45 Days Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand Off The Beaten Track

ITINERARY

Day 1: Hanoi | Arrive in Hanoi

International Flight: Excluded

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon arrival in Hanoi, our guide will greet you at the airport welcome area and transfer you to your hotel in the Old French Quarter 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: Silk Path Boutique Hotel

Day 2: Hanoi | Impressions of Hanoi | Water Puppet Show and Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning is at your leisure to explore on your own.

In the afternoon, 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 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’s teachings.

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. In the late afternoon, transfer to Tran Quoc Pagoda set on West Lake. 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.

Water Puppet Show and Vietnamese Cuisine

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 transferred to the hotel.

Accommodation: Silk Path Boutique Hotel

Day 3: Hanoi | Home Hosted Cooking Class

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Learn the Vietnamese culinary secrets with a cooking class in Van Giang Village.

After breakfast, transfer with our guide to Van Giang Village. Here you’ll learn the basics of preparing refreshing and nuanced Vietnamese dishes from the rural residents of the Red River Delta. Meet the local family hosting you and learn about who has what roles in a typical Vietnamese home. After you’re finished preparing the dishes with your host, you’ll enjoy lunch.

Sip a cup of hot green tea as they excitedly share with you about the village’s history.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue Bat Trang Pottery Village. Situated approximately 15km outside of Hanoi, the village is surrounded by fertile farmland. You’ll see how the artisans form, paint and glaze their products, which are then baked for several days in large kilns.

Return to Hanoi for overnight.

Accommodation: Silk Path Boutique Hotel

Day 4: Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay | Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, our guide will transfer you to Halong. Arrive at Bhaya Cruise Centre at Tuan Chau Island for check-in. Board and enjoy welcome drinks. Then a quick debriefing of the itinerary and safety information by the Cruise Manager.

Next, enjoy lunch in the dining room as the boat cruises South East. Enjoy stunning karst formations such as Chicken Rock, Finger Islet, and Frog Islet.

Mid-afternoon, arrive at Tien Ong Cave – an archaeological site with stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Go by kayak or traditional rowboats to visit Cau Van floating village, a beautiful fishing community on the water.

Continue from here to a beach for swimming and leisure.

Return to the boat for a spectacular sunset over the isles from the sundeck. Then head down for cooking for a cooking demonstration to learn how to make some Vietnamese cuisine.
Enjoy Vietnamese dinner and relax for the evening. If weather and seasonal conditions permit, you can join the crew to try your hand at squid fishing.

Accommodation: Bhaya Cruise

Day 5: Lan Ha Bay – Ninh Binh | Sunrise Lan Ha Bay | Ninh Binh and Bai Dinh Temple

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start early for a gorgeous sunrise over the water followed by a Tai Chi demonstration on the sundeck. Enjoy a light breakfast on board. As the boat glides through the islands, you’ll experience a little introduction to tea culture with a Vietnamese traditional tea ceremony. Enjoy watching the towering karsts pass by while you sip some heavenly brews.

Have a hearty brunch in the dining room, then get checked out and disembark at Tuan Chau pier.

Note: Order of activities may vary depending on the Halong Bay authorities and weather conditions.

Transfer with our guide to Ninh Binh. After check-in, 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.

Accommodation: Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort

Day 6: Ninh Binh – Hanoi | Wonders of Ninh Binh | Return to Hanoi

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.

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.
Return back to Hanoi for overnight.

Accommodation: Silk Path Boutique Hotel

Day 7: Hanoi – Sapa | Road Trip to Sapa | Hiking to Ta Van Village

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, you will travel around 4 hours on the newly built highway northward from Hanoi to Sapa through the lush countryside and beautiful mountainsides. Sapa is a lovely small town located near the top of the Annamite Range and surrounded by the ethnic hill tribes. Check-in the resort.

Time to stretch out your legs! Your tour guide will take you to Muong Hoa valley to see one of the most beautiful valleys in northwest Vietnam. Descending into the valley on foot, you will see the largest terraced paddy of Sapa. A short walk takes you from Lao Chai village of the Black H’mong minority to Ta Van village of the Giay minority. You will have a chance to see the different traditions and costumes of these two ethnic minority groups. After the hike, return to the hotel for some leisure time.

Accommodation: Eco Palms House

Day 8: Sapa | Coc Ly Hill Tribe Gathering

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast with a peaceful atmosphere and the fresh air in the morning, then we’ll start a full-day excursion to discover the authentic markets with local ethnic minorities.

Drive from Lao Cai (2hrs) to Coc Ly market situated between stunning mountains and Chay River. Every Tuesday morning, people from the surrounding ethnic villages such as Flower H’mong, Phu La and Dao Tuyen gather to sell and buy their produce. Then take a boat trip to the Flower H’mong village of Na Nen. After, you’ll trek to Trung Do village of the Tay minority tribe. Continue by boat down the river and experience the magnificent sights of the beautiful river banks.
Return to Sapa for overnight.

Accommodation: Eco Palms House

Day 9: Sapa | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to enjoy exploring the countryside and village around the resort on your own.

Accommodation: Eco Palms House

Day 10: Hanoi – Hue | Return to Hanoi | Flight to Hue

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy the morning at leisure soaking up your last bit of time in Sapa.

In the afternoon, transfer with our guide to Hanoi before your onward flight to Hue. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel for check in.

Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

Day 11: Hue | Hue Imperial Highlights

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, you’ll start with a visit to the Perfume River, a river famed for its natural scenery and numerous flowers that cover its shores. Along the river, you’ll see Vietnamese daily life up close. Your boat will take you to the Tomb of Minh Mang, featuring gardens, many steps, and beautiful decorations.

Then you’ll visit Tu Doc, a compound with the private royal residence and a tomb that also houses the body of one of the wealthiest emperors in Vietnam. Archaeologists have attempted to find his body and the vast treasures, legends have held, that are contained with it. However, these attempts have failed as the body was buried in an inconspicuous place in the large compound unknown to this day. You’ll then continue on to see the Khai Dinh Tomb, a more modern tomb with ornate decorations inside.

Hue Imperial Citadel

Your ventures will take you to lunch at a royal residence. These imperial styled houses near the Royal Citadel feature beautiful gardens, intricate furnishings, and detailed ornaments at every turn. Each dish highlights different aspects of Hue traditional food enjoyed by the royalty. The brilliant food presentation will be sure to leave a fond memory with you of this family-owned garden and restaurant.

In the afternoon, you’ll press onward to see the famed Imperial Hue Citadel – the old capital of Vietnam. This Citadel has a moat and wall perimeter 10 km long. You’ll be able to view it’s vast gardens and structure relics. Then you’ll breach the outer perimeter of the Hue Imperial City. Inside, you’ll see many of the national treasures and structures that have survived the Vietnam War. Venture further inside and you’ll enter the Purple Forbidden City. This city was off-limits to the commoners and only could be entered by the highest officials in the Vietnamese government and royalty. Your driver will meet you on the other side of the city where you’ll then be escorted to a stop at the Dong Ba Market where you can see local fruits and produce for sale.

Hue Royal Citadel – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

Day 12: Hue | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or explore on your own.

Accommodation: Eldora Hotel

Day 13: Hue – Hoi An | Road Trip thru Hai Van Pass to Hoi An

Meals: Breakfast

Our guide will assist with checking you out of the hotel. Transfer with our guide by vehicle for a scenic ride along the mountain coasts of Vietnam. Start by riding through the mountains, valleys, countryside, and shorelines where you’ll find numerous breath-taking scenes. Feel free to request your driver to stop for photos along the way. Then you’ll continue to a summit where the clouds will meet you. In Chinese, the summit is referred to as “Where the Clouds Meet the Ocean”. After you cross the summit, you’ll approach a steep and narrow descent where you’ll find the scenery surreal. Along the way, there is a stretch of road which overlooks a beautiful bay with a small fishing village, perfect for a Facebook portrait.

As reach the base, you’ll travel alongside the beaches of Danang where you’ll see hundreds of traditional fishing boats scattered out along the water with beautiful mountains lining the horizon.

Then you’ll approach Hoi An with beautiful countryside, hills, river views, and seaside coasts.

At the end of a long lane of sandy beaches, palms and the 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: Little Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa

Day 14: Hoi An | Hoi An Ancient Town at Dusk

Meals: Breakfast

Hoi An Ancient Port Town – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

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.

Accommodation: Little Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa

Day 15: Hoi An | My Son Holy Land

Meals: Breakfast

Today you’ll explore the My Son Holy Land, a UNESCO Heritage Site, and Vietnam’s most important Cham site.

In the morning, your tour guide and driver will escort you from your hotel to the My Son Holy Land. Tucked in the mountains up winding roads with serene views lay the 1,100-year-old My Son Holy Land ruins. The surrounding mountains are strictly forbidden from living or development. The ruins lay in a beautiful surrounding mountainous landscape. You’ll enter the temples while your tour guide gives you the history and stories of the Cham and the site. Afterward, you’ll watch an Apsara show nearby the site, passed through the Cham tradition. The show features live music and colorful costumes.

Accommodation: Little Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa

Day 16: Hoi An | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to enjoy the hotel facilities or explore on your own.

Accommodation: Little Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa

Day 17: Danang – Dalat | Flight to Da Lat

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

Today, you will transfer by flight to Dalat. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

Accommodation: Zen Valley Dalat Resort

Day 18: Dalat | Dalat Highlights

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, you’ll start with a roller coaster ride through the jungle. After a few minutes of beautiful views, you’ll arrive at the bottom where you can visit Datanla Falls. Then continue to a lookout of Tuyen Lam Lake where you’ll take a cable car for nice views of the lake. After the ride, you’ll visit the pagodas and temples nearby the lake. Stop for lunch on your own arrangement.

In the afternoon, continue to visit several famous gardens in Vietnam where many Vietnamese couples go for photos. Then go to Lam Dong Museum where you’ll get a brief overview of the nearly 4,000 years of history surrounding Dalat and Lam Dong province. Next, you’ll visit a mansion designed by it’s owner, Hang Nga, with a very unique architecture which is now referred to as the “Crazy House”. Continue to the “Valley of Love”, a beautiful park and gardens nearby Tuyen Lam Lake. Then return to the hotel for the evening.

Crazy Houses – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Accommodation: Zen Valley Dalat Resort

Day 19: Dalat – Saigon | Flight to Saigon

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

Today, take a flight to Saigon. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

Saigon(officially Ho Chi Minh City) is a bustling metropolis of the South and the economic muscle of Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, it was the main base center of the US military with the largest airport in the region. Prior to that, it was under French colonial rule and was an Asian hub of sea trade. The city is based in the Mekong River Delta region – the rice basket of Southeast Asia and where many exotic fruits are cultivated. Full of history and culture, Saigon will certainly be an interesting visit.

Accommodation: Ma Maison Boutique Hotel Saigon

Day 20: Saigon | Saigon Highlights and Cu Chi Tunnels

Meals: Breakfast

See the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City during this full-day tour, which includes the Cu Chi Tunnels.

In the morning, your guide will greet you at the lobby and escort you to the Cu Chi Tunnels. An immense network of connecting underground tunnels used during the war, you’ll explore the complex and see the ingenious traps, bomb holes, and narrow tunnels between underground bunkers.

Then you’ll come back to Ho Chi Minh City to visit the Reunification Palace, which was the home to the President of South Vietnam during the War, and the place of the end of the war during the fall of Saigon.

Then you’ll go on to see the Notre Dame Cathedral constructed by French colonists during their settlement. Across the road is the Old Saigon Post Office, a neoclassical architectural building that is considered one of the main tourist attractions in the city.

The next stop is Cholon , the Chinatown of Saigon, a thickly settled district rife with tea-houses and pagodas, and the famous Binh Tay Market.

To finish the tour, you’ll visit the Emperor Jade Pagoda, also known as the Tortoise Pagoda. This figurine-filled site of worship is considered by many to be Saigon’s finest.

Once the tour is completed, you’ll transfer back to the hotel.

Accommodation: Ma Maison Boutique Hotel Saigon

Day 21: Saigon – Can Tho | Mekong Delta Discovery: My Tho

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mekong Delta River and Coconut Forest – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Discover the Mekong River, essential to Vietnamese life.

Your private guide and car will take you to the remote My Tho.

This burgeoning capital rests in the Mekong Delta and is surrounded by beautiful countryside known as the “rice basket of Vietnam”. First, you’ll visit Vinh Trang Pagoda which is decorated with mosaics made from broken pottery. Overlooked by a tall white Buddha, it is set amongst lovely gardens packed with flowers, shrubs, lotus pools, and tombs, and ornate gates that provide entry.

Next, you’ll take a boat ride along the river to view the stilt houses, fruit plantations, and fishing villages. You’ll stop at the Tortoise Island where you’ll enjoy lunch in the orchard.

After lunch, you’ll visit An Khanh, a small village that specializes in fruit orchards and coconut sweets. If time permits, you can take a short cycling trip through the island.

Then enjoy seasonal fruit, honey tea, and delicious coconut candies all to the sound of “Southern Vietnamese folk music”, performed by locals.

When the tour is finished, you’ll transfer to Can Tho.

Accommodation: Victoria Can Tho Resort

Day 22: Saigon – Chau Doc | Cai Rang Floating Market | Transfer to Chau Doc

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Rise early in the morning for breakfast at the hotel where our private guide and driver will meet you to transfer you to the pier of Can Tho for an adventure on the river.

Your motorboat and captain will greet you and help you onboard. You’ll be taken to the largest floating market in Can Tho where local farmers bring their bulk products for sale. The trip there will see the banks with various flowers scattered throughout.

When you arrive at the market, you’ll see boats with colorful fruits and vegetables local to the region being traded in bulk. After this, you’ll venture up narrow canals to find a local fruit farm hidden in the natural landscape of the creek. You’ll have the chance to see local fruits such as mango, limes, jack fruit, durian and more being grown.

Then you’ll have the chance to sit and enjoy fresh-cut fruit before returning to town by boat.

You’ll have lunch at a restaurant overlooking the Mekong River. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the hotel in Chau Doc.

Accommodation: Victoria Nui Sam Lodge

Day 23: Chau Doc | Chau Doc Exploration

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, our tour guide will transfer you to visit Sam Mountain, Lady Xu Temple, Thoai Ngoc Hau Temple, floating fish farm and take a boat trip to Cham Pa village to discover the fascinating life on the Mekong River. After the tour is completed, return to the hotel for overnight.

Accommodation: Victoria Nui Sam Lodge

Day 24: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh | Speedboat to Phnom Penh | Phnom Penh Highlights

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start the morning early with breakfast at the hotel. Your private car and chauffeur will escort you to the pier where you’ll join a speed boat cruise on the Mekong River. This scenic route to Vietnam features beautiful terrain along the shore while you enjoy the oxygen-filled breeze native to this green-banked river. The morning begins with leaving Chau Doc as you watch a beautiful sunrise open before your eyes, with the light dancing between the lotus plants bobbing on the waters along the shore. Keep your eyes peeled for junks and paddleboats as well as crops of corn, rice, and produce. Depending on the time of year, you’ll spot various flowers that will perfume your journey down the legendary Mekong. When you arrive at the pier in Phnom Penh, your private tour guide and vehicle will greet you. Continue to the hotel for check-in.

Royal Palace of his majesty – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

In the afternoon, discover the National Museum where you will see the large collection of Khmer history, arts, and architecture. After that, you will also visit the Silver Pagoda, which has 5,000 silver tiles on the floor. You’ll finish the day with a visit to the Royal Palace, a large complex of ornate Khmer royal-styled buildings where many of the treasures and relics of Cambodia are housed and where the Khmer royal family lives.

Accommodation: The Pavilion

Day 25: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap | Flight to Siem Reap | Apsara Dinner Show

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, take a flight to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the 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.

Be prepared to enjoy a beautiful traditional dance performed by a team trained in the Dance of Apsara.

In the evening, you will be picked up from the hotel lobby and transferred to Angkor Village Hotel Theater for a traditional Apsara Dinner Show. where you will have a unique dinner experience which will bring ancient Khmer culture to life in spectacular surroundings while you enjoy the very best in Cambodia cuisine. This one-of-a-kind cultural experience highlights the mysterious civilization and heritage of Khmer spoken through choreography and music. Colorful costumes and playful activities will give you insights into the Khmer daily life and wedding traditions while you enjoy a delicious meal to welcome you to the Kingdom of Wonders.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 26: Siem Reap | Koh Ker Pyramid and Beng Melea Jungle Temple

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.

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.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 27: Siem Reap | Ancient City of Angkor Thom | Water Blessing Ceremony

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.

South Gate of Angkor Thom – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

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. First on the agenda is Ta Prohm. Worn by time, rain, and overpowered by the jungle, this immaculate structure is hidden under the 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. Visit the local monastery to chat with monks and see their daily life. Then take part in a Water Blessing Ceremony. We will provide a change of clothes for you – a traditional Sarong which you will wear during the ceremony.

Other Manificent Temples and Pyramid-Shaped Temple Sunset

After 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. 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.

During the visit to Angkor Thom, visit to the local monastery to chat with monks and see their daily life. Then take part in a Water Blessing Ceremony. We will provide a change of clothes for you – a traditional Sarong which you will wear during the ceremony.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 28: Siem Reap | Floating Village on the Tonle Sap Lake | Leisure

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, start with an ox cart ride through Cambodia’s green countryside where you’ll see many coconut trees, rice fields, and water buffalo. After that, continue the trip to the largest lake in Southeast Asia, the Tonle Sap. You’ll take a boat ride to Kampong Phluk which means, Harbor of the Tusks due to its history in the elephant trade several centuries ago. You’ll also see the mangrove forests nearby. After the tour, you’ll return to your hotel to relax for the rest of the day.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 29: Siem Reap | Kulen Mountain and Waterfall

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you’ll wake early to visit Kulen Mountain National Park(Mountain of Lychees). Explore the jungles brimming with wildlife and tropical fruit. Discover stone carvings under the streams that predate Angkor Wat. Trek to the 16th-century temple on the mountain where Buddhists and Hindus pilgrimage frequently.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic next to Kulen Waterfall where Angelina Jolie was filmed for the movie Tomb Raider. Take a swim if you like before we continue to the rice fields and countryside below the mountain. Next, you’ll visit Banteay Srei, the Citadel of Women. This smaller temple in the jungle features some of the most intricately preserved carvings of all the temples in Cambodia. Then you’ll take an ox-cart ride through the rice fields and give Palm Sugar and Palm Wine a try if you fancy. After the tour is finished, transfer back to town for some leisure time in the evening.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 30: Siem Reap | Angkor Wat Sunrise and Exploration

Meals: Breakfast

Angkor Wat Temple – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

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 the hotel for some rest and leisure time.

Accommodation: Pavillon d Orient Boutique-Hotel

Day 31: Siem Reap – Bangkok | Flight to Bangkok | Ev Thai Dinner Show and Silom Village

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

Today, take a flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

In the evening, transfer with our guide to Silom Village Trade Center to enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while witnessing a traditional cultural performance. After the show, return back to the hotel for overnight.

Accommodation: Sala Rattanakosin

Day 32: Bangkok | Ayutthaya Ancient City

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start late morning and transfer North to the Ancient Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Start by visiting Wat Phu Khao Thong – a temple outside of Ayutthaya started by the invading Burmese who built the base when they overtook Ayutthaya and was finished by Siam who later took back their city. Continue to Ayutthaya and start with the Royal Palace and Royal Temple – dating back to the 14th century. Continue to the nearby Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit where the largest bronze Buddha in Thailand is housed.

Enjoy a Thai lunch and some free time. Have a short visit to Wat Lokaya Sutha – the image of the reclining Buddha. Then continue to the Royal Palace at Bang Pa In, which is the Summer Palace of the Thai Royal Family. Return back to the hotel in Bangkok for leisure time.

Accommodation: Sala Rattanakosin

Day 33: Bangkok | Bangkok by Longtail Boat

Meals: Breakfast

In the early morning, take a traditional long-tail boat to Wat Arun – the Temple of the Dawn to enjoy a stunning view and explore the gem of Bangkok.

Temple of Dawn – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

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.

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.

Accommodation: Sala Rattanakosin

Day 34: Bangkok – Chiang Mai | Flight to Chiang Mai | Chiang Mai Temples

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, take a flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, our guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to the 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 hand made 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.

Chiang Mai City Temples

In the afternoon, 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 the hotel for some leisure time in the evening.

Accommodation: Eurasia Chiang Mai

Day 35: Chiang Mai | Elephant Sanctuary

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you will visit an elephant sanctuary in the jungles near Chiang Mai. First, you’ll learn about the project and hear the amazing stories of each rescued and orphaned elephant. You will each be paired with your own elephant. Learn how they became free from abuse and misuse. You’ll be shown how to approach your elephant, what spoken commands they respond to, how to read their body language, and how to check their health. Then have an opportunity to feed them. The mahout will also show you how to ride on their neck(no heavy howdah seats are used) or you can walk alongside your elephant if you prefer.

Elephant Sanctuary – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Continue to the nearby river. Here you will have the opportunity to observe or participate in bathing the elephants with the sanctuary staff. The sanctuary has a photographer who will capture these moments in high quality for you throughout the day and provide you a CD of the experience. Next, enjoy a picnic spread.

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

Note: Please note not to wear any perfume or strong fragrances as elephants are sensitive to smell. Also, bring a change of clothes for swimming, odorless sunscreen, and a towel.

Accommodation: Eurasia Chiang Mai

Day 36: Chiang Mai | Highest Peak in Thailand: Doi Inthanon

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you’ll explore the Doi Inthanon National Park. You’ll visit the highest peak where glorious views of the countryside await. You’ll also trek to many waterfalls and see the flora and fauna unique to this region. As time permits, you’ll visit several pagodas, hill tribe villages, and royal gardens.

Accommodation: Eurasia Chiang Mai

Day 37: Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai | Road Trip to Chiang Rai | Golden Triangle Discovery

Meals: Breakfast

Transfer in the morning to Chiang Rai. On the way, you’ll stop at Wat Rong Khun(the White Temple). This unique and modern temple features Hindu and Buddhist architecture along with very contemporary and peculiar art and sculptures. You’ll continue to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai is a quiet city nestled between two mountain ranges in the valley along the Mae Kok River. It has a colorful history, is the birthplace of the Lanna Kingdom, and was once home to the Emerald Buddha – during a short time when the priceless Buddhist relic was brought for hiding. The friendly town makes a great base camp for visiting the Golden Triangle, Ancient City of Chiang Saen, Mae Salong Mountain, and the “Island on the Clouds” (Phu Chi Fah view point). Aspiring local artists have produced world-acclaimed pieces of architecture and art such as “The White Temple” and “The Black House”.

In the afternoon, visit the Golden Triangle, where the Ruak River and the Mekong river meet forming the borders of three countries – Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos – the area is known for it’s stunning views. Visit the Hall of Opium museum to learn about the history of the Opium War. Continue on to the ancient city of Chiang Sean at Wat Chedi Luang – a stone city and the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom. After the tour is finished, return to town for the evening at your leisure.

Accommodation: Phowadol Resort and Spa

Day 38: Chiang Rai | Mae Salong Mountain

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, transfer to Mae Salong mountain, a scenic peak in the Shan Highlands. First, stop at a tea plantation to try some fresh hot tea in the morning while taking in the splendid views. Learn about the Chinese military KMT village that resettled at Mae Salong and their interesting story. Have lunch at a Yunnanese restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Akha, Yao, and Lisu hill-tribe villages. Then return back to the resort.

Northern Thai Tea Plantation – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Accommodation: Phowadol Resort and Spa

Day 39: Chiang Rai – Khao Sok | Flight to Phuket | Transfer to Khao Sok

Internal Flight: Included

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, take a flight to Phuket. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to Panvaree: The Greenery Resort for check-in.

Accommodation: Panvaree: The Greenery

Day 40: Khao Sok | Kayaking in Khao Sok Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast

Today, canoe silently on Cheow Lan Lake. Keep your eyes open for birds and other small creepy animals that shall remain unnamed. No other place in southern Thailand can rival the natural scenery in the Khao Sok jungle. Discover rare plants and animals in one of the world’s last ancient jungles.

Khao Sok National Park – 45 Days Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Off The Beaten Track

Accommodation: Panvaree: The Greenery

Day 41: Khao Sok | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to enjoy the resort facilities or explore on your own.

Accommodation: Panvaree: The Greenery

Day 42: Khao Sok – Ko Yao Yai | Road Trip to Phuket | Boat to Koh Yao Yai

Meals: Breakfast

Today, our representative will transfer you to the pier in Phuket. There, take a speed boat to Ko Yao Yai. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transfer to The Island Hideout Resort for check-in.

Accommodation: Koh Yao Yai Village

Day 43: Ko Yao Yai | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to explore the stunning beaches of Koh Yao Yai.

Accommodation: Koh Yao Yai Village

Day 44: Ko Yao Yai | Leisure Day

Meals: Breakfast

Today is at your leisure to explore the stunning beaches of Koh Yao Yai.

Accommodation: Koh Yao Yai Village

Day 45: Phuket | Farewell!

Meals: Breakfast

Today, you will transfer by boat to Phuket. Continue to the airport for your flight onward and a fond farewell. Thank you for traveling with us!

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