Thailand Tuk Tuks to Temples including River Kwai Cruise

Day 1 - Monday 15 March 2027

Melbourne - Bangkok (L, D))

Welcome to Sisterhood Women Travel.  Meet your Hostess and fellow travellers at the Melbourne Airport for your flight to Thailand.  Sit back, relax, and enjoy your airline's in-flight entertainment as we head towards Bangkok.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, we'll be transferred to our hotel with free time to relax before enjoying our first sightseeing activity. We’ll board tuk-tuks; one of the quickest and most fun ways to enjoy Bangkok for a relaxed foodie experience where the restaurants we visit are beloved by locals, many of them family-run and passed down through generations. Located in Bangkok’s Old City along the Chao Phraya River, the experience is as much about soaking up the culture and atmosphere as it is about the delicious food. This is a leisurely tour through a fascinating part of the city, with plenty of time to relax and savour each stop.

Afterwards, we'll return to our hotel for check-in and the remainder of the day at leisure. 

Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Chatrium Grand Bangkok (or similar)

Day 2 - Tuesday 16 March 2027

Bangkok Sightseeing (B, L)

Begin our day with a visit to the magnificent Grand Palace, the former royal residence and one of Thailand’s most iconic landmarks. We marvel at its dazzling golden spires, intricate architecture and the revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a spiritual symbol of the nation. We then continue to nearby Wat Pho, home to the impressive 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha. We wander through the peaceful temple grounds, admiring the detailed murals and chedis that reflect Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

We enjoy a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant, taking in beautiful views over the Chao Phraya River. There’s time to unwind and savour authentic Thai cuisine in this scenic setting.

After lunch, we visit Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount. We climb the gentle spiral staircase to the top, where we’re rewarded with panoramic views over Bangkok and a serene temple atmosphere.

We end our day with a walking exploration of Chinatown, Bangkok, one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. We stroll through bustling streets filled with market stalls, street food vendors and traditional shops, soaking up the lively energy and flavours of local life.

We return to our hotel with dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Chatrium Grand Bangkok (or similar)

Note:   Please avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, cropped tops, sheer or revealing clothing, shorts, tight-fitting garments, ripped jeans, or thongs. Visitors to Thailand’s royal palaces are required to dress modestly and appropriately at all times.

Day 3 - Wednesday 17 March 2027

Nonthaburi - Gastronomy Cooking Tour (B, L)

Today, after breakfast, we join our guide to discover Nonthaburi, a hidden side of Bangkok, on this immersive journey through the scenic canals of Khlong Om Non and nearby waterways. We travel aboard an eco-friendly, solar-powered boat, gliding past traditional wooden houses, historic temples and vibrant riverside communities, experiencing the charm of local life along the canals.

This unique gastronomy tour blends culture and cuisine, with hands-on cooking activities where we learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes using local ingredients. Along the way, we explore lesser-known temples and admire the beauty of century-old architecture tucked away from the city’s busy streets.

We enjoy a variety of local flavours, including traditional snacks and popular dishes such as boat noodles served by the riverside. The experience also includes interactive food and beverage workshops, giving us the chance to create and taste our own refreshing treats.

We return to our hotel with dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Chatrium Grand Bangkok (or similar)

Day 4 - Thursday 18 March 2027

Kanchanaburi - River Kwai Cruise (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we meet our guide at the hotel and begin today's journey with a short stop in Nakhon Pathom to visit Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest chedi (stupa) in Thailand and the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

We then continue to Kanchanaburi, where we explore the hilltop Wat Tham Khao Noi with its Chinese-influenced architecture, and nearby Wat Tham Sua, home to a revered Buddha and sweeping views across the countryside.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit Hellfire Pass, part of the historic Death Railway, where we reflect on the moving history of the Allied prisoners of war who endured it

We then board our RV River Kwai and cruise along the Kwai Noi River, enjoying dinner on board as the day draws to a close.

Overnight - RV River Kwai Cruise.

Day 5 - Friday 19 March 2027

River Kwai Cruise (B, L, D)

Breakfast on board this morning before we start our day. We'll visit Hin Dad Hot Springs, formerly known as Kui Mang, discovered during the construction of the Death Railway. We relax in the natural mineral pools, long believed to have therapeutic benefits. We then continue to Pha Tad Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region, set within lush forest and flowing into the Kwai Noi River.

We return to the RV River Kwai and enjoy lunch on board as we cruise along the scenic Kwai Noi River. Later, we have the option to experience river rafting or canoeing downstream, and, if time permits, we visit a nearby Mon village for a glimpse into local life.

Dinner is served on board as we unwind at the end of another memorable day.

Overnight - RV River Kwai Cruise

Day 6 - Saturday 20 March 2027

River Kwai Cruise (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we make a short visit to Sai Yok Village, set right on the riverbank, before returning on board for lunch as we cruise through lush greenery and dramatic mountain scenery.

We then travel by coach to Krasae Cave, perched along the Kwai Noi River and offering spectacular views, with a Buddha image housed inside the cavern. From here, we experience a memorable journey on the historic Death Railway, travelling in a local third-class carriage across the impressive Wang Pho Viaduct to Tha Kilen Station.

Continuing by coach, we visit Prasat Muang Singh Historical Park, where ancient Khmer ruins—dating back 700–800 years—stand as a powerful reminder of the region’s rich history and its place within the vast Khmer Empire.

We return to the RV River Kwai and cruise along the Kwai Noi River, enjoying a relaxing afternoon at leisure on board. This evening, we come together for a special farewell dinner to mark the end of our journey.

Overnight - RV River Kwai Cruise

Day 7 - Sunday 21 March 2027

Kanchanaburi - Bangkok (B, L)

We begin the day with a meaningful local experience, offering food to monks at Chukkadon Market in Kanchanaburi, a traditional act of making merit in Buddhist culture. Breakfast is enjoyed on board as we cruise towards Nong Ya, then we disembark and continue by coach.

We visit Wat Tham Khaopoon, a fascinating temple once used as a World War II camp, where caves filled with stalactites, stalagmites and Buddha images create a unique and spiritual setting overlooking the Kwai Noi River valley.

We then explore the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Death Railway, and visit the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the peaceful resting place of thousands of Allied prisoners of war.

Our journey continues to the iconic Bridge over the River Kwai, a powerful symbol of the railway’s history. After lunch at a local restaurant, we return to Bangkok by shared transfer, reflecting on a deeply moving and memorable day.

Dinner at leisure - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Chatrium Grand Bangkok (or similar)

Day 8 - Monday 22 March 2027

Bangkok - Chiang Mai (B)

Today, we'll transfer to the Bangkok airport for our flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival, we'll be transferred to our hotel with the rest of our day at leisure to begin our exploring.  

Tucked into the misty mountains of northern Chiang Mai, this soulful destination is where culture, calm and connection come together beautifully. Ancient temples glow in the golden light, monks drift quietly through the streets at dawn, and the pace of life feels just that little bit gentler. Wander the charming Old City, explore vibrant night markets bursting with colour and flavour, or simply soak up the atmosphere over a Thai massage. Chiang Mai wraps you in a sense of peace while still offering plenty to discover.

Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Melia Chiang Mai (or similar)

Day 9 - Tuesday 23 March 2027

Chiang Mai (B L)

Breakfast at the hotel then we begin the morning with a visit to the riverside Warorot Market, a vibrant local market filled with regional flavors and culture. From there, continue by traditional samlor (rickshaw), passing Tha Phae Gate, one of the four original gates of the old city.

Continue to Wat Chedi Luang, an impressive example of classic Lanna architecture that remains remarkably well preserved. Then visit Wat Phra Singh, home to the beautiful Lai Kham Chapel, renowned for its intricate wood carvings and distinctive northern-style murals.

Afterwards, drive up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple, where you will take part in a traditional blessing ceremony while enjoying panoramic views over the city.

Return to the city for a local Khao Soi lunch at a local restaurant before transferring back to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Melia Chiang Mai (or similar)

Day 10 - Wednesday 24 March 2027

Chiang Mai - Elephant Sanctuary Experience (B)

Breakfast at our hotel, before heading off for our elephant activity in Chiang Mai, an enriching journey with these majestic creatures amidst breathtaking natural settings. The top-rated, highly reviewed elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai is not only educational and very entertaining. Meet authentic tribe members who care for the elephants! English-speaking guides with a low guest-to-elephant ratio. Delve into elephant care by preparing their meals and dressing in traditional Karen attire, a unique cultural immersion that’s fun and informative. – Experience the tranquil charm of an elephant river hike, marvel at their natural behavior in a picturesque setting, and explore an untouched Mae Wang waterfall nestled in the jungle.

Returning to our hotel with dinner at leisure. Your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.

Overnight - Melia Chiang Mai (or similar)

Day 11 - Thursday 25 March 2027

Free Day in Chiang Mai (B, D)

A free day in Chiang Mai is all about doing as much or as little as you please — start with a coffee at a relaxed café, wander the Old City temples at your own pace, indulge in a traditional Thai massage, then soak up the buzz of the night markets with a little shopping and street food. Easy, flexible and oh-so enjoyable — just how we like it.

Tonight, we come back together for a relaxed dinner at leisure, with your Sisterhood hostess suggesting a beautiful spot to toast our final night in Thailand — a chance to share stories, laughter, and celebrate the memories we’ve created together.

Overnight - Melia Chiang Mai (or similar)

Day 12 - Friday 26 March 2027

Chiang Mai - Bangkok - Melbourne (B)

Today, we'll transfer to the Chiang Mai airport to begin our journey home via Bangkok. Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment of our airlines as we head towards Melbourne.

Day 13 - Saturday 27 March 2027

Home

Welcome Home! Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure.