River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms

River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms

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3 Days From

$668

$636

River Kwai & Ancient Thai Kingdoms

3 Days Starting and ending in Bangkok, Thailand

Visiting: Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

TTAR

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Tour operated in:

English
From: $668 $636 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$32

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Leave behind the fast-moving streets of the Thai capital and take time out to experience Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder near the border of Burma (Myanmar). Explore this ancient Siam capital with a knowledgeable local guide, and see timeworn temples, bell-shaped chedis and intricately carved relics of Thailand’s golden era. Travel to the shady town of Kanchanaburi and pay tribute to the brave POWs who perished while building the infamous Hellfire Pass and Bridge on the River Kwai. Delve further into World War II history on a visit to the War Museum and Allied Cemetery before this historical sojourn completes the loop back in Bangkok.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient and modern history of Thailand with a three-day trip from Bangkok, taking in Kanchanaburi and Ayutthaya.

  • Uncover a golden age of Siam with the royal residences and atmospheric temples of ancient Ayutthaya.

  • Swim in idyllic rock pools fed by waterfalls in the seven-tiered Erawan National Park. If you’re game, you can even take a short hike to the top for views across the jungle.

  • Take a ride on the Death Railway and learn all about this tragic part of history at the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.

  • Travel to the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai for gorgeous views over the water.

Places You'll See

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Bangkok/Ayutthaya/Kanchanaburi

AROUND THE WORLD

Location: Ayutthaya

Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar

Accommodation Name: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar

Meals Included: Lunch

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand. Around 8 am-9 am this morning you’ll be picked up from the joining point hotel, along with other travellers in your group. If you prefer to be picked up from a different, centrally located hotel in Bangkok, please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before your departure date. Your first stop is the Bang Pa Inn Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings on the Chao Phraya River 65 kilometres north of the capital (approximately 1.5 hours). Admire the magnificent grounds, which are a combination of European and Thai designed buildings and gardens. Next, visit Ayutthaya, one of the ancient capitals of Siam and a World Heritage site. Here, explore Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, a temple that might offer a glimpse into the future, as it’s home to a fortune teller. Continue to Wat Phanan Cheoeng, Ayutthaya's answer to the Taj Mahal (approximately 40 minutes). It’s one of Ayutthaya's oldest temples and home to a 19-metre-high Buddha image. Behind the temple is a small 18th-century shrine built to honour a Chinese Princess, who drowned herself because of the king's infidelity. After lunch, move on to the 13th century ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat. The rows of Burmese beheaded Buddhas are very atmospheric, and a Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in all of Ayutthaya. Head west to Kanchanaburi (approximately 3 hours) and check in to your resort, located on the famous River Kwai.

Included Activities:
-Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical Park
-Bang Pa Inn Palace - Summer Palace

Day 2: Kanchanaburi

Location: Kanchanaburi

Accommodation: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar

Accommodation Name: River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, set off to visit to Erawan National Park (approximately 1.5 hours) where you can explore the famous seven-level waterfall or simply swim and relax. The falls are considered the most beautiful in the whole country, with glacial blue waters rushing through the forest into bamboo-shaded pools perfect for a refreshing dip. If you want to make the climb all the way from level one to level seven it’s about a ninety-minute hike, with the uppermost level usually quiet and with a stunning view over the jungle below. Be sure to pack your swimming gear, but also appropriate footwear if you’re going to make the walk. After lunch, travel (approximately 1 hour) back towards Kanchanaburi, where you'll learn about a tragic part of the area's history. Hellfire Pass memorial was built to honour the Allied POWs and Asian conscripts who died while constructing some of the most difficult stretches of the Thai-Burma Death Railway – the eponymous pass, cut through rock 18 metres deep, got its name from the hellish fires used to light the work at night. Then you'll travel a short distance (approximately 20 minutes) to Nam Tok Train Station - The end of the original death railway station during the second world war which was constructed by the allied POWs. Take a ride along the historic tracks alongside the Kwai Noi River, passing through Tham Krasae station which is one of the most beautiful panoramic scenes of the Kwai Noi river from the curves of the wooden railway line close to the mountainside. After arriving at Kilen Train Station, transfer back to the hotel (approximately 30 minutes). Tonight there's an option to head into Kanchanaburi's famous night markets and try a variety of Western Thai dishes.

Included Activities:
-Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit
-Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum
-Kanchanaburi - Historical Train Journey

Day 3: Kanchanaburi/Bangkok

Location: Kanchanaburi

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, head out on a tour of the sights surrounding the town. This will include the WWII War Museum, the Allied War Cemetery, and the Bridge over the River Kwai itself. Travel through magnificent scenery and back to a dark time in the area’s history, and spend a moment reflecting on those who were forced to give their lives in the process of bending this environment to man’s will. You will then end this short adventure with a return to Bangkok (approximately 2 hours), where your trip ends in the afternoon at approximately 2 pm.

Notes: There is no accommodation included tonight.


Included Activities:
-Kanchanaburi - Tour (WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, Bridge over River Kwai)

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (2 nights)

  • Meals
    2 breakfasts, 2 lunches

  • Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical Park

    Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the ancient capital of Siam.

  • Bang Pa Inn Palace - Summer Palace

    Explore the Bang Pa Inn Palace, a former summer retreat of Thai kings, showcasing a blend of European and Thai architecture.

  • Kanchanaburi - Erawan National Park Visit

    Visit Erawan National Park to explore its famous seven-level waterfall and enjoy swimming in its glacial blue waters.

  • Kanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

    Learn about the history of the Thai-Burma Death Railway at the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.

  • Kanchanaburi - Historical Train Journey

    Experience a historical train journey along the Death Railway, passing through scenic landscapes.

  • Kanchanaburi - Tour (WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, Bridge over River Kwai)

    Tour the WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, and the Bridge over the River Kwai to reflect on the area's history.

What's Not Included

  • Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation

    Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation are not included and may require room changes if purchased.

  • Arrival airport transfer

    Arrival airport transfer is not included in the package.

  • Test & Go package

    The Test & Go package required by the government, including one night accommodation, airport arrival transfer, and PCR tests, is not included and must be organized directly with the hotel.

Transport

Private minibus , Songthaew , Train

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in your selected accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for your arrival, especially if you're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible, which means you won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, you can store your luggage and explore the new destination.If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.

Included Activities

Ayutthaya - Ayutthaya Historical ParkBang Pa Inn Palace - Summer PalaceKanchanaburi - Erawan National ParkKanchanaburi - Hellfire Pass Memorial MuseumKanchanaburi - Historical Train JourneyKanchanaburi - Saamlaw Tour (WWII museum, Allied War Cemetery, Bridge over River Kwai)

Important Information

1. This Short Break Adventure starts at 8 am on Day 1 and finishes in the afternoon at approximately 2 pm on Day2. You will be picked up on Day 1 from the Joining Point Hotel listed in the Trip Note Information for this itinerary. Pick-up will take place between 8 am and 8.30 am in the hotel foyer.3. If you require pick up from another centrally-located hotel in Bangkok, please inform your booking agent at least 14 days prior to departure.

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes private minibus, Songthaew, and train, ensuring a comfortable and varied travel experience throughout the tour.

Accommodation

Accommodation is provided at the River Kwai Bridge Resort or similar, offering a comfortable stay with the possibility of alternative arrangements if necessary. Early check-in may not always be available, but luggage storage is provided for early arrivals.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    On Short Breaks, you maintain a good level of independence and freedom, with the added bonus of having the details sorted out for you. You’ll have lots of free time and you won’t be accompanied by a Trip Leader. This means that all included activities and tours will be run by different local Intrepid partners, and these may operate independently from each other. The included activities and transfers will operate on a join-in basis, which means that you could have your Adventure all to yourself, or others may join you along the way. If you would prefer to travel in a group with a dedicated Trip Leader, just get in touch with your booking agent and they will take you through some alternatives.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Monday

Jan 25, 2025 - Jan 27, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

Jan 28, 2025 - Jan 30, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

Jan 30, 2025 - Feb 01, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 03, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

Feb 04, 2025 - Feb 06, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

Feb 06, 2025 - Feb 08, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 10, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

Feb 11, 2025 - Feb 13, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

Feb 13, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Saturday - Monday

Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 17, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Tuesday - Thursday

Feb 18, 2025 - Feb 20, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Thursday - Saturday

Feb 20, 2025 - Feb 22, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 27, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 04, 2025 - May 06, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 11, 2025 - May 13, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 18, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 25, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 01, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 13, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 27, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 02, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 28, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 07, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 26, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 23, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 09, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 21, 2025 - Dec 23, 2025
$668 $636 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$32 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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