Bangkok-Amphawa

Wong Wian Yai Railway Station - Begin the day with a convenient hotel pick-up in Bangkok, heading to Wong Wian Yai train station, situated on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi. This quaint, lesser-known station is ideal for starting a journey like a local.

Board a leisurely commuter train to Mahachai, home to one of Thailand’s largest traditional seafood markets. The 55-minute ride offers a glimpse into daily Thai life. Relax on wooden benches under ceiling fans as the train meanders from Bangkok’s urban landscape into the countryside. Witness a changing scenery of old wooden houses, lush rice fields, and tranquil local stations. Most passengers are locals, providing an authentic, non-touristy experience. It’s a simple yet captivating journey that many visitors to Thailand miss.

Mahachai Fresh Market - The train concludes its journey in the heart of Mahachai, a town in Samut Sakhon Province, southwest of Bangkok. Mahachai is renowned for its bustling seafood market, one of Thailand’s largest and most traditional, where fresh catches arrive daily from the nearby Gulf of Thailand. Stroll through the vibrant market, observing locals haggling over everything from giant prawns to exotic shellfish, an unforgettable sensory experience!

After exploring Mahachai, continue by minivan to another highlight: the Mae Klong Railway Market. Here, witness the astonishing sight of a train passing directly through a working market; stalls and umbrellas retract just moments before it rolls through!

Maeklong Railway Market (Talad Rom Hub) - The Mae Klong Railway Market dates back to 1905. Fishing has long been a primary income source for the local community, and the market became a key venue for selling fresh catch and produce. When officials constructed a railway to facilitate goods transport to other provinces, the market adapted rather than disappeared. Vendors still sell their goods right on the tracks. Just before the train passes, they swiftly retract their awnings and move their baskets and trays, resuming business as usual once the train has passed. It’s a fascinating and truly unique sight: chaotic, impressive, and unmistakably Thai!

Wat Bang Kung - Make a brief stop at Wat Bang Kung, a historic riverside temple known for its small chapel enveloped by the roots of a giant banyan tree. This temple played a significant role during the late Ayutthaya period as a military stronghold in the battle against Burmese forces. Today, it’s a deeply spiritual site and one of the province’s hidden treasures.

Visit a charming local business to observe the traditional process of making coconut sugar, one of the region’s renowned products. These soft, golden candies have a rich, caramel-like flavor and are essential in Thai cuisine, enhancing everything from desserts to curries.

Amphawa Floating Market - In the evening, the guide will take you to the delightful Amphawa Floating Market, held only on weekends. While much of the market is on land along the canal, the lively atmosphere and wooden houses create a memorable experience. Amphawa is especially cherished by Thai locals for its authentic vibe and the wide variety of delicious dishes. Enjoy dinner at one of the market’s restaurants, savoring great food with a view!

Amphawa also offers a unique natural highlight: fireflies. In the evening, take a relaxing boat cruise along the river, where you might spot fireflies flickering among the lamphu trees, like twinkling lights in the night. A magical end to a wonderful day.

Amphawa-Ayutthaya-Bangkok

Amphawa - Rise early for a meaningful experience: witness the daily alms round, a sacred Buddhist tradition where monks quietly walk through the streets to receive food offerings from local residents. Known as ‘tak bat’, this centuries-old ritual is a deeply rooted part of Thai culture and spiritual life.

In Thai Buddhism, giving food to monks is not considered charity, nor do the monks beg. Instead, it’s a respectful act that allows laypeople to make merit (tam bun), a key concept in Buddhist belief that positively influences one’s karma and future life.

Participation in the ceremony is welcome, and local people warmly embrace it. The guide will explain the significance and steps of this beautiful tradition.

Wat Yai Chai Mang Khon - Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, just outside Ayutthaya’s historic island, is one of the city’s most striking temples.

Founded in the late 14th century during King U-Thong’s reign, it was later renamed after King Naresuan built the towering 60-meter chedi to commemorate his victory over the Burmese. Though partially destroyed during the 1767 invasion, the temple still impresses with its majestic bell-shaped pagoda, serene rows of Buddha statues, and a large reclining Buddha.

The site exudes peacefulness and offers countless photo opportunities, making it a favorite for both history lovers and casual visitors alike. Climb the steps of the chedi for sweeping views of the temple grounds, or walk around the peaceful courtyard to soak in its timeless atmosphere. It’s a must-see on any visit to Ayutthaya.

Wat Mahathat - Wat Mahathat was one of the most important temples in the Ayutthaya Kingdom, serving as the spiritual and political heart of the capital. It once housed sacred Buddha relics and was the seat of the Supreme Patriarch, making it the center of Thai Buddhism.

Located near the Royal Palace, it played a key role in royal ceremonies, such as the Kathin robe offering. Though largely in ruins today, its atmosphere remains powerful. The temple’s most iconic feature is the mysterious stone Buddha head nestled in the roots of a Banyan tree, one of the most photographed and intriguing images in Ayutthaya.

Visitors can stroll through crumbling chedis, ancient walls, and weathered Buddha images, all echoing centuries of devotion and history.

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet - Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the most important and grandest temple in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Located within the Royal Palace complex, it served exclusively as the royal chapel, much like the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok today.

Unlike other monasteries, it had no resident monks and was reserved solely for royal ceremonies, including religious rituals conducted by Ayutthaya’s kings and their families. At its height, the temple complex featured a majestic assembly hall, gilded Buddha images, and dozens of beautifully decorated structures.

The highlight of the temple was a 16-meter high standing Buddha covered in over 150 kilograms of gold, which was tragically melted down when the Burmese army invaded Ayutthaya in 1767. Much of the temple was destroyed during this attack, but the three iconic bell-shaped stupas, containing the ashes of three Ayutthaya kings, still stand proudly today. These massive chedis are among the most photographed structures in the historical park.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram - Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of the most striking and iconic temples in Ayutthaya, set along the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong, this majestic structure was inspired by the grandeur of Khmer temple architecture from Angkor. The temple layout symbolically represents the Buddhist and Hindu view of the universe, with the towering central prang representing Mount Meru, the center of the universe, and surrounding smaller chedis symbolizing the continents and oceans.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram was one of the grandest royal temples of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, serving both religious and ceremonial purposes. The temple was constructed not only to gain spiritual merit but also as a heartfelt tribute to King Prasat Thong’s mother.

Despite suffering significant damage during the Burmese invasion of 1767, the temple has been partially restored and remains a breathtaking example of Ayutthaya’s architectural brilliance.

St. Joseph’s Church - St. Joseph’s Church is one of Thailand’s oldest Catholic churches and a symbol of early European influence in the former Siamese capital. It was founded in 1666 by a French missionary, during the reign of King Narai the Great. The Ayutthaya Kingdom at the time maintained diplomatic and trade relations with several Western countries, and King Narai was known for his openness toward foreign religions and cultures.

In 1767, when the Burmese invaded and sacked Ayutthaya, the church was severely damaged. It remained in ruins until the 19th century, when it was rebuilt. The current Neo-Classical yellow façade was constructed in the 1880s, and although it has been renovated several times since, it has preserved its European-style charm with arched windows, high ceilings, and a bell tower.

Today, the church is still active and holds mass every weekend, serving a small Catholic community in the area. Its serene setting by the river and historical depth make it a hidden gem in Ayutthaya.

• Overnight at a 3-star hotel
• Snacks & drinking water
• English speaking guide
• All entrance fees
• Private evening boat ride in Amphawa
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Transportation by SUV/minivan
• Train ticket from Bangkok (Wong Wian Yai Station) to Mahachai (2nd class seat - fan)

• Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities for driver and guide (optional)

Explore numerous attractions in just 2 days!

Hop on a local train from Bangkok to Mahachai Market, one of Thailand’s largest seafood markets. Experience the excitement as the train travels directly through the Maeklong Railway Market. Visit the extraordinary Wat Bang Kung, famous for its chapel enveloped by a massive Bodhi tree, and enjoy the delightful riverside Amphawa weekend market in the evening.

On the second day, head to Ayutthaya, the former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore magnificent temples such as Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and the historic St. Joseph’s Church.

Travel in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable local guide who will provide insights and stories throughout the journey.
This 2-day tour offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and local life! An excellent option for those looking to explore must-see attractions outside Bangkok without feeling rushed.

• The travel agency reserves the right to change the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances, but the overall intention of the tour will always be preserved.
• During Songkran (Thai New Year, 12–16 April), a hotel surcharge of THB 800 per room applies. This surcharge must be paid in cash to the guide on the day of the tour.
• During the NY holiday (25 December-2 January), a hotel surcharge of THB 1300 per room applies. This surcharge must be paid in cash to the guide on the day of the tour.
• Room allocation is based on your group size: for 3 people: 1 triple room / for 5 people: 1 double room and 1 triple room / for 7 people: 2 double rooms and 1 triple room
• Don’t expect countless vendors in boats at Amphawa Market; it’s actually a canal-side market, known in Thai as a ‘talat nam’ or ‘water market’, often translated as ‘floating market’ in English. While a few vendors sell food from small boats, most stalls and restaurants line the canal, serving delicious local snacks and dishes.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.