Bangkok Excursions
Floating Markets and Bridge on the River Kwai Discover two of Thailand’s most popular attractions on this full day experience from Bangkok, perfect for those who have limited time in Thailand’s capital. Your day commences with a scenic drive through sugar cane fields, rice paddies and pineapple plantations before embarking on an exciting long tail speed-boat ride to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, passing traditional stilt houses and scenes that have changed little over the centuries. Enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the famous market where you will find hundreds of Thai style canoes laden with fruits, vegetables, sweets and meats. If you want to get really close to the action, your local Thai guide will help you organise a local boat ride through the markets (optional extra, payable locally). The tour then heads west to Kanchanaburi Province, home to the Bridge on the River Kwai and the infamous ‘Death Railway’ – part of a huge Second World War project to link existing Thai and Burmese railway lines to create a direct route from Bangkok in an effort to support the Japanese occupation of Burma. Thousands of Allied POWs and local labourers lost their lives constructing the bridge and the railway line. Lunch will be taken in a local restaurant before visiting the bridge itself, followed by a visit to the Allied War Grave Cemeteries before hearing the POWs stories at the hauntingly fascinating Death War Museum. Departs Start times Duration
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Pick-up time is between 6.15am and 7.00am. Approximately 9 hours.
Tour includes • • • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from centrally located Bangkok hotels Long tail speed-boat cruise to the Damnern Saduak Floating Markets Visit to the Bridge on the River Kwai, Allied War Grave Cemetery and entrance to the Death War Museum Air-conditioned coach transportation Services of an English-speaking guide Lunch
Tour exclusions • •
Additional refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. £60 per person
Bridge on the River Kwai One of the most recognisable symbols of the Second World War, the famous Bridge on the River Kwai was built at the cost of thousands of POWs lives and marks the starting point of the infamous ‘Death Railway’.
Captivating, nostalgic and unforgettable sums up this day tour to the Kanchanaburi province and the renowned bridge on the River Kwai. A ‘must see’ for all Second World War enthusiasts or those interested in modern history, this memorable day trip from Bangkok will take you to the famous bridge itself, the Allied War Grave cemeteries and the Death War Museum which houses pictures, paintings and accounts from this tragic period of history. The bridge itself lies 80 miles outside of Bangkok and the journey to the site will take you through sugar cane fields, rice paddies and pineapple plantations. As you drive through this picturesque landscape, your guide is more than happy to give an overview on the history on the construction of the bridge and the ‘Death Railway’ - a huge wartime project to link existing Thai and Burmese railway lines to create a direct route from Bangkok to Rangoon to support the Japanese occupation of Burma. Thousands of Allied POWs and local labourers lost their lives constructing the bridge and the railway line and you will get the chance to see one of the Allied War Grave Cemeteries (often an emotional experience) before hearing their stories at the hauntingly fascinating Death War Museum. After lunch, you will be taken on an exciting longtailed speedboat ride down the river so you can enjoy wonderful views of the infamous bridge itself before getting off and exploring the site. There is ample free time to explore at your own leisure and afterwards you will be taken on a train ride through the area before returning to Bangkok. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round Pick-up time is between 6.15am and 7.00am. Approximately 9 hours.
Tour includes • • • • • • •
Visit to the Bridge on the River Kwai, Allied War Grave Cemetery and entrance to the Death War Museum Pick-up and drop-off from selected Bangkok hotels (Guests not staying at one of these hotels will be advised of the nearest pick-up point). Air-conditioned transportation Services of an English-speaking guide Lunch Speedboat ride on the River Kwai Ride on a local train
Tour exclusions • •
Additional refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. £52 per person
Thai Cooking Class in Bangkok What better way to learn the secrets of Thai cooking than an authentic Thai Cooking Class in Bangkok? No prior cooking skills are required – just enthusiasm and a love for eating Thai food! If you love Thai food then don’t let your chance to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine pass you by! This informative and fun half-day cooking class will introduce you to the local ingredients and exotic flavours and you will be able to take your knowledge home and re-create authentic Thai dishes in your own kitchen. Your hand-on class will be held at The Baipai Thai Cooking School, which offers a home-style learning environment and introduces authentic Thai dishes that are completely different to the cuisine found in restaurants and hotels. Over the course of the morning you will learn to prepare four traditional dishes with focus on traditional Thai technique, innovative use of ingredients and presentation. All classes are conducted in English by friendly teaching staff with years of experience in Thai culinary delights. They are as enthusiastic about Thai food as they are sharing their knowledge with you. Once the meal is complete, the whole group heads to the dining room to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Departs Start times Duration
Daily except Monday, year round. Pick-up time is between 8.30am and 9.00am. Approximately 4 hours.
Tour includes • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Air-conditioned transportation Thai cooking course and food
Tour exclusions •
Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. Additional information This class can be enjoyed by both novices and experienced cooks alike. £45 per person
Damnern Saduak Floating Market One of the most popular Bangkok experiences, enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market where you will find hundreds of Thai style canoes laden with fruits, vegetables, sweets and meats.
High on the list of most visitors ‘things to do’ Damnern Saduak Floating market is a truly colourful experience. Situated 60 miles from Bangkok, the seemingly chaotic canals or 'khlongs' are filled with flat boats piled high with fresh produce, each jockeying for position and paddled by ladies ready to stop and bargain at a moment's notice. Your journey to the market includes an exciting long tail speed-boat ride through the marshes, past traditional stilt houses and scenes that have changed little over the centuries. As you speed across the water, your experienced English-speaking guide will provide a colourful overview of the market and what to expect when you arrive. There is plenty of free time to explore the market and your guide will be happy to arrange a local boat ride through the markets (optional extra) should you wish to get closer to the vendors. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. Pick-up time is between 6.15am and 7.00am. Approximately 6 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Air-conditioned transportation Long tail speed-boat cruise to the Damnern Saduak Floating Markets Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions • •
Refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. Additional information Over the years, the floating market has become more commercial as more tourists show up, so don’t be surprised to see one or two less than authentic products for sale by the local vendors. £28 per person
Bangkok City & Temples Tour A wonderful introduction to the city of Bangkok, enjoy a tour of her most recognised and breathtaking Buddhist temples including the incredible reclining Buddha.
Around 95% of Thais follow the Buddhist way of life and as a result over 26,000 temples can be found within Thailand's borders. This charming half day tour introduces you to three of the most distinguished temples in Bangkok. Locally referred to as ‘Wats’ these buildings are beautiful examples of Thai architecture and are well worth a visit. After a pick-up from your hotel, head through the bustling Bangkok streets to Wat Trimit, also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha. Here you will find a three metre Golden Buddha statue, crafted from solid gold and weighing five and half tons. Now more than seven hundred years old the statue was originally covered in plaster to conceal it from the then invading enemy and was only discovered by chance from a layer of stucco during construction of the temple. ** The tour then takes you through Chinatown on your way to Wat Pho, more commonly known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The temple dates from the seventeenth century and houses the largest Buddha in Bangkok. In addition to the fine features of the Buddha's face, also take a few minutes to inspect the soles of the Buddha's feet which lie an incredible 45 meters away from the head and have been inlaid with mother-ofpearl to display the 108 auspicious signs which distinguish a true Buddha. The last temple on the itinerary is Wat Benchamabophit or the Marble Temple. A fine example of Thai craftsmanship, this magnificent monastery was built out of white Italian marble from Carrara in the late 19th century and is world renowned for its stunning architecture and decorative art. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. 8.30am or 1.10pm. Approximately 3 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Visits to the Temple of the Golden Buddha**, Temple of the Reclining Buddha and the Marble Temple Air-conditioned transportation Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions •
Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. Additional information ** PLEASE NOTE: Wat Trimit (the Temple of the Golden Buddha) will be closed for renovations until further notice. During this time, the temple visit will be replaced with a visit to Wat Suthat Thepwararam. £22 per person
Grand Palace Tour
You simply cannot visit Bangkok without viewing the Grand Palace complex and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, unquestionably one of the wonders of the world today. The Grand Palace complex is unquestionably a ‘must see’ for all visitors to Bangkok. A mixture of traditional Thai architecture with European influences, the Grand Palace was once the official home of the King of Siam and the regal flavour is still evident in the state rooms and grounds. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Royal Funerary Hall and the Royal Coronation Hall. However, the undoubted highlight of the Grand Palace complex is Wat Phra Keow or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. A wonderful collection of pagodas, stupas, frescos and mosaics under arching roofs of red and gold, the temple houses a 45 centimetre Emerald Buddha. Carved from a single piece of Jade, the Buddha is one of the holiest and most revered religious objects in modern day Thailand. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. 8.30am or 1.10pm Approximately 3 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Guided visit to the Grand Temple complex Air-conditioned transportation Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions •
Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. 26 per person
Temples and Ruins of Ayuthaya - Ancient Capital of Thailand Perhaps the most spectacular historical site in Thailand, see remarkable ancient ruins and temples on this memorable day tour to Thailand’s ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Situated around 50 miles north of Bangkok, Ayuthaya was the capital of Siam for 417 glorious years between 1350 and 1767 and flourished as one the most important commercial centres in South East Asia. At its peak in the middle of the eighteenth century, this amazing island city contained three royal palaces and over 400 temples threaded by canals. The city was taken by the Burmese in 1767 and a 15-month siege left this once glittering city in ruins. Today the city is renowned for the spectacular ruins that remain and a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is a highlight of any visit to Thailand. The temple compounds are still awe-inspiring despite the disrepair and some of the temples remain intact including Wat Phra Sanphet, Wat Mongkhon Bophit and the amazing bronze statues at Wat Chai Mongkol, known for its large statue of the Reclining Buddha. As well as the ancient temples, you will also see the summer palace of King Rama IV with its mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture. The Palace is a well preserved 'museum' providing you with a glimpse into a time when the country was known as Siam. You have the choice of visiting Thailand’s ancient capital by boat and returning by coach or vice versa. This charming river cruise along the Chao Phraya, offers a close-up view of local life as this waterway serves as a natural highway and you will also see many riverside temples and historical sites en route such as Wat Arun. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. Pick-up time is between 6.15am and 7.00am. The tour departs at 8.00am. Approximately 9 hours.
Tour includes • • • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels One way river cruise either to or from Ayuthaya Guided visit to the Temples and Ruins of Ayuthaya Lunch Services of an English-speaking guide Air-conditioned coach transportation
Tour exclusions • •
Additional refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. £49 per person
Chao Phraya River & Bangkok Waterways Enjoy the sights and sounds of Bangkok’s colourful waterways on this fascinating cruise along the bustling canals and Chao Phya River to Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn). Enjoy close-up views of local life as you journey along the Bangkok waterways that serve as natural highways for many of Bangkok’s local residents. Winding its way through the heart of Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River continues to play an important part in daily life and you will see commuters, saffron robed monks and school children speeding by on fast river taxis, overtaking the heavily laden rice barges. The contrast between the old and new is most apparent from the water, with some of Bangkok's most revered temples standing alongside warehouses, old wooden houses, new residential blocks and prestigious five star hotels. Your cruise includes a stop at the Temple of Dawn or Wat Arun and the Royal Barge Museum. Standing proudly on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, the Temple of Dawn is one of the most recognisable and published images of Bangkok with its 260 foot high pagoda, or Phra Prang, which is completely covered with pieces of multi-coloured glass and Chinese porcelain. A short walk to the upper levels offers a panoramic view of the surrounding city. The Royal Barge Museum is home to nine of the most important royal barges including Suphannahongsa and Narai Song Suban Rama IX. The tradition of royal barges dates back to Ayutthaya times, when they were used to transport the Kings in various ceremonies and processions. Most barges were damaged after the 1932 coup and during Japanese occupation during World War II. However, the present King not only had them all restored to their former glory, but revived the ancient tradition of a water-borne Royal Kathin Procession. Departs Start times Duration
Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, year round. Pick-up time is between 6.15am and 7.00am. Approximately 3 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Chao Phraya River sightseeing cruise Guided visit to the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) and the Royal Barge Museum Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions • •
Refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. Additional information Please note that a minimum of 2 passengers is required for this tour to depart. £28 per person
Rice Barge Cruise
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bangkok’s busy streets and enjoy a relaxing sightseeing cruise down the Chao Phraya River and the networks of khlongs (canals) - the waterways that earned Bangkok its pseudonym 'Venice of the East’. Despite the fast pace at which Bangkok has developed over the past fifty years, her rivers and canals continue to play an important part in daily life and the people of Bangkok still depend on the water to transport their produce and merchandise, particularly rice. This enjoyable experience offers a glimpse of local Thai life as you cruise along Bangkok’s waterways. Your day starts with an exciting long tailed speedboat ride past exotic flora, picturesque canal houses on stilts and children playing in the water. You then join a converted rice barge for a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya River. Soft drinks and local fruits are served on board as you sit back and take in the amazing Thai scenery past ancient riverside temples and modern skyscrapers. A highlight of the cruise is a wonderful view of Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn). Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. Pick-up time is between 2.00pm and 2.45pm. Approximately 2.5 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Chao Phraya River sightseeing cruise Soft Drinks and local fruits served aboard the rice barge Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions • •
Additional Refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. £26 per person
Khao Yai National Park Head out of the city and experience the stunning natural scenery of Thailand’s most picturesque National Park. Situated around 100 miles from Bangkok, Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s best known and most beautiful national parks and covers over 1300 square miles of jungle and grassland and is one the few remaining monsoon forests in Asia. Here you will discover over 150 species of animal including 200-300 wild elephants. Rarer inhabitants include the Asiatic black bear, tiger, leopards and barking deer. Perfect for those looking to get close to nature, this experience will take you into the heart of the park where you can walk along the trails that wind their way through mountains and forest, past streams and waterfalls. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but your guide will be on hand to point out everything of interest and answer your questions. After lunch the tour continues with a scenic drive through the park as you head to Pakchong Creek for a memorable elephant ride. You will be accompanied by a trusted mahout (elephant caretaker) and this exciting 45 minute adventure will take you through the lush jungle and rivers. The tour also includes a visit to a local fruit market in Nakhon Nayok province where you can enjoy mango, rambutans and many more exotic fruits. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. 7.00am. Approximately 9 hours.
Tour includes • • • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Air-conditioned transportation A chance to explore Khao Yai National Park Lunch 45-minute Elephant Ride Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions • •
Additional Refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. Additional information This excursion is not recommended for children under 5 years of age as it includes approximately 1km of trekking through the jungle. £66 per person
Bangkok Dinner Cruise
Enjoy wonderful Thai cuisine and picture postcard views of Bangkok in all its night time glory as you gently cruise along Bangkok’s River of Kings. A fantastic way to end your day in Bangkok, this relaxing dinner cruise aboard one of Bangkok’s luxurious restaurant boats will take you through the heart the city along the Chao Phraya River past wonderful night time views of illuminated temples and sparkling skyscrapers. As you relax in modern comfort and dine on a variety of local, regional and international dishes you will pass landmarks like the Temple of Dawn, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. Pick-up time is between 5.45pm and 6.50pm. The cruise departs at 7.00pm Approximately 2.5 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Evening cruise on the Chao Phraya River Thai and International buffet dinner Welcome drink, tea and coffee
Tour exclusions • •
Drinks – there is a fully stocked bar on board Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. £37 per person
Jim Thomson’s House & Vimanmek Palace
Whilst most visitors to Bangkok are keen to see the Grand Palace and the legendary temples, it would be a mistake to overlook Jim Thompson's museum-like preserved house and the Vimanmek Palace. Those that love architecture and buildings or are interested in local culture will be fascinated by the Jim Thompson house and the Vimanmek Palace, two of the finest Thai residences to be found in Thailand today. The Jim Thompson House is the former home of James H.W. Thompson, a self-made American entrepreneur who returned to live in Bangkok after the Second World War. He was the founder of the world renowned Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company which put the Thai silk industry on the global stage. Since his mysterious disappearance in Malaysia in 1967, his remarkable house - renowned as the ‘talk of the town’ and the ‘city’s most celebrated social centre’ - has been preserved as a museum and contains a fabulous collection of paintings and Asian artefacts. The beautiful teak structure building consists of a complex of six beautifully refurbished traditional Thai-style houses and showcases his passion for Thai arts and culture. Continue to amazing Vimanmek Palace, the largest teakwood building in the world. The former home of King Rama V, the palace fell into disuse until it was restored in the 1980s and today it is a fascinating museum reflecting the Thai heritage from the dramatic reign of King Rama V. Once inside the 3 story, L-shaped palace the regal opulence is evident as you browse through its 81 rooms, many of which house priceless Thai antiques and opulent collections. Departs Start times Duration
Daily, year round. Pick-up time is between 8.30am and 9.00am. Approximately 3 hours.
Tour includes • • • •
Pick-up and drop-off from central Bangkok hotels Air-conditioned coach transportation Entrance to Jim Thomson’s House and Vimanmek Palace Services of an English-speaking guide
Tour exclusions • •
Refreshments Optional gratuities
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. It is recommended you take a sunhat and a bottle of water. £28 per person
Tuk Tuk Experience Get a taste of Bangkok, travelling as the locals do, by Tuk Tuk! Visit some of city’s most famous sights including Phra Sumeru Fortress, the bustling Amulet Market, Wat Pho and its Reclining Buddha Thieves Market and the colourful flower market of Dheves. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, board a Tuk Tuk, the main form of transport for this half day adventure through the streets of Bangkok. Your journey starts at the Phra Sumeru Fortress located on Phra Arthit (meaning "Sun" in Thai) Road. The fortress was built during the reign of Rama I and is the last of two remaining from the 14 originally built. Climbing aboard your transport, continue to the Amulet Market, where various religious amulets, charms and traditional medicines are available. Your guide will explain the significance that these items play in the Thai culture. Amulets in all forms are available to bring good luck or to ward off evil. The next stop is Wat Po which derives its name from the original Wat Potaram. Founded in the 17th century, Wat Po is the oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok and the centre of the Buddhist religion in Thailand. The complex includes the country’s first university and is still a centre of learning for traditional Thai massage and medicines. Explore the temple complex before continuing by Tuk Tuk to Phahurat Market, in the heart of Bangkok's little India. Here you will find all kinds of fabrics, cloths, ornaments and accessories plus stalls selling delicious Indian snacks. Afterwards, you head to Woeng Nakorn Kasem in the Klong Thom quarter, also known as the "thieves market". It is a second hand market for Thai and Chinese antiques where we will find an array of goods for sale from porcelain to furniture. The next stop is Wat Saket, location of the Golden Mount. Wat Saket sits at the bottom of an artificial hill and dates back to the Ayutthaya era, prior to Bangkok becoming the capital of the Siamese kingdom. Your guide will take us through the complex and up the 318 steps to the top of the Golden Mount where we have a 360 degree view of the surrounding old Rattankosin Island. This is the last stop of the trip and afterwards you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel. Departure location Departs Start times Duration
The lobby of the Viengtai Hotel in the heart of historical Bangkok, just off the Khoa San Road. Daily year round except 11-17 April. 8.30am. 4-5 hours
Tour includes • • • •
Transportation by Tuk Tuk Visits to Phra Sumeru Fortress, the bustling Amulet Market, Wat Pho and its Reclining Buddha Thieves Market and the flower market of Dheves Entrance fees as indicated English speaking guide
Tour exclusions • • •
Transportation to the departure point Gratuities Refreshments
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. The tour visits a religious temple so knees and shoulders must be covered. Additional information To ensure a real life experience, the group size is limited to 12 passengers. £25 per person
Biking Bangkok Explore Bangkok by bike! This gentle ride takes you along laneways past markets, traditional houses, canals and temples. See some of the city’s most famous sights and get an insight into local life away from the crowds. When people think of Bangkok often it conjures up images of traffic jams that last from sunrise to sunset and the thought on riding a bike is the last thing people would contemplate. This half day adventure provides us with an interesting insight into an area of Bangkok that few people know about. The morning trip explores the heart and soul of Bangkok - Bangkok Noi. Just across Chao Praya River to the Thonburi side of Bangkok, this area has its own unique style of waterways and small roads. The historical records point to the old Bangkok Noi community being established since King Chai Raja of Ayutthaya Period (AD 1532 - 1546). Bangkok Noi Canal which was once a part of the majestic Chao Phraya River flows in a horseshoe shape through the old Bangkok Noi community. We start our ride near Khao San Roadin Banglamphu. After a quick bike fitting and briefing we head out. We wind our way through the back streets of Suburban Bangkok and small lane ways along the riverside. We cross the famous Rama VIII Bridge then ride through a local community who are well known for their addictive mixture of betel nut, lime and a mulberry leaf. Passing the King's Royal Barges we follow a well worn path along The Bangkok Noi Canal which eventually leads us to the spectacular Wat Arun. Wat Arun is well known for its intricate architectural design and also has historical significance. This area is also well known for a basket of multicultural religions which are home to Buddhist temples, Mosques and Portuguese built Churches. From Wat Arun, we head back across the Chao Praya River to Pranakorn via the Memorial Bridge. This bridge was built in 1929 to mark city of Bangkok's 150th anniversary. We then pay a visit to another temple called Wat Suthat which is home to the largest sitting Buddha image in Thailand. Our final stop is opposite Wat Shuthat to see the giant swing Sao Ching Cha which represents the movement of the God Shiva which was reserved for performances at grand ceremonies. From there we head back to our start point destination to complete the journey. At the end of the trip you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel. Departure location Departs Start times Duration
The lobby of the Viengtai Hotel in the heart of historical Bangkok, just off the Khoa San Road. Daily year round except 11-17 April. 12.30pm. 4 hours.
Tour includes • Guided bike tour of Bangkok • Use of bicycle and helmet • Entrance fees as indicated • English speaking guide Tour exclusions • Transportation to the departure point • Gratuities • Refreshments
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. Additional information To ensure a real life experience, the group size is limited to 12 passengers. The ride is a very gentle 20 km along the backstreets and canals of Bangkok and suitable for anyone who can ride a bike. English speaking guides will provide an insight into the local areas customs, history, culture and local way-of-life each time we stop. High quality mountain bikes are used on this trip and helmets are included. £28 per person
Chinatown & Night Markets Discover Old and New Bangkok on an evening of exploration of Chinatown. Stop for a coffee at a 100 year old cafe, and then make the most of the areas mouth-watering food from hundreds of street stalls to fine Chinese restaurants. A post dinner stroll takes past market stalls filled with vibrant flowers and plenty of bargains. Beginning the trip at Ratchawong Pier on the Chao Praya River, step back in time to the old markets in Yaowarat, located in the heart of the vibrant Chinatown district. The original Chinese citizens were traders living in the village of Bangkok before it became the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The land that now occupies the Grand Palace belonged to the traders. When King Rama I moved the capital from Ayuthaya to Bangkok over 200 years ago the community was asked to move to its current location. From the pier you walk along Song Wat Road, which is bordered by old business buildings and warehouses - most of which are still operating today. We emerge in the plastic and leather product quarter on Yaowa Phanit Road. The next stop is at a 100 year old coffee ship on Pha Sai Road, a coffee and snack is included in our trip, an opportunity to relax and take in the atmosphere. Rejuvenated we continue to Issarnuparb Road and a market specialising in Chinese religious products, fresh food including seafood. In the evening Yaowaraj Road becomes a sea of street stalls, collectively becoming one large food bazaar. The food options range from street stalls to the finest Chinese restaurants. Part of our experience will be taking a seat with our guide are try some charcoal grilled seafood on the street. Following dinner we continue on foot to the Saphan Put Night Market, where we find a vast array of clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, second hand collections and antiques on sale. If you prefer to have a painting of yourself, you can sit down with artists on the street. In no time you will have a portrait of yourself to take home as a souvenir. The final stop of the night is at Pakklong Talad ("talad" meaning market), the largest wholesale flower and vegetable market of Bangkok. Night-time is a great time to see Pakklong Talad as the street is covered with a colourful flower display. At the end of the trip you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel. Departure location Departs Start times Duration
The lobby of the Viengtai Hotel in the heart of historical Bangkok, just off the Khoa San Road. Tuesday-Sunday year round except 11-17 April. 3.00pm 5-6 hours.
Tour includes • • •
Guided visit to Bangkok Chinatown and the Night Markets Dinner English speaking guide
Tour exclusions • • •
Transportation to the departure point Gratuities Additional refreshments
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. Additional information To ensure a real life experience, the group size is limited to 12 passengers. £21 per person
Temple & River of Kings Discover Bangkok’s glittering heart on this grand journey along its web of canals. Glide down the Chao Phraya River on a longtail boat past a vibrant array of daily life. Admire the reclining Buddha on a tour through Wat Pho and marvel at the magnificence of the Grand Palace. From the fluid veins of the city, to the spiritual heart of the nation, embark on this voyage of discovery. You begin your trip with a walk down to the Chao Praya River (meaning River of Kings) where you board a long tail boat for a journey along the river and into the klongs (canals) of Bangkok. In centuries gone by Bangkok was often referred to as the "Venice of the East" with a vast network of klongs through the city which were utilised as a transport network. With the passage of time many of these klongs have been filled in and converted to roads for more modern forms of transport. In the Thonburi area of Bangkok many of the klongs survive, the boat trip will provide you with an insight into the lives of people who live along the klongs which seems a world away from the chaotic streets of Bangkok. The next stop is Wat Po which derives its name from the original Wat Potaram, in 1801 the temple was renamed Wat Phra Chetuphon. The temple is the centre of the Buddhist religion in Thailand, the countries first university and is still a centre of learning for traditional Thai massage and medicines. Founded in the 17th century, Wat Po is the oldest Buddhist temple in Bangkok. Your guide will take you on a trip through the temple complex before heading to the Grand Palace. Built in 1782 in time for the coronation of King Rama I, the Grand Palace served as the official residence of the King of Siam, the Royal Court and administrative seat of government until the early 1900's. Despite no longer being the official residence of the king the Grand Palace is still very much the spiritual centre of the nation and used for various ceremonies during the year. Included in the trip will be a visit to Wat Phra Kaew which houses the revered Emerald Buddha. Our local guide will take us through the grounds of the palace providing a fascinating insight into this majestic place. At the end of the trip you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you in getting a taxi back to your hotel. Departure location Departs Start times Duration
The lobby of the Viengtai Hotel in the heart of historical Bangkok, just off the Khoa San Road. Daily year round. Please note, this tour is not available 28 February 3.00pm 4-5 hours.
Tour includes • • •
A long tail boat ride along the river and into the klongs Visit to Wat Po, the Grand Palace and What Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) English speaking guide
Tour exclusions • • •
Transportation to the departure point Gratuities Refreshments
Dress code what to bring Casual. Dress according to the weather for that day. Please ensure your knees and shoulders are covered as this trip may visit religious sites. You will also require shoes that have a closed heel to visit the Grand Palace. Additional information To ensure a real life experience, the group size is limited to 12 passengers. The route of the klong trip may change depending on the water levels in individual klongs. £28 per person