Tantalizing Thailand with Siem Reap & Phuket
Tantalizing Thailand with Siem Reap & Phuket
17 Days Starting in Siem Reap, Cambodia and ending in Phuket, Thailand
Visiting: Siem Reap, Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2797-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, History, Religion and Spiritual, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
This budget-minded 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 some 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 begun in 1782 where you’ll see the Emerald Buddha, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist sculpture. 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. The perfect conclusion to your Cambodia and Thailand experience will be in the paradise of Phuket. Relax with 3 days of aquamarine water, pristine beaches, and pampering services available if you choose. Your budget-travel to Thailand is rich in experiences, sights, and welcoming people you’ll long remember!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Siem Reap, Cambodia
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
Meals Included: None
Welcome to Cambodia! Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2 : Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
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.
Day 3 : Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
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: Bangkok
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom
Meals Included: None
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
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Bangkok is an exhilarating blend of historic and religious monuments, chic modernity, exciting shopping, and friendly culture. An exciting 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.
Day 6 : Bangkok
Location: Bangkok
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to explore Bangkok at leisure. You may opt to join an optional excursion to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya or cruise on the Chao Praya River. Or, stimulate your senses and try local cuisine made with fresh Thai herbs, selecting sweet, rich, or spicy sauces to please your palate at the outdoor food markets and quaint local cafes.
Day 7 : Bangkok - Sukhothai
Location: Sukhothai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sriwilai Sukhothai
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sriwilai 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 : Sukhothai - Chiang Mai
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel 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
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Moevenpick Suriwongse Hotel 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.
Day 11 : Chiang Mai - Elephant Sanctuary - Ban Thaton
Location: Chiang Mai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maekok River Village Resort
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. Walk with staff and the elephants (no riding) and watch them bathe and play in the river. 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 stalctites 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 Mae Salong - Chiang Rai
Location: Chiang Rai
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
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
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa
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 view point, 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 - Phuket
Location: Phuket
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Chanalai Garden Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, transfer to Chiang Rai airport for your flight to Phuket (via Bangkok). On arrival, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel.
Day 15 : Phuket
Location: Phuket
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Chanalai Garden Resort
Meals Included: None
Enjoy your day doing as little or as much as you wish. Visit fabulous beaches, explore Phuket Town for shopping and local specialties, treat yourself to a Thai massage, or simply relax by the pool.
Day 16 : Phuket
Location: Phuket
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Chanalai Garden Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another full day at lesiure.
Day 17 : Phuket
Location: Phuket
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Transport
The tour includes flights between key destinations such as Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Phuket. Additionally, there are drives between various cities and local transportation options like tuk-tuks for city tours and boat rides on the Mekong River.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various resorts and 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 Chanalai Garden Resort.
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Meals
The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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Sightseeing
Sightseeing tours include visits to Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, the Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Doi Suthep, Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Dao Cave, Doi Mae Salong, and the Hall of Opium.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple, Historic Town of Sukhothai, and Ta Prohm.
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Small Group Discoveries
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
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 in Bangkok are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, local specialties, and Thai massages are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations of the tour are not included.
UNESCO Sites
Angkor Thom|Angkor Wat|Banteay Srei|Bayon Temple|Historic Town of Sukothai|Ta Prohm
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.
Meals
16 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
Accommodation
Lotus Blanc Resort offers the ultimate relaxation for any traveler who’s looking for privacy and serenity to escape and unwind. Located only minutes away from the famous Angkor temple complex, the resort is ideally situated to explore the iconic sights of Siem Reap. Central to everything in Bangkok, Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom is conveniently located near shops, sites and subway stations, and features practical facilities such as a gym, pool, sauna, restaurant and bar. Sriwilai Sukhothai overlooks the endless rice fields and natural landscape of Thailand's idyllic countryside. The resort is located just a short distance from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sukhothai Historical Park, so it's the perfect base for exploring the area. From spacious rooms and infinity pool to relaxing spa and delectable dining you’re sure to enjoy your stay. Located close to the famous Night Bazaar, the Moevenpick Suriwongse Chiang Mai is perfectly located for exploring Chiang Mai's many cultural and natural treasures. Its contemporary interior is in perfect harmony with the traditional Thai Lanna style architecture to create a unique and refined ambience. In a buzzing and vibrant atmosphere, the hotel presents exciting dining with interactive show kitchens. The Maekok River Village is idyllically located on the banks of the Mae Kok River with sweeping views across the valley to the distant forested mountains. The peaceful, rural setting makes an ideal getaway for those wanting a change of pace from the busy city. Resting on the banks of the Mae Kok River, the Legend Chiang Rai delivers an authentic Lanna atmosphere with its blend of northern Thai architectural details and local artwork. Relax by the infinite-edge pool, savor local cuisine at one of the restaurants, or indulge yourself at the spa. Chanalai Garden Resort is an amazing sea view resort nestled in Kata Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea. The hotel features 2 outdoor pools, 2 pool bars, a fitness center, and 2 on-site restaurants.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes flights between key destinations such as Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Phuket. Additionally, there are drives between various cities and local transportation options like tuk-tuks for city tours and boat rides on the Mekong River.
Check out our Q&As
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What types of transportation are included in the tour?
The tour includes flights between key destinations such as Bangkok, Sukhothai, Chiang Rai, and Phuket. Additionally, there are drives between various cities and local transportation options like tuk-tuks for city tours and boat rides on the Mekong River.
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What activities are planned for the visit to the Elephant Sanctuary?
At the Elephant Nature Park, you will hear the personal stories of the elephants, see how they became a proud herd free from abuse, walk with staff and the elephants (no riding), and watch them bathe and play in the river.
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What are some of the key landmarks and temples visited in Bangkok?
In Bangkok, you will visit the Temple of the Golden Buddha, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the Grand Palace, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
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What can I do during the leisure days in Phuket?
During the leisure days in Phuket, you can visit fabulous beaches, explore Phuket Town for shopping and local specialties, treat yourself to a Thai massage, or simply relax by the pool.
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Is there an option for a small group tour?
Yes, Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. These tours include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides.
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Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple, and the Historic Town of Sukhothai.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to various temples, a local school in Siem Reap, a green-tea plantation in Doi Mae Salong, and several hill tribes including the Yao, Lisu, and Akha. You will also visit the Hall of Opium in Mae Sai and take a boat ride on the Mekong River.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour features a variety of accommodations including the 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 Chanalai Garden Resort in Phuket.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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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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Nov 07, 2024 - Nov 23, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Nov 21, 2024 - Dec 07, 2024Book with Confidence
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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.