The Best Luxury Small Group Tour of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos

Believed to be the world's largest religious building, this 12th century temple is a perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Cambodians.

After lunch you will explore the immense walled city of Angkor Thom and its multiple awe-inspiring monuments. Multiple impressive temples and other structures survive within the Angkor Thom Architectural Zone and you will visit the most impressive. The causeway that leads to your entrance gate is lined by an intricately carved bridge (one of the Angkor Region’s most photographed sites) depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the Devas (gods) and Asuras (devils) are engaged in tug of war with a Naga (seven-headed serpent) to obtain the elixir of immortality.

Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the king decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. Begin your visit at the 11th Century Baphuon, recognized as one of the most beautiful temples at Angkor. It has undergone a massive renovation by the French and is now once again open for viewing.

A very short drive brings you to the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon, which is justifiably the most photographed monument in the Angkor Region. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. The 54 Temple Towers have massive ‘Buddha of Compassion’ faces carved on all four sides, each one bearing a strong resemblance to the king. The immense structure is partially in ruins and perpetually under some renovation, but you can still walk around inside and find amazement as you turn a corner. The benevolent faces on the towers still overlook the whole area, further enhancing the other-worldly feel in parts of the Angkor Region.

Next is the mystical Ta Prohm, which has been abandoned to the elements for centuries. Left as it was discovered by French explorer Henri Mouhout in 1860, the tentacle-like tree roots here are slowly strangling the surviving stones. This was one of the settings for the original Tomb Raider movie, and obviously has visitors lined up for photos at a couple of attractions.

Complete today’s exploration with a visit to another temple that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time - Preah Khan. This eerie large temple has also been left unrestored for the most part and is a fascinating maze of narrow passageways and windows, all adding to the unique feel of Angkor Thom.
(Overnight – Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort)

Day 3: Siem Reap. (Breakfast, Lunch and Special Dinner) Guests who want to visit Angkor Wat at sunrise will wake well before dawn and join your Guide in the lobby. Arrive at the monuments entrance before the sun rises and walk to a location near the temple where your sunrise view of Angkor Wat is across lotus ponds, making for a very memorable experience. After admiring and photographing the sunrise on the temple complex, you will return to your hotel to freshen up.

After breakfast you will proceed on a scenic 75 to 90-minute drive through the Cambodian countryside to the amazing temple complex of Beng Mealea. Arrive and start your exploration of this massive early 12th century complex.

Due to its distance from Siem Reap, this surreal complex attracts significantly fewer tourists than Angkor Wat and the temples in the city of Angkor Thom.

From Beng Mealea you will head towards Tonle Sap Lake. Upon arrival you will break for lunch at a charming floating house that has been specially prepared for our guests this afternoon. Your excellent food choices will be catered by Easy Tours and lunch today will be one of the most memorable dining experiences of your Southeast Asia exploration.

Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and the lake is connected to a river of the same name. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lake region is one of the most biodiverse in the world, and its waters were what sustained the magnificent Angkor civilization, and others before and afterward. The lake loses much of its water during winter, and when the rains come in the late spring/early summer, the lake fills up and rises over 30 feet.

You will board your boat and your first stop will be at a floating explore the lakeside fishing community of Kampong Khleang, the largest town on the lake. You will be fascinated by the network of houses on up to 30-foot-tall stilts, lush farmlands, and small fishing communities on the lake, and you will have the opportunity to observe how the locals live and work in this unique environment. Unlike the very touristy and hawker-filled village of Chong Kneas, where almost all other tours go, Kampong Khleang offers a more authentic experience.

Special Dinner Experience: A very short drive across the Siem Reap River will bring you to the top-ranked restaurant, Embassy Khmer Gastronomy. This Fine Dining boutique restaurant is owned and operated by twin sisters who are both excellent chefs as well as gracious hosts. Only the freshest of local ingredients are used here and the delicious food and its impressive presentation are arguably the best you will experience anywhere. On the way back to your lodging guests who want to experience Siem Reap’s most popular night market will be dropped off along with your Cambodia Connoisseur Guide for a fascinating walk through the local night market to shop for all sorts of souvenirs and locally made apparel. Those who are not interested will be driven back to your nearby resort and your vehicle will then return to the market area and wait for those exploring the market. This is a very large and colorful market with scores of stalls and haggling is expected.
(Overnight – Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort)

Day 4: Siem Reap – Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) After an assisted check-out you will head to the Banteay Srei Temple Complex. Although it attracts more visitors than Beng Mealea, it is less crowded than the main complexes in the Siem Reap Region. Banteay Srei is another Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, and, at more than a thousand years of age, it is older than almost all of the other major temple complexes in the Siem Reap Region.

Constructed from hard red sandstone, this temple is a study in detail. It is small when compared to the other structures you will have visited in Siem Reap, or even the Beng Mealea Complex.

Some parts of this temple, more so than in other Angkor Region monuments, are replicas due to theft (before adequate protections were added) over the last few decades.

From Banteay Srei you will head back to Siem Reap where you will break for lunch at a very charming upscale and boutique lodge. The atmospheric Chanrey Tree Restaurant serves excellent cuisine and is a favorite among upscale travelers visiting Siem Reap. After lunch you will be driven to the nearby airport for your flight to Bangkok. Your Cambodia Guide will bid farewell to you after assisting with your check-in.

Arrive in Bangkok and you are greeted at the airport by your Thailand Connoisseur Guide and then you are driven to your wonderful riverfront hotel for assisted check-in to your upgraded river view room. The giant metropolis of Bangkok is a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers, congested traffic, beautiful and ornate Wats (temples), incredible street food, and a lot more. The colorful Thai culture and the easygoing local lifestyle make this unique city even more interesting.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 5: Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) Your day will start in the mid-morning so as to give you time to relax after a long day. Enjoy a river cruise to your first destination this morning.

This is the most unique historic temple structure in Thailand, very different from anything else you will experience, however, as with other Thai places of worship, bare legs and shoulders are not acceptable.

Please do not climb the steps as they are deceptively steep (12 to 15 inches in height) and there are inadequate or nonexistent support structures for hands. This is Non-Negotiable for anyone who selects to tour with us.

After the temple, you will board longtail boats and head to the opposite bank of the river. Proceed to a very nice riverfront restaurant where you will enjoy lunch. Besides the great food, you will have excellent views of the busy river and Wat Arun on the opposite riverbank. An interesting 7-to-8-minute walk will bring you to Thailand’s largest flower market, where millions of amazing flowers are spread across hundreds of stalls. Flowers are an integral part of Thai society, and the plethora of fragrant colors amidst the extremely busy shops and stalls are a delight to experience.

A very short walk leads to Wat Pho, known as The Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The famous statue of the Buddha is 50 feet (15 meters) high and 140 feet (43 meters) long and is covered in gold leaf. The bottoms of the feet are inlaid with mother of pearl, divided into 108 panels depicting the 108 auspicious symbols used by the Buddha.

Another very short walk will bring you to the Grand Palace complex, which has been the state residence of Thai royalty since 1782 and parts of which are still used for official events. Your Guide will show you some of the more interesting highlights of the complex. The collection of buildings serves as a nice introduction to Thai architecture and provides many great photo opportunities. Just one of the several stops you will make within the complex is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in all of Thailand. Except for the Thai King, no other person is allowed to touch this statue. The King changes the statue’s cloak three times each year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons. After exploring Bangkok’s most famous attractions, you will be escorted back to your hotel.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 6: Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) Your morning will start with a drive to Jim Thompson’s House & Museum, a great introduction to amazing Asian art, and of Bangkok before it became the major city it is today. Before his disappearance in Malaysia over a half century ago, the silk magnate collected an incredible plethora of Southeast Asian art, from Thailand and many other surrounding nations. He had a beautiful home constructed to showcase part of his collection, and also had the museum constructed to house the rest of the collection. The museum buildings themselves are fascinating as they include ancient wooden homes that were brought in from all around Thailand, as well as new wooden construction. You will experience a well-designed tour of the facilities conducted by an expert from the museum.

From here you will head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Spread over 30 acres with more than 10,000 stalls, this market originated in 1942 and is the oldest, largest, and most diverse weekend market on our planet. Literally anything a local or a visitor could possibly want is available here, and we need to mention that group members are not going to be able to stop at multiple stalls and haggle. The colors, activity and general feel are a joy to experience on a walk through an interesting section of the market.

From here you will proceed to the banks of the River of Kings and enjoy lunch at another great restaurant with a river view. After lunch you will enjoy an urban excursion by long-tailed boats to discover the canals of Thonburi. The people of Thailand, including the residents of Bangkok, have always lived a lifestyle that is primarily dependent on their rivers. You will explore the intricate network of canals, or Khlongs, as you cruise past colorful homes and other structures.

This adventure will offer great insights into how the locals live. In some parts you will see women washing clothes and utensils in the water, children swimming, locals throwing food to teeming schools of fish (considered a religious offering), and a lot more. Stop for a brief visit at Baan Silapin (Artists House), a charmingly decorated centuries-old structure on a residential part of the canal, this succession of small canal front structures is a whimsical art gallery showcasing local creative talents. You will end you experience at your hotel’s jetty.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 7: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi. (Breakfast and Lunch) You are assisted with your check-out in the morning and driven to the enchanting province of Kanchanaburi. Soon after you exit Bangkok you will witness the landscape begin to change from relatively flat farmland to the rocky mountainous jungle often found along the Thai-Burmese border. The Kanchanaburi region was the theater of historic battles and tragic episodes during WWII.

Upon arrival at the historic location, you will enjoy lunch at a restaurant with a direct view of the bridge. After lunch you can walk on the bridge, and to various vantage points around it, so that you can take advantage of the extremely photogenic vistas with the bridge in the foreground. The bridge was built in about 16 months by allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts, and then later destroyed during allied bombing raids. It was later rebuilt by the Japanese as war reparations. These events were the basis for one of Hollywood’s all-time great movies.

From the bridge another scenic drive will bring you to the infamous Hell Fire Pass. This excursion does require a slightly strenuous uphill climb, and those who do not feel like making the climb can enjoy the view at the base of the incline. Hell Fire Pass is a man-made crevasse in the mountain that was carved using hand-held chisels by prisoners of war, mostly Australian soldiers.

The POW’s worked in horrible conditions under the whip of the Japanese soldiers, who were desperate to complete the Thai-Burma railway. Many lives were sacrificed to complete this project. The name Hell Fire Pass comes from one soldier’s description of the site, describing the scene as workers toiled through the night by firelight. You will walk along the remnants of the tracks from the path of the railway. There are memorials to the POW’s and a small museum at this site.

You will be assisted in boarding your boat and then you will enjoy a 15-minute boat ride along the river to your comfortable floating boutique resort, where you will be assisted with your check-in. Please note that this is upscale, and not luxury, lodging, but it is very unique, and an exceptional experience. We recommend that at some point on this night, your turn off the exterior lights of your floating villa and step out on your porch to admire the star-studded night sky. Almost everyone who has stayed here raves about the incredible sleep they enjoyed on their floating villa.
(Overnight – The Float House River Kwai)

Day 8: Kanchanaburi. (Breakfast and Lunch) This morning you will awake to the sounds of the river and the jungle. At around 8 AM you will cruise back to the jetty and proceed on the incredibly scenic drive to Erawan National Park. Our early departure is to avoid the day-trippers from as far away as Bangkok. We recommend that you bring swim wear and a towel from your villa.

The 7 tier Erawan Falls have emerald green pools at each level.

You will enjoy the easy hike to the base of the waterfall, and then, those willing to make a little bit of an effort, can use the trails and ropeways up the different tiers of the waterfall, until the 6th tier. You can stop at any tier and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you, and get into the emerald pools of water if you so desire. The park itself is lush and tropical, and macaques and a variety of birds will entertain during your time here.

After a break for lunch, you will experience another scenic drive to the Nam Tok Railway Station, where you will board the train for a fascinating trip on the Death Railway. Enjoy the scenery as the train snakes around hills alongside the River Kwai and passes through dense bamboo forests and jungles. After approximately 1 hour of riding in the extremely slow-moving historic train through amazing scenery, you will disembark at the Thakilen Railway Station, from where you will be driven nearby to your floating lodge’s pier. Board your boat again and enjoy the captivating river and surroundings as you head towards your charming floating resort.

Those guests who are up for another adventure can join your guide for a gentle hike up the hill behind your floating villa to the Lawa Cave. At over 1400 feet deep, this impressive geological formation is the largest in Kanchanaburi and features several chambers with many large stalagmites and stalactites. Both banks of the river are lush jungle climbing up the surrounding hills.
(Overnight – The Float House River Kwai)

Day 9: Kanchanaburi – Bangkok – Chiang Mai. (Breakfast and Lunch) At 8 AM this morning you can join your Guide and cruise upriver for a few minutes, and then disembark and proceed for a tour of a Mon village. The Mon people are one of Southeast Asia’s most ancient races. Originally from Burma, they are integrated into Thai society, but deeply cherish and honor their heritage. Enjoy a walk around the village area and visit the village school, as well as their temple & gold chedi. You will cruise back to your

You are assisted with check-out in the mid-morning and you now proceed on the drive to Bangkok airport, stopping for lunch along the way, to board your afternoon flight to Chiang Mai, capital of the fascinating Lanna Kingdom.

Arrive at Chiang Mai and you will be assisted with your check-in at your beautiful boutique riverfront resort, which happens to be the top-ranked upscale lodging in Chiang Mai. The resort is extremely charming, serves great food, and has an excellent spa. There is a spectacular century plus old Rain Tree that graces the resort at the river’s bank, adding even more to the natural charm of your surroundings. Your boutique resort is an easy walk (or an easily available tuk-tuk ride) to downtown Chiang Mai where there are scores of cafés, restaurants, and bars, as well as the night markets.

Possessing great natural beauty and a host of outdoor activities and parks on its outskirts, the city itself is a fascinating combination of unique architecture, ancient history with its associated rituals, and a modern metropolis. Chiang Mai is one of Asia’s best cities to explore on foot, with a bustling street food scene.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 10: Chiang Mai - Doi Inthanon Excursion. (Breakfast and Lunch) This is a full day excursion and you will get back to your resort in the evening. Head to spectacular Doi Inthanon mountain and national park, which includes a visit to the most photographed attractions in Northern Thailand, Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphonphumisiri. These massive and gorgeous Chedis are the subject of the most popular photos that travel journals and websites use for the Chiang Mai region, and are not situated in Chiang Mai, but close to the peak of Doi Inthanon. You will also enjoy other experiences inside Doi Inthanon National Park, which is a protected area that is home to the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon.

Doi Inthanon is a superb national park full of majestic waterfalls, lush green valleys, terraced paddy fields, fruit, flower and vegetables crops, and ethnic communities living happily and comfortably in their natural environment. Once at the peak you will admire the views and then enjoy an easy trek through the mist laden virgin forest and be fascinated with the unique flora that is found here.

After this adventure you will be driven downhill and lunch will be at the Royal Project Kitchen (with fresh natural and organic ingredients from project farmers), while admiring the beautiful surroundings and views. After lunch there will be two more not-to-be-missed experiences on your way back to Chiang Mai.

First you will stop at the two afore-mentioned spectacular Chedis, which are dedicated to the Beloved Late King and the Revered Queen and are located in a magical spot with lush undulating hills and spectacular views.

The second short and fascinating stop as you head down the mountain is the Royal Projects Highway Market run by the Hill Tribes of the Doi Inthanon region. You will stop and walk around the outdoor stalls selling fruits, produce, nuts and other items organically grown by the simple and now well-to-do tribal locals, some of whom will be dressed in their unique clothing. This market, its wares, and the tribal people that grow and sell here are a growing testament of the success of the Late King’s vision and efforts. The Royal Projects granted the Hill Tribes their own land to cultivate, free seeds, tools, and all other resources needed to make them succeed in becoming successful natural farmers. Now, over half a century later, the results of the Late King’s vision have brought happiness to everyone involved.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 11: Chiang Mai – Elephant Sanctuary (No Elephant Riding). (Breakfast and Lunch) (Breakfast and Lunch) After an early breakfast this morning you will drive out to the mountains to enjoy some time with Thailand’s iconic animal – the elephant.

You will spend the morning at one of the best and most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Northern Thailand, and take part in a hands-on experience that will allow you to truly interact with these majestic animals. Please read a description of the sanctuary - https://kantaelephantsanctuary.com/post/1.html

After lunch at the camp, you will return to Chiang Mai and enjoy an exploration of the historic walled city of Chiang Mai. Included are visits to some of the iconic old temples of ancient Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man. This tour demonstrates the architectural diversity and blending of styles that the Lanna were known for. It is also a great way to get familiar with the city, should you decide to go out during the evenings and explore.

In the late afternoon you will proceed on the short drive up to Doi Suthep, the hill on the edge of the city that dominates the Chiang Mai skyline. Once at the top, you will find the 309 stairs up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which are flanked on each side by beautiful Nagas running the entire length of the stairs. You also have the option of taking a large elevator (which does usually have a short waiting line) up to the Wat. Once at the top, enjoy the spiritual ambience of one of Thailand’s most holy places, as well as some superb sunset views of the city. You will see devout Thai’s circling the main stupa in a ritualistic manner, and many others on their knees in deep prayer.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 12: Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Luang Prabang (Breakfast) You are assisted with your check-out and driven to the Chiang Mai airport where you are assisted in boarding your flight to Bangkok. Arrive at Bangkok and your Thailand Connoisseur Guide will escort you to the check-in counter for your flight to Luang Prabang and bid you farewell.
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang, you are greeted at the airport by our Travel Facilitator and ushered to your vehicle. You are driven to your top-ranked upscale resort outside the small town and assisted with check-in to your upgraded room.

All of Luang Prabang’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a perfect micro chasm of the landscapes and culture of Southeast Asia. Its incredible utopian setting provides venues for a large and diverse array of activities, including Mekong River explorations, waterfalls, and much more. UNESCO describes Luang Prabang as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.”
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 13: Luang Prabang. (Breakfast and Lunch) An optional, but highly recommended, pre-sunrise start today gives you the opportunity to participate in one of Luang Prabang’s most iconic traditions - Tak Bat (donating food to young monk apprentices from the local monastery). Your Country Connoisseur Guide will have procured some food for you and will instruct you on the process as the monks walk by silently and open their pails for you to place your contribution in them. The monks have been collecting their day’s meals in this manner for centuries. Afterwards, enjoy a walk through the nearby fresh food market. The busy market is a hive of activity as locals purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish caught from the Mekong River. Return to your upscale boutique lodge for breakfast and a bit of leisure time to freshen up.

Mid-Morning: Join your Laos Connoisseur Guide for a tour of the charming old town. Visit the quaint Royal Palace Museum, which provides an excellent overview of local history.

A short walk from here brings you to the nearby Wat Khili. The charming traditional library building here houses a historic photo exhibition of Buddhist heritage, known as The Buddhist Archive of Photography. A unique collection of 35,000 historical photographs that were collected by several monk collectors and photographers over 120 years. Either the founder, Mr. Hans George Berger (you will be presented with a signed copy of one of his books) or Director Dr. Khamvone Boulyaphonh, will give you private access to this invaluable collection and personally guide you through the chambers in which it is housed, giving you unique insights into the Buddhist civilization and heritage of Laos.

Lunch will be at the acclaimed L’Elephant Restaurant, an atmospheric French restaurant that serves excellent western and local cuisine.

Proceed to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre – closed on Mondays, where you will meet one of the two co-founders, Ms. Tara Gujadhur or Ms. Soutthivilay Thongkhoun and experience a Directors Tour that provides insights into the myriad Laos' ethnic cultures and their traditions and customs. Next is Luang Prabang’s oldest temple, Wat Visoun, which, because of its design, is known as The Watermelon Stupa. The Stupa dates back to 1503 and is now home to a collection of religious artefacts. You will learn about the wat’s fascinating history and early Lao Buddhist architecture from your Country Connoisseur Guide.

Late Afternoon: You have the option of a guided excursion to Phousi Mountain. This is a hill in the center of the old town that provides a breathtaking view of the town and the Mekong River at sunset.
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 14: Luang Prabang. (Breakfast and Lunch) You are driven to the gorgeous set of waterfalls at Kuang Si. Upon your arrival at the entrance, you have the option of a quick visit to the small bear rescue center at the base of the falls. Proceed onward into the jungle on well- maintained walkways, until you arrive at the first small set of falls. The base of these falls has a beautiful natural blue swimming hole the size of a large public pool – swimming is permitted at all the falls, so you may want to dress appropriately. Continue on your leisurely walk through the jungle, making your way from waterfall to waterfall, to one idyllic swimming hole after another. The finale is a stunning 200 ft. cascade that is the most impressive of the collection of waterfalls.

Proceed on a very scenic rural drive for the village of Ban Don Ngurn. Upon arrival you will board a private boat for a cruise down the beautiful Nam Ou River. Your first stop will be for a delicious picnic on the scenic banks of the Nam Ou River, organized by one of Luang Prabang’s best restaurants. The cruise then takes you by stunning limestone karst scenery, offering many photo opportunities. The scenery along the river is captivating as you cruise by picturesque landscapes and the occasional tribal hamlet.

Continue along the Nam Ou until it merges with the mighty Mekong River. Pay a visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Although the caves are not as massive as some of the famous caves in Southeast Asia, they are very interesting because Buddhists have been venturing here for centuries to place Buddha statues in them. The lower cave contains the largest part of the collection, well over 3000 statues, and hence a fairly arduous climb up some steep stairs to the upper cave is purely optional. After your visit to the caves, you will head back toward Luang Prabang, with a short stop along the way.

Continue the cruise until you stop at Ban Vanglae, a Lu Tribe village where traditional weaving and dyeing is the main occupation of the villagers and you will walk through the village and observe how the locals live. As you cruise back to Luang Prabang the sun will set on the river and the countryside and you can enjoy the idyllic beauty of your wonderful surroundings.
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 15: Luang Prabang – International Flight. (Breakfast) You are assisted with check-out in the mid-morning and driven to the airport to board your flight to Bangkok - bid farewell to your Laos Country Connoisseur Guide at the airport, where you will be assisted in boarding your flight.

There a few options for your departure from Luang Prabang and we will be happy to assist you in selecting one. We can include flights to Bangkok, Hanoi, or Saigon, or any other city in Asia as part of your tour, and additional services in those cities, or at Luang Prabang as per your needs. Your Guest Relations Manager (assigned to you after you reserve your tour) will be your resource for this once we know your international departure preferences.

Believed to be the world's largest religious building, this 12th century temple is a perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Cambodians.

After lunch you will explore the immense walled city of Angkor Thom and its multiple awe-inspiring monuments. Multiple impressive temples and other structures survive within the Angkor Thom Architectural Zone and you will visit the most impressive. The causeway that leads to your entrance gate is lined by an intricately carved bridge (one of the Angkor Region’s most photographed sites) depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology in which the Devas (gods) and Asuras (devils) are engaged in tug of war with a Naga (seven-headed serpent) to obtain the elixir of immortality.

Following the occupation of Angkor by the Chams from 1177 to 1181, the king decided to build an impregnable fortress at the heart of his empire. Begin your visit at the 11th Century Baphuon, recognized as one of the most beautiful temples at Angkor. It has undergone a massive renovation by the French and is now once again open for viewing.

A very short drive brings you to the enigmatic and enchanting temple of the Bayon, which is justifiably the most photographed monument in the Angkor Region. At the exact center of Angkor Thom, this is an eccentric expression of the creative genius and inflated ego of Cambodia’s most celebrated king. The 54 Temple Towers have massive ‘Buddha of Compassion’ faces carved on all four sides, each one bearing a strong resemblance to the king. The immense structure is partially in ruins and perpetually under some renovation, but you can still walk around inside and find amazement as you turn a corner. The benevolent faces on the towers still overlook the whole area, further enhancing the other-worldly feel in parts of the Angkor Region.

Next is the mystical Ta Prohm, which has been abandoned to the elements for centuries. Left as it was discovered by French explorer Henri Mouhout in 1860, the tentacle-like tree roots here are slowly strangling the surviving stones. This was one of the settings for the original Tomb Raider movie, and obviously has visitors lined up for photos at a couple of attractions.

Complete today’s exploration with a visit to another temple that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time - Preah Khan. This eerie large temple has also been left unrestored for the most part and is a fascinating maze of narrow passageways and windows, all adding to the unique feel of Angkor Thom.
(Overnight – Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort)

Day 3: Siem Reap. (Breakfast, Lunch and Special Dinner) Guests who want to visit Angkor Wat at sunrise will wake well before dawn and join your Guide in the lobby. Arrive at the monuments entrance before the sun rises and walk to a location near the temple where your sunrise view of Angkor Wat is across lotus ponds, making for a very memorable experience. After admiring and photographing the sunrise on the temple complex, you will return to your hotel to freshen up.

After breakfast you will proceed on a scenic 75 to 90-minute drive through the Cambodian countryside to the amazing temple complex of Beng Mealea. Arrive and start your exploration of this massive early 12th century complex.

Due to its distance from Siem Reap, this surreal complex attracts significantly fewer tourists than Angkor Wat and the temples in the city of Angkor Thom.

From Beng Mealea you will head towards Tonle Sap Lake. Upon arrival you will break for lunch at a charming floating house that has been specially prepared for our guests this afternoon. Your excellent food choices will be catered by Easy Tours and lunch today will be one of the most memorable dining experiences of your Southeast Asia exploration.

Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and the lake is connected to a river of the same name. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lake region is one of the most biodiverse in the world, and its waters were what sustained the magnificent Angkor civilization, and others before and afterward. The lake loses much of its water during winter, and when the rains come in the late spring/early summer, the lake fills up and rises over 30 feet.

You will board your boat and your first stop will be at a floating explore the lakeside fishing community of Kampong Khleang, the largest town on the lake. You will be fascinated by the network of houses on up to 30-foot-tall stilts, lush farmlands, and small fishing communities on the lake, and you will have the opportunity to observe how the locals live and work in this unique environment. Unlike the very touristy and hawker-filled village of Chong Kneas, where almost all other tours go, Kampong Khleang offers a more authentic experience.

Special Dinner Experience: A very short drive across the Siem Reap River will bring you to the top-ranked restaurant, Embassy Khmer Gastronomy. This Fine Dining boutique restaurant is owned and operated by twin sisters who are both excellent chefs as well as gracious hosts. Only the freshest of local ingredients are used here and the delicious food and its impressive presentation are arguably the best you will experience anywhere. On the way back to your lodging guests who want to experience Siem Reap’s most popular night market will be dropped off along with your Cambodia Connoisseur Guide for a fascinating walk through the local night market to shop for all sorts of souvenirs and locally made apparel. Those who are not interested will be driven back to your nearby resort and your vehicle will then return to the market area and wait for those exploring the market. This is a very large and colorful market with scores of stalls and haggling is expected.
(Overnight – Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Resort)

Day 4: Siem Reap – Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) After an assisted check-out you will head to the Banteay Srei Temple Complex. Although it attracts more visitors than Beng Mealea, it is less crowded than the main complexes in the Siem Reap Region. Banteay Srei is another Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, and, at more than a thousand years of age, it is older than almost all of the other major temple complexes in the Siem Reap Region.

Constructed from hard red sandstone, this temple is a study in detail. It is small when compared to the other structures you will have visited in Siem Reap, or even the Beng Mealea Complex.

Some parts of this temple, more so than in other Angkor Region monuments, are replicas due to theft (before adequate protections were added) over the last few decades.

From Banteay Srei you will head back to Siem Reap where you will break for lunch at a very charming upscale and boutique lodge. The atmospheric Chanrey Tree Restaurant serves excellent cuisine and is a favorite among upscale travelers visiting Siem Reap. After lunch you will be driven to the nearby airport for your flight to Bangkok. Your Cambodia Guide will bid farewell to you after assisting with your check-in.

Arrive in Bangkok and you are greeted at the airport by your Thailand Connoisseur Guide and then you are driven to your wonderful riverfront hotel for assisted check-in to your upgraded river view room. The giant metropolis of Bangkok is a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers, congested traffic, beautiful and ornate Wats (temples), incredible street food, and a lot more. The colorful Thai culture and the easygoing local lifestyle make this unique city even more interesting.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 5: Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) Your day will start in the mid-morning so as to give you time to relax after a long day. Enjoy a river cruise to your first destination this morning.

This is the most unique historic temple structure in Thailand, very different from anything else you will experience, however, as with other Thai places of worship, bare legs and shoulders are not acceptable.

Please do not climb the steps as they are deceptively steep (12 to 15 inches in height) and there are inadequate or nonexistent support structures for hands. This is Non-Negotiable for anyone who selects to tour with us.

After the temple, you will board longtail boats and head to the opposite bank of the river. Proceed to a very nice riverfront restaurant where you will enjoy lunch. Besides the great food, you will have excellent views of the busy river and Wat Arun on the opposite riverbank. An interesting 7-to-8-minute walk will bring you to Thailand’s largest flower market, where millions of amazing flowers are spread across hundreds of stalls. Flowers are an integral part of Thai society, and the plethora of fragrant colors amidst the extremely busy shops and stalls are a delight to experience.

A very short walk leads to Wat Pho, known as The Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The famous statue of the Buddha is 50 feet (15 meters) high and 140 feet (43 meters) long and is covered in gold leaf. The bottoms of the feet are inlaid with mother of pearl, divided into 108 panels depicting the 108 auspicious symbols used by the Buddha.

Another very short walk will bring you to the Grand Palace complex, which has been the state residence of Thai royalty since 1782 and parts of which are still used for official events. Your Guide will show you some of the more interesting highlights of the complex. The collection of buildings serves as a nice introduction to Thai architecture and provides many great photo opportunities. Just one of the several stops you will make within the complex is Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This is the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in all of Thailand. Except for the Thai King, no other person is allowed to touch this statue. The King changes the statue’s cloak three times each year to correspond to the summer, winter, and rainy seasons. After exploring Bangkok’s most famous attractions, you will be escorted back to your hotel.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 6: Bangkok. (Breakfast and Lunch) Your morning will start with a drive to Jim Thompson’s House & Museum, a great introduction to amazing Asian art, and of Bangkok before it became the major city it is today. Before his disappearance in Malaysia over a half century ago, the silk magnate collected an incredible plethora of Southeast Asian art, from Thailand and many other surrounding nations. He had a beautiful home constructed to showcase part of his collection, and also had the museum constructed to house the rest of the collection. The museum buildings themselves are fascinating as they include ancient wooden homes that were brought in from all around Thailand, as well as new wooden construction. You will experience a well-designed tour of the facilities conducted by an expert from the museum.

From here you will head to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Spread over 30 acres with more than 10,000 stalls, this market originated in 1942 and is the oldest, largest, and most diverse weekend market on our planet. Literally anything a local or a visitor could possibly want is available here, and we need to mention that group members are not going to be able to stop at multiple stalls and haggle. The colors, activity and general feel are a joy to experience on a walk through an interesting section of the market.

From here you will proceed to the banks of the River of Kings and enjoy lunch at another great restaurant with a river view. After lunch you will enjoy an urban excursion by long-tailed boats to discover the canals of Thonburi. The people of Thailand, including the residents of Bangkok, have always lived a lifestyle that is primarily dependent on their rivers. You will explore the intricate network of canals, or Khlongs, as you cruise past colorful homes and other structures.

This adventure will offer great insights into how the locals live. In some parts you will see women washing clothes and utensils in the water, children swimming, locals throwing food to teeming schools of fish (considered a religious offering), and a lot more. Stop for a brief visit at Baan Silapin (Artists House), a charmingly decorated centuries-old structure on a residential part of the canal, this succession of small canal front structures is a whimsical art gallery showcasing local creative talents. You will end you experience at your hotel’s jetty.
(Overnight – Shangri La Bangkok)

Day 7: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi. (Breakfast and Lunch) You are assisted with your check-out in the morning and driven to the enchanting province of Kanchanaburi. Soon after you exit Bangkok you will witness the landscape begin to change from relatively flat farmland to the rocky mountainous jungle often found along the Thai-Burmese border. The Kanchanaburi region was the theater of historic battles and tragic episodes during WWII.

Upon arrival at the historic location, you will enjoy lunch at a restaurant with a direct view of the bridge. After lunch you can walk on the bridge, and to various vantage points around it, so that you can take advantage of the extremely photogenic vistas with the bridge in the foreground. The bridge was built in about 16 months by allied prisoners of war and Asian conscripts, and then later destroyed during allied bombing raids. It was later rebuilt by the Japanese as war reparations. These events were the basis for one of Hollywood’s all-time great movies.

From the bridge another scenic drive will bring you to the infamous Hell Fire Pass. This excursion does require a slightly strenuous uphill climb, and those who do not feel like making the climb can enjoy the view at the base of the incline. Hell Fire Pass is a man-made crevasse in the mountain that was carved using hand-held chisels by prisoners of war, mostly Australian soldiers.

The POW’s worked in horrible conditions under the whip of the Japanese soldiers, who were desperate to complete the Thai-Burma railway. Many lives were sacrificed to complete this project. The name Hell Fire Pass comes from one soldier’s description of the site, describing the scene as workers toiled through the night by firelight. You will walk along the remnants of the tracks from the path of the railway. There are memorials to the POW’s and a small museum at this site.

You will be assisted in boarding your boat and then you will enjoy a 15-minute boat ride along the river to your comfortable floating boutique resort, where you will be assisted with your check-in. Please note that this is upscale, and not luxury, lodging, but it is very unique, and an exceptional experience. We recommend that at some point on this night, your turn off the exterior lights of your floating villa and step out on your porch to admire the star-studded night sky. Almost everyone who has stayed here raves about the incredible sleep they enjoyed on their floating villa.
(Overnight – The Float House River Kwai)

Day 8: Kanchanaburi. (Breakfast and Lunch) This morning you will awake to the sounds of the river and the jungle. At around 8 AM you will cruise back to the jetty and proceed on the incredibly scenic drive to Erawan National Park. Our early departure is to avoid the day-trippers from as far away as Bangkok. We recommend that you bring swim wear and a towel from your villa.

The 7 tier Erawan Falls have emerald green pools at each level.

You will enjoy the easy hike to the base of the waterfall, and then, those willing to make a little bit of an effort, can use the trails and ropeways up the different tiers of the waterfall, until the 6th tier. You can stop at any tier and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you, and get into the emerald pools of water if you so desire. The park itself is lush and tropical, and macaques and a variety of birds will entertain during your time here.

After a break for lunch, you will experience another scenic drive to the Nam Tok Railway Station, where you will board the train for a fascinating trip on the Death Railway. Enjoy the scenery as the train snakes around hills alongside the River Kwai and passes through dense bamboo forests and jungles. After approximately 1 hour of riding in the extremely slow-moving historic train through amazing scenery, you will disembark at the Thakilen Railway Station, from where you will be driven nearby to your floating lodge’s pier. Board your boat again and enjoy the captivating river and surroundings as you head towards your charming floating resort.

Those guests who are up for another adventure can join your guide for a gentle hike up the hill behind your floating villa to the Lawa Cave. At over 1400 feet deep, this impressive geological formation is the largest in Kanchanaburi and features several chambers with many large stalagmites and stalactites. Both banks of the river are lush jungle climbing up the surrounding hills.
(Overnight – The Float House River Kwai)

Day 9: Kanchanaburi – Bangkok – Chiang Mai. (Breakfast and Lunch) At 8 AM this morning you can join your Guide and cruise upriver for a few minutes, and then disembark and proceed for a tour of a Mon village. The Mon people are one of Southeast Asia’s most ancient races. Originally from Burma, they are integrated into Thai society, but deeply cherish and honor their heritage. Enjoy a walk around the village area and visit the village school, as well as their temple & gold chedi. You will cruise back to your

You are assisted with check-out in the mid-morning and you now proceed on the drive to Bangkok airport, stopping for lunch along the way, to board your afternoon flight to Chiang Mai, capital of the fascinating Lanna Kingdom.

Arrive at Chiang Mai and you will be assisted with your check-in at your beautiful boutique riverfront resort, which happens to be the top-ranked upscale lodging in Chiang Mai. The resort is extremely charming, serves great food, and has an excellent spa. There is a spectacular century plus old Rain Tree that graces the resort at the river’s bank, adding even more to the natural charm of your surroundings. Your boutique resort is an easy walk (or an easily available tuk-tuk ride) to downtown Chiang Mai where there are scores of cafés, restaurants, and bars, as well as the night markets.

Possessing great natural beauty and a host of outdoor activities and parks on its outskirts, the city itself is a fascinating combination of unique architecture, ancient history with its associated rituals, and a modern metropolis. Chiang Mai is one of Asia’s best cities to explore on foot, with a bustling street food scene.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 10: Chiang Mai - Doi Inthanon Excursion. (Breakfast and Lunch) This is a full day excursion and you will get back to your resort in the evening. Head to spectacular Doi Inthanon mountain and national park, which includes a visit to the most photographed attractions in Northern Thailand, Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Naphaphonphumisiri. These massive and gorgeous Chedis are the subject of the most popular photos that travel journals and websites use for the Chiang Mai region, and are not situated in Chiang Mai, but close to the peak of Doi Inthanon. You will also enjoy other experiences inside Doi Inthanon National Park, which is a protected area that is home to the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon.

Doi Inthanon is a superb national park full of majestic waterfalls, lush green valleys, terraced paddy fields, fruit, flower and vegetables crops, and ethnic communities living happily and comfortably in their natural environment. Once at the peak you will admire the views and then enjoy an easy trek through the mist laden virgin forest and be fascinated with the unique flora that is found here.

After this adventure you will be driven downhill and lunch will be at the Royal Project Kitchen (with fresh natural and organic ingredients from project farmers), while admiring the beautiful surroundings and views. After lunch there will be two more not-to-be-missed experiences on your way back to Chiang Mai.

First you will stop at the two afore-mentioned spectacular Chedis, which are dedicated to the Beloved Late King and the Revered Queen and are located in a magical spot with lush undulating hills and spectacular views.

The second short and fascinating stop as you head down the mountain is the Royal Projects Highway Market run by the Hill Tribes of the Doi Inthanon region. You will stop and walk around the outdoor stalls selling fruits, produce, nuts and other items organically grown by the simple and now well-to-do tribal locals, some of whom will be dressed in their unique clothing. This market, its wares, and the tribal people that grow and sell here are a growing testament of the success of the Late King’s vision and efforts. The Royal Projects granted the Hill Tribes their own land to cultivate, free seeds, tools, and all other resources needed to make them succeed in becoming successful natural farmers. Now, over half a century later, the results of the Late King’s vision have brought happiness to everyone involved.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 11: Chiang Mai – Elephant Sanctuary (No Elephant Riding). (Breakfast and Lunch) (Breakfast and Lunch) After an early breakfast this morning you will drive out to the mountains to enjoy some time with Thailand’s iconic animal – the elephant.

You will spend the morning at one of the best and most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Northern Thailand, and take part in a hands-on experience that will allow you to truly interact with these majestic animals. Please read a description of the sanctuary - https://kantaelephantsanctuary.com/post/1.html

After lunch at the camp, you will return to Chiang Mai and enjoy an exploration of the historic walled city of Chiang Mai. Included are visits to some of the iconic old temples of ancient Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man. This tour demonstrates the architectural diversity and blending of styles that the Lanna were known for. It is also a great way to get familiar with the city, should you decide to go out during the evenings and explore.

In the late afternoon you will proceed on the short drive up to Doi Suthep, the hill on the edge of the city that dominates the Chiang Mai skyline. Once at the top, you will find the 309 stairs up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which are flanked on each side by beautiful Nagas running the entire length of the stairs. You also have the option of taking a large elevator (which does usually have a short waiting line) up to the Wat. Once at the top, enjoy the spiritual ambience of one of Thailand’s most holy places, as well as some superb sunset views of the city. You will see devout Thai’s circling the main stupa in a ritualistic manner, and many others on their knees in deep prayer.
(Overnight – Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort)

Day 12: Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Luang Prabang (Breakfast) You are assisted with your check-out and driven to the Chiang Mai airport where you are assisted in boarding your flight to Bangkok. Arrive at Bangkok and your Thailand Connoisseur Guide will escort you to the check-in counter for your flight to Luang Prabang and bid you farewell.
Upon arrival at Luang Prabang, you are greeted at the airport by our Travel Facilitator and ushered to your vehicle. You are driven to your top-ranked upscale resort outside the small town and assisted with check-in to your upgraded room.

All of Luang Prabang’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a perfect micro chasm of the landscapes and culture of Southeast Asia. Its incredible utopian setting provides venues for a large and diverse array of activities, including Mekong River explorations, waterfalls, and much more. UNESCO describes Luang Prabang as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.”
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 13: Luang Prabang. (Breakfast and Lunch) An optional, but highly recommended, pre-sunrise start today gives you the opportunity to participate in one of Luang Prabang’s most iconic traditions - Tak Bat (donating food to young monk apprentices from the local monastery). Your Country Connoisseur Guide will have procured some food for you and will instruct you on the process as the monks walk by silently and open their pails for you to place your contribution in them. The monks have been collecting their day’s meals in this manner for centuries. Afterwards, enjoy a walk through the nearby fresh food market. The busy market is a hive of activity as locals purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish caught from the Mekong River. Return to your upscale boutique lodge for breakfast and a bit of leisure time to freshen up.

Mid-Morning: Join your Laos Connoisseur Guide for a tour of the charming old town. Visit the quaint Royal Palace Museum, which provides an excellent overview of local history.

A short walk from here brings you to the nearby Wat Khili. The charming traditional library building here houses a historic photo exhibition of Buddhist heritage, known as The Buddhist Archive of Photography. A unique collection of 35,000 historical photographs that were collected by several monk collectors and photographers over 120 years. Either the founder, Mr. Hans George Berger (you will be presented with a signed copy of one of his books) or Director Dr. Khamvone Boulyaphonh, will give you private access to this invaluable collection and personally guide you through the chambers in which it is housed, giving you unique insights into the Buddhist civilization and heritage of Laos.

Lunch will be at the acclaimed L’Elephant Restaurant, an atmospheric French restaurant that serves excellent western and local cuisine.

Proceed to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre – closed on Mondays, where you will meet one of the two co-founders, Ms. Tara Gujadhur or Ms. Soutthivilay Thongkhoun and experience a Directors Tour that provides insights into the myriad Laos' ethnic cultures and their traditions and customs. Next is Luang Prabang’s oldest temple, Wat Visoun, which, because of its design, is known as The Watermelon Stupa. The Stupa dates back to 1503 and is now home to a collection of religious artefacts. You will learn about the wat’s fascinating history and early Lao Buddhist architecture from your Country Connoisseur Guide.

Late Afternoon: You have the option of a guided excursion to Phousi Mountain. This is a hill in the center of the old town that provides a breathtaking view of the town and the Mekong River at sunset.
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 14: Luang Prabang. (Breakfast and Lunch) You are driven to the gorgeous set of waterfalls at Kuang Si. Upon your arrival at the entrance, you have the option of a quick visit to the small bear rescue center at the base of the falls. Proceed onward into the jungle on well- maintained walkways, until you arrive at the first small set of falls. The base of these falls has a beautiful natural blue swimming hole the size of a large public pool – swimming is permitted at all the falls, so you may want to dress appropriately. Continue on your leisurely walk through the jungle, making your way from waterfall to waterfall, to one idyllic swimming hole after another. The finale is a stunning 200 ft. cascade that is the most impressive of the collection of waterfalls.

Proceed on a very scenic rural drive for the village of Ban Don Ngurn. Upon arrival you will board a private boat for a cruise down the beautiful Nam Ou River. Your first stop will be for a delicious picnic on the scenic banks of the Nam Ou River, organized by one of Luang Prabang’s best restaurants. The cruise then takes you by stunning limestone karst scenery, offering many photo opportunities. The scenery along the river is captivating as you cruise by picturesque landscapes and the occasional tribal hamlet.

Continue along the Nam Ou until it merges with the mighty Mekong River. Pay a visit to the mysterious Pak Ou Caves. Although the caves are not as massive as some of the famous caves in Southeast Asia, they are very interesting because Buddhists have been venturing here for centuries to place Buddha statues in them. The lower cave contains the largest part of the collection, well over 3000 statues, and hence a fairly arduous climb up some steep stairs to the upper cave is purely optional. After your visit to the caves, you will head back toward Luang Prabang, with a short stop along the way.

Continue the cruise until you stop at Ban Vanglae, a Lu Tribe village where traditional weaving and dyeing is the main occupation of the villagers and you will walk through the village and observe how the locals live. As you cruise back to Luang Prabang the sun will set on the river and the countryside and you can enjoy the idyllic beauty of your wonderful surroundings.
(Overnight – Pullman Luang Prabang)

Day 15: Luang Prabang – International Flight. (Breakfast) You are assisted with check-out in the mid-morning and driven to the airport to board your flight to Bangkok - bid farewell to your Laos Country Connoisseur Guide at the airport, where you will be assisted in boarding your flight.

There a few options for your departure from Luang Prabang and we will be happy to assist you in selecting one. We can include flights to Bangkok, Hanoi, or Saigon, or any other city in Asia as part of your tour, and additional services in those cities, or at Luang Prabang as per your needs. Your Guest Relations Manager (assigned to you after you reserve your tour) will be your resource for this once we know your international departure preferences.