8-Day Itinerary for Thailand

  1. Day 1: Bangkok
    Estimated travel time from Bangkok International Airport: 30 minutes (20km)

    Visit the Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Siam, to marvel at its stunning architecture, gold leafed stupas and intricate details. Next, visit Wat Phra Kaew, a temple that houses the revered Emerald Buddha statue and is regarded as the most sacred temple in Thailand.

  2. Day 2: Chiang Mai
    Estimated travel time from Bangkok to Chiang Mai: 1 hour 20 minutes (700km)

    Take an early morning flight to the charming city of Chiang Mai. Start the day by exploring the ancient Wat Phra Singh, known for its beautiful Lanna-style murals. Then, head to the Chiang Mai Zoo, one of Thailand's oldest and most popular zoos, to see rare animals such as pandas, jaguars and koalas.

  3. Day 3: Chiang Rai
    Estimated travel time from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai: 3 hours (200km)

    Take a scenic drive to Chiang Rai to visit the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), which stands apart for its gleaming white exterior and intricate design. Next, visit the Black House (Baan Dam), a collection of Teak houses and macabre art pieces created by the national artist Thawan Duchanee.

  4. Day 4: Koh Samui
    Estimated travel time from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui: 2 hours 45 minutes (840km)

    Fly to Koh Samui to enjoy some relaxation time. Start the day by visiting Wat Plai Laem, a beautiful Buddhist temple featuring a striking 18-arm statue of the goddess Guanyin. Then, head to Chaweng Beach to swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy beachfront dining.

  5. Day 5: Koh Phangan
    Estimated travel time from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan: 30 minutes (20km)

    Take a ferry to Koh Phangan to see the stunning Than Sadet Waterfall National Park, home to cascading waterfalls and a famous freshwater pool. After exploring the park, head to the Secret Beach for a secluded and peaceful beach experience.

  6. Day 6: Krabi
    Estimated travel time from Koh Phangan to Krabi: 4 hours 30 minutes (320km)

    Take an early morning flight to Krabi and head to the Phra Nang Cave Beach, a stunning beach with crystal-clear water, limestone cliffs and views of many karst towers. Spend the afternoon exploring the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea), a temple perched on top of a hill and home to one of the largest Buddhas in Thailand.

  7. Day 7: Phuket
    Estimated travel time from Krabi to Phuket: 2 hours (180km)

    Take a scenic drive to Phuket and visit the Big Buddha, the island's most famous landmark. Next, visit the Old Phuket Town, a historic neighborhood filled with old-style buildings and colorful street art. In the evening, visit the bustling Bangla Road to enjoy Phuket's famous nightlife.

  8. Day 8: Phang Nga Bay
    Estimated travel time from Phuket to Phang Nga Bay: 1 hour (50km)

    Take a boat tour of Phang Nga Bay, known for its dramatic limestone karsts, caves, and stunning sea caves. Visit the famous James Bond Island, a limestone stack standing in the shimmering emerald green sea, before departing from Phuket.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Grand Palace (2.5 hours, 500 baht)
  • Chiang Mai Zoo (3 hours, 200 baht)
  • White Temple (2 hours, 50 baht)
  • Black House (1 hour, 50 baht)
  • Wat Plai Laem (1 hour, free)
  • Chaweng Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Than Sadet Waterfall National Park (3 hours, 300 baht)
  • Phra Nang Cave Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Tiger Cave Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Big Buddha (1 hour, free)
  • Old Phuket Town (2 hours, free)
  • James Bond Island tour (4 hours, 1,500 baht)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 2,800 baht (excluding accommodation and transportation costs)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the ancient city of Ayutthaya for a glimpse of Thailand's rich history. For a more adventurous experience, head to the northern province of Chiang Mai and explore the lush jungle and beautiful rice fields. If you have less time, consider removing the visit to the Chiang Mai Zoo from the itinerary.

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