9 days 8 nights : Around Thailand Tour Code. AT
*Private Tour :
2 pax 3 - 4 pax 5 - 6 pax 7 - 8 pax 9 pax or more
162,100 Baht/person 138,800 Baht/person 98,200 Baht/person 94,000 Baht/person 92,000 Baht/person
*Group Tour : 92,000 Baht/person
*Book for Low Season (Apr - Oct) get lower rate than High Season (Nov - Mar)
*Baby or toddler aged below 2 years old are Free of charge. *Child aged below 11 years old are charged 70% of adult rate.
Itinerary
Day 1 (Bangkok - Ratchaburi - Kanchanaburi)
7:00 - Pick up from hotel in Bangkok or Bangkok airport.
8:30 - Mae Klong railway market. See how the local vendors evacuating their goods when the train comes.
9:15 - Damnoen Saduak floating market. Traditional Thai rowing boat along the canal.
10:30 - Damnoen Saduak Tiger World : pet and stroke the full grown Bengal tigers (app 15-20 min).
13:00 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
14:00 - Bathing with elephants in the river and hand feed elephants fruits (app 30 min).
15:30 - Entrance to Sai Yok National Park : barge passes 2 waterfalls and enjoy swimming in the river.
17:00 - Check into The Float House River Kwai.
19:00 - Dinner at The Float House River Kwai.
Day 2 (Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya)
7:00 - Breakfast at The Float House River Kwai.
7:30 - Leave The Float House River Kwai.
8:30 - Arrive at Erawan National Park : trekking into 7 tiered waterfalls and tickle with fish nibbling.
12:00 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
13:30 - Take train from Krasae Cave railway station via a wooden viaduct passing over the limited space built along the mountain cliff to Tha Ki Len station (app 30 min).
14:30 - Bridge over the River Kwai.
15:00 - Leave Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya.
17:00 - Check into Ayutthaya Retreat.
19:00 - Dinner at local Thai restaurant.
Day 3 (Ayutthaya - Bangkok)
7:00 - Breakfast at Ayutthaya Retreat.
8:00 - Tuk Tuk rides around Ayutthaya Historical Park to visit ruin temples.
8:15 - Wat Chai Wattanaram. The solid corn-cob prang sits on an elevated terrace in the middle of courtyard. This temple was built by King Prasat Tong a commoner who overthrew the previous king and took his throne.
9:15 - Wat Lokayasutharam (Phra Non). This temple has the largest reclining Buddha in Ayutthaya 42 meters in length and 8 meters in height located outside the brick wall of its temple.
10:00 - Wat Phra Mahathat. The head of the Buddha was engulfed in a Bodhi tree roots.
11:15 - Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon. The huge pagoda was built to celebrate after King Naresuan killed the Burmese crown prince.
12:30 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
13:00 - Leave Ayutthaya to Bangkok.
14:30 - Shopping at either MBK shopping centre or Jatujak weekend market (Sat & Sun).
17:00 - Check into either Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok or Pathumwan Princess Hotel.
18:00 - Pick up from hotel for Dinner Cruise.
19:15 - Boarding Grand Pearl Cruise at River City pier. Cruising along Chao Praya River passes Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Grand Palace, church and Rama 8 Bridge. International buffet, live music, Thai classical dance, welcome drink, snacks are starting to roll and serve at 19:30 (cruise time app 2 hr start 19:30 - return 21:30). *Optional : more privacy on a Rice Barge (set menus) price will be accrue by 600 - 900 Baht/person.
22:00 - Transfer back to hotel.
Day 4 (Bangkok - Chiang Rai)
7:00 - Breakfast at hotel.
7:30 - Leave the hotel.
8:00 - Pak Khlong Talad flower market. The wholesale market for flowers, fruits and vegetable. This market ranked no. 4 in the top 10 World’s largest flower markets.
8:45 - Grand Palace (Wat Prakaew). The temple of the Thai Royal family where enshrined of the Emerald Buddha.
10:30 - Temple of Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho). The Buddha image is 46 meters in length. It was recorded as a “Memory of the World” in the International Register by UNESCO in 2011.
11:00 - Take ferry across Chao Praya River to Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun).
11:15 - Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun). This temple renamed after King Taksin the Great and his corps cruised down the river and arrived in front of the temple when the sun rises. The name has changed from "Wat Makok” (olive temple) to be “Wat Arun” (Temple of Dawn) to commemorate his Dawn arrival. At present the 81.85 meters height Prang (spire) has become a Landmark of Thailand Tourism.
12:00 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
14:00 - Arrive at Don Mueang airport Bangkok for the flight to Chiang Rai with either Air Asia or Nok Air or Thai Lion Air (1.5 hour).
16:30 - Arrive at Chiang Rai airport then transfer to hotel.
17:00 - Check into The Riverie by Katathani.
19:00 - Dinner at local Thai restaurant.
Day 5 (Chiang Rai)
7:00 - Breakfast at The Riverie by Katathani.
7:30 - Leave The Riverie by Katathani.
8:00 - White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) designed to be the tangible heaven for humans by Chalermchai Kositpipat who was inspired by 3 followings Nation, Religion and King. Started building in 1997 presently having 3.5 acres of land.
9:30 - Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten). An applied art temple from the craft of creation by a local artist in Chiang Rai. Its temple unique uses shades of blue and gold. The pattern is clearly different from the general sculpture. This chapel is defined as being a place of dream which praises of the Lord Buddha in both forms of sculpture and painting. There are delicate murals of Buddha's history using shades of blue inside.
10:30 - Black House (Baandam Museum). A group of houses in Lanna art style all are painted in black which is the origin of the word "Black House". Each house is decorated with carved wood also adorned with buffalo horns, deer antlers and elephant bones. Sculptures and paintings were created by Thawan Duchanee the National Artist who favors black color.
11:30 - Long neck Karen & hill tribe villages. The villages consist of 5 tribes Akha, Padong, Palong, Lahu and Longneck Karen. Seeing culture, cultivation and agriculture of the native hill tribe dwellers surrounded by serenity and nature. True living conditions of the 5 hill tribers who have different cultures, houses, costumes and languages. But all had a simple life, contentment and amicable also spoke their languages slowly. The occupation of them mostly focus on weaving such as silk and cotton exquisite workmanship and pure craftsmanship. There are also handicrafts made from bamboo such as glass, pen boxes and many more. It is an invention that is thought from local wisdom based on natural objects. They modify things from nature and make them useful being able to receive income for the community. The road condition to the villages still gravels and dirt as it is less developed.
12:30 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
13:00 - Choui Fong tea plantation is a tea terraced field surrounded by nature and beautiful mountains. Serving dessert like green tea ice cream, green tea shake, green tea cakes, green tea jam roll as well as green tea powder to make dessert or drinks.
14:30 - Doi Tung Royal Villa. Full of varied flower gardens that will enclose you into the spectacular touch of colors with many interesting stories. The palace’s design has a combination of Lanna architecture, wood slab house and traditional house of Switzerland. It has 2 floors and a mezzanine. The upper floor is divided into 4 parts but is connected to one building.
15:00 - Mae Fah Luang garden is part of the Doi Tung development project consisting of lawn and flower gardens planted along the hillside on an area of about 11 acres in front of Doi Tung Palace. Located at the village of Akha Pa Kluai which used as a transfer route and the residence of the opium caravan, heroin and war weapons. But now grow the winter flowers according to the initiative of HRH Srinagarindra (King Rama 9's mother) she wants Thai people who do not have the opportunity to go abroad to see the winter flowers. Flowering plant and ornamental plants that were planted by villagers create jobs for villagers to feed their families and also emerged as a tourist attraction that brings both direct and indirect income. In 1993, Mae Fah Luang garden received the PATA Gold Award for the category of Tourism Development Award from the Asia-Pacific Tourism Promotion Association. The highlight is the sculpture of Misiem Yipintsoi in the middle of this garden. HRH Srinagarindra named it "Continuity". Doi Tung has orchid breeding to propagate rare plants and replant in the origin of the species. In Mae Fah Luang garden also has colorful orchid corners. This garden alters care hundred varieties of flowers to retain the beautifulness of flowers in all seasons it looks heterogeneous each year.
17:00 - Check into Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa.
19:00 - Dinner at Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa.
Day 6 (Chiang Rai - Chiang Mai)
7:00 - Breakfast at Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa.
7:30 - Leave Katiliya Mountain Resort & Spa.
12:00 - Lunch at local Thai restaurant.
13:00 - Bhuping Ratchaniwed Palace. Adore the elegantly beauty of the Bhuping Ratchaniwed Palace which His Majesty the King Rama 9 graciously built in 1961. To be used as a residence on the royal visit to Chiang Mai and also used to house the royal guests on various occasions. The atmosphere around the palace is surrounded by beautiful landscapes with pleasant weather all year round. There are Eucalyptus Palace 1 which uses eucalyptus wood to be constructed in a log cabin form and a house of 2 storey contemporary Thai style which used as a residence of the royal guests and the senior civil servants who followed. In addition, there are a large reservoir, natural fern garden, flower garden and the varieties of inflorescence roses. Visitors should dress appropriately to be allowed to enter.
14:15 - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The Buddha's relics were placed underground. With the tradition of enshrining relics underground to be the central pillar of Chiang Mai the capital city of the Lanna Kingdom. Do not allow women to approach the relics because of Buddhist beliefs women who have menstruation are dirty. This belief is dating from the time that Buddhism came into this region thousand years ago. The creed of Buddhism that deprived women to access religion. At present, most of the temples in Northern Thailand are very stringent in this rule. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was built in A.D. 1384 in the 6th King of Lanna Kingdom era. Name was given after "Hermit Wa Suthep" who had practiced asceticism at this mountain over thousand year ago.
15:45 - Wat U-mong (The Tunnel Temple). Built for a meditation purpose and tunnels are all connected. Some old evident murals can be seen on the wall and ceiling. At the top of the tunnel enshrined of a 700 year old Lanna Chedi which assumed to build in mid of the 10th century. The temple divided into several important sections such as Asoke replicated stone pillars, the inscribed stone, the Naga head, the outdoor museum, the enigma house and Library etc.
17:30 - Check into either Panviman Chiang Mai (No Night Bazaar) or Le Méridien Chiang Mai (visit Night Bazaar).
19:00 - Dinner at local Thai restaurant or at hotel.
20:00 - Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (optional) is a famous shopping street. Most tourists are foreigners who come to hang out and buy things. Products sold on the stalls both sides of the street are handmade, clothing, silverware, paintings, shoes, fabrics, luggage and souvenirs. Also there are international restaurants, food court, beer garden, massage, spa and many more.
Day 7 (Chiang Mai - Krabi)
4:30 - Leave the hotel to Chiang Mai airport.
5:30 - Arrive at Chiang Mai airport for the flight to Krabi with Air Asia (2 hour direct flight).
8:30 - Arrive at Krabi airport.
9:00 - Coffee and Breakfast.
10:00 - Taking speed boat to Phi Phi Island about 45 min ride. On board, there are life vests prepared for safety throughout the journey.
10:45 - Phi Phi Le Island is part of Phi Phi Island which has NO facilities and restaurants because almost the whole island is limestone with steep cliffs perpendicular with the sea surface. The entire island has a little beach area but the natural feature being a snorkeling and scuba diving at Pileh Bay and Losama Bay.
11:00 - Maya Bay is closed at the moment because "Overtourism". Maya Bay reputed after the movie The Beach in year 2000 starring the famous actor Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed at this bay. The distinctive feature of this bay is a crescent-like bay that has a large cove surrounded by limestone mountains and cliffs. Characteristic of Maya Bay is similar to the lagoon in the sea like a private kingdom. Inside the bay, the water is emerald crystal clear, a large clean white sand beach stretching into the inner length and the fine white sand is soft as powder. You can't help to lean down on a soft white sand beach which everyone ever visited love in the beauty of this place. During November - April is the best time to visit Maya Bay because there will be no wind coming into the back of Phi Phi Island so the water is calm and clear like a transparent clear glass. The small boat (long tailed boat) and speed boat can get near 30 - 50 meter to the bay. But at other times, boat may enter Maya Bay for just some pleasant days with no strong winds. Traveling during the Off Season (May - October) should check the weather because if there is a monsoon the boat will not be able to approach this bay.
11:30 - Losama Bay is another narrow cove bay in which the sea water is Limpid. One of the great snorkeling spots of Phi Phi Le Island. Losama Bay has a variety high biological, abundance coral reefs, showy underwater colors, multicolored fish and pile of rocks filled with sea flowers underwater.
12:00 - Pileh Bay is a large cove bay with high cliffs enclosed also called Lagoon. Tourist boats like to stop the engine in the middle of the bight environed by mountains to appreciate the enchantment of emerald sea color as a private world. In addition, Pileh Bay is also a scuba diving and snorkeling spot.
12:30 - Viking Cave is a large cave about 80 meters high. In 1972, King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama 9) has been to this cave and renamed it "Payanak Cave" (serpent cave) as the shape of a stone that resembles a serpent head. Inside the cave is a dark hall with beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. And more than 70 ancient graffiti of over a hundred years old visible on the cave wall in the east and south. Most ancient paintings are various boat types such as sailboats, junk boats, galleons, steamships and some look similar to Viking boats which is the origin of the name “Viking Cave”. It is assumed that the depictions were crafted by fishermen, seafarers or pirates who came to escape the monsoon or repair boats or conveyance goods inside the cave a hundred years ago. At present, it is no longer allowed tourists to enter the Viking Cave because it caused the condition to deteriorate and worsen nature. It became a restricted area of bird's nest concessions to collect swiftlet nests. Tourists can view the front of this cave from the boat only.
13:00 - Monkey Beach is a place where a group of macaques can be seen living by the sea. They are very familiar with tourists you just carry food go into their territory they will race to you immediately. The sand beach is powdery white, soft and pure. And for those who love snorkeling can swim from the beach to the west of the bay you will find the moderately rich coral reefs.
13:30 - Lunch by the sea at the restaurant on Phi Phi Don Island with a variety of Thai food menus. After lunch you can saunter, shop or leisure. Phi Phi Don Island once one of the top 10 most beautiful islands in the World. It is the center of Phi Phi archipelago with accommodations, restaurants and full facilities as well as the splendid scenery. Phi Phi Don Island consists of 2 bays that are double coves which are Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalam Bay.
14:30 - Bamboo Island (Koh Pai) is a small island. The setting of Koh Pai is completely different to Phi Phi Island. Because it is a quiet island with very clear sea water, beautiful beach and coral reefs suitable for diving to see the underwater world. Ideal time to travel is the period when there is no monsoon around November to April every year. On the island there is a tourist center, camp site and tents service for those who want to stay overnight but must bring your own food and drinking water.
15:00 - Koh Poda has a beach surrounded on all three sides except the west side. This island is suitable for leisure travel, sightseeing, swimming, relax, wandering rather than snorkeling. On the island, there are accommodations and restaurants. Best to visit from November to May.
15:30 - Talay Waek is the natural phenomenon when the sea water goes down then the white sand beach will emerge connecting 3 islands Koh Tup, Koh Mo and Koh Kai (Chicken Island). You can walk across from one island to another. The best time should be during the lowest tide 5 days before or after the full moon. In the past, tourists can rent a boat to fish, camp and stay overnight on the island but currently does not allow to stay overnight on the island. Talay Waek is considered one of the highlight for Krabi's marine attractions.
*Koh Tup is a small island that has a sandy beach only on the south. In low tide this side of the island will connect to the sand dunes of Koh Kai (Chicken Island) be like a natural bridge about 200 meters long. This small island has fine white sandy beach and clear water.
*Koh Mo is a rocky island located only 70 meters away from Koh Tup. If the water is lessened the sand dunes will be connected being able to walk from one island to another.
16:30 - Koh Kai (Chicken Island). A strange shape of the island becomes the source of various island names. Due to the crag that juts out upward causing the beholders to envision multifariously. Some saw it similar to the chicken head but some saw it an upright axe handle. You can snorkel to see shallow water corals or hard corals at this island. But the richness of the corals may not be equivalent to other islands that farther from the mainland. The impression that you will receive is the enchanting sea water color with shoaling tiger fish who are amiable with human always waiting to welcome and ready to interact with visitors.
17:30 - Railay Beach is well known among tourists who like rock climbing activities. Railay Beach divided into East Railay and West Railay. The beach has accommodations and just takes 20 minute by boat from Ao Nang. Popular activity of Railay Beach that will allure your attention is inevitably rock climbing. As there are many limestone cliffs for tourists to climb all year. In April of every year, there will be a "rock climbing" competition held at East Railay Beach, Tonsai Bay and Phra Nang Cave. Railay Beach is also known as "Gorgeous sunset" spot when the sun is going down light reflect the shadows from the rock downward the bay, coconut trees arranged in rows, fishing boats parked orderly on the coast. The image is like a peaceful paradise.
*East Railay Beach. This beach has mangrove forest with mud ground area not suitable for swimming or sunbathing. But the interesting thing is the several rock climbing spots allowing adventurous travelers to challenge. Tourists can stroll along the beach as there are restaurants, cafes and accommodations available.
*West Railay Beach has crystal clear sea water and white fine sand beach encircled by crags. Tourists like to swim, sunbathe, meander along the beach and visit "Phra Nang Cave" another site that allows tourists to do various beach activities such as cliff climbing, kayaking and watching the sunset etc.
18:00 - Phra Nang Cave Beach is one of the highlights of Krabi's thalassic attractions. This captivating unique angle you must walk all the way to the other end of the beach where located Phra Nang Cave. And entering the cave, look out then you will see stalactites descending into beauteous chandeliers with sea surface, sand beach, islands and blue sky lined on the background such an astonishing outlook. During the daytime Phra Nang Cave Beach will be bustling with tourists who purchase shuttle boat tickets and who buy a tour also tourists who walk on their own from Railay Beach. But in the evening time when tourists gradually started traveling back to the accommodations the ambience of Phra Nang Cave Beach will return to quietude again. Due to Phra Nang Cave Beach faces west. In the evening, tourists who stay overnight at varied resorts in Railay Beach or Phra Nang Cave Beach itself can watch the sunset in front of this bay. In the waning moon night if the sea breeze is calm and unruffled you may find the miraculous phenomenon that is sporadic seen in front of this bay. That is “Phosphorescence" a natural phenomenon which occurs when throw rocks or dip the body into the water surface then the gleam at the touch point will shine brightly for a while before disappearing. In addition, Phra Nang Cave is the abode of the goddess. Things that the villagers brought to proffer are the carved wood phallus called “Paladkik” has different sizes and colors. Suitable travel season is at any time of year but during the Rainy season (June - October) should be careful when get into the sea water by virtue of strong wind, waves and abundant jellyfish.
18:45 - Watch Sunset at Phra Nang Cave Beach if the weather is permitted. Depart Phra Nang Cave Beach.
19:05 - Return to the pier.
19:30 - Check into either Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort or Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Hotel.
20:00 - Dinner at local Thai restaurant or at hotel.
Day 8 (Krabi - Phuket)
7:00 - Breakfast at hotel.
7:30 - Leave the hotel to Phuket.
10:30 - Take speed boat to the islands.
11:00 - Koh Khai (Egg Island) in Phang Nga Province is a small archipelago located in Phang Nga Bay consisting of 3 islands Koh Khai Nui, Koh Khai Nai and Koh Khai Nok. Presently three islands open for diving. Attributable to Koh Khai (Egg Island) is located very close to Phuket Island. Visitors can travel from Phuket to this island within 20 - 30 minutes by boat. The sea water is blue-light green as well as a shoals of Indo-Pacific sergeant who are always familiar with tourists are factors that make people travel to this island continuously.
*Koh Khai Nai is a small island which has clean white sand all through the beach. Topography of Koh Khai Nai is filled with strange rock formations caused by wind erosion through a long period of time became a unique identity. Besides beautiful beaches and clear water Koh Khai Nai also has moderately rich coral reefs. Just swim away from the beach about 15 - 20 meters you will discover them. Most of the corals found in this area are blue pectinia coral, disc coral and mountain coral you may also find table coral, honeycomb coral or some other species of corals. The most striking is the varicolored numberless fish species that are acquainted to tourists in shallow water not far from the beach. If you don't like snorkeling you then can buy bread to feed the abounding Indo-Pacific sergeant instead. To walk around the island takes just 5 minutes. There are stores, food, simple drinks and canvas chairs lined up throughout the beach for tourists.
*Koh Khai Nok is a small island with beautiful rocks and pure white sand beach suitable for sunbathing. The water color is blue and light green. If you are lucky while snorkeling you may chance upon some baby Blacktip reef shark swim around in the coral reefs or some Hawksbill sea turtle around coral reefs. There are shops, restaurants, drinks and a canvas chair available on the beach. During the day in High Season (November - March) Koh Khai Nok will be packed and crowded of tourists.
*Koh Khai Nui has a small white pearl sandy beach shorter than 100 meters that will appear only at low tide. But in the high tide this sand beach will be submerged under the water. Normally tourists will not be able to enter this island it's only for the customers of the restaurant on this island. For common tourists will only be able to snorkel around this island. Koh Khai Nui is smaller than Koh Khai Nai and Koh Khai Nok in size. Long ago, under the water around Koh Khai Nui was teemed with beautiful animated Staghorn corals. Thereafter, a severe coral bleaching phenomenon destroyed them all. Nowadays, tourists come to see the vestige of abundance coral of yore and diverse fish species you may also happen upon anemone fish.
12:30 - Lunch with seafood barbecue on the island.
13:30 - Koh Maiton. Many people are not familiar with this name. Owing to Koh Maiton has been closed down for long time and was not much publicity. But the closure made the island back to abundance and was dubbed the "Honeymoon Island" in Phuket. Feeling like the island and the sea belong to you. The water color is clear and very pretty no matter from which angle. It is a small tranquil island in the Andaman Sea with luxuriant forest terrain. From Phuket coastline to Koh Maiton is 9 kilometers away and takes 15 - 20 minute boat ride depending on the wind. Koh Maiton is a private island and not crowded since the limitation number of people to get in to the island is specified ergo that makes it restful. Therefore, traveling to this island requires a tour or charter boat No shuttle boat. The surroundings are quiet fitting for recreation in many resting spots. The sand is soft and clean. The water color is beautiful radiant blue almost the same color as the sky. You can dive to see school of fish species such as Indo-Pacific sergeant, lionfish, parrotfish, clownfish or anemone fish. Frequently stumbled across dolphins which some came in pair some came in a group or some came to play and jump closely to the boat. This is one of a few plenitude islands in Thailand that happy dolphins can be seen. Another highlight of this island is the large purple starfish. There is a diving point just right at the front of the beach to eyewitness healthy and brightly color corals the depth is about 5 - 6 meters. Koh Maiton is a popular tourist destination for foreigners and Thais including His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan has visited this island. At present Koh Maiton is not allowed to stay overnight on the island. Tourists can do a day trip only. If staying overnight has been allowed it may not be peace anymore. Water activities on Koh Maiton are kayaking and banana boat but if the wave is too strong the activity will be dismissed. May be replaced with beach volleyball, reading books, watching the sea, sunbathing or sitting on swings at silent corner in the shade of the trees instead. The viewpoint is about 400 meters via staircase to the highest point where enshrined of the Buddha image. Also, at this perspective you can see 3 provinces that are Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga but far off. On the island has Goat's foot creeper that can be useful to neutralize the jellyfish. You can still get a phone signal as the island only a little distance from the shore.
15:00 - Koh Racha is divided into 2 islands that are Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. Located about 20 km away from Phuket and takes speed boat around 30 - 45 minutes.
*Koh Racha Yai is an island with clean white talcum sand. The land was monopolized by villagers to grow coconut plantations and fruit orchards for living. In flat areas adjacent to the sea the villagers and investors have developed them as accommodations and restaurants for tourists. Koh Racha Yai encloses 5 bays :
1. Patok Bay the soft white sand beach is suitable for viewing and sunbathing.
2. Siam Bay is the longest beach of Koh Racha Yai. The atmosphere is composed and uncrowded also suited for snorkeling at the beach front site. In lowest tide coral reefs in half of the bay will arise at the same time.
3. Teu Bay is a small and narrow beach. The sand is brown blended with rocks. Water is not clear unbecoming to swim as it has a jetty to moor the boats. In the morning the beautiful sunrise can be seen from there.
4. Khon Kae Bay is another fertile diving spot. There are sustained Staghorn coral and soft coral reefs that are rare to see. On the beach available of stores, drinks, massages and also can watch the sunrise there.
5. Lah Bay a small beach only 10 - 15 meters long which has a beautiful diving spot but the beach has wealth of round stones.
Three primary diving spots are Khon Kae Bay, Lah Bay and Siam Bay. Currently, Koh Racha Yai has become one of the famous dive sites in the Andaman Sea. Because the sea water around the island is clear all year round, fruitfully coral reefs and unusually assorted aquatic animals which is improbable to be spotted in other diving sites such as Staghorn coral and various hard corals, conger eel, stingray, puffer fish, octopus and Bengal sergeant etc. Interesting activities on Koh Racha Yai are scuba diving with approximately 15 dive sites, snorkeling, fishing or squiding on the coast or on a boat and trekking into tropical rainforest.
*Koh Racha Noi is about 10 km away from Koh Racha Yai. This island is mostly rocky and partly sandy beaches.
16:30 - Koh Hae is a small island located about 10 km away from Phuket coast. It is another popular island of Phuket that opens all year long except on a heavy rainy day during monsoon season The Harbor Department will disallow. The beach is white talcum powder sand the water is pellucid blue-light green which you can plainly see the coral reef and lot of fish beneath the water. There are abundant shallow coral reefs to be sighted such as brain coral, Staghorn coral, table coral, honey comb coral, mountain coral, lettuce coral, disc coral and tree coral longitudinally. And polychromatic color fish such as butterfly fish, pennant coral fish, parrot fish and marine angelfish. The back of the island is reposed suitable for those who expect isolation. Activities on the island are jet skiing, banana boating, kayaking, scuba diving, parasailing and sea walking. For those who like to lay back there is an area for sunbathing, watching the waves, food and drinks. Koh Hae does not allow camping. Frequently seen native animal on the island is Oriental pied hornbill feeding themselves on the trees every day in the morning. Koh Hae in the past decades underwater was rich in coral reefs which the island has been named "Coral Island".
17:45 - Return to the pier.
18:15 - Promthep Cape is an official reference for sunset time of Thailand at the southern end of Phuket Island. In Summer the sunset vista is spectacular.
19:15 - Check into either Amatara Wellness Resort or Centara Grand Beach Resort.
20:15 - Dinner at Suriyamas seafood buffet restaurant in Phuket FantaSea.
21:00 - Phuket FantaSea is a princely place believed that everyone will be amazed by its grandeur. When walking inside there are souvenirs, games, small cafe in Thai style house, food court, Slimilan Entertainment kiosks that kids like very much, shows and jewelry etc. Big eateries decorated in a ravishing Thai style with a mixture of seafood and international food. The highlight is the performances that combine Thai culture and special effects of sound and light. The theater is called “Palace of the Elephants Theater” in the Sukhothai Castle era. Not allowed mobile phone and camera inside the theater. The main theme of the show is a myth that compounded Thai and fantasy such as Loi Krathong tradition (floating bowl to river and floating lantern to sky), agriculture, elephant caravan, architecture, fighting including acrobatic and magic during interlude. It will take everyone into the world of fantasy along with fun harmoniously. Children will understand, enjoy, like, impress and excite in the astonishing value shows. Perform 1 round per day at 21:00 hrs. Show duration is about 70 minutes. The show has 11 chapters.
23:30 - Return to hotel.
Day 9 (Phuket - Phang Nga - Bangkok)
7:00 - Breakfast at hotel.
8:00 - Leave the hotel.
8:30 - Lobster farm (rock lobsters or spiny lobsters). Having a new experience, knowledge, fun, impression and highlight of tasting the fresh lobsters from the cages right on the floating farms amidst the lifestyle of the local fishermen atmosphere. Nowadays, the natural juvenile lobsters are rare to find in the area hence some aquaculturers had imported juvenile lobsters from Myanmar or India. It costs high and risk that juvenile lobsters may shock in the new water then die. The local fishermen therefore focus on farming juvenile lobsters that are mainly found in the area. Farming lobsters in the natural setting cages has nothing complicated. The food given is Asian date mussels once a week. It is believed to help stimulate the molting of lobsters. Lobsters will be categorized age and size but the local fishermen have to be watched out for the lack of cages which will cause the losses. It will take about 1 year for growing to be able to sell at a weight of 1 kg each and worth 2,500 Baht per kilogram. During the past year lobster become an economic animal and high price. Therefore, local fisheries have furtherance lobster farming in the area, evolve cages, control quality of process and zoning beneficial to remain a good environment because the purity of the sea water is the prime element to subsist lobster. As a result lobster aquaculture helps increase tourism value, marketing channels and revenue for the local fishermen sustainably. Initially, lobster used to sell only to restaurants now has broadened into a tourism activity. Open for tourists to visit farm, touch lively lobster and can pick lobster from cages to cook various menus. Especially lobster sashimi (raw) has natural crustacean sweetness. Aside from lobster, there are also fresh fish, crabs and molluscs for tourists to choose from cages for a variety of menus. In addition, guests can also see local fishermen way of livings. The befitting time to drop in lobster farm is around 3pm - 6pm.
10:15 - Wat Phra Thong (half-buried Buddha image) is one of the oldest famous temples in Phuket built in the late Ayutthaya period (1688 - 1767). The temple is located about 10 kilometers away from Phuket Airport. The prominence of this temple is a creation of upper Buddha image to be above the ground only about half. Altitude of around 50 cm to appear it ascends from the ground. Thereafter, the villagers plastered to overlay the Buddha image making it higher than before then covered with gold color for convenience of the monk's religious rituals. Inside the temple there is a museum which collects antiquities and implements that have historical significance such as mining equipment, tin mining poncho, Chinese basket, tile pillows used by Chinese people when smoking opium, archaic Chinese bed and cabinet made of wood with carved patterns, shoes of Chinese women that had to bind the foot to the small size according to the fashion of that era, the 5 cannons that had been used to protect the city at the time of Thalang War in 1809 and many other antiques. It tells the lifestyle of Phuket people in the past. The museum was officially opened in 1987. The name half-buried Buddha image came from the Burmese army troops attacked Phuket in 1785. Their soldiers tried to dig the Buddha statue out but when digging they were stung severely by the hornets until they gave up the effort. Later on King Rama VI has renamed this temple "Wat Phra Thong". On March 11, 1959 King Rama 9 who came on a private visit to Wat Phra Thong has inscribed his monogram on a stone to emblem as a memorial of prosperity to the temple and Thai people. It is positioned above the entrance door of the chapel. The temple has sculpted statues of people and animals as memorials such as :
*statue of a boy who had tied his water buffalo to the head of Buddha image subsequently both the boy and the water buffalo died. The temple therefore sculpted the boy and the water buffalo.
*statue of 2 deer, 2 bears, 1 cow and 1 elephant that the temple used to feed.
11:15 - Plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach. In Thailand, there is an intriguing airport in Phuket which the runway next to Mai Khao Beach. The plane will be descending very low close to the sand beach just about 20 - 30 meters over your head bringing some excitement for tourists in that area. It became another hot destination of Phuket. Aircrafts will take off and land every few minute at Phuket Airport but for landing direction manipulation is depending on the wind during that hour. Mai Khao Beach is unfrequented but there are sparsely small group of Thai and foreign tourists come for photography with the plane. If you plan to visit Phuket then it is a Ought!
12:30 - Take long tailed boat to Koh Panyi (floating village). The name comes from the Indonesian who had emigrated 200 years ago. He found the island then flagged to signify the migrants who had come together that it was the right place to set up the house. The name “Panyi” means “Flag”. Floating village located on the sea with about 1,600 square meters of flat land which was for building a mosque and cemetery. Most island villagers are Islam who work in local fishery together with open souvenir shops and restaurants. The floating village has school, football field and clinic. There are hand-crafted products sold such as shells products, batiks, necklace, bracelets, rings made from pearl. Likewise, food products such as sweetened shrimp and krill paste. Also, a nice break point for repast. Houses were uplifted to escape the arising of the sea water. The way of life of the villagers begins with the first light of the morning sun. The small boat started out to collect fish in the shuttle form traps around the island. Some went to see fish raised in cages. Some prepare boats to go out to collect visitors which are the main earnings here. Moreover to the elementary way of livings and hospitality of the villagers you will also see a unique inventive floating football field like no other built for children who love to play football. In addition, Koh Panyi has 15 rock climbing routes to challenge (5 - 6 B difficulty) behind the community to the east. If looking at Koh Panyi from the cliff you will genuinely understand the word “floating village” and assimilate an unforgettable impression. No alcoholic beverage and should not bring into this place with regard to retain the culture and traditions of the villagers. Here you will experience the charm of a culture that melds the islander’s manner and traditional of Muslims perfectly.
13:00 - Lunch at Koh Panyi (floating village).
14:30 - Khao Ping Kan is a small island in Phang Nga Bay. The mountain has special characteristic and peculiarity different to other mountains. Looking like two even surfaced mountains leaned to each other in slant line caused by a normal fault. This fault slashed the limestone on the edge piece of the island apart from the island. Afterwards, the water eroded the base of the rock mass. This natural singularity has a grand meaning for preservation.
15:00 - James Bond Island (Khao Tapu) is a Dolomitic limestone with a huge stone bar striking in the sea on Phang Nga Bay when viewed from a distance it looks like a giant nail being spiked deep into the water. However, the stone bar of James Bond Island is in The Permian period around 251 million years ago. It is dangerous to get close because the bottom part that was submerged under the sea has been eroded by sea water for millions years that made it much smaller than the upper part which might fall at any time. The officials from relevant agencies prohibited tourists to cruise near it due to fear of such danger. Tourists can watch remotely from the boat. There was a Hollywood movie filmed here at a famous tourist destination Khao Tapu and released in 1974 called “James Bond” (The Man with the Golden Gun). Thenceforth this island was named "James Bond Island" one of the famous Phang Nga attractions known among tourists around the world. The encircle area of James Bond Island there are also interesting nearby attractions such as :
*Ancient paintings of various animal kinds on the cliff on the way to Koh Panyi presumably painted by ancient seafarers who stopped to park and evade the monsoon.
*Koh Hong the small mountain complex when sailing between islands look around it appear to be in a large hall with 2 doors. Also a beautiful coral spot.
With the beautiful and bizarre nature of James Bond Island it had become a famous tourist destination.
16:00 - Return to the pier.
16:45 - Arrive at Phuket airport for the flight to Don Mueang airport Bangkok with either Air Asia or Nok Air or Thai Lion Air (1.5 hour).
19:45 - Arrive at Don Mueang airport Bangkok. Free transfer to Suvarnabhumi airport Bangkok or hotel in Bangkok (excluding hotel room & dinner).
Things to bring : Please make sure to bring sneakers for trekking, a change of clothes, swimsuit, towels, insect repellent and sun protection.
Dress codes for visiting Royal temples in Bangkok : Ladies and men must be covered shoulders and knees. Long pants, shirts with sleeves, long skirts are acceptable. Footwear must be covered heels. Flip flop and sandal aren’t acceptable.
Payment includes :
- all meals indicated.
- all fees indicated.
- all transportation indicated.
- all flight tickets indicated (baggage allowances 20 kg/person).
- all accommodations indicated.
- insurance covered throughout the trip.
- drinking water provided throughout the trip.
- prevailing taxes.
- English speaking guides.
- Picking up from your hotel in Bangkok or Bangkok airport on Day 1 and dropping off at your hotel in Bangkok or Suvarnabhumi airport Bangkok on Day 9.
Excluded :
- alcoholic drinks.
- personal expenses.
- meals NOT indicated (breakfast on Day 1 & dinner on Day 9).
