12-Nights Thailand Discovery: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Phitsanulok, Lampang, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and Phuket

Bangkok

Bangkok is chief port capital of Thailand and one of the most important cities in Southeast Asia. It is the epitome of the country's kaleidoscopic blend of old and new. It is an expression of Thai respect for tradition coupled with their vibrant involvement with modern progress. Rama I built the walled Grand Palace, which contains Temple of the Emerald Buddha. During the 19th century, Bangkok was known as the Venice of the East because of its many canals, which served as streets and commercial thoroughfares. Houses perched along the banks of the remaining canals are still common sight. Some of Bangkok’s most distinctive features are the approximately 400 Buddhist temples, known as wats. Bangkok is Thailand's economic center. Other sights to see include Temples, monuments, museums, Vimarnmekh Mansion, and Jim Thompson’s House.

Kanchanaburi Region

The Kanchanaburi Region is home to the Bridge on the River Kwai and is a piece of World War II history. Visit the war museum and cemetery, Erawan National Park and the Kao Pun Temple Waterfalls.

Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok is one of the oldest cities in Thailand and is located at the crossroad between the northern and central regions of the country. Visit the many historic temples and sculptures of Buddha in Phitsanulok, including the most famous Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat (the big temple), built in 1357.

Lampang

Lampang is the third largest town in northern Thailand and is the capital of the Lampang Province. The most popular attractions of the town are the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang and the Thai Elephant Conservation Center.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai and was the first capital of Lanna Thai (Kingdom of a Million Ricefields). The province contains Thailand's northernmost point at Mae Sai, is well known for its crisp mountain scenery, and hill tribes, and falls within the region known as the Golden Triangle, the area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Laos converge.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city built on the roots of a traditional heritage that dig deep into the soil of time. It's a city with a beautiful cultural personality of its own. In addition, it's been blessed with much majestic beauty in nature. The people themselves are an unforgettable part of Chiang Mai. Handicrafts of silk, silver and wood are timeless souvenirs for visitors from all over the globe.

Phuket

Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," Phuket offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that rise above the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. With a culture all its own, it combines Chinese and Portuguese influences with that of indigenous ocean-going people. Phuket Town is the island’s capital located in the southeast. The architecture features the attractive Sino-Portuguese style which is reflected in the spacious residences built by wealthy Chinese tin barons as testimony to their success. Visitors come because of the glorious beaches, especially those on the west coast. Patong Beach is about a 45-minute drive from the port and offers a wide selection of watersports. Phuket still casts its spell on all who come to its shores.