Tantalizing Thailand & the Temples of Angkor
Tantalizing Thailand & the Temples of Angkor
$4000
Tantalizing Thailand & the Temples of Angkor
15 Days Starting in Siem Reap, Cambodia and ending in Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting: Siem Reap, Cambodia, Bangkok, Thailand, Sukhothai, Sukothai, Chiang Mai, Elephant Sanctuary, Ban Thaton, Doi Mai Salong, Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle Excursion
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2791-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
This budget-friendly tour through Cambodia and Thailand highlights each country’s rich history, fascinating culture, and religious monuments. Start in Siem Reap with visits to the magnificently preserved temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple—with 200 faces carved into 54 towers. You’ll also visit the exquisite 10th-century Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, where ancient jungle tree roots wind through the temple ruins. In Bangkok—Thailand’s current capital—visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha; the Temple of the Reclining Buddha built in 1832; and the Grand Palace, the royal residence established in 1782 where you’ll see the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist sculpture. You’ll also cruise the city’s canals (klongs) by long tail boat. In Sukhothai, Thailand’s 13th-century capital, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ruins of palaces, temples, and homes. But that’s not all…in Chiang Mai explore a night market by tuk-tuk and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. Travel to the “Golden Triangle,” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet and visit a local tea plantation. You’ll also visit several interesting hill tribes in the mountains near Chiang Rai. Your trip to Cambodia and Thailand is a rich in experiences, sights, and welcoming people you’ll long remember!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Siem Reap,Cambodia
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Welcome to Cambodia! Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2: Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Your sightseeing tour starts at the best preserved of all the temples—Angkor Wat, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Continue to Angkor Thom to see Bayon Temple. One of the few Buddhist temples in Angkor, it features more than 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Please note: You will meet your Tour Director in Bangkok on day 5. Sightseeing in Siem Reap is with your Local Host.
Day 3: Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, visit the exquisite 10th-century Banteay Srei, a unique temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. Then on to Ta Prohm, which has been left relatively untouched; surrounded by jungle, tree roots grow over and through the ruin walls. You’ll also visit a local school to interact with the children.
Day 4: Siem Reap,Bangkok,Thailand
Location: Siem Reap, Bangkok, Thailand
Today, fly to Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city. After settling into your hotel, perhaps explore the Sukhumvit Street Market or wander the vibrant streets of Chinatown.
Day 5: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Bangkok is an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping, and friendly culture. An exciting full day of sightseeing is ahead. Take in the city’s principal landmarks such as the splendid Temple of the Golden Buddha and the spectacular Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. You will also visit the gleaming Grand Palace, Thailand’s most sacred monument, and the spectacular Temple of the Emerald Buddha. After lunch at a local restaurant, cruise along the Chao Phraya River by long tail boat. The city’s network of canals (“klongs”) evokes Bangkok as the “Venice of the East.” Stop at the Temple of Dawn on return journey.
Day 6: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. Spend free time to awaken your senses with local cuisine made with fresh Thai herbs, and sweet to spicy sauces at Bangkok’s outdoor food markets and quaint local cafes. Or, try your bargaining skills along the khlongs on an optional shopping excursion to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market.
Day 7: Bangkok,Sukhothai
Location: Bangkok, Sukhothai
Meals Included: Dinner
Enjoy a bit of time at leisure this morning then fly to Sukhothai, Thailand’s 13th-century former capital. Enjoy dinner at your resort.
Day 8: Sukhothai
Location: Sukhothai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, visit Sukhothai Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temples and monasteries, including Wat Si Chum with its stunning seated Buddha. The afternoon is yours to relax or further explore the park. Lunch and dinner are served at your resort.
Day 9: Sukothai,Chiang Mai
Location: Sukothai, Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, drive to Chiang Mai. This evening, join your Tour Director for a tuk-tuk ride and orientation walk through the lively night market.
Day 10: Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, visit the revered Buddha statue at Wat Phra Singh and Wat Doi Suthep, a temple tucked away in the mountains. For the final ascent to the temple, you can take a tram car or walk up the Naga (dragon-headed serpent) staircase, with more than 300 steps. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy this dynamic city. Things get spicy with mouth-watering northern Thailand dishes at an optional Kantoke dinner and performance by local hill tribe dancers.
Day 11: Chiang Mai,Elephant Sanctuary,Ban Thaton
Location: Chiang Mai, Elephant Sanctuary, Ban Thaton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, travel out of the city to visit Elephant Nature Park, established in the 1990’s to provide a sanctuary for rescued and orphaned elephants. You will hear the personal stories of the elephants and see how they became a proud herd and free from abuse for the first time in their lives. Watch these majestic animals thrive in the natural surroundings within the rehabilitation center. In addition to elephants, tree planting and providing a safe home for other rescue animals are continuous projects at the park. After lunch at the sanctuary, continue to Chiang Dao Cave, the most famous cave system in Thailand. Explore this beautiful cave system filled with stalagmites and stalactites that continues for miles below the surface. Lastly, make your way to your resort in the hills of Ban Thaton.
Day 12: Ban Thaton,Doi Mai Salong,Chiang Rai
Location: Ban Thaton, Doi Mai Salong, Chiang Rai
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you journey to Doi Mae Salong where you’ll visit a green-tea plantation. Next, visit several fascinating hill tribes including the Yao, Lisu, and Akha, known for gorgeous headdresses decorated with silver coins. This fascinating cultural excursion enables you to interact with the locals and experience their daily lives and be taught their rich heritage and history. Continue to Chiang Rai.
Day 13: Chiang Rai,Golden Triangle Excursion
Location: Chiang Rai, Golden Triangle Excursion
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost town to visit the Hall of Opium, built to educate people on the 5,000-year history of opium and help combat illegal drugs. Stop at the Golden Triangle viewpoint, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. Here you’ll take a boat ride on the Mekong River to enjoy spectacular views of the Laos countryside and river life along both sides of the riverbanks. After lunch, return to Chiang Rai and enjoy some time at leisure.
Day 14: Chiang Rai,Bangkok
Location: Chiang Rai, Bangkok
Meals Included: Breakfast
Fly to Bangkok and transfer to your hotel near the international airport. Prepare for departure tomorrow or journey into the city for independent exploration.
Day 15: Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at various hotels including Lotus Blanc Resort, Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom, Sriwilai Sukhothai, Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang Mai, Maekok River Village Resort, The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa, and Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
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Meals
14 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.
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Sightseeing
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple, Historic Town of Sukhothai, and Ta Prohm.
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Local Experiences
Interactions with local communities, including a visit to a local school in Siem Reap and several hill tribes in Thailand.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours of major landmarks including the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Grand Palace, and Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok.
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Transportation
Flights between Siem Reap and Bangkok, and between Chiang Rai and Bangkok, as well as other local transportation.
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Elephant Sanctuary Visit
Visit to the Elephant Nature Park to see rescued and orphaned elephants.
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Golden Triangle Excursion
Boat ride on the Mekong River and visit to the Hall of Opium.
What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as a visit to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya or a cruise on the Chao Praya River are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Cambodia and Thailand are not included.
Meals
13 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 3 Dinners
Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Angkor Thom|Angkor Wat|Banteay Srei|Bayon Temple|Historic Town of Sukhothai|Ta Prohm
Accommodation
Siem Reap:Lotus Blanc ResortBangkok:Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok SilomSukhothai:Sriwilai SukhothaiChiang Mai:Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel Chiang MaiBan Thaton:Maekok River Village ResortChiang Rai:The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & SpaBangkok:Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay at various resorts and hotels including Lotus Blanc Resort in Siem Reap, Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom in Bangkok, Sriwilai Sukhothai in Sukhothai, Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel in Chiang Mai, Maekok River Village Resort in Ban Thaton, The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa in Chiang Rai, and Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.
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Will I have any free time during the tour?
Yes, there are several opportunities for leisure time throughout the tour. For example, on Day 2 in Siem Reap, you have the afternoon at leisure. On Day 6 in Bangkok, you can explore the city at your own pace. Additionally, on Day 8 in Sukhothai, the afternoon is free for you to relax or further explore the park.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as sightseeing tours of temples like Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple, visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Sukhothai Historic Park, a tuk-tuk ride and orientation walk through Chiang Mai's night market, a visit to an elephant sanctuary, and a boat ride on the Mekong River at the Golden Triangle.
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Are there any special cultural experiences included?
Yes, the tour includes several cultural experiences such as visiting local schools in Siem Reap, interacting with hill tribes like the Yao, Lisu, and Akha in Doi Mae Salong, and exploring the vibrant streets and markets of Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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Will I have the opportunity to visit any UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and the Historic Town of Sukhothai.
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Is there an option for a small group tour?
Yes, Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, which are limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes various modes of transportation such as flights between cities (e.g., from Siem Reap to Bangkok and from Chiang Rai to Bangkok), tuk-tuk rides, and boat rides on the Mekong River.
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Will I have the chance to interact with local communities?
Yes, the tour includes opportunities to interact with local communities, such as visiting a local school in Siem Reap and interacting with hill tribes in Doi Mae Salong.
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What kind of physical activities are involved in the tour?
The tour involves various physical activities such as walking tours of temples and historical sites, a tuk-tuk ride, and walking with elephants at the Elephant Nature Park. There is also an option to walk up the Naga staircase with more than 300 steps at Wat Doi Suthep.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.