HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA & THAILAND

Siem Reap (Angkor), Chiang Mai, Bangkok
(9 Days – Departs Daily on a Private Basis)

PRIVATE TRAVEL FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS

EXPERIENCES OF A LIFETIME

This luxury private tour combines the best of Thailand and Cambodia,
including city touring in Bangkok, exploring the Angkor ruins, and
cultural touring amongst the beautiful scenery of northern Thailand.

Begin in Siem Reap, Cambodia, to explore incredible Angkor, the wondrous
ruins of the ancient Khmer empire. With your private guide, tour the most
interesting parts of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including Angkor Wat,
an enormous temple city built as a model of the Hindu universe in stone;
Angkor Thom, an ancient capital filled with iconic sites such as the Bayon,
Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King; Ta Prohm, a temple
being devoured by the jungle; and serene Preah Khan, a former monastery
and school. Also visit Banteay Srei, a petite temple with elaborate carvings in
pink sandstone, and other lesser-known temples. Additional special-interest
activities can also be arranged, such as a cruise on Lake Tonle Sap, bike riding,
Khmer cooking lessons, visits to orphanages and children's centers, Khmer
dance performances, photography excursions or village tours.

Fly to Bangkok. Enjoy a fascinating, private long-tail boat tour through
Bangkok's canals explore colorful markets selling textiles, flowers, Buddhist
items, food and crafts. Visit Bangkok's most important attractions, including
the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. Learn about
Buddhist practices and influences on daily life. There will also be time to view
traditional Thai art and architecture at the Jim Thompson Museum.

This spectacular tour concludes in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. During
private touring, explore Chiang Mai's historic temples and wonderful markets.
One day, take an excursion to an elephant sanctuary and learn about these
fascinating animals. Other optional activities can be arranged, upon request,
such as hiking, biking, in-depth Buddhist experiences, cooking classes and more.

9-Day Itinerary

Day-By-Day

Day
1

Welcome To Siem Reap

Fly to Siem Reap, CAMBODIA    

Welcome to Cambodia. Upon arrival in Siem Reap Airport, obtain your Cambodia visa, and then clear Immigration and Customs. After collecting your baggage, exit the airport arrival gate to meet  the local guide outside. He/she will be holding a sign with your names on it.

Meet your English-speaking guide for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and driver. Siem Reap is the base for exploring the fabled temples of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmer empire.

Settle in and enjoy the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Stay tonight at the Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas (Bayon Room)

Day
2

The Wonders of Angkor

Angkor Thom South Gate
Today, begin exploring the Khmer ruins of Angkor. These incredible monuments are on par with the Great Pyramids or Machu Picchu as a testament to the greatness of a continent’s lost empire. Henri Mouhot, the 19th-century French explorer who is credited with rediscovering the ruins after hundreds of years of neglect, declared in awe that the Angkor complex was greater than anything left to us by ancient Greece or Rome. 

Spend the early morning visit the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (12th century). This huge walled complex was the centre of the world’s largest city in 1200. Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the King Jayavarman VII decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. The scale is simply staggering and we are immediately overwhelmed by the audacity of Jayavarman on arrival at the city’s gates. The causeway is lined by an intricate bridge depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the devas (gods) and asuras (devils) play tug of war with a naga (seven-headed serpent) to obtain the elixir of immortality. Its vast walls, some 6m wide, 8m high and 13km in length contain many monuments.

Bayon Temple
Next, visit Bayon temple surrounded by faces on all sides, visitors never forget the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon. At the exact centre of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. Its 54 towers are each topped off with the four faces of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion), which bear more than a passing resemblance to the king himself. These colossal heads stare down from every side, exuding power and control with a hint of compassion, just the mix required to keep a hold on such a vast empire.

Unlike his predecessors who had worshipped the Hindu deities of Shiva and Vishnu, Jayavarman VII adopted Mahayana Buddhism as the fount of royal divinity. This sets the Bayon apart from many other Angkorian monuments. The bas-reliefs here depict intricate scenes of ancient battles against the Chams and offer a wonderful snapshot of daily life during the Angkor period.

Baphuon
You’ll then continue to visit Baphuon. It is located in Angkor Thom, northwest of the Bayon. Built in the mid-11th century, it is a three-tiered temple mountain built as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva.

Terrace of the Elephants
Stroll to the Terrace of the Elephants is part of the walled city of Angkor Thom. The terrace was used by Angkor's king Jayavarman VII as a platform from which to view his victorious returning army. It was attached to the palace of Phimeanakas, of which only a few ruins remain.

Terrace of the Leper King
We also visit, Terrace of the Leper King is located in the northwest corner of the Royal Square of Angkor Thom, Cambodia. It was built in the Bayon style under Jayavarman VII, though its modern name derives from a 15th-century sculpture discovered at the site. The statue depicts the Hindu god Yama, the god of death.

Phimeanakas
Next, visit Phimeanakas or Vimeanakas, is a Hindu temple in the Khleang style, built at the end of the 10th century, during the reign of Rajendravarman, and then completed by Suryavarman I in the shape of a three tier pyramid as a Hindu temple.

Ta Phrom
Next, you’ll continue to Ta Phrom this temple is perhaps the most atmospheric of all Angkor’s treasures. The temple was a monastery built by Jayavarman VII as a residence for his mother. Ta Prohm has been left to the destructive power of nature by archaeologists to demonstrate the awesome power of nature.

It has been largely consumed by the jungle and as you climb through the dilapidated stone structures you see many giant trees growing out of the top of the temple itself. At every turn you expect to see Indiana Jones or Lara Croft step out from behind a fallen pillar. It is one of the most regularly visited temples, with visitors often arriving during the middle of the day to take advantage of the protective forest canopy above the ruined temple. Ta Prohm looks as many of the monuments did when European explorers first laid eyes on them.

Afterwards, enjoy your lunch at a delicious local restaurant.

Angkor Wat
Take a break for lunch at local restaurant and afterwards, you’ll be dazzled by what you see this afternoon at the vast, 12th-century Angkor Wat temple; the bas-reliefs and many devatas (guardian spirits) that cover its walls inspire awe and admiration. This example of classical Khmer architecture has been a significant religious center for Hindus and then Buddhists through the ages.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Stay tonight at the Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas (Bayon Room)

Day
3

Khmer Temples & Tonle Sap Lake

Banteay Srei
This morning, journey north to visit Banteay Srei. This jewel of Angkor was built by a Brahman in the 10th Century and dedicated to Shiva. The famous pink sandstone structure bears a series of exquisite sculptures, lintels and friezes. These, it is said, must have been carved by women as the detail is too fine for the hands of a man. This gives the origin of the Khmer name, Fortress of the Women. While it may be a small temple complex, the beauty of Banteay Srei is found not in the scale, but the detail. Many believe the intricate carving is the best example of Khmer classical art in existence. Stop at a local village to visit families who are producing palm sugar.

Preah Khan
Next, continue to visit Preah Khan, built in the same style as Ta Prohm, Preah Khan is a much better state of preservation. Meaning The Sacred Sword, this temple was also built by Jayavarman VII and is famous for its immensely long cruciform corridors and delicate carvings, including the spectacular hall of dancers. Look out for the curious two-storey structure that is almost Grecian in inspiration. This is one of the few temples originally dedicated to both Buddhism and Hinduism. The original eastern entrance was for Mahayana Buddhists, while the other cardinal points represented the Hindu trinity of Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. After visiting the temples, you will receive a monks blessing for good luck and good health.

Afterwards, enjoy your lunch at a delicious local restaurant in town.

Kampong Phluk Floating Village
After lunch, you’ll continue for a tour of the surrounding countryside and take an ox-cart ride through the villages and the rice fields. At the end of your ride, have a fresh coconut drink with the family and do not hesitate to talk with the local people to get to know more about their lives. Later, you may wish to join us for drive to the fishing village of Kompong Pluk near Siem Reap and board a private boat. Visit Kompong Pluk village with its houses standing on stilts and board a pirogue to discover the seasonally flooded forest. Visit the floating village and discover the centuries-old lifestyle of the inhabitants of the lake.

Phare - The Cambodian Circus: Tonight you will be taken to Siem Reap's big top to watch Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Be astounded at the mix of traditional Cambodian dance and modern entertainment.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Stay tonight at the Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas (Bayon Room)

Day
4

On To Bangkok, Thailand's Stunning Capital

After leisurely morning, you will be transferred to the Siem Reap Airport in time for your flight to Bangkok.

Board a flight from Siem Reap with direct service to Bangkok. Approximate flight time is one hour and 05 minutes.

Flight: Siem Reap – Bangkok 09.50 - 10.55

Welcome to THAILAND. Upon arrival in Bangkok Airport, obtain your Thailand visa, and then clear Immigration and Customs. After collecting your baggage, exit the airport arrival gate to meet  the local guide outside. He/she will be holding a sign with your names on it.

Meet your English-speaking guide for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and driver. Bangkok Thailand’s capital city, known to Thais as “Krung Thep” (the City of Angels) is one of the world’s most exciting cities. It holds the essence of the Thai spirit, and is very much the heart of the country. Without doubt, this fast-growing metropolis of roughly 10 million people has something to offer to everyone. Its lively collection of nightlife venues, markets, shops, restaurants, magnificent “Wats” (temples), museums, palaces and parks will assure that you never get bored.

Wat Pho
After lunch at a local restaurant and afternoon sightseeing in Bangkok, an intriguing mix of ancient and modern, visit Wat Pho (famous for its 141-foot-long reclining Buddha) Wat Pho is not only one of the most visited Buddhist temples in Bangkok but it is where history, medical science and educational institute combined. Officially named Wat Prachetuphon Vimon Mangkararam, Wat pho was believed to be founded during the 16th century and was later served as The Royal Temple of King Rama I of Chakri Dynasty.

The Grand Palace
Next, continue to Grand Palace is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok. The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. The king, his court, and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), resided at the Chitralada Royal Villa and his successor King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall, both in the Dusit Palace, but the Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year.

Wat Phra Kaew
You’ll also visit Wat Phra Kaew, commonly known in English as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and officially as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. The complex consists of a number of buildings within the precincts of the Grand Palace in the historical centre of Bangkok. It houses the statue of the Emerald Buddha, which is venerated as the country's palladium. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure and dinner on your own in Bangkok.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Stay tonight at the Banyan Tree Bangkok (Horizon Room)

Day
5

Bangkok's Klongs Canal & Jim Thompson House

Klongs Canal
This morning, cruise up the Chao Phraya River and through a network of canals, called Klongs (canal) tour a wonderful way to observe local life in Bangkok’s hidden corners. Stop at the artists’ community of Khlong Bang Luang, a historic enclave of well-preserved wooden homes, traditional temples, art studios, antique galleries and charming noodle shops. At the center of Khlong Bang Luang is Baan Silapin (Artists House), a unique gallery showing a rotating selection of prints, drawings, photographs, sculpture and everything in between. These often-bustling "city streets," lined with homes and small businesses, are where much of "real life" in Bangkok is found, as you'll witness firsthand.

Wat Arun
Stop visit to Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) along the way. The Temple was built during the Ayutthaya period and was originally called Wat Makok after the name of the local Village Tambol Bangmakok. It means "Village of Olives". Wat Arun gets its name from Aruna, the Indian god of the dawn, hence its common name The Temple of Dawn. The location of the temple is in the area that used to be occupied by the Palace of King Taksin who re-established the Siamese Kingdom after the fall of Ayutthaya more than two hundred years ago. The main Buddha image is believed to have been designed by King Rama II.

Jim Thompson House & Museum
Then journey from the riverside to the Jim Thompson House & Museum, where you'll join a local guide to tour the art- and artifact-filled Bangkok home of the expatriate American architect, OSS officer and postwar Thai silk entrepreneur who mysteriously disappeared in the 1960s. After lunch your guide will accompany you back to your hotel and enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay tonight at the Banyan Tree Bangkok (Horizon Room)

Day
6

Chiang Mai The "Rose of The North"

After leisurely morning, you will be transferred to the Bangkok Airport in time for your flight to Chiang Mai.

Board a flight from Bangkok with direct service to Chiang Mai. Approximate flight time is one hour and 40 minutes.

Flight: PG916 Bangkok – Chiang Mai 09.40 - 11.20

Welcome to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival in Chiang Mai Airport. After collecting your baggage, exit the airport arrival gate to meet  the local guide outside. He/she will be holding a sign with your names on it.

Meet your English-speaking guide for an airport transfer with a private vehicle and driver. Chiang Mai, Thailand, the "Rose of the North," established in the 13th century, and known for its artistic and cultural heritage. 

Lunch at a local restaurant and afternoon, visit several teak, Lanna-style houses and some of Chiang Mai’s most revered Buddhist temples and shrines.

Wat Phra Singh
Visit Wat Phra Singh Built in 1345, the Temple is located on Sam Lan Road. It houses the North s most revered Buddha statue, Phra Phuttha Sihing which is enshrined in Vihan Lai Kham, a Chapel that features exquisite woodcarvings and northern style murals.

Wat Chedi Luang
Next, continue to visit Wat Chedi Luang's massive Chedi (pagoda) was built sometime between 1385 and 1402, during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, 7th ruler of the Mengrai dynasty and is a distinctive feature of the Chiang Mai skyline. At its peak, the Chedi measured 60 metres across at the square base and 80 metres tall and was once the home of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred religious relic.

Wat Suan Dok
You’ll also visit Wat Suan Dok, is located just west of the old walled part of Chiang Mai is a very old temple knows for its large number of white Chedi or pagodas. Wat Suan Dok literally means flower garden temple. The temple derives its name from the location where it was built. The temple area was once used as a Royal flower gardens by the ruler of Chiang Mai. The most noticeable features of the Wat Suan Dok is the large number of Chedi. The tallest golden Chedi in Sri Lankan style is 48 meters high and contains the relic of the Buddha – before enjoying dinner at your choice of restaurants back at the hotel. 

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Stay tonight at the Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room)

Day
7

Elephant Caregiver For A Day

This morning, we drive to Patara Elephant Farm, in the Hang Dong Valley on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. On arrival at the Site, you will be greeted by your Host, discuss your program, and get changed to a more comfortable Local "Elephant" Outfit.

We then start our  "Elephant Caregiver For A Day" Training Session, which includes: Learn about elephant farm management and our breeding program, Train to approach and be near elephant. Learn to observe elephant temperament, Introduction to our elephants. Morning feed, Daily health care for elephant, Learn about elephant skin care and bathing your elephant, showing different techniques for the mahout to get on & off the elephant neck and spoken commands for elephant.

You then lead your Elephant into the Water for a refreshing dip, before having a very local picnic lunch at the waterfall. After lunch, we walk with the Elephant through the Fields & Forest to the Elephant Nursery Center, where you have an opportunity to see & play with the "young" Elephants. On completion, we say farewell to your elephants, then meet up with our Vehicle.

On our way back to the Chiang Mai, we can stop in to visit the "Thung Luang Hill Tribe Village". This village forms the Ethno-Eco agricultural Livelihood Conservation Group, which is combined of various ethnic Hill Tribes, including the Padong "long-necked" tribe, Karen, Lahu, Palong, Yao & H’mong Hill Tribes that has been established up in a natural environment and will give you a good insight into the different Hill Tribes traditional Culture and way of life.  They'll share their crafts and folkways with you... you'll even get to try on the traditional neck rings worn by members of the "long-necked" Karen tribe!

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Stay tonight at the Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room)

Day
8

Special Merit Making Ceremony And Scenic Doi Suthep

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
This morning we leave the hotel early (around 06.00am) to arrive early at the foot of Doi Suthep, where we can take part in a local make merit ceremony by giving Alms (some food & drink, etc.) to the local Monks from Wat Sri Soda. This is an amazing and moving site with usually hundreds of Saffron Robed Monks walking out of the Temple. After this we continue with a drive up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most venerated Temple in Chiang Mai, a temple perched at the top of a peak more than 3,500 feet above sea level and above the City in the Doi Pui National Park. On the way up the mountain we stop for a short coffee break before visiting The Temple itself (before all the crowds arrive). Here we can climb the 306 stairs, to reach the Temple which encloses a large traditional, “Lanna” style Chedi covered with gold plates (A small mountain Tram is also available if the stairs are too much effort) From the Temple Grounds there are also panoramic views over Chiang Mai and the surrounding area.

Afternoon at leisure in Chiang Mai: You have afternoon at leisure to relax at your hotel and explore the fascinating town of Chiang Mai at your own pace. The more adventurous may wish to venture into the surrounding countryside for activities ranging from zip-lining through the jungle canopy or enjoy a Thai cooking lesson.

Meals: Breakfast

Stay tonight at the Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Hotel (Grand Deluxe Room)

Day
9

Chiang Mai / Home Or Extend

Tour ends: Chiang Mai. A transfer from Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Hotel to Chiang Mai Airport is included. Please allow 3 hours for airport check-in formalities. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.

Fly home or begin a wonderful customized private extension.

Meals: Breakfast

 

OPTION 1: HOTELS

Siem Reap : Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas
Bangkok :  Banyan Tree Bangkok
Chiang Mai : Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Hotel

 

Cost

$2,530 : Per person (two travelers, one king/twin room occupancy) 
$2,350 : Per person (four travelers, two king/twin room occupancy)
$2,220 : Per person (six travelers, three king/twin room occupancy)

 


OPTION 2: HOTELS

Siem Reap : Park Hyatt Siem Reap or Phum Baitang Resort
Bangkok   The Peninsula Bangkok or The Siam  
Chiang Mai : 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai or Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

 

Cost

$3,170 : Per person (two travelers, one king/twin room occupancy)
$2,980 : Per person (four travelers, two king/twin room occupancy)
$2,870 : Per person (six travelers, three king/twin room occupancy)

 


PRIVATE TOURS SERVICES INCLUDED

•    8-night accommodation based on double/twin sharing room as specified above
•    Daily breakfast included
•    Private transportation by modern air-conditioned vehicle with experiences safe driver
•    Professional Licensed English Speaking guide
•    All entrance fees at places listed above
•    Boat cruise as specified above
•    All of activities fees are mentioned or specified in itinerary with English speaking guide
•    International flight tickets: Siem Reap – Bangkok on Economy Class
•    Domestic flight tickets: Bangkok – Chiang Mai on Economy Class
•    Meal plan as mentioned above 
•    03 bottles of mineral water per person per day
•    VAT and all taxes and service charge


SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

•    Meals other than specified as included
•    Festive dinner/meal and festive surcharge at each hotel
•    Drinks other personal expenses or travel and health insurance
•    The optional activities that not mentioned in the program
•    Tips or gratuities to guide, driver and others are not included in price

WHAT TO BRING

•    Sun cream, hat, and sunglasses
•    Camera or smartphone to take photos
•    Fees for any extra sightseeing or optional activities (if any)

 

All Global Travel & Tours Asia tours are private and depart daily.

Please CONTACT US for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.