Arrive in Bangkok, you will be met and transferred to your Hotel.
Arrive in Bangkok, you will be met and transferred to your Hotel.
Learn about the many fascinating stories surrounding the three most unusual Buddhas in Bangkok: the Reclining Buddha in Wat Pho, the golden Buddha in Wat Trimitr, and the Emerald Buddha in Wat Pha Kaew.
Our half-day tour starts with visiting Wat Trimitr, known for its Golden Buddha. Believed to have been made in the 13th century, this Buddha was wrapped in plaster for centuries to protect itself from Burmese invaders. In fact, it is said that locals only discovered it was made of gold by accident, when the Buddha was accidentally dropped while being transported in 1955!
Head towards Wat Pho, the most extensive temple complex in Bangkok, with its colossal Reclining Buddha and the Chedis of the Kings. Located next door, The Grand Palace served as the seat of the King, his court, and the entire government administration in the 18th to mid-20th century. With its battle-dented walls, the architecture is vibrantly Thai mixed with European design details: brilliantly coloured and gilded, crafted with the most intricate of details, creating a dazzling effect.
Proceed to the most famous building on the palace grounds: the Wat Phra Kaew. Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, this is considered as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. Its construction began when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1782. Unlike other temples, the architectural design does not contain living quarters for monks, but focuses on only richly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas. The main temple building is the central booth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. With its distinct green colour, the Buddha is carved from a single piece of jade, and though only 17 inches tall, is the most revered object in Thailand. The area also holds several palaces used for various occasions: the Funeral Palace, Reception Palace, Throne Hall, Coronation Hall, and the Royal Guest House, each with its own captivating exterior showcasing some of the best Thai craftmanship.
Escape the buzz of Bangkok city and discover local life in the surrounding countryside. This tour proposes a unique way to explore the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the Mae Klong Train Market, offering multiple opportunities for an authentic Thai experience just 2 hours from the city.
Set off early in the morning and drive to the Samut Songkram province. Our first stop is a railway station, where we board the non-air-conditioned 3rd class carriage. Lean back and enjoy the 20-minute. scenic journey along salt and rice paddies into the famous Mae Klong railway market, where the stalls are laid out on both sides of the railway tracks. When the train comes through, the tents and goods are moved from the rails at lightning speed. After the train has sped by, everything is moved back within a few seconds so that no one would suspect a conduit for a train.
After exploring the market, we drive to a jetty pier to take a longtail boat and journey along the winding canals to see remote villages, gardens, and plantations.
Disembark at the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – arguably Thailand’s most photographed floating market as it’s what’s usually seen in most Bangkok postcards. Running along a network of canals just off the Mae Klong River, Damnoen Saduak is abuzz every morning with wooden rowboats selling all kinds of fruits, vegetables, and local snacks. As touristy as it may sound, the market still best preserves its old style of trading, and is even more lively and dynamic today with the diversity of products sold.
We make our way to visit to a local open-air Khao Lam producer, where we learn how this famous Thai sweet dish is made. Khao Lam, a sticky rice delicacy housed in bamboo tubes, is not easily found at the local market in Bangkok; but it's a very popular treat in rural provinces.
After satisfying our taste buds, we continue to Wat Bang Kae Noi and spend some time bathing in the beauty of its interior, filled with woodcarvings depicting various phases of Buddha’s life, all hand crafted by artisans from the Petchaburi province. Head back to Bangkok.
You will be transferred to Airport for your onward flight.
Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised
Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotels, meals as shown above, transfers & tours with private car, local guides, entrance fees
Cost is valid till 31 October 2027, is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.