Chao Phraya River Cruise: Bangkok - Ayuthaya

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Destination: Chao Phraya River
Category: Cruise, Culture
Class: 4 Stars
Description: Beautifully crafted, Mekhala is a collection of three restored rice barges that provide the setting for daily journeys between Bangkok and Ayuthaya, retracing the paths of former royal processions. Their journey is a fascinating insight into how life on the river has changed over this time.

For centuries, The River of Kings has been the lifeblood of Thailand, carrying with it the history and culture of this proud nation. Flowing down from the fertile central plains for almost 400 kilometers, this birthplace of Thai civilization connects the ancient Siamese capital Ayuthaya with the modern capital Bangkok, where it remains an essential artery in the region's economic life. The magic of this voyage is its unhurried pace that captures the subtle colours and moods of life on the river over a 24-hour period. A couple of hours into the journey, the bustle of the city is replaced by the tranquillity of the countryside. Along densely wooded river banks, tin and timber homes nestle in the hyacinth-clogged shallows housing families whose lives are still bound by the ancient waterway. There is no finer way to view the captivating way of life that exists on Thailand's "River of Kings". In a simple one-day river trip on the Mekhala, you can absorb centuries of Thailand's history and culture.

CRUISE PROGRAM

Upstream: Bangkok - Ayuthaya

ITINERARY

DAY 1: BANGKOK - MEKHALA (D)

Start cruising up the Chao Phraya River with spectacular views of the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn. Just after the sunset, the Mekhala docks at Wat Kai Tia, a Thai temple set in a tranquil rural village. An exquisite candlelit dinner of mouth-watering Thai cuisine is served on the deck. Overnight on board in your air-conditioned cabin.

DAY 2: MEKHALA - AYUTHAYA (B)

An option for alms offering to monk can be made prior to a delicious breakfast served on board. Then depart for Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace where you will disembark nearby at approximately 10 am.

TOUR PRICE IN THAI BAHT (UPSTREAM)
On a per person basis

BOAT SCHEDULE

Guarantee departure every Tuesday & Thursday with a minimum of 2 confirmed adults booked on join tour basis.

INCLUDED

2 days cruise with stops and visits as mentioned in the program.
1 night accommodation on board in double berth air-conditioned cabin.
Meal plan as mentioned (1 dinner - 1 breakfast).
Coffee, Tea & Water on board and during breakfast.
Coffee, Tea, Water & Soft drink during dinner.
Services of a qualified crew.
Group Insurance.

NOT INCLUDED

Guide, land services and transportation in Bangkok & Ayuthaya.
An option for alms offering to monk.
Other drinks and meals not mentioned in package.
Other personal expenses.

REMARKS

The above tour prices include service and government tax.
Minimum 2 persons traveling together for join tour.
Child under 12 years shares a double room with 2 adults charge at 50% from adult rate (double sharing).
Infants (under 2 years old) are free of charge.

MEKHALA BOATS
Twenty meters long and constructed from huge teak planks, the hundred year-old work horses have been transformed into elegant floating hotels. With capacities of 6, 6 and 9 immaculately appointed, air-conditioned double bed cabins with private western style bathrooms. In addition they feature:

Modern safety equipment and life jackets
Thai style designs with western comforts
A deck for sunbathing or lounging
Audio entertainment, a library, a host of indoor games and a telephone
A fully-stocked bar