Secrets of Central Thailand

This trip reveals more about Thailand’s history across the centuries.

Opening Thailand’s history book

Over a memorable few days, you’ll dive into chapters of Thailand’s long history, from its ancient civilisation in the UNESCO city of Ayutthaya to the atrocities that unfolded in Kanchanaburi, while also learning plenty about Thailand of the here and now. Feel the rhythm of the fragrant and colourful markets and meet rice farmers to hear about their daily lives. A visit to the waterfalls at Erawan National Park means you can also see one of the scenic highlights of the nation. During this adventure, you'll stay at Cross River Kwai.

Tour type Short Add On Tour

Duration 3 nights

Visiting Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Samut Songkram

Recommended itinerary

Day 1

Ayutthaya

You’ll be collected from your hotel and taken to Bangkok station, departing on an 80-minute journey north to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO Historic City. Your time here begins with a ride on a Kermit TukTuk, stopping at The Great Monastery of Auspicious Victory, an ornate ancient temple, before heading out to Wat Phra Sri Sanpetch, the former royal temple inside the Grand Palace compound. Then, you’ll visit the crumbling ruins of Wat Mahathat, one of the oldest and most important temples in the region. Keep an eye out for the renowned Buddha head that has been overgrown by the roots of a tree. The day finishes off the beaten path in a local market where you can watch vendors make Roti Saimai, a Thai-style candy floss.

Day 2

Suphan Buri and Kanchanaburi

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll travel to Suphan Buri, around an hour away, to visit the Samchuk 100-Year Market, a traditional Thai market and Wat Phra Non to see an unusual reclining Buddha image carved from granite. The next visit is the Thai Farmers Learning Centre, where you can meet local rice farmers. You’ll leave Suphan Buri behind, travelling to Kanchanaburi, a 90-minute drive away, arriving in time to visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum and research facility that presents the history of the Thailand-Burma Railway.

Day 3

Kanchanaburi

Depart the hotel after breakfast to the renowned Erawan National Park, where you have the morning to observe the seven exquisite waterfalls and emerald ponds of this serene national park. Back in Kanchanaburi, you’ll take a historic ride on the Death Railway Train, passing over the original wooden viaduct constructed by Allied POWs. When you disembark, you’ll visit Hellfire Pass Memorial, part of the Death Railway that cuts through the mountain.

Day 4

Samut Songkram

A 90-minute drive south brings you to Samut Songkram, stopping at the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where lively vendors with flat boats piled high with fresh produce chat with shoppers on the banks. Then, venture out on a long-tail boat to cruise along these small canals and bargain for snacks like locals while passing by colourful views of traditional Thai life on the banks. You’ll travel through the city to visit the remarkable Rom Hub Railway Market, where market stalls lie on both sides of an active railway track. Witness a heartstopping scene when the train approaches and the vendors quickly fold away their umbrellas or awnings to make room for the train, which will slowly pass.

Suggested hotels

Bangkok 5 stars

Banyan Tree Bangkok

This elegant award-winning hotel in central Bangkok has one of the best rooftop bars in the city.

Hua Hin 5 stars

Cape Nidhra Hotel

This hidden gem is one of Hua Hin’s most intimate and beautifully appointed hotels.

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