12 Days Malaysia Thailand Tour: Kuala Lumpur to Phuket Island Holiday

Welcome to Malaysia! Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Kuala Lumpur, often affectionately called "KL," is the vibrant capital and largest city of Malaysia. KL is a true fusion of cultures, where Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous groups live side-by-side in harmony. Kuala Lumpur’s magic lies in its contrasts - where centuries-old temples and majestic mosques nestle beside colonial facades, and towering skyscrapers cast their shadows over bustling street stalls that tempt with the scent of sizzling satay and spiced noodles.

Arrival Ideas:

By Flight: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is Malaysia's primary international gateway, offering a wide array of flights from Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and beyond.

By Land: If you're traveling from Singapore or Thailand, a comprehensive network of long-distance buses connects directly to Kuala Lumpur's main bus terminal, Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). Train services also connect Kuala Lumpur with parts of Thailand and Singapore (via Johor Bahru); most intercity trains arrive at KL Sentral.

Morning: Cultural & Heritage Walking, Art & Shopping Exploration

Begin at the National Museum, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's history and heritage. A short walk leads to the National Mosque (Masjid Negara), one of Malaysia’s most important religious landmarks. Unlike traditional mosques with conventional domes, it stands out with its bold, contemporary, and geometric design. Its impressive features include a 16-point star-shaped main roof (symbolizing Malaysia's 13 states and the Five Pillars of Islam) and a 73-meter-high minaret. Next, discover the Islamic Arts Museum, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, housing exquisite collections of Islamic art and artifacts from around the world.

Then, walk through history with a guided Heritage Trail. Stroll towards Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka), the historic site where Malaysia declared its independence. Here, marvel at the stunning Moorish-inspired architecture of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, an iconic landmark featuring a distinctive 40-meter clock tower. Just a short distance away, discover Masjid Jamek, one of Kuala Lumpur's oldest mosques, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers.

After soaking in the history, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art and shopping scene. Head to Central Market (Pasar Seni). It's an air-conditioned art deco building filled with local handicrafts, batik, souvenirs, and food stalls. Just a stone's throw away, dive into the bustling energy of Petaling Street (Chinatown). You'll find everything from antique to traditional Chinese medicine and street food. It's a vibrant sensory experience.

Afternoon: Batu Caves, Petronas Twin Towers

In the afternoon, head just outside the city to the Batu Caves. This iconic Hindu temple complex is a must-see. This massive limestone hill houses a series of caves and cave temples. Prepare for an invigorating climb up 272 colorful steps that wind their way to the main cave temple, guarded by the colossal golden statue of Lord Murugan - a journey that often includes monkey sightings. If you happen to be visiting in late January, keep an eye out for the Tamil festival of Thaipusam. (Dress code: Shoulders and knees should be covered.)

Return to the city for a photo stop at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Witness these magnificent structures dominate the skyline: These two gleaming silver towers rise like two spears, directly piercing the clouds, connected by a skybridge between them. Optional activity: You can opt to ascend the towers to witness the mesmerizing city night view from their observation deck (at your own expense).

Free Time Idea: Culinary Delights at Jalan Alor

Jalan Alor is a famous food street that truly comes alive at night. It's a fantastic place to sample a wide array of Malaysian street food, from grilled seafood to local noodles and desserts.

Today you'll drive two hours south of Kuala Lumpur to Melaka, the oldest trading port in Malaysia, which has undergone Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Founded in 1403, Malacca is an old town full of fascinating multi-faceted history and multi-cultural heritage. The Portuguese, Dutch and British rule over Melaka has left a deep legacy of historical relics and architecture, reflected most strongly in its town.

The beauty of Malacca town is globally recognized, and it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Upon arrival, you'll head straight to the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Zone, an area perfectly suited for exploration on foot. Your local guide will provide intriguing anecdotes and historical insights throughout the tour

Begin your exploration at the Dutch Square (Red Square), the heart of Malacca's Dutch colonial period. Here, our guide leads you through the majestic Stadhuys, a striking dark red building that once served as the town hall. We visit Christ Church (closed every Monday), admire the Clock Tower, and the Queen Victoria Fountain, all testaments to the city's colonial past.

Next, we ascend St. Paul's Hill to explore the ruins of St. Paul's Church, erected around 1571. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Malacca, imagining the merchant ships that once plied these waters. At the base of the hill, visit Porta de Santiago (A Famosa), built around 1512. This imposing Portuguese fortress will transport you back to the age of great maritime discoveries.

Next, immerse yourself in Jonker Walk (Jalan Hang Jebat), Malacca's famous Chinatown street, is home to numerous shops and eateries that offer a taste of Chinese culture. You'll get to explore the street's hidden alleys and learn about the history of Chinese immigration to Malaysia. Discover the rich Peranakan heritage at the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum, a beautifully preserved ancestral home offering a glimpse into this unique.

Optional activity: Want a unique way to explore the heritage area? Consider taking a  Colorful Trishaw Ride through the old town - brightly decorated with flowers, fairy lights, and even Hello Kitty or Pikachu themes! (at your own expense).

Lastly, enjoy a relaxing Malacca River Cruise (45 minutes). This boat ride offers a charming perspective of the city's colorful historical buildings and vibrant street art murals lining the riverbanks.

After the tour, drive back to Kuala Lumpur downtown. Stay overnight in Kuala Lumpur.

Today, you will be transferred to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) for your domestic flight to Penang International Airport (PEN).

Welcome to Penang, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Orient"! Upon arrival in Penang, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in George Town, the capital city of Penang. Enjoy free time exploring George Town.

Optional Activity: Join a Night Market Food Tour (at an additional cost).

George Town is renowned for having the best food in Malaysia, so be sure to sample the local fare on offer from street-food hawkers. A local guide will lead you through a bustling night market (about 3.5 hours), allowing you to sample a wide array of iconic dishes like Penang Assam Laksa, Penang Char Koay Teow, and various delicious Kueh...

Founded as a trading port in 1786, George Town was the first British settlement in Southeast Asia. Over the centuries, the city has evolved into a melting pot and is now home to a cosmopolitan, multi-ethnic populace. Due to its colorful architecture, the old core of the city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Morning: George Town Heritage Walking

Today, we begin the morning with a fascinating heritage walk through UNESCO World Heritage Core. Prepare to immerse yourself in a world where the past and present intertwine at every turn. (Note: Enjoying the tour with a trishaw is optional with a small extra fee.)

Route: Blue Mansion → St. George’s Anglican Church → Penang Town Hall → City Hall → Fort Cornwallis → Pinang Peranakan Mansion → Goddess of Mercy Temple → Sri Mahamariamman Temple → Kapitan Keling Mosque → Khoo Kongsi → Armenian Street → Clan Jetties.

Your journey begins at the iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion), a magnificent indigo-blue heritage building showcasing a fusion of Hakka Chinese and Art Nouveau architectural styles. It is often hailed as "one of the most beautiful Chinese mansions in the world." The mansion was the residence of Cheong Fatt Tze, a legendary Chinese magnate often dubbed the "Rockefeller of the East."

Then, proceed to St. George’s Anglican Church, Malaysia's oldest Anglican church, a testament to British colonial presence. From there, discover the grand colonial architecture of the Penang Town Hall and City Hall, standing proudly by the Esplanade. Continue to Fort Cornwallis, the historic star-shaped fortress that marks the landing point of Captain Francis Light.

Next, step into the opulent world of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, a beautifully green ancestral home that vividly brings the unique Chinese-Malay (Baba Nyonya) fusion culture to life through its exquisite collections and intricate design.

Your cultural exploration deepens as you reach Harmony Street (Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling), where the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, and Kapitan Keling Mosque stand side-by-side, symbolizing Penang's profound religious tolerance.

Continue your heritage walk by visiting Khoo Kongsi, a Chinese clan compound that will take your breath away. Admire the magnificent assembly hall, adorned with intricate carvings and woodwork that tell stories of generations past. Every detail is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage of the Chinese immigrants who arrived in Penang centuries ago.

From Khoo Kongsi, a short walk leads you directly into Armenian Street, the vibrant heart of George Town's street art scene. Here, you can hunt for famous murals created by Ernest Zacharevic (such as "Little Children on a Bicycle") and discover various whimsical wire art sculptures.

The walking exploration concludes with a drive to Chew Jetty, a fascinating fishing village built on stilts. These houses, erected by Chinese clans in the mid-19th century, offer a unique glimpse into traditional Penang coastal life.

Late Afternoon: Penang Hill

In the late afternoon, escape the city heat and ascend to Penang Hill. Situated at 2,733 feet (833 m), it provides panoramic cityscape views. The journey to the top can be experienced on the Penang Hill Funicular Railway, an exhilarating ride through the lush tropical rainforest.

Today, you will be transferred to Penan airport for your international flight to Bangkok,  the capital city of Thailand!

Upon your arrival at the airport in Bangkok, the driver will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in downtown Bangkok. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Bangkok next day.

Bangkok means the "City of Angels" in translation from its ceremonial Thai name, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon. It is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delicious Thailand street food. You can indulge in Bangkok's diverse culinary scene, from street eats to upscale dining. Shop till you drop in luxury malls or explore local markets. Enjoy the city's lively nightlife, rooftop bars, and live music venues. Bangkok offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it an exciting and captivating destination.

Free Time Ideas：

1. You can watch a Thailand boxing game at Rajadamnern Stadium.
2. Unwind with a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment.

Today, you will explore the Top 6 must-visit places in Bangkok: Wat Phra Kaew, Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chinatown, Wat Traimit, and Wat Arun. You see “Wat” means “Temple” in Thai language. You will also experience a Thai tuk-tuk, take a ferry or boat ride on the Chao Phraya River, and indulge in local food in Chinatown. This is a classic Bangkok trip, allowing you to witness 3 treasures of Thailand: the jade Buddha, the reclining Buddha, and the golden Buddha.

In the morning, head to Wat Phra Kaew which was built in 1782 and is located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Covering one-fourth of the Grand Palace's area, Wat Phra Kaew is the most famous royal Buddhist temple in Thailand. This temple is renowned for enshrining one of three national treasures of Thailand, the Emerald Buddha, which is carved from a single block of Emerald. Each year, the Thailand King personally changes the Buddha's robes according to Thailand's three unique seasons. Each season changes with a certain robe: a gold robe embedded with rubies for the hot season, a gold robe embedded with sapphires for the rainy season, and a pure gold robe for the cool season. Don’t forget to check which robe the Emerald Buddha wears when you are there.

On the walls surrounding the cloisters of Wat Phra Kaew, there are a total of 178 murals (1,000m in length). Painted during the reign of King Rama I, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty in 18th-century Thailand (Bangkok Dynasty), the murals depict scenes from the Indian mythological epic "Ramayana," which narrates the story of King Rama joining forces with the monkey deity Hanuman to defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue the exquisite princess Sita. It is said that the story of the "Journey to the West" is also based on this legend. All the murals were created by royal court painters and the golden pigments used were made entirely from gold, resulting in exquisite and unparalleled artwork.

With the guidance of your tour guide, you can learn about the mythical creatures within Thai Buddhist architecture. For example, there is the Garuda, a mythical bird and guardian deity of Buddhism, perched on the rooftops. At the entrance of the temple, you'll find Yaksa, a protective deity, and outside the halls, there are statues of Kinaree, a mythical half-bird, half-human creature. The base of the pagoda is adorned with statues of Hanuman, the monkey deity.

After visiting Wat Phra Kaew, you can go on a visit around the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace, which was first established in 1782, was constructed as a replica of the old palace in the former capital city of Ayutthaya. It serves as a symbol of the Bangkok Dynasty and is the most well-preserved, largest, and most distinctive palace in Thailand. The Grand Palace is currently used for coronation ceremonies, royal celebrations, and hosting foreign dignitaries. From King Rama I to King Rama VIII, all the monarchs of the Bangkok Dynasty resided in the Grand Palace. However, after an assassination incident in 1946 involving King Rama VIII, King Rama IX moved to a new residence. The Bangkok Dynasty has continued to the present day, with the current monarch being King Rama X.

The Grand Palace complex consists of 22 buildings and is elegantly situated along the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The main structures are four distinct palaces (Borombhiman Hall, Amarindra Hall, Chakri Mahaprasat, Dusit Hall), showcasing the essence of Thai architecture, painting, sculpture, and interior decoration. It is often referred to as the "Encyclopedia of Thai Art". By the way, the Thai King is considered the incarnation of the god Vishnu, and Garuda is Vishnu's guardian. As a result, sculptures of the Garuda (stepping on 2 serpents) can be found on door lintels, eaves, and walls, with a total count exceeding several hundred. Witnessing the changing of the guards' ceremony is a bonus when visiting the Grand Palace.

Then, take a Thai tuk-tuk to Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) which is a 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace. As the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, Wat Pho houses the largest reclining Buddha and the highest number of Buddha images and stupas in the city. The reclining Buddha, one of three national treasures of Thailand, is 46 meters tall and 108 meters long, depicting the scene of the Nirvana of Gautama Buddha. Within the temple grounds, there is a Bodhi tree, believed to be the spot where the Buddha meditated. The temple is adorned with about 100 stupas, with the most magnificent being the four stupas which are decorated with blue, white, yellow, and green ceramic tiles. In the courtyard, you can also see many Chinese-style stone sculptures, such as door guardians and lions, which were traditionally used on ships for ballast and protection against evil spirits.

Wat Pho is regarded as Thailand's first university and is considered the birthplace of Thai medicine and traditional Thai massage. It still houses a private school established in 1957 that teaches traditional Thai medicine and offers authentic Thai massages (optional, self-pay).

Take a Thai tuk-tuk to Chinatown Bangkok for lunch. Chinatown Bangkok (Yaowarat) is renowned as one of Bangkok's liveliest and most bustling commercial areas, with reportedly 70% of the city's gold shops located in Chinatown. It is also home to Wat Traimit, the world's largest solid gold Buddha statue. The entire street of Chinatown stretches for about 2 km, lined with numerous shops, and thousands of businesses proudly displaying eye-catching Chinese signs. You may have watched the film Detective Chinatown, which was filmed in Chinatown Bangkok which has a history of over 200 years. You can search for the hidden shops that appeared in the film while enjoying the food in Chinatown, a haven for foodies. The restaurants and food stalls here provide a rich selection of Chinese, Thai, and other Asian delicacies. From classic pad thai to exotic grilled meats, there's something for everyone.

After lunch, visit Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). Built in 1785, it is renowned for housing the world's largest gold Buddha. The gold Buddha (one of three national treasures of Thailand) inside the temple weighs 5.5 tons and stands at a height of 3 meters. It was constructed with the contributions of 3 Chinese individuals, hence it is also known as the Three Chinese Temple or Three Friends Temple. The royal family holds annual ceremonies here to welcome the New Year. Unlike other temples, photography is allowed inside the temple hall in designated areas(video recording is not permitted). From fourth floor of the Wat Traimit, you can enjoy a distant view of the tallest building in Thailand (314m), the King Power Mahanakhon (Pixel Tower).

In the afternoon, take a tuk-tuk ride to the pier via a quick stop at Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market, also known as Bangkok Flower Market, which is one of the top 9 flower markets in the world. Then, take a ferry or boat (cruise; optional) on the Chao Phraya River to Wat Arun. The Chao Phraya River divides Bangkok into two parts, and many famous temples are concentrated along its banks. The Wat Arun, is one of the most prominent temples that stands on the river's edge, complementing the Grand Palace on the opposite side.

Built in 1809, Wat Arun was established to honor King Taksin (郑信), the 41st monarch of Thailand (1767-1782) and a national hero. During the invasion of the Burmese army, King Taksin led the Thai people in a brave resistance, successfully driving out the Burmese and establishing the Thonburi Kingdom. To commemorate this Chinese-Thai king (from Guangdong), the temple was named Wat Arun, meaning "Temple of Dawn", as the battle took place at dawn. The main stupa of the temple stands at a height of 79 meters and is often referred to as the Thai version of the Eiffel Tower. In contrast to many other magnificent temples adorned with gold, Wat Arun stands out with its elegant white structure, attracting numerous visitors who come to rent traditional Thai costumes for photography. Situated by the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) also offers a captivating view of the sunset, which is another reason why people flock to this location.

After that, you can enjoy your free time such as paying a visit to the Khao San Road for the night markets that offer a dazzling array of street food, souvenirs, and clothing.

Warm Tips:

1. When entering the Grand Palace or temples, it is prohibited to wear shorts or skirts that do not cover the knees. Shoulders and midriffs should be covered, and clothing should not be excessively tight or have holes.

2. Upon entering a temple, remove your hat and shoes. Photography is prohibited inside the temple halls. The use of drones is strictly prohibited within the royal grounds.

3. Do not enter unauthorized areas or areas marked with warning signs. Unauthorized photography or videography is prohibited in restricted areas.

4. The lights of Wat Arun usually turn on around 7 PM. For sunset, it is recommended to arrive Wat Arun around 5:30 PM, do double check with your guide for the sunset time based on your travel schedule.It is said that the best spot to capture the beauty of Wat Arun is in the alley across from Wat Pho, where a restaurant is located.

5. Opening Hours for Temples (Wat):

• Wat Phra Kaew : 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
• Wat Pho: 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
• Wat Traimit: Thursday to Sunday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Wat Arun : 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Today, you will depart Bangkok to Samut Songkhram (80 km,1.5h), to explore the floating & Train Markets and unveil the Thai countryside life.

The best and most lively time to visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is in the morning (7am - 14 pm). As the largest and most well-known floating market among Thai and foreign tourists, this water market has a history of over a 100 years, offering a glimpse into a traditional way of local life. Enjoy your time watching vendors sell fresh products (fruits, vegetables, flowers), local handicrafts, souvenirs (locally-made bags), and delicious Thai street food from boats on canals. Be sure to try some local snacks such as coconut ice cream, coconut pancakes, pad thai, boat noodles, mango sticky rice, fresh spring rolls. It's photographers' heaven to capture a scene often depicted in movies (Detective Chinatown) and postcards. Take a long-tailed speedboat or a more relaxed paddle boat ride (optional and recommended) through the canals, immerse yourself in the bustling trading boats, experience the joy of shopping on the boat, and navigate through the traditional buildings of Siam people, as if traveling through time, which is enchanting. It is the only market still preserves the traditional Thai water market style today! If you prefer not to take a boat, you can also explore the market under the sheltered walkways on land.

Warm Tips for Damnoen Saduak Floating Market:

1. The market can get crowded, so it's recommended to wear your backpack in front to prevent theft.
2. Be cautious not to drop your belongings into the river.

After visiting Damnoen Saduak, you will head to Maeklong Railway Market (20km, 0.5h) which is famous as the most dangerous market in the world. This is a railway market with a history of over 100 years. The stalls, filled with vegetables and meat, are set up right beside the train tracks. When the train whistle sounds and the train approaches, the vendors swiftly fold their stalls within 10 seconds. The train then passes by closely, allowing you to greet the passengers onboard with joy. You will see tourists rushing around to find the best spot for photos, while the nearby vendors continuously remind you of the best places to stand. It's a moment filled with excitement and happiness. Once the train has passed, the train market’s stalls return to their original state.

Warm tips for Maeklong Railway Market:

1. It's advisable to check the train arrival times in advance to avoid missing them.
2. Train arrival times: 8:30 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:40 PM

Train departure times: 6:20 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM

According to the above schedule, wait at the stalls beside the railway tracks 5 minutes before the designated train time.

It is livelier on weekends, with a greater number of stalls.

In the afternoon, head back to Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Mai (1h). The Chiang Mai Airport is only 3km away from the Chiang Mai Ancient City. Check-in at your hotel in Chiang Mai and have a good rest.

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and was the capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom until 1558, the first kingdom in Thai history. It is renowned for its rich history, numerous temples, and unique culture. Chiang Mai is also known as the "Rose of the North" and offers a slower pace of life. People from all over the world flood here to get close to elephants through various Elephant Sanctuaries, experience local life through Thai Cooking Classes, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere through its Walking Street Market and Night Bazaars around Chiang Mai Old City.

If time permit, you can enjoy your free time in one of the night markets in Chiang Mai Old City, do feel free to ask your guide for advice .

Free Time Ideas for Chiang Mai Night Markets：

1. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (Chang Klan Road; Everyday: 5pm-12pm)
2. Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street on Ratchadamnoen Road (1km, Sunday only, 5pm-10pm)
3. Wua Lai Walking Street on Wua Lai Road (Saturday only, 5pm-11pm)
4. Do double-check with your local guide for the market opening time.

Chiang Mai is a popular destination to see elephants up close in a wide open space. Today, you will enjoy a half-day morning visit to Elephant Nature Park (9:30 am to 1:00 pm), which is approximately 50km away from Chiang Mai Old City, requiring a 1.5-hour drive. Afterward, you can freely relax for the rest of the day, perhaps by taking a Chiang Mai Cooking Class (15:30-19:00; optional) or trying out Lila Thai Massage near the Tha Pae Gate (optional). This offers a delightful opportunity to experience the real local life in Chiang Mai.

Thailand is known as the "Land of the White Elephant". Although actual white elephants do not exist in Thailand, Asian elephants do. Elephants are deeply woven into Thai mythology and religious stories for their strength and intelligence. According to legend, on the eve of Buddha's birth, his mother dreamt of a white elephant approaching her and offering a lotus flower. Since then, white elephants have been considered sacred by the Thai people, symbolizing wealth, peace, and prosperity. Throughout history, Thai people have had a close relationship with elephants, utilizing them as warriors on the battlefield and as beasts of burden for transporting agricultural goods and logs from the forest. Nowadays, numerous elephant sanctuaries offer Eco-tourism experiences throughout Thailand. As the national animal of Thailand, there is still much work to be done to ensure the well-being and future of elephants.

Elephant Nature Park (ENP), established on the edge of a rainforest near Chiang Mai in 2003, is one of the leading ethical elephant sanctuaries and a pioneer in prioritizing the well-being of elephants. With over 130 elephants roaming freely within its premises, ENP provides a natural environment, proper care, and a chance for rescued elephants to recover from past abuse. During your visit, you will have an unforgettable experience with elephants, as well as other rescued animals such as buffaloes, dogs, cats, horses, goats, and birds. Accompanied by a guide, you will learn about how the cost of your ticket contributes to the elephants' well-being, including the purchase of their food: corn stalks, sugarcane, watermelon, and bananas. It's fascinating to note that an adult elephant consumes 200-400 kilograms of food per day! You will also have the opportunity to learn more about the founder, Lek, the daily lives of the elephants, the unique stories of each elephant, and how elephants bathe themselves. While keeping a certain distance (hands off; Let Elephants be Elephant is), you can enjoy the company of these majestic and wise creatures and witness their happiness as they now live freely in a peaceful and natural environment where they are loved and respected.

After a Vegetarian lunch in the park, head back to your hotel and enjoy your relaxing day freely. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Free Time Idea around Chiang Mai Old City:

1. Half-day Thai Cooking Class in Chiang Mai: There are many Chiang Mai Cooking Schools that offer various Cooking Classes (appetizer, stir-fry, dish, soup, curry, dessert), from farm to table or from market to table, enjoy the famous Thai Dishes cooked by yourself (Thai tea, Tom Yam Soup, Pad Thai and more).
2. Try Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution Lila Thai Massage (Optional, self-pay). It is located near the Tha Pae Gate.
3. Foodie Experiences in Chiang Mai: Explore local markets around the Chiang Mai Ancient City such as Warorot Market (Everyday: 4am-6pm), Jing Jai Market (Everyday: 8:30am-9pm), Coconut Market (Saturday/Sunday/Monday, 8am-2pm), White Marke (Nimmanhaemin Road; 3pm-10pm; Closed on Weds & Thur.). Do double-check with your local guide for the market opening time.
4. Chiang Mai Night Safari (evening optional) is a must-visit for all nature and animal enthusiasts and kids.

Warm Tips:

1. There are many Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, if Elephant Nature Park (Hands-off) is not available during the high season, or you prefer more activities with elephants, you can also choose Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.
2. It is optional to do a full-day tour of Elephant Nature Park (9:30 am - 3:30 pm; return to Chiang Mai City at 4:30pm-5:00pm) if you are an Elephant fan and would like to skip the Thai Cooking Experience.
3. If you are interested in local markets or Night Bazaars, be sure to note that some markets are only open on Saturday or Sunday. Ask your guide for advice.

Famed as "The Rose of the North" which perfectly captures the city's charm and beauty. You can spaned Half day Citywalk in Chiang Mai Old City to explore Chiang Mai’s stunning Temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao), vibrant culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. It's a place for Architecture and culture lover. After your Chiang Mai trip, you may understand why Chiang Mai was Teresa Teng's (邓丽君) favorite city.

In the morning, you will enter Chiang Mai Old City by the Tha Phae Gate, which is the landmark of Chiang Mai. The Old City is a square measuring 1.5 kilometers in length and 1.5 kilometers in width, surrounded by a moat. It is the most complete and well-preserved city gate, constructed in the early 13th century, remaining from the ancient walls that once surrounded the Old City. It served as a defensive structure against invaders and a gateway to the Lanna Kingdom. The area around the gate is always bustling with activity, especially during festivals like Loy Krathong and Yee Peng Lantern Festival (Sky Lantern Festival; Nov. or Dec.).

There are around 30 temples within the Chiang Mai Old City walls today. You will visit Wat Phra Singh, one of the three major temples in Chiang Mai, is the largest and most revered temple in the ancient city. It was originally built in 1345 when the fifth king of the Mangrai dynasty constructed a stupa to enshrine his father's ashes. Over time, it was expanded to its present scale. The temple, named after a famous Buddha image called Phra Singh (Lion Buddha), showcases stunning Lanna architecture, a unique blend of Thai, Burmese, and Mon styles. In the center of the temple stands a large golden pagoda, approximately 20 meters high, built in the 16th century, which is said to house the relics of Gautama Buddha. Wat Phra Singh is also one of the main locations for locals to celebrate the Songkran Festival (held annually from April 13th to 15th, Thai New Year).

Then, visit Wat Chedi Luang (Temple of the Big Stupa) which was located at the center of Chiang Mai Old City. The temple has a history of over 600 years and holds the same esteemed status as Wat Phra Singh, making it one of the three major temples in Chiang Mai. The centerpiece of the temple is the Lanna-style square-shaped great stupa, originally standing at a height of 98 meters, which was once the tallest structure in northern Thailand. It was built by King Saen Muang Ma of the Lanna Kingdom in 1411 AD. Throughout history, it has endured wars, and earthquakes, leaving only the 42-meter-high base and the ground level, bearing witness to the storied and profound history of Chiang Mai. Currently, new Buddha images have been placed on the four sides of the great stupa. On the southern wall, there are six elephant sculptures, with five of them being replicas restored with cement, and only the rightmost one being the original piece that has been preserved. It is worth seeing.

Later, hop to Wat Pun Tao which is 100 meters away from Wat Chedi Luang. Wat Phan Tao, also known as the Teakwood Temple, is entirely constructed from teakwood provided by the royal family. With a pure Lanna-style design, built in the late 1870s, making it a treasured sanctuary within the city of Chiang Mai. It is also one of the few remaining wooden structures in the area. Every year during the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November 27th , November 28th, Thai Lantern Making & Releasing), Wat Phan Tao holds a lighting ceremony, attracting photographers from both domestic and international locations.

If time permit, you can visit Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. It is the first Buddhist temple in the ancient city and was personally supervised and built by King Mengrai, the first king of the Lanna Kingdom, in 1297.

In the afternoon, you will head to the airport for your flights to Phuket. Overnight in Phuket, the largest and most beautiful island of Thailand.

Today is entirely yours to soak up Phuket's sun, sand, and sparkling waters! After days of exploring, this is your chance to truly unwind and enjoy the island's famous beaches.

Note: If you'd like to spend a few extra days on Phuket Island, please let us know!

Warm Tips for Beaches in Phuket:

Kata Beach: Good for water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding, exploring viewpoints, visiting Kata Night Market for a local experience, taking cooking classes, and going on day trips to islands. You would love the calm waters and shallow areas, which are perfect for families with young children (specifically Kata Noi), the good selection of resorts and hotels, and the lively yet manageable nightlife at Kata Yai. However, it may be slightly more expensive than Karon Beach.

Patong Beach: Good for water sports, exploring nightlife, shopping sprees, and day trips to nearby islands. You would love the energetic atmosphere, vibrant nightlife on Bangla Road, diverse restaurants and bars, and a wide range of shopping options including malls and markets. However, it can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Karon Beach: Good for relaxing on the beach, exploring the underwater world, surfing during the low season, taking cooking classes, visiting nearby temples like Wat Chalong, indulging in spa treatments, and exploring Karon Night Market. You would love the laid-back atmosphere, spacious beach with soft sand, excellent snorkeling and diving at the southern end, a variety of water sports, and family-friendly activities like Dino Park Mini Golf. However, the nightlife options are limited compared to Patong, and it may not be the most luxurious choice.

It is time to end your Malaysia Thailand Tour. At the appropriate time, transfer to Phuket International Airport ( HKT) for your departure flight. Safe travels!

Extension Ideas:

Want to extend your Southeast Asia journey? We can help you plan trips to Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, the Philippines, or Vietnam. Let us know where you’d like to go!

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your tour of Asia. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe journey home!