaurant, or give night squid fishing a try with the staff(subject to seasonal availability).

Accommodation: Orchid Cruise

Day 21: Halong Bay – Ninh Binh | Halong Bay Sunrise | Bai Dinh Temple

Meals: Breakfast
Rise early for one of the top best sunrises in the world. Then head to the sundeck for an invigorating Tai Chi session amongst a picture-perfect backdrop of karsts, sea, and nature. Enjoy breakfast in the dining hall before taking a journey to explore the area around Sang Tai sea cave via canoes.

Return back to the pier for check out and then transfer to Ninh Binh.

Check in at the resort with stunning views all around.

Time to stretch your legs! Go with our guide to visit Bai Dinh Temple, the largest temple in Vietnam. This Buddhist temple was built into the mountain with 3 terraces and faces the river. Explore the many halls, rooms, carvings, and statues during the late afternoon. Our guide will then take you to the best place for watching the sunset over this untouched part of Vietnam. Shortly afterward, you’ll witness the 13-tier pagoda – Chau Bai Dinh – be lit up for the evening: a true spectacle to behold! Return to the resort for overnight and leisure.

Accommodation: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

Day 22: Hanoi – Hoi An | Wonders of Ninh Binh | Flight to Hoi An

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, enjoy some time at the resort to relax and take in the stunning views. Check out late morning and then you’ll go to visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital. In 968, Dinh Bo Linh declared himself as the King. Since then Hoa Lu existed as the capital for only 41 years. In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long – present-day Hanoi. Hoa Lu became the old citadel. In Hoa Lu there are now two temples dedicated to two Vietnamese kings, which have been built on the grounds of the old royal palace. The visit offers a chance to learn more about the feudal dynasties and historical periods in Vietnamese history.

Ninh Binh Karsts and Cave

Next, you’ll take an amazing boat trip through Trang An Grottoes. A gathering of 31 valleys and 50 cross-water caves are home to 600 kinds of flora and over 200 kinds of fauna many of which are listed in the Red Book of Vietnam. Rowing through the Trang An Grottoes is a peaceful trip of serenity. The highland air is a respite from modern living and the sounds are only that of birds and the oars stirring the clear water. Towering overhead are magnificent forested mountains upon which you might catch a glimpse of grazing white-bearded goats.

After an adventure in Ninh Binh, travel back to Hanoi and board an evening flight to Danang. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Hoi An for check-in.

Central Part of Vietnam

At the end of a long lane of sandy beaches, palms and blue sea turns the Thu Bon River. Take a step back in time 300 years to cobblestone alleys and aged wooden and stone homes. Time stands still in this quiet part of the world where ornate doorways and bridges could keep the curious passerby entranced in amusement. The setting – a Far Eastern port that was forgotten in time. Japanese, French, Chinese and Vietnamese designs and styles melt together along every street.

Accommodation: Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery Collection

Day 23: Hoi An | 4th Century Cham Ruins and Hoi An Ancient Port Town

Meals: Breakfast
Morning is at your leisure.

In the afternoon, transfer with our guide to Hoi An Ancient Town. This town features the 16th-century Hoi An port town in it’s preserved state. You’ll start the day visiting the Museum of Trade Ceramics. This museum houses art and pottery dating from the 1,500s to the 1,700s.

Then you’ll briefly visit the Chua Ong Pagoda, a temple from the 17th century which features China’s influence in the region. You’ll continue through the Ancient Town as the streets take on a magic of their own with old lanterns, French-style houses, intricately carved wooden doors and more. You’ll take a stroll through the Old Tam Ky House to see it’s imperial styles meshed with French overtures. Continue on to stroll along the river and see traditional boats and locals on bicycles passing by. You’ll then approach the Japanese Covered Bridge. This bridge has connected the Chinese and Japanese sides of town over the waterway for centuries. The old wooden structure has shown amazing resilience for more than 400 years.

At dusk, enjoy walking along the riverside as old colorful lanterns light up the town. After you’ve finished the tour, return to the hotel.

Hoi An Ancient Port Town

Accommodation: Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery Collection

Day 24: Danang – Siem Reap | Flight to Siem Reap

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning is also at your leisure.

Take an afternoon flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Siem Reap is a quaint town in Cambodia and the gateway to the vast remains of the Angkor empire. Discover the Royal Gardens on your own with ancient trees home to a colony of giant fruit bats. Take a stroll along the scenic riverside and visit the night markets to find unique souvenirs. You may also want to spend the evening with a visit to Pub Street with several restaurants and bars that stay open late into the night. Many restaurants have live entertainment in the evening.

Accommodation: Shinta Mani Villa – Bensley Collection

Day 25: Siem Reap | Angkor Thom Ancient Capital

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, you’ll begin your explorations of the remains of an ancient civilization that once ruled much of Southeast Asia. Today, you’ll be visiting the ancient capital city of Angkor Thom. On your way to Angkor Thom, you’ll catch a glimpse of the front of Angkor Wat as you pass by, which will leave you with a tingling feeling on the back of your neck as you take your first glance of the enormity and wonder of the largest religious complex to ever exist.

However, we’ll be saving the best for last as you go on today to see some other equally impressive structures of Ta Prohm Temple, Bayon Temple, Banteay Kdei, Baphoun, Elephant Terrace, Leper King Terrace, and the Royal Palace.

Taprohm Jungle Temple

First on the agenda is Ta Prohm. Worn by time, rain, and overpowered by the jungle, this immaculate structure is hidden under canopy will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into the movie set of a treasure hunt adventure. Your private tour guide will give you the history and stories passed through oral tradition.

After you’ve had lunch, your exploits will continue as you visit Banteay Kdei (“Citadel of Chambers”). You’ll also visit Victory Gate, Terrace of the Leper King, the Royal Palace, Baphuon and Bayon. Bayon sets itself apart with its almost 200 smiling faces, sure to make you feel welcome on your second day to the Kingdom of Wonders. With its winding tunnels, chambers, and daring climbs, Bayon will give you many picturesque moments to keep your camera busy.

As the sun approaches the horizon, you’ll enjoy a sunset from the top of the pyramid-shaped temple of Pre Rup. After sunset, you’ll be taken back to your hotel for the evening.

In the evening, you’ll go to visit Phare Cambodian Circus. Be amazed by stunts and choreography unique to Cambodia’s performing arts. You’ll watch as a story written by locals is acted out with an impressive stage show. Be prepared for laughter and wonder as you enjoy the performance. After the hour-long spectacle, you’ll return to your hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: Shinta Mani Villa – Bensley Collection

Day 26: Siem Reap | Beng Mealea Jungle Temple and Koh Ker Pyramid | Tonle Sap Lake

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you’ll wake early to visit Beng Melea while the morning dew and fog still cover this Indiana Jones-esque temple. Wind through maze-like tunnels, swing on ancient tree vines, and chart your own adventure while you climb through this amazing complex hidden in the jungle.

Koh Ker Pyramid Temple

Then you’ll travel to what was once the great city of Koh Ker, which was the capital before Angkor Thom. You’ll visit many temples, ancient pools, and ruins in the vast area. Then you’ll finish with a visit to the pyramid temple of Koh Ker. After this, you’ll return to Siem Reap.

On the way, you’ll take a boat trip on the water of the Tonle Sap Lake to a floating village called Kampong Phluk. Kampong Phluk means, Harbor of the Tusks, due to its past trade in elephant ivory many years ago. Having 3,000 inhabitants residing in stilted houses, the most common profession is fishing.

Accommodation: Shinta Mani Villa – Bensley Collection

Day 27: Siem Reap | Angkor Wat Sunrise

Meals: Breakfast
Before the light of day, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and escort you to the front of Angkor Wat Temple. From here, you’ll watch one of the most revered sunrises in the world. Our guide will arrange a light picnic breakfast for you to enjoy in front of the world’s #1 Heritage Site. Then in the early hours, you’ll explore the vast temple with your guide bringing to life the stories of Angkor. In the morning, the rays of the light play through the chambers as the morning haze settles and giving the temple a mystical ambiance while there are few tourists who visit during this time of day. After your explorations, you’ll return to your hotel for some rest and leisure time.

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Accommodation: Shinta Mani Villa – Bensley Collection

Day 28: Siem Reap – Phuket | Flight to Phuket | Leisure

Internal Flight: Included
Meals: Breakfast
In the morning, board a flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Enjoy the beaches of Phuket. North of the resort is two stunning beaches facing the Andaman Sea, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach. Perched above Kata Noi beach – a quiet stretch of white sand meets blue waves with forested mountains.

Accommodation: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Day 29: Phuket | Relax on the Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Today is at your leisure to explore the beautiful beaches of Phuket.

Accommodation: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Day 30: Phuket | Jungle Trekking at Khao Sok Ancient Rain Forest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you will join a trip to Khao Sok National Park. Enjoy trekking on foot through the ancient jungle. You will see the unique plant, flowers, butterfly, birds, squirrels, and more. The local guide will explain the ways of native plants were used in the past. Lunch is at Khaosok Discovery Restaurant with the view of the mountains. In the afternoon, start the canoeing down the river with a chance to spot a flora and fauna, and goes along the limestone cliff. Next, you will stop for a place to see the scenic view of Khao Sok. Then relax at Rommanee Hot Spring. You will return to Phuket after the tour.

Khao Sok National Park

Accommodation: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Day 31: Phuket | Sea Caves by Starlight

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
World famous kayaking inside marine limestone karst islands with macaques, water monitors, kingfishers, and Sea Eagles. Meet at the hotel around 11 AM to transfer to the pier. Then continue by boat with a light lunch served onboard. Self-paddle with your own sea cave guide through tunnels and lagoons. When darkness falls, stars shine overhead in the circle of black night, fireflies flash in the cliffside jungle and, most of all, the sea glows with phosphorescence. Enjoy a spiritual ceremony with your own made “Krathong”. Have a magnificent dinner onboard. Then return to land. A truly magical and out of this world experience (Listed among National Geographic’s “World’s Top 50 Adventures”).

Sea Cave Kayakking

Accommodation: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Day 32: Phuket – Krabi | Scenic Road Trip to Krabi | Leisure

Meals: Breakfast
Today you’ll take a scenic road transfer to Krabi. The transfer is around 3 hours with pleasant views en route. Upon arrival, get checked in and the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Long-tail boats and salty seas; limestone cliffs and vibrant jungle canopies; clear blue waters with a spectrum of fish varieties just below – Krabi is a step back to nature and scenery. Sandy beaches and moving sunsets draw the weary traveler for a place of respite and refocusing.

Accommodation: Andakiri Pool Villas

Day 33: Krabi | Relax on the Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Today is at your leisure to explore the stunning beaches of Krabi.

Accommodation: Andakiri Pool Villas

Day 34: Krabi | Phi Phi Island and Maya Bay

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Discover the spectacular limestone rock formations of Phi Phi Island. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the crystal clear water of the bay. Last stop at a lovely island with great white sandy beaches. A great spot to lay down and relax at the beach. Or go snorkeling in the beautiful reef around the island.

Phi Phi Island

Accommodation: Andakiri Pool Villas

Day 35: Krabi | Relax on the Beach | Private Seaside Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is at your leisure to explore the beaches of Krabi.

As dusk approaches, you’ll enjoy a private beachside dinner with candles, personal butler, and the sound of the sea. Dinner will feature a 4-course traditional Thai menu.

Seaside Romantic Dinner

Accommodation: Andakiri Pool Villas

Day 36: Krabi | Farewell!

Meals: Breakfast
Today our representative will transfer you to the airport before your homeward flight and will bid you a fond farewell. Thank you for traveling with us!

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