03 Days Thanataree Rice Barge Cruise to Ayutthaya and River Kwai

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Bangkok. Depart by air-conditioned van to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand situated 76 kilometers north of Bangkok. The Thai capital for 417 years, Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's major tourist attractions. Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in the city, which was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong. 33 kings of 5 dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was destroyed by the Burmese in 1767. Visit the principal sights:

Wat Sri Sanphet - an important and outstanding monastery used as a residential palace in the reign of King Ramathibodi I.

Wat Mahathad - with its iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a tree is among the most photographed sites in Ayutthaya. Built during the 14th century, the temple was an important venue for Royal ceremonies and later destroyed during the Burmese invasion in 1767, who also vandalized many Buddha images by cutting off their heads.

Wat Yai Chaimongkhol - The chedi at this monastery is among the largest in Ayuttaya and was built by King Naresuan (1590-1605). There are many Buddha images and a beautiful garden behind this chedi. After lunch at a local restaurant, board the Thanatharee rice barge at Ao Bor Jor pier at 13.00 hrs and cruise towards the Elephant Kraal Pavilion. Continue by bicycle to the elephant village and time permitting, continue to a local farm, Golden Mountain and Wat Na Phra Meru. Return to the boat for dinner and overnight onboard at Wat Sri Jam Pa.

An opportunity to give food to the monks on their morning alms round. After breakfast, set off by bicycle to Aranyik Village renowned for its hand-crafted knives and all kinds of cutting utensils. Continue biking through the paddy field view countryside with possibilities for a school visit or make a short stop at a house making home-made Krayasart, a Thai sweet tidbit freshly made from peanuts and coconut. Visit Prasat Nakorn Luang, the royal accommodation from the late-Ayutthaya period built in a unique blend of architectural styles resembling a Khmer shrine. Rejoin the barge and cruise to Chao Phraya River. Arrive at Ao Bor Jor pier at noon. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue by van to Kanchanaburi. Transfer by long-tail boat to your resort, beautifully located on the banks of the River Kwai. Dinner and overnight at RIVER KWAI RESOTEL.

After breakfast, take a long-tail boat trip to Sai Yoke Yai waterfall. Enjoy swimming in the river (bring along your swimsuit and a towel) or visit the National Park’s exhibition center close by. Then continue by boat to Lawa Cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. After a guided walking tour through the cave (about 45 minutes), return to Resotel for lunch. Check out and boat transfer to Resotel pier, then drive to Kanchanaburi town. Photo stop at the famous “Bridge over the River Kwai” and visit of the Jeath Museum and War Cemetery. Arrive in Bangkok in the early evening and transfer to your hotel.