River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms
River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms
River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms
3 Days Starting and ending in Bangkok, Thailand
Visiting: Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TTAR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Leave behind the fast-moving streets of the Thai capital and take time out to experience Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder near the border of Burma (Myanmar). Explore this ancient Siam capital with a knowledgeable local guide, and see timeworn temples, bell-shaped chedis and intricately carved relics of Thailand’s golden era. Travel to the shady town of Kanchanaburi and pay tribute to the brave POWs who perished while building the infamous Hellfire Pass and Bridge on the River Kwai. Delve further into World War II history on a visit to the War Museum and Allied Cemetery before this historical sojourn completes the loop back in Bangkok.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Bangkok/Ayutthaya/Kanchanaburi
Location: Ayutthaya
Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar
Accommodation Name: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar
Meals Included: Lunch
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Around 8 am-9 am this morning you’ll be picked up from the joining point hotel, along with other travellers in your group. If you prefer to be picked up from a different, centrally located hotel in Bangkok, please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before your departure date. Your first stop is the Bang Pa Inn Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings on the Chao Phraya River 65 kilometres north of the capital (approximately 1.5 hours). Admire the magnificent grounds, which are a combination of European and Thai designed buildings and gardens. Next, visit Ayutthaya, one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a World Heritage site. Here, explore Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, a temple that might offer a glimpse into the future, as it’s home to a fortune teller. Continue to Wat Phanan Cheoeng, Ayutthaya's answer to the Taj Mahal (approximately 40 minutes). It’s one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples and home to a 19-metre-high Buddha image. Behind the temple is a small 18th-century shrine built to honour a Chinese Princess, who drowned herself because of the king's infidelity. After lunch, move on to the 13th century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat. The rows of Burmese beheaded Buddhas are very atmospheric, and a Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in all of Ayutthaya. Head west to Kanchanaburi (approximately 3 hours) and check in to your resort, located on the famous River Kwai.
Included Activities:
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Day 2: Kanchanaburi
Location: Kanchanaburi
Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar
Accommodation Name: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, set off to visit to Erawan National Park (approximately 1.5 hours) where you can explore the famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are considered the most beautiful in the whole country, with glacial blue waters rushing through the forest into bamboo-shaded pools perfect for a refreshing dip. If you want to make the climb all the way from level one to level seven it’s about a ninety-minute hike, with the uppermost level usually quiet and with a stunning view over the jungle below. Be sure to pack your swimming gear, but also appropriate footwear if you’re going to make the walk. After lunch, travel (approximately 1 hour) back towards Kanchanaburi, where you'll learn about a tragic part of the area's history. Hellfire Pass memorial was built to honour the Allied POWs and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway – the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Then you'll travel a short distance (approximately 20 minutes) to Nam Tok Train Station - The end of the original death railway station during the second world war which was constructed by the allied POWs. Take a ride along the historic tracks alongside the Kwai Noi River, passing through Tham Krasae station which is one of the most beautiful panoramic scenes of the Kwai Noi river from the curves of the wooden railway line close to the mountainside. After arriving at Kilen Train Station, transfer back to the hotel (approximately 30 minutes). Tonight there's an option to head into Kanchanaburi's famous night markets and try a variety of Western Thai dishes.
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Kanchanaburi/Bangkok
Location: Kanchanaburi
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, head out on a tour of the sights surrounding the town. This will include the WWII War Museum, the Allied War Cemetery, and the Bridge over the River Kwai itself. Travel through magnificent scenery and back to a dark time in the area’s history, and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. You will then end this short adventure with a return to Bangkok (approximately 2 hours), where your trip ends in the afternoon at approximately 2 pm.
Notes: There is no accommodation included tonight.
Included Activities:
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What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (2 nights) -
Meals
2 breakfasts, 2 lunches -
Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical Park
Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the ancient capital of Siam.
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Bang Pa Inn Palace - Summer Palace
Explore the Bang Pa Inn Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings, showcasing a blend of European and Thai architecture.
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Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit
Visit Erawan National Park to explore its famous seven-level waterfall and enjoy swimming in its glacial blue waters.
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Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
Learn about the history of the Thai-Burma Death Railway at the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.
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Kanchanaburi - Historical Train Journey
Experience a historical train journey along the Death Railway, passing through scenic landscapes.
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Kanchanaburi - Tour (WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, Bridge over River Kwai)
Tour the WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, and the Bridge over the River Kwai to reflect on the area's history.
What's Not Included
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Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation
Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation are not included and may require room changes if purchased.
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Arrival airport transfer
Arrival airport transfer is not included in the package.
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Test & Go package
The Test & Go package required by the government, including one night accommodation, airport arrival transfer, and PCR tests, is not included and must be organized directly with the hotel.
Transport
Private minibus , Songthaew , Train
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in your selected accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for your arrival, especially if you're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible, which means you won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, you can store your luggage and explore the new destination.If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Included Activities
Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical ParkBang Pa Inn Palace - Summer PalaceKanchanaburi - Erawan National ParkKanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial MuseumKanchanaburi - Historical Train JourneyKanchanaburi - Saamlaw Tour (WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, Bridge over River Kwai)
Important Information
1. This Short Break Adventure starts at 8 am on Day 1 and finishes in the afternoon at approximately 2 pm on Day2. You will be picked up on Day 1 from the Joining Point Hotel listed in the Trip Note Information for this itinerary. Pick-up will take place between 8 am and 8.30 am in the hotel foyer.3. If you require pick up from another centrally-located hotel in Bangkok, please inform your booking agent at least 14 days prior to departure.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes private minibus, Songthaew, and train, ensuring a comfortable and varied travel experience throughout the tour.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at the River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar, offering a comfortable stay with the possibility of alternative arrangements if necessary. Early check-in may not always be available, but luggage storage is provided for early arrivals.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
On Short Breaks, you maintain a good level of independence and freedom, with the added bonus of having the details sorted out for you. You’ll have lots of free time and you won’t be accompanied by a Trip Leader. This means that all included activities and tours will be run by different local Intrepid partners, and these may operate independently from each other. The included activities and transfers will operate on a join-in basis, which means that you could have your Adventure all to yourself, or others may join you along the way. If you would prefer to travel in a group with a dedicated Trip Leader, just get in touch with your booking agent and they will take you through some alternatives.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions