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Peregrine Travel Centre

Classic Thailand West Coast

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Classic Thailand West Coast

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Description

Combining the best of the north and south, this is the definitive Thailand tour. Travel from the glamour of the capital to villages in the mountains and from atmospheric ruins to relaxed sun-drenched islands on this 16-day adventure. Tour temples in Bangkok, walk with elephants in Phitsanulok, dig into hearty home-cooked meals and then swim, snorkel or simply kick back on the divine beaches of the southern coast. This adventure is the perfect chance to visit the many attractions and treasures of Thailand.

Trip Name
Classic Thailand West Coast
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
16
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Visit the Intrepid Foundation Partner project - Sappraiwan Elephant Sanctuary, dedicated to rescue and revitalize habitat for wild elephants. Get your hands on making food for elephants and walk with them on the camp while learning about the great work that they do.
  • Discover the turbulent past at the infamous 'bridge over the River Kwai' and cycle through the ancient Buddhas and ruined temples of World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Park
  • Experience community projects at local villages, learn from their masters of crafts, pick fresh vegetables, enjoy hearty farm to table cooking and traditional dancing.
  • Ease into the beach-loving lifestyle and enjoy various sea activities of snorkeling and kayaking to explore the amazing limestone cliff and caves, colorful coral reefs and mangrove forests.
  • Kick back and DIY your own adventures with ample free time in Phuket, maybe discover your own white sand beach, wander the busy streets and get into the buzzing night life. Your adventure, your pick!

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Bangkok
Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Your adventure begins in Thailan’s bustling capital, Bangkok with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Bangkok is famous for its tuk tuks, khlong boats and street vendors who serve delicious Thai food. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road or relax with in a Thai massage. After the meeting tonight, maybe gather your fellow travellers together and tuck into some world-famous street food.
Day 2 - Kanchanaburi
Travel northwest to Kanchanaburi. Located where the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai rivers converge, Kanchanaburi is home to the well-known Bridge on the River Kwai. When you arrive, visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetary (POW Cemetary). This was one of the first museums opened with the aim to educate people and keep the memory alive of the prisoners of war (POWs) workers who died constructing the Death Railway.
Day 3 - Kanchanaburi
This morning, continue your journey through history with a visit to the Hellfire Pass Memorial, built to honour the POWs and conscripts who passed away while constructing some of the most challenging stretches of the Thai-Burma Death railway. Board the train at Nam Tok station, the main terminal of the Death Railway and ride the historic tracks along the Kwai Noi River to the Bridge on the River Kwai. Pass through beautiful scenery and take a moment to reflect on those who lost their lives in the process of bending this rugged environment to man’s will. This afternoon, make your way to the Erawan Falls. These terraced waterfalls, named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology, tumble into a series of emerald-green pools – the perfect spot to go for a swim, take short walk around the area or simply sit back and relax.
Day 4 - Phitsanulok
After breakfast, you’ll continue to travel north. Today is a bit of a long travel day, so it's a good idea to get stuck into your book or favourite podcasts. Along the way, visit Wat Tha Sung Temple – a magnificent ancient site dating back to the Ayutthaya period. After, continue to your final destination for the day, Phitsanulok. Originally established in the 11th century, this busy provincial capital sits on the banks of the Nan River. When you arrive this afternoon, join your local leader for a relaxed stroll through town before settling in for a free evening.
Day 5 - Sukhothai
This morning, visit the Sappraiwan Elephant Sanctuary – an Intrepid Foundation partner dedicated to rescuing wild elephants and restoring their natural habitat. Roll up your sleeves to help prepare food for these gentle giants, then walk alongside them as you learn about their habits and the important work the sanctuary is doing to ensure their future. After, continue your journey to Sukhothai. When you arrive, explore the ancient ruins of Old Sukhothai, beautifully set amid serene lakes and manicured gardens. The religious art and architecture of this era are regarded as the most classic expressions of Thai style, and the park is home to the remains of 21 historic sites, featuring impressive Buddha images and four large ponds often dotted with blooming lotus flowers. This afternoon, hire a bike and spend a leisurely afternoon pedalling through the ruins. Finish today with a home-cooked dinner before settling into your hotel for the night.
Day 6 - Chiang Mai
After breakfast, travel to Chiang Mai. Along the way, visit the Lanna village Pong Huai Lan, nested in the hills and surrounded by rice fields. While you’re here, learn about their community project, which is recognised by Thailand’s Transition toward Net Zero Tourism, then hop on a bike and cycle around the village. As you cycle, stop in at a local masters Rattan weaving workshop (part of Thailand's Royal Project Initiative) and discover the community heritage in their community museum. Later today, you’ll be invited into the home of a local family for a home-cooked farm to table dinner. Then, continue to Chiang Mai where you’ll stay tonight.
Day 7 - Chiang Mai
This morning, follow your leader through the largest fresh produce market in Chiang Mai. As you wander through the bustling markets, learn about the fresh produce and distinct Thai flavours. Then the rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe slurp noodles on a Mae Ping River cruise, join a Thai cooking class or have lunch at the Chuan Chom vocational training centre, where you’ll hear about the work that the centre does to prepare women from the correctional institution with skills to return to society. Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your fellow travellers and toast to a trip well-travelled.
Day 8 - Bangkok
Today, take an unaccompanied flight back to Bangkok. Enjoy some free time before your group briefing at 6pm to meet your new tour leader and fellow travellers. Bangkok is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and slick modernity, where markets (obviously bustling) and world-class cuisine are only the beginning. If you didn’t get the chance to explore on your arrival, now’s your chance! How about taking a walk through this frenetic city of tuk tuks, street food and traditional khlong boats winding down the Chao Phraya River. After your important meeting, you might want to experience the unique tourist mecca of Khao San Road with some of your new travel crew.
Day 9 - Bangkok
You’ll start today with a visit to Wat Arun – the Temple of the Dawn. Named after the Indian God of Dawn, Aruna, this impressive landmark of Bangkok sits on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rest of the afternoon is free for your own exploration. Perhaps head next door to the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or visit Wat Pho – home to the country's largest reclining Buddha and keeper of the magic behind Thai massage. Maybe take a riverboat to Chinatown and explore the crowded streets, or travel by longtail boat down the Chao Phraya River to explore the famous khlongs (canals) of Bangkok. Life along these canals seems a world away from the chaotic streets of the capital. Tonight, board an overnight train southbound for Surat Thani.
Day 10 - Ao Nang
Arrive at Surat Thani this morning and continue by bus to the resort town of Ao Nang in the Krabi Province. Ao Nang has a main street with open-air restaurants, shops that light up the sidewalk and bars perfect for kicking back with a beer. You can also hop on a longtail boat to places like Railay Beach and the idyllic islands surrounding the bay. There's plenty of free time to relax on the beaches and get into the spirit of southern Thailand. You might like to take a cycling trip through back country tracks, getting to know local culture and taking an afternoon dip in a waterfall. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage on the beach or just sit back with a good book. In the late afternoon, visit Baan Na Teen village to take part in Batik Making. Learn about this ancient technique of dyeing, then join a local family for some home-cooking.
Day 11 - Ao Nang
This morning, head out to Ao Nang beach and board a private longtail boat to start today’s exploration. As you sail, take in the beauty of the coastline, stopping at Phra Nang Cave, Railey Beach, Koh Tup and Koh Gai along the way. See the coral and tropical fish in the crystal clear waters below on snorkelling excursions and enjoy a half day of swimming and sailing. Tonight, why not grab some of your fellow travellers and stroll down the main drag to find a seafood restaurant.
Day 12 - Khao Lak
Say goodbye to Ao Nang this morning and continue your journey to Khao Lak. On the way, stop at the community-based tourism initiative of Baan Nai Nang village (supported by Mangrove Action Project) where you’ll spend the better half of the day. Soak up the amazing nature and learning about local culture. Then, get active and venture out in a kayak to explore the water, limestone cliffs and mangrove forests at Khao Ka Rot. Return to the village and learn to prepare the organic local mulberry leaf tea, sitting down with your hosts for a home-cooked lunch. Head out for a walk through the village’s organic fruit orchards before hopping back on your bus to Khao Lak.
Day 13 - Khao Lak
Enjoy a free day to explore Khao Lak at your own pace. Maybe visit Lam Ru National Park, known for its nature trails, secluded beaches and Ton Chong Fa Waterfall. Or take a daytrip to the Similan Islands or the Surin Islands, soaking up the gorgeous natural landscapes. Your local leader will be on hand with suggestions and to help you out with logistics.
Day 14 - Phuket
This morning, you’ll leave the natural paradise for Phuket – Thailand’s largest and most visited island. When you arrive, you might like to stop at the Tsunami Memorial. Then, continue to the Royal Thai Navy Sea Turtle Conservation Center, which supports the protection of turtles, focusing on marine biodiversity. Learn about the important work that they do here and see the different type of turtles at the foundation. Later, continue to Patong Beach, where you’ll stay in the heart of it all near local shops, restaurants and nightclubs awaits.
Day 15 - Phuket
Phuket is ringed with beaches and you can find everything from a party vibe to something a little quieter. If you can pull yourself away from the curving coasts, Phuket also has a range of activities to fill your day, from Thai boxing exhibitions to cabaret shows. If you love getting out on the water and exploring the islands, then perhaps use your last day to take a daytrip to the Phi Phi Islands and Khai Nok – a tiny island surrounded by white sandy beach, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. If you want to spend some time with Thailand’s elephants, maybe visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Here, you can see the elephants in the safety and security of their natural home and get an insight into the behaviour and personal history of each elephant. Tonight, maybe get together with your fellow travellers for dinner and toast to a trip well travelled.
Day 16 - Phuket
There are no activities planned for the final day, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. That doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! If you’d like to continue to soak up the very best of Phuket, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
08-03-202623-03-2026AUD $ 4,495-
22-03-202606-04-2026AUD $ 4,194-
29-03-202613-04-2026AUD $ 4,194-
05-04-202620-04-2026AUD $ 3,728-
19-04-202604-05-2026AUD $ 4,390-
27-09-202612-10-2026AUD $ 4,390-
04-10-202619-10-2026AUD $ 4,390-
11-10-202626-10-2026AUD $ 4,390-
25-10-202609-11-2026AUD $ 4,390-
01-11-202616-11-2026AUD $ 4,690-
08-11-202623-11-2026AUD $ 4,660-
15-11-202630-11-2026AUD $ 4,760-
22-11-202607-12-2026AUD $ 4,760-
26-11-202611-12-2026AUD $ 4,760-
29-11-202614-12-2026AUD $ 4,660-
13-12-202628-12-2026AUD $ 4,390-
20-12-202604-01-2027AUD $ 4,960-
24-12-202608-01-2027AUD $ 4,960-
27-12-202611-01-2027AUD $ 5,190-
03-01-202718-01-2027AUD $ 4,960-
10-01-202725-01-2027AUD $ 4,825-
17-01-202701-02-2027AUD $ 4,685-
24-01-202708-02-2027AUD $ 4,685-
31-01-202715-02-2027AUD $ 4,825-
07-02-202722-02-2027AUD $ 4,825-
14-02-202701-03-2027AUD $ 4,960-
21-02-202708-03-2027AUD $ 5,055-
28-02-202715-03-2027AUD $ 5,055-
07-03-202722-03-2027AUD $ 5,055-
14-03-202729-03-2027AUD $ 5,055-
21-03-202705-04-2027AUD $ 4,960-
28-03-202712-04-2027AUD $ 4,695-
04-04-202719-04-2027AUD $ 4,695-
18-04-202703-05-2027AUD $ 4,555-
03-10-202718-10-2027AUD $ 4,555-
17-10-202701-11-2027AUD $ 4,555-
24-10-202708-11-2027AUD $ 4,555-
31-10-202715-11-2027AUD $ 4,695-
07-11-202722-11-2027AUD $ 4,830-
14-11-202729-11-2027AUD $ 4,920-
21-11-202706-12-2027AUD $ 4,920-
25-11-202710-12-2027AUD $ 4,830-
28-11-202713-12-2027AUD $ 4,695-
12-12-202727-12-2027AUD $ 4,555-
19-12-202703-01-2028AUD $ 4,830-
23-12-202707-01-2028AUD $ 5,385-

Accommodation

Homestay (1 night), Overnight sleeper train (1 nights), Resort (6 nights), Hotel (7 nights)

Transport

Overnight sleeper train, Private minivan, Taxi, Longtail boat, Songtheaw, Bicycle, Public Bus, Plane

Map

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