Discover the Beautiful Cultural Monuments of Bangkok
Bangkok Extension
Overview
Discover the wealth of beautiful cultural monuments of Bangkok, one of Asia's most exciting cities. With a private guide, journey by private longtail boat through the winding klongs (waterways) of the Chao Phraya River, then spend the day visiting the city's ornate and beautiful sites, including Wat Arun, Bangkok's most well-known landmark, the dazzling Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the enormous gold-plated Reclining Buddha, and the vibrant market at Pak Klong Talad, where a vast variety of orchids and colorful flowers are sold. A special visit brings us to the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market and the house and museum of Jim Thompson, the legendary American businessman who came to Thailand at the end of World War II and rediscovered the Thai silk industry.
Arrive: Bangkok, Thailand
Depart: Bangkok, Thailand
Highlights
- Visit Wat Pho, one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, Pak Klong Taland flower market, and the Grand Palace
- Boat on the “klongs” (canals) of the Thonburi District and explore the Damnoen Saduak floating market
- Witness the art of silk dyeing and weaving, visit the house and museum of Jim Thompson, the legendary American businessman who rediscovered the Thai silk industry
Itinerary
Arrive and transfer to your hotel...Meals on your own
This morning you'll meet your guide and drive to Wat Pho in time to experience the monks' morning chanting ritual. Wat Pho is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and houses the famous 148-foot reclining gold-plated Buddha, as well as the original school of traditional Thai massage. From here, a tuk-tuk ride brings you to Pak Klong Taland Flower Market then onward to the spectacular Grand Palace, home to the most revered Buddha image in Thailand, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (which is actually made of jade or jasper). Continue with a walk to a nearby pier, and enjoy a one-hour long-tailed boat ride on the “klongs” (canals) of the Thonburi District, along the Chao Phraya River. Next, stop at Wat Arun, once the grand royal temple of King Rama II. After lunch at a local restaurant, cross the river and drive to Chinatown, which offers a first-hand look at Old Bangkok. Walk along Yaowarat Road, with its shops selling everything from gold and garments to antiques and musical instruments. Explore the bustling Talad Kao Market, where a variety of food, fresh fruits, and Chinese herbs are on display. Overnight at hotel...BL
An early-morning departure brings you to the 100-year-old Damnoen Saduak floating market, a vibrant market featuring small boats brimming with colorful fruits and vegetables, paddled by Thai women donning traditional bamboo hats. This is one of the only places to see this traditional way of buying and selling goods in Thailand, and the best way to experience the bustling atmosphere up close is to board a boat and float through the small canals. Enjoy the various vendors selling their goods and be sure to purchase some of the many delightful foods along the way.
In the afternoon, visit Jim Thompson's home, a Thai-style house of the legendary American businessman who came to Thailand at the end of World War II and rediscovered the Thai silk industry. Thompson's house is now a museum filled with fascinating Asian antiques and historical artifacts. Afterwards, a hidden walkway leads you to the last of Thompson's original weavers who still produce silk. Meet the family who spent their childhood years watching Jim Thompson and witness the art of silk dyeing and weaving. After visiting the community, a transfer brings you back to your hotel...B
Morning at leisure until noon check out. Transfer to the Bangkok airport for departure...B
A visa is not required for U.S. citizens visiting Thailand for stays of 30 days or less.
If you are interested in a longer stay in Bangkok, please call us for details and pricing.
For religious reasons, all visitors must cover their shoulders and remove their shoes before entering temples. Long pants are necessary, as shorts and short skirts are not permitted.
Accommodations
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
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Itinerary
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