Arrive  Xishuangbanna                                                                         [D]

The journey begins in Xishuangbanna, an autonomous prefecture in China’s southwestern Yunnan province. Situated near the border of Myanmar and Laos, this remote region is home to scenic rainforests, mountains and ethnic communities who engage in centuries-old customs and traditions. You are greeted on arrival in Xishuangbanna and transferred to your hotel.

Xishuangbanna – Jingmai Mountain                                                              [B,L,D]

Start the day with a thrilling encounter with elephants! Your journey begins with a transfer to the enchanting Wild Elephant Valley, nestled 30 kilometres away, accessible by a picturesque 40-minute drive. This pristine sanctuary is celebrated for its ancient tropical rainforest and the presence of Asia’s majestic wild elephants. In the heart of Xishuangbanna’s lush rainforests, the Wild Elephant Valley stands as the exclusive haven where these magnificent creatures frequently grace us with their presence. Following this unforgettable experience, we will seamlessly transition to the captivating Jingmai Mountain, a 160-kilometre journey that unfolds over roughly three hours. Here, you will have the privilege of visiting the Bulang ethnic minority village. For generations, the Bulang people have lovingly tended to tea trees, with their ancestors earning the revered title of ‘Tea Ancestors’ among the Bulang and neighbouring minority communities.

Optional tour with dinner: Enjoy Luhu Minority cuisine along with a live music show

The Lahu minority village, situated just 25 kilometres from Jingmai Mountain and accessible via a scenic 40-minute drive, is celebrated for its vibrant musical heritage. It is truly captivating to experience that tradition in this remote mountain village of Yunnan where a remarkable 80% of its residents are skilled guitarists who also practice Christianity. During this visit, you will have the opportunity to immerse in Lahu culture, savouring their delectable cuisine while being serenaded by a live musical performance.

Jingmai Mountain – Xishuangbanna                                                      [B,L,D]

Begin your day with a captivating morning hike through the age-old tea plantation forest, immersing yourself in the history of the venerable tea trees. In the afternoon, your journey will take you to the opposite side of the mountain, where you’ll have the privilege of visiting a traditional Dai village. For centuries, the Dai people have thrived in harmony alongside the Bulang community, preserving their timeless way of life. As the late afternoon approaches, transfer back to Xishuangbanna, where you can indulge in the enchanting atmosphere of the night market, free to explore its bustling delights.

Depart Xishuangbanna                                                           [B]

For the final day, begin your morning with a visit to Manting Park, once an imperial sanctuary of the Dai Kingdom and now a vibrant hub for numerous minority events, including the exhilarating Water Splashing Festival. Following this cultural exploration, continue your journey to the serene Zongfo Temple, an exquisite Thai-style Buddhist sanctuary. Around noon, we’ll arrange your transfer to the airport for your next destination or homeward-bound flight.

Bangkok – Khao Yai                                                                                                 [L, D]

The day’s adventure starts with us leaving Bangkok by private car, minibus. or coach for Saraburi, a central Thai province renowned for its collection of ancient Buddhist temples. We will stop at Phra Buddha Badh, home to a shrine of the holy footprint of Buddha and a large number of temple bells that surround the temple compound. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Saraburi before continuing to Khao Yai National Park, home to more than 50 km of hiking and biking trails and several waterfalls including 150 metre high Haew Narok and the famous 20-metre-tall Haew Suwat that featured in Danny Boyle’s Hollywood hit The Beach. The park is also home to a diversity of flora and fauna, including bears, gibbons, elephants and hornbills. On the way, we stop at the hillside temple of Wat Theppithak with its huge seated Buddha and fruit market at Klang Dong. Dinner at hotel.

Khao Yai – Korat                                                                                                         [B, L, D]

The day starts exploring some of Khao Yai National Park’s natural beauty with a visit to impressive Krong Keo Waterfalls that are home to a bamboo suspension bridge. We then stop at Thao Suranaree Memorial, built in commemoration of Khunying Mo, wife of the town’s second in command, who rallied her people to defeat Laotian invaders in 1826 under the reign of King Rama III. Next, we visit Wat Sala Loi, where the main chapel is constructed in the shape of a Chinese junk using local materials in the form of the famous earthen tiles from Daan Kwien. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Korat before continuing to Pimai to visit the museum and magnificent Khmer temples, dubbed the Angkor Wat of Thailand, that are believed to have been built by King Jayavarman VI in the 11th century. Before returning to Korat, we visit Sai Ngam Banyan Grove, home to Thailand’s largest banyan tree. Dinner at hotel.

Korat – Surin                                                                                                         [B, L, D]

We start the day with a trip to the village of Daan Kwian, famous for its beautiful earthenware. Set on the Moon River, it is home to a quaint collection of pottery studios, stores and museums to explore. We then continue to Prasat Phnom Rung, the most important Khmer temple complex in Thailand. Perched atop a small hill, this complex comprises a stunning monumental staircase and its sanctuary is one of the best examples of Khmer architecture in the country. We also visit Prasat Muang Tham, a Khmer temple that dates back further than Prasat Phnom Rung, with a collection of well-preserved bas reliefs. After a local lunch, we set off to the northeast province of Surin. Dinner at hotel.

Note: The Surin Elephant Round-Up is held every year on the third weekend of November. Tour programmes available on request, surcharges apply.

Surin – Bangkok                                                                                                     [B, L]

We leave for Si Saket, famous for its Khmer ruins. We visit Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai, an 11th century Khmer-era temple built to honour Hindu god Shiva before switching to a Mahayana Buddhist temple built in the 13th century. We continue to Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Noi, which comprises a laterite stupa and chapel with a lotus pond at the front. We drive on to Ubon Ratchathani, one of the four major cities of Isan. After lunch, we continue to Ban Pa Ao, one of the oldest villages in Ubon Ratchathani, whose residents are said to have migrated from Vientiane, Laos during the reign of King Siri Bun San. This area is famous for its skilled artisans who create bronzeware and handwoven silk. We then visit Ban Kan Lueang archaeological site. In 1992, an excavation of the site unearthed a range of artefacts that date back 2,000 years. We then drive to Ubon Ratchathani Airport to fly to Bangkok.

Khao Lak – Surin Islands – Koh Prathong                                             [L]

Escape to a tropical island paradise within the idyllic Koh Surin National Marine Park. An early 7 am start, with a transfer from Khao Lak to Kuraburi Pier, is followed by an exhilarating speedboat trip to Koh Surin. A guided tour conducted by the island’s original inhabitants, the Moken, provides a unique insight into their home. We will learn about the intricate relationship between this indigenous group and the environment, view brightly coloured poles that honour the spirits of nature and see bamboo stilt houses erected on the sand. We also try our hand at rowing a traditional boat, spearfishing and weaving, including the creation of a bracelet made from Pandanus leaves. Lunch is a Thai set menu served under the shade of a tree on the beach, followed by a short walk to a coral reef to view the Moken’s impressive diving techniques. It is then time to enjoy a cooling swim surrounded by tropical fish. We then take a long-tail boat to Baba Ecolodge Resort, with the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy this idyllic site nestled within lush tropical jungle and facing a 12-km deserted beach.

Koh Ra                                                                                                    [B, L]

After breakfast at the resort, our adventure begins with a 15-minute long-tail boat ride to Koh Ra. This is a long and mountainous island and covered in ancient rainforest. The elevated and overgrown terrain has preserved the serenity. Consequently, it is home to abundant flora and fauna and this makes it an excellent trekking venue. We will set off on a leisurely hike and look out for hornbills and other native species. Lunch is served al fresco on a secluded beach, with time afterwards to enjoy a cooling swim, or relax on the pristine sand. At around 2 pm, we head back to the resort on Koh Phrathong, with the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy the stunning beauty of this tranquil destination.

Optional activities                                                                            [B]

Savannah Tour with breakfast (by Baba Ecolodge Resort)
Another day in an idyllic island paradise unfolds, with the option to relax at the resort, or undertake some excellent optional excursions. The Savannah Tour reveals native wildlife and abundant nature. Our destination, Ko Phra Thong’s savannah interior is more reminiscent of Kenya than Thailand. We leave by jeep at 6 am and head to a spectacular environment featuring brilliant white sandy dunes covered with thick grass. This is one of the best bird watching destinations in Thailand and one of the few places on earth to spot the endangered lesser adjutant stork.

Island Adventure
Another option is an island adventure tour that reveals rustic Tung Dap village. The discovery starts with a 9 am transfer. After a briefing and a cultural orientation, we join an interactive workshop where we learn how to make squid traps, an essential tool for the indigenous Moken. We then enjoy a homemade lunch and a cultural exchange with our host family. We then head out to catch crabs, fish or gather seashells, depending on the tide. We also learn how to make a traditional Moken desert. At around 4.30 pm we arrive back at the resort, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Koh Prathong – Khao Lak                                                               [B]

Our escape from civilization to a remote island getaway concludes today. After breakfast, we have some time to soak up rays and enjoy a cooling swim. We then check-out of the resort and take a long-tail boat transfer to Kuraburi Pier, followed by a speedboat trip back to either Khao Lak or Phuket, depending on individual itineraries. This excursion provides the ultimate escape from modern life and promotes sustainable travel practices.

Day 1 | Bangkok – Ban Kao                                                                                                                                                                                [-, L, D]
The journey is sometimes as important as the destination and this is true on today’s adventure as we visit a wealth of fascinating attractions. We leave Bangkok for Kanchanaburi, via Nakorn Pathom and stop at this location to view the tallest stupa in Thailand at Phra Pathom Chedi. The structure measures 127 metres in height and its creation inspired the development of the town. Next is the riverside Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi). This monastery sits on a hill and features Chinese architecture and cultural art, as well as splendid views of the mountainous horizon from an exterior viewpoint. We also make a stop at the nearby Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) which features Thai cultural art. On arrival in Kanchanaburi we visit the JEATH War Museum, a realistic depiction of a prisoner of war camp with bamboo huts which give an insight into the grim living conditions and atrocities endured by detainees who were forced to build the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We then board the RV River Kwai at Nong Ya Dock with lunch and dinner on board and the afternoon at leisure.

Day 2 | Ban Kao – Sai Yok                                                                                                                                                                                [B, L, D]
Our relaxing river cruise continues upstream on the Kwai Noi River to Muang Singh. After breakfast we step ashore and visit a boarding school for refugee children built under the patronage of H.R.H. Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. We then explore Prasat Muang Singh, a historical park containing Khmer architecture dating back 800 years. This site marked the Western border of the Khmer Empire in what is now Thailand and it serves as a potent reminder of the enormity of the Khmer domain. Muang Singh, the ‘city of the lions,’ was probably established as a trading post in this era. We then continue by coach to Tha Kilen Train Station, a site which holds significant relevance in the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We take a third class train to Saphan Tham Krasae and pass over the famed 300 metres-long trestle bridge that clings to the cliff side. On arrival, we proceed to the riverside Krasae Cave which houses a venerable Buddha image. We then continue by coach to Sai Yok village located on the river bank. Lunch and dinner are on board and the afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3 | Sai Yok – Ban Hin Dad                                                                                                                                                                  [B, L, D]
Our final day of cruising takes in more amazing natural and man-made attractions. After breakfast we take a short stroll uphill to visit Kaeng Lava Cave, the area’s deepest cave at 500 metres in length. Inside are stalactites and stalagmites and mystical stone draperies and hidden chambers. We then continue by coach to Hellfire Pass, a notorious section of the ‘Death Railway’ that cuts through a towering stone mountain. We follow a trail that leads to Hin Tok Bridge and the Konyu Cutting where a plaque commemorates the horrors endured by the prisoners of war (POW) who built the railway under Japanese enslavement. The memorial complex, Hin Lek Fai, stands in honour of these Allied soldiers and conscripted labour from Burma, India, Malaysia and Thailand who died during the railway’s construction. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Sai Yok National Park and take in the gushing Sai Yok Yai Waterfalls. The afternoon is at leisure on board, ahead of a farewell dinner.

Day 4 | Ban Hin Dad – Bangkok                                                                                                                                                                [B, L, -]
We start the day in traditional Buddhist style ‘making merit’ by offering food to monks at a nearby temple in return for a blessing and then return to the boat for breakfast. We then jump onshore again and head to Kanchanaburi to visit Wat Tham Khao Poon, an amazing subterranean world with nine caverns full of Hindu and Buddhist shrines. The exterior of the temple has a marvellous viewpoint of the Kwai Noi River valley. We then visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, a facility that provides a detailed insight into the 415-km Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ built by enslaved Allied soldiers and Asian conscripts during World War Two. We then visit Don Rak War Cemetery where 6,982 Allied POWs who died building the railway are buried. We continue to the famed Bridge over the River Kwai, which inspired the war era film of the same name. We enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant overlooking the bridge and then head to Bangkok and transfer to respective hotels.

Day 1 | Bangkok – Ban Hin Dad                                                                                                                                                                   [-, L, D]
The journey is sometimes as important as the destination and this is true on today’s adventure as we visit a wealth of fascinating attractions en route. We leave Bangkok for Kanchanaburi, via Nakorn Pathom and stop at this location to view the tallest stupa in Thailand at Phra Pathom Chedi. The structure measures 127 metres in height and its creation inspired the development of the town. Next is the riverside Khao Noi Cave Temple (Wat Tham Khao Noi). This monastery sits on a hill and features Chinese architecture and cultural art, as well as splendid views of the mountainous horizon. We also make a stop at the nearby Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) which features Thai cultural art. After lunch at a renowned Thai restaurant, we proceed to Hellfire Pass, a notorious section of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ that cuts through a towering stone mountain. We follow a trail that leads to Hin Tok Bridge and the Konyu Cutting where a plaque commemorates the Allied soldiers and Asian conscripts forced to build the railway by Japanese forces. We then board the RV River Kwai, and the afternoon at leisure with dinner on board.

Day 2 | Ban Hin Dad – Sai Yok                                                                                                                                                                        [B, L, D]
Our relaxing river cruise continues downstream on the Kwai Noi River. After breakfast on board we visit a boarding school for refugee children built under the patronage of H.R.H. Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. We then drive to Hin Dad Hot Springs. The natural hot springs, with two large pools and private baths, were discovered by Japanese soldiers supervising the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ The minerals in the spring are believed to cure numerous ailments. We then visit stunning Pha Tad Waterfall in the west of Si Nakharin Dam National Park. This water feature originates from a small stream called Huai Kui Mang that flows into the Kwai Noi River. We reboard our vessel at Kaeng Pa Lorm and enjoy lunch ahead of some river rafting or canoeing. If time permits we will visit a nearby indigenous Mon village before returning to the RV River Kwai for dinner.

Day 3 | Sai Yok – Ban Kao                                                                                                                                                                                 [B, L, D]
Our downstream cruise continues along the idyllic riverscape of Kanchanaburi province. After breakfast on board we make a short stop at Sai Yok village. We enjoy lunch on board as we navigate the lush and mountainous landscape. We then board a coach and head to the riverside Krasae Cave which houses a venerable Buddha image and an excellent exterior viewpoint of the rolling hills. Next is Tha Kilen Train Station, a site which holds special significance in the construction of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ We take a third class train to Saphan Tham Krasae and pass over the famed 300 metres long trestle bridge that clings to the cliff side. After arrival, we explore Prasat Muang Singh, a historical park containing Khmer architecture dating back 800 years. This site marked the Western border of the Khmer Empire in what is now Thailand and it serves as a potent reminder of the enormity of the Khmer domain. We renew our journey along the Kwai Noi River, with the afternoon at leisure and a farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 4 | Ban Kao – Bangkok                                                                                                                                                                                 [B, L, -]
Today’s adventure starts with exploration of an amazing cave temple. After breakfast we visit Wat Tham Khao Poon, an astonishing subterranean world with nine caverns full of Hindu and Buddhist shrines. The exterior viewpoint has a marvellous view of the Kwai Noi River valley. We continue by coach to Kanchanaburi to visit the world famous Bridge over the River Kwai that was immortalised in the World War Two movie of the same name. This sturdy iron bridge was a crucial part of the ‘Death Railway,’ and it took enslaved Allied POWs and Asian conscripts 16 months to build. After this historical experience we continue to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre Museum, an interactive facility that provides a remarkable insight into the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway.’ Finally, we visit the Donrak War Cemetery which contains the remains of 6,982 Allied POWs who died during the construction of the rail link. We then reboard the RV River Kwai with lunch served as we cruise towards Nong Ya Dock. On arrival, we return to Bangkok by coach and transfer to respective hotels.

Arrival Lijiang – Lijiang                                                                                                    [-]

Guests will be warmly welcomed upon their arrival at Lijiang’s Airport our own Asian Trails’ representative before guided to their air-conditioned vehicle. The comfortable ride from Sanyi International Airport to one of Aman’s sanctuary for the senses outside one of China’s growing cities in southern China will take approximately 40 minutes (approximately 35 kilometres, depending on traffic)

With snow-capped peaks as a backdrop and perched beneath Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Amandayan is the perfect place to enjoy the ancient heritage of Lijiang and its exceptional natural beauty. Delivering true serenity in a mountain hideaway setting, the resort is arranged around tranquil courtyards and it utilises the architectural aesthetic of the indigenous Nakhi people through locally sourced materials, including Yunnan pine and elm. Each suite opens onto a courtyard with views of Lijiang’s rooftops, or the UNESCO-listed Old Town. A special feature is the amazing 600 sq-meter viewing platform that provides a grandstand view of the stupendous scenery.

Private check-in procedures from the Amandayan’s team is followed by an afternoon completely at leisure. Depending on your guests’ arrival flight, an oasis of peace flows through the whole resort, amplified by the spacious suites and knowing that guests are cared for from the moment of arrival until their last night in China.

Accommodation is offered at one of the sanctuary’s suites

Lijiang                                                                                                                                [B, D]

Your first morning in Lijiang’s leading resort commences with a freshly prepared breakfast, comprising of regional delicacies and international favourites. As the city itself is preparing for another day, the morning team at the Amandayan takes pleasure in serving you what is on the menu.

Established over 800 years ago, and once the capital of the Naxi Kingdom, Lijiang is an exquisitely pretty town of winding narrow lanes, mountain streams, ancient stone bridges and charming timber houses. Nestled amongst lush green fields with stunning mountain scenery Lijiang has a remarkable and unique system of streams and waterways which channels water from the mountains into courtyards and alongside the houses. Developing the town around these watercourses resulted in over 350 bridges of varying sizes crisscrossing the town, and traditional houses that were built very close together. The area is home to predominantly the Naxi ethnic group, and the town of Lijiang is a delightful showcase of their rich culture.

Surrounding the centre courtyard, the suites and restaurants form merely the base to explore the land of the Naxi. With its strategic location nearby Lijiang’s old centre, guests have ample time to meander through the old streets in search for local experiences of the Yunnan kind. With a history that dates back more than 800 years, the arrival of the Song Dynasty brought prosperity into Lijiang, still noticeable by the canals and richly-decorated houses.

Large parts of the historical values of Lijiang, Yunnan and the Naxi have found themselves in the design of Amandayan too – a marriage of local wood, embroidery from the time, the Naxi ruled the region, and the attention to detail in the design plans of Amandayan, one has ample opportunities to thoroughly enjoy the sanctuary’s compound and what lies beyond the wall of your overnight address.

Lunch is on own arrangement.

Taking pride of bringing parts of the culinary heritage to the menu of Amandayan’s Yunnan, Cantonese and western items on their menu, guests will always find something that will tantalize their taste buds in search for new experiences of the culinary kind.

At 6pm, guests are warmly welcomed by a local, English speaking guide at the lobby of the Amandayan, eagerly to give you a taste of what true Lijiang is all about. Located on the cross roads of Sichuan, Tibet and Yunnan, the variety of food options is using characteristics of the region with local recipes, used for many generations by ethnic minorities. The smells and flavours from what makes Lijiang such a mecca for food aficionados is concentrated around Sifang Square at the heart of Old Town, and its large amount of side alleys and streets. It will be moving from one local eatery to another, trying out the various dishes amongst the local residents.

The gastronomical highlights for the evening will definitely be the combination of Yunnan Lijiang Baba, the famous local potato Pan-cakes and the Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles. The satisfaction of this evening exploration will be rounded off with gaining an insight into the nightlife of Lijiang, defined by it characteristic houses, romantically-lit canals and seeing Lijiang from a different perspective before returning back to your retreat.

Overnight at your booked suite at the Amandayan

Lijiang                                                                                                                                  [B]

With the flavours and spices lingering on your palette from the night before, the vapours of breakfast delights are inviting you back for another morning of starting the day in the best way possible. With ample time on your side today, enjoy the selection of prepared dishes before picking and choosing how your final day of this exquisite experience will be filled in.

Seeking more wellness in your sojourn to feel bliss? The Amandayan’s expansive wellness centre, concentrated around its courtyard, is one of the key elements for discerned guests to further bring balance to mind, body and soul. Aman’s signature spa embodies traditional techniques, oils and balms of the country, with the chain’s renowned approach in bringing wellness to its customers. The 20-meter covered lap pool is an oasis to recharge your battery, aside from entering the realm of Pilates for a personalized session, or find yourself in the fully-equipped gym for a good workout.
If the scenery from the outside draws your attention more, let us tailor a program for you that perfectly fit your needs. The adventure goes beyond downtown Lijiang with its UNESCO World Heritage stamp of approval showing that the Old Town is more than just a food galore in its most authentic form. The breathtaking views from the Amandayan’s viewing platform certainly open doors to what lies further away – from the snow-capped mountain ranges to the small villages, dotted in a sea of agricultural green that surround Lijiang.

Depending on how you chose your day to be filled in, lunch is on own arrangement

Your final night at the magic that is called Amandayan should be one that captures one of the essences of Chinese culture. Engaging into a Chinese tea ceremony, for example, delicately shows the minute details of what has withstood the test of time. It is still practices with great valour and precision as an example of timeless China.

Overnight at your booked suite at the Amandayan

Lijiang –Lijiang Departure                                                                                            [B]

Matching breakfast with your scheduled departure time from Amandayan to our next destination will be something worth considering on the final day of this culinary package. Following the resort’s check-out times and conditions, the deluxe vehicle, accompanied by an Asian Trails representative, will be waiting for you at the resort to bring you in comfort back to Lijiang’s International Airport or train station.