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PRIVATE TOUR or JOIN-IN TOUR ?

Private and Join-in Tours include Hotel pick-up and return on completion of your sightseeing!

PRIVATE TOUR: A private tour is run exclusively for you, your own family or friends with no other strangers. You can start the tour on any date at your convenience. Ideal for people who need special assistance, such as the elderly, people with disabilities or families with small children.

JOIN-IN TOUR: Join-in Tour or Small group tour are best for those who are eager to see the most popular sights at a comparatively low price. Join-in Tours have fixed departure times and itineraries that can not be changed. It's also a good chance for you to meet and make new acquaintances from all over the world.

Full Country Name: Thailand (Prathet Thai, meaning "land of the free")

Capital: Bangkok (Krung Thep, meaning " city of angels")

Geography: The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of South East Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions : the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula South.

People
Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest are minorities (Mons, Khmers, hilltribes) Ethnic Thais form the majority, though the area has historically been a migratory crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic diversity. Integration is such, however, that culturally and socially there is enormous unity.

Language
Spoken and written Thai is largely incomprehensible to the casual visitor. However, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and some European Languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.

Manners
Thais are very easy going and would rarely tell you if you are doing something that offends them. However, here are few things to think about before you arrive:

Heads: Never touch an adult on the head. Thais consider the head to be the highest part of the body (spiritually) and would feel incredibly uncomfortable if you were to do so. Children under the age of 10 can be touched on the head in a playful manner, but the best rule of thumb is just to not do so.

Feet: On the opposite side of things, Thais consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body (spiritually) therefore it is extremely rude to do almost anything but walk with them. Do not put them up on chairs, ledges, etc to relax. Do not gain someone’s attention by tapping him or her with your foot.

Royalty: Refrain from speaking publicly about the Royal Family of Thailand. Thais highly revere all members of the Royal Family, to the point that it is almost rude to speak publicly about them out of respect. Never speak about any past or present Royal Family members passing away either.

Monks: Women must never come into physical contact with or directly hand anything to a monk.

Tiger Temple, Kanchanaburi Thailand (Daily departures from Bangkok)

Deep in the heart of Western Thailand, where the River Kwai weaves through the rich green jungle, the monks of the Wat Pa Luang Ta Bua Temple are beginning their day.

They walk through the town and collect alms from the locals. But back at the temple for breakfast and prayers, it's clear that this Buddhist monastery is like no other, for this handful of monks live with some of the deadliest animals in the world.

They call it the Tiger Temple, and its story is the stuff of fairy tales. According to Abbot Pra-Acharn Phusit, a tiger cub orphaned by poachers was brought to the temple years ago.

The abbot cared for her and, as word spread, more people brought sickly and orphaned cubs to the temple's doorstep. Those cubs went on to have their own cubs, and nine years on there are now 34 tigers living here.

The Buddhists believe in reincarnation and the abbot feels that these tigers are his family. As he told ABC News, "I think they are my babies: my son, my daughter, my father, mother. If not in the present life, in the past life."

Buddhists also believe that animals, like humans, are sentient beings.

"When the tiger angry, when you angry, it's the same. When you hungry, when the tiger hungry, it's the same. When you tired, when the tiger tired, it's the same!" the abbot explains.

He has used this understanding to raise some of the tamest tigers in the world, catapulting this small forest monastery into the international limelight.

Every afternoon tourists from across the world flock to the Tiger Temple for their very own personal tiger experience.

And what they see is unlike any American zoo exhibit. Tiger Temple is hands-on, meaning visitors can pet the enormous cats and even hold their heads in their laps for photos.

Thailand History

Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only South-East Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power, and fiercely proud of the fact. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US ally following the conflict.

After a string of military dictatorships and quickly toppled civilian presidents, Thailand finally stabilized into a fair approximation of a democracy and the economy, hobbled by the 1997 Asian economic crisis, is booming once again. Above it all presides the King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the world’s longest-reigning monarch and a deeply loved and respected figure of nearmythic proportions.

In September 2006, a swift and bloodless military coup endorsed by the King overthrew the previous democratically elected but widely criticized government, promising elections in late 2007. Although martial law still applies and political gatherings are restricted, there has been no violence, no curfews are in effect, there is no longer any significant military presence in public places, and all services are functioning normally.

Songkran Festival (April each year)

Being the traditional Thai New Year, Songkran Festival is celebrated not in only Bangkok, but enjoys high-spirited celebration all over Thailand. The festival ingrained in the Thai culture holds much propitiousness in the lives of the Thais. Every year, it starts on April 13 and lasts for three days, until April 15. The festival begins with Maha Songkran Day on April 13, which marks culmination of the previous year. The following day, April 1, is Wan Nao, and April 15 is Wan Thaloeng Sok, which actually marks the beginning of the New Year. In Thai, Songkran means 'to move' or 'to change place', denoting the change in the position of the sun in the zodiac.

Originally, the date of Songkran was calculated on the basis of astrological observations, but now it remains fixed and falls on the same date every year, thereby coinciding with traditional New Year celebrations of many countries of South and Southeast Asia. Across Thailand, Songkran is regarded as a time to honor tradition, community and family. Therefore, people uphold family values by washing hands of elders, with scented water. Children smear perfumed water on to the hands of parents and grandparents and bestow them with gifts in order to show their respect. Elders of the household also shower youngsters with good luck and generous blessings.

Rural folks who work in cities make a visit to their homes to spend time with their families. Many people also call on neighbors and friends and enjoy various proceedings of carousing. Apart from reveling with friends and family, another notable feature of Songkran is the act of throwing water. People douse each other with water infused with fragrant herbs, as water is considered to cleanse bad deeds or 'Karma'. Streets remain filled with rovers, armed with water containers and water guns, waiting to flood every passerby. Moreover, the Buddha image 'Buddhasihing' housed in the National Museum is brought out. People toss water at the holy image and seek Buddha's blessings.

During the celebration, many people also make it a point to visit a Wat (Buddhist monastery) in order to pray and give alms to monks. Moreover, in order to attain good luck and prosperity, people bathe the Buddha images in these monasteries, with sanctified water soused with fragrant herbs. In addition, people also ritually bathe household Buddha images. Thai people go on a painstaking housecleaning spree and discard all the old and useless domestic items, which they believe invite bad luck. Thus, Songkran, with its religious importance, domestic significance and drenching water battles, remains one of the most popular festivals of Bangkok.

Kanchanaburi History

According to most historians, the ancient town of Kanchanaburi was located near Ban Lat Ya, a small village situated approximately 16 kilometers north of the present town. The site was repeatedly recorded in Thai history as an invasion route which the Burmese used to enter Thai Kingdoms.

Kanchanaburi, which has mostly mountainous terrain, covers an area of approximately 19,473 square kilometers and is the third largest province in Thailand after Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima. Situated approximately 129 kilometres west of Bangkok , Kanchanaburi shares a border with Myanmar to the west, Tak and Uthai Thani Provinces to the north, Suphan Buri and Nakhon Pathom Provinces to the east, and Ratchaburi Province to the south.

In north and west Kanchanaburi, the terrain is comprised mainly of mountains and high plains, with the Thanon Thongchai Range acting as a natural border between Thailand and Myanmar . The range is the source of Kanchanaburi's two most important rivers Maenam Khwae Noi and Maenam Khwae Yai, which form the famous Maenam Mae Klong. As a result, several of Thailand 's largest Namtok (waterfalls) and most extensive wildlife sanctuaries are found in this area.

The magnificent landscape and charming beauty of Kanchanaburi have resulted in major tourist attractions including several well-known waterfalls, caves which were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and reservoir. Together, they offer an intriguing experience for first-time or repeat visitors. Whether its fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing, elephant and jungle trekking, or even living in bamboo rafts, Kanchanaburi takes pride in offering them all.

The city of Kanchanaburi is located at the point where two tributaries, the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai meet and form the Maenam Mae Klong. This is the location of the notorious Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Khwae one of the worlds famous World War II sites which have been immortalized in print and film.

In economic terms, Kanchanaburi has been doing well on a national scale, with over 10 per cent growth annually. Important industries include sugar, agricultural products and jewelry. Tourism is also a main source of income for the locals as the provinces high tourism potential has made Kanchanaburi number one among the west provinces in having the highest number of visitors each year.

Residents of Kanchanaburi are engaged in agricultural activities. Most of the locals are of Thai ancestry with notable Mon and Karen minorities. Rural dwellers enjoy living simply and respecting nature. Moreover folk music and dances dating back at least 500 years are still performed today.

Chiang Rai History

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok . Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar , Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar , Laos and Southern China.

Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai, was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice fields), which was later conquered by Burma . It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.

Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.

Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more 'laid back' now competes with Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind.

Bangkok History

The capital city of Bangkok presents an intriguing history and origin that concurs and coincides with the tumultuous history of Thailand. Bangkok went on to become the capital of the Thai Kingdom in 1767, during a period when the former capital of Ayutthaya fell victim to Burmese armies. Before that, it was a small village full of plum trees, which served as a port for ships navigating to Ayutthaya. However, prior to Bangkok, it was Thonburi, a small village on the west coast of Chao Phraya River, which was chosen as Thailand's new capital.

After the pillage of Ayutthaya by the Burmese, Thai soldiers that survived their attacks established a military headquarter at Thonburi and fought with the enemy for 15 long years. Later, when they emerged victorious, they chose General Taksin as the King. Before long, he was beheaded and was succeeded by General Chakri, who ruled under the dynastic name of King Rama I. In 1782, under his governance, the capital shifted to Bangkok, when Thonburi became vulnerable to Burmese threat and attack.

Thus, Bangkok gained status of the new capital of Siam Kingdom and was bequeathed the royal title of 'Krung Thep' (City of Angels). Chinese merchants, who were the earlier inhabitants, were asked to evacuate the place and move to the Sampeng area. Thus, the construction of the city began, starting with Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). A huge city wall was erected and numerous canals, dykes and waterways were built. The Grand Palace - the imperial residence, along with the Wat Phra Kaew, saw near completion in 1785.

During the mid-nineteenth century, the city resembled a floating paradise, with lots of canals, watercourses and bridges. Most people settled on either side of the Chao Phraya and dwelled on beautiful floating houses. Nevertheless, during the regime of King Mongkut (Rama IV) and his son, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), many roadways and railways saw construction in Bangkok. The first paved street was constructed in 1863. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the city became more advanced and expanded in various directions.

Beginning 20th century, many other developmental projects began in the city. Rural markets turned into residential areas and the Memorial Bridge was constructed in 1932, to link Thonburi and Bangkok. With the Vietnam War, Bangkok grew with a startling pace and saw a steady economic boom. However, Thailand's coalition with Japan, during World War II, led to many problems in the country, including the bombing of Bangkok. Nonetheless, today, Bangkok, with its urban infrastructure and its traditional heritage of monuments, palaces and temples, is one of the most developed cities in entire Southeast Asia.

Chiang Mai History

Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.

For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.

The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity.

Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Chiang Mai literally means new city and has retained the name despite having celebrated its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom on Thursday, 12th April 1296 during the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai the Great conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded.

At the height of its power, the Lanna Kingdom extended its territory far into Burma and Laos, and southwards to Kamphaeng Phet a province above Sukhothai.

The Burmese conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1556 ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai that lasted over 250 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, Burmese architectural influences are visible in many temples. At the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great regrouped the Thais in the south and finally drove the Burmese out with the help of King Kawila of Lampang thereby regaining Thai independence from Burma. Chiang Mai was then governed by a succession of princes who ruled the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in 1939 that Chiang Mai finally came under the direct control of the central government in Bangkok the same time the country was renamed Thailand.

Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.

Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was the Thai capital for 417 years, before being replaced by Bangkok. Thanks to its tenure as Thai capital, Ayutthaya hosts many magnificent ruins and artworks. Ayutthaya was ruled by kings of several dynasties, bringing in so many architectural styles for Ayutthaya. Enjoy all this while on travel tour of Ayutthaya.

Historic Places
Significant historic places in Ayutthaya are Old Palace, Chantarakasem Palace, Bang Pa-in Summer Palace, Phom Phet and St Joseph's Church. Old Palace was built by King U-Thong in 1350. Later rulers built several palaces there. Chantarakasem Palace was used by King Rama IV of Bangkok as a summer retreat. Bang Pa-in Summer Palace, a palace built as summer retreat, was restored by King Rama IV. St Joseph's Church is the where Catholic Christians worshipped continuously over 300 years in Thailand.

Temples
Ayutthaya is also known for its temples. Some more famous temples you can visit on your travel tour are Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phanan Choeng, Wat Phu Khao Thong, Wat Chai Wattanaram, Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit and Wat Phra Mahathat. Wat Phra Si Sanphet has been made famous by its three bell-shaped chedis, which have become a symbol of Ayutthaya. Wat Phra Ram known for its chedis and the towering prang. Wat Phanan Choeng is one of the most lively temples in Ayuthhaya. Wat Phu Khao Thong, having stark white chedi, is located amidst sweeping rice fields. Wat Chai Wattanaram is a monument of Old Ayutthaya. Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit has a large Buddha idol, dating from the 15th century. Wat Phra Mahathat was built by King Boromaraja in the 14th century.

Festivals
Two festivals are particularly associated with Ayutthaya. These are Bang Sai Arts & Crafts Fair, celebrated in January, and Ayutthaya World Heritage Site Celebrations in December.

Erawan Shrine

Erawan Shrine, or the San Phra Phrom - as known to the locals, is a popular Hindu shrine in Bangkok. It preserves a beautifully sculpted four-headed statue of the deity 'Phra Phrom', the Thai God of creation, equivalent to the Hindu God 'Brahma'. Erected in 1956, it initially served as a 'spirit house', when the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel was constructed. According to popular beliefs, during the construction of the hotel, builders faced various unwarranted problems that miraculously disappeared once the temple was set up.

From then on, people began to associate the shrine with good luck, prosperity and happiness. The golden deity placed inside the temple is held with utmost awe and reverence. Everyday, thousands of devotees travel to the place to seek his blessings and offer him garlands, candles and lotus flowers. Those followers whose wishes sees fulfillment, sponsor classical music and dance performances at the temple, by resident Thai dance troupes, free of cost for the public. Thus, the place sees magnificent dance performances every few minutes.

Dancers in flamboyant costumes, wafting fragrance of incense, and brightly lit candles in the shrine reflect an incredible facet of the Thai tradition and culture. However, behind the serenity and tranquility that envelops it, the shrine also bears the mark of a violent history. In March 2006, a mentally deranged Thai man, sabotaged the central statue of the temple. Angry onlookers beat him to death and the shrine remain closed for public for quite some time. Later, a new Brahma statue was installed in May 2006.