Culture and Conservation in Thailand

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand! Arrive in Bangkok where you will meet your ACIS Tour Manager and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to begin exploring this dynamic capital city, called Krung Thep, or the City of Angels, by locals.

Day 3: Bangkok

Today’s sightseeing tour shows you highlights of Bangkok such as Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, whose 5.5 ton seated Buddha is the world's largest solid gold statue; Wat Pho, an expansive complex known for its impressive Reclining Buddha and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage; Wat Phra Kaew, the kingdom’s most sacred Buddhist temple, which is home to the stunning Emerald Buddha carved from a single, solid piece of green jade; and the Grand Palace, a former royal residence and a fascinating combination of Thai and classical European architecture. Following lunch, master the art of Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport and martial art. The lesson blends traditional techniques with modern training methods to develop your skills in striking, clinching, and conditioning. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned competitor, this workshop is a fun and supportive environment to push your limits!

Day 4: Bangkok

Take an excursion today to Ban Takhian Tia, a traditional agricultural community focused on sustainability and eco-tourism in the tranquil Chonburi province. Upon arrival, the villagers will extend a warm welcome, sharing insights into their rich history, well-preserved culture, and enduring traditions. At the Hundred-Pillar House Museum, see a Thai-style folk singing performance and discover the art of crafting a cloth bag adorned with floral patterns. In the Fah Sai I-Ko Garden, unleash your creativity during a natural tie-dye workshop using extracts from coconut residue to create a personalized handkerchief. Explore the raw source of the community’s sustainable products with a bicycle ride through the coconut groves and then refuel with their signature coffee blended with fresh organic coconut milk. After enjoying an authentic Thai lunch, engage in a fun game of disc golf at the coconut plantation, surrounded by the lush landscape, and savor the refreshing treat of young coconut, enjoyed with a straw made from papaya stalks. Return to Bangkok for the evening.

Day 5: Bangkok

This morning learn about the cultural traditions and religious ceremonies maintained by Thailand’s largest Chinese community via a walking tour of Bangkok’s Chinatown. This densely populated ethnic neighborhood is famous for its local markets, food stalls, Chinese temples, hidden shrines, gold shops, and mesmerizing network of small streets. Then a longtail boat cruise on the Chao Phraya River takes you through the canals of Thonburi, revealing a scene that’s in stark contrast to the frenzied activity of the modern metropolis. These “klongs” show a more traditional and tranquil way of Thai life as you drift past old wooden homes on stilts, Buddhist temples and shrines, and small family businesses. Stop at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), whose towering spire has become an iconic symbol of Bangkok. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Museum Siam. This fun and interactive museum uses modern technology and creative activities to explore the history and culture of what it means to be Thai.

Day 6: Chiang Mai

Board a flight to Chiang Mai this morning. After arrival and lunch, visit the 600-year-old Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This beloved and sacred landmark dominates the horizon atop the peak of Doi Suthep mountain. Arriving at the top you will be rewarded by panoramic views over the city and the temple’s magnificent copper-plated chedi, crowned by a five-tier gold umbrella that is said to contain partial relics of Lord Buddha.

Day 7: Chiang Mai

Today a scenic drive through the countryside brings you to the Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary and rescue center in Mae Taeng District. Spend time with the various herds, hand fruits and vegetables to the elephants from the viewing platform and observe these incredible giants as they roam the park with their family groups. During a shared lunch with your expert guide and park volunteers, learn stories about the recused elephants, the traumatic situations they’ve left behind, the need for protection efforts, and the important work of the rescue center. Then take a walk to watch the elephants splash and play in the river along the park’s border, observing socialization patterns and their playful behavior in the mud pit or sand. You’ll have additional opportunities to view small herds freely roaming from the unique, elevated SkyWalk. Return to Chiang Mai for the evening.

Day 8: Chiang Mai

This morning’s visit to Elephant PooPooPaper Park encompasses so many aspects of what a genuine responsible tourism experience should be—history, tradition, culture, local artisans, education, waste product reuse, fun and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. An interpretive walking tour through the lush gardens brings you through eight different pavilions that explain each stage of the park’s fascinating method for transforming elephant dung into paper, from poo collection to rinsing to final product assembly. You’ll get to participate in the paper-making process, create your own souvenirs, and enjoy a memorable, educational adventure full of unique photo opportunities. Return to Chiang Mai where the afternoon is free to explore more at your own pace. The evening is highlighted by a Khantoke dinner and cultural show. This traditional Northern Thailand meal and social gathering is served on low pedestal tray tables, with guests seated on bamboo mats or cushions as they experience authentic Lanna cuisine (adapted for milder tastes) in small bowls. The experience also features music and cultural performances such as the Forn Leb finger dance, Forn Thien candle dance, Ramwong circle dance, and Ram Dab sword dance.

Day 9: Chiang Mai

Journey today to the Ban Pha Lai hill tribe village in the Chiang Dao district for an immersive cultural exchange opportunity with members of the local Akha, Lisu and Karen hill tribes. After a warm welcome and stroll around the village, join a local family for a home-cooked lunch of Akha specialties while learning how their traditional way of life promotes a strong bond with nature. Following lunch, participate in a traditional handicraft workshop led by community members. Bidding your new friends farewell, return to Chiang Mai for your final evening abroad.

Day 10: Departure

Depart for the USA.