Visiting lesser-known sites removed from the tourist trails, this week-long tour is ideal for those wishing to discover the traditional Siamese architecture, atmospheric waterways and unspoiled natural scenery of Thailand. Step back in time into the Siam of yore when you embark on this Thailand tour that takes you out of bustling Bangkok into the rustic central Thai provinces.

Begin your journey into old Siam with a short train ride to Chacherngsao, a historical town home to remarkable Buddhist temples, Chinese shrines and century-old markets. Driving through the picturesque countryside, continue to Khao Yai, the oldest and one of the most-loved national parks in Thailand. Here, you will have a chance to hike and spot wildlife in the lush environs, swim in cascading waterfalls and visit a vineyard for wine tasting.

A short drive leads you to Ayutthaya, an ancient royal capital established along the Chao Phraya River. Embark on a journey of cultural discovery as you explore the impressive monuments and temple ruins built during the Ayutthaya era. Heading to Uthai Thani via Ang Thong, experience the real Thailand in these idyllic provinces as you visit handicraft villages, bike around the countryside and cruise along Sakraekrang River.

Your journey continues to Kanchanaburi, Thailand's western outpost famous for its verdant landscapes and war-time history. Pay homage to the legendary River Kwai and Death Railway, explore stalactites-filled caves, swim in emerald waterfall pools and discover the jungle environs on the back of an elephant.

From Kanchanaburi, head south to Samut Songkhram, also dubbed the garden province for the abundance of fruits and vegetables grown on its fertile soil. Visit a fascinating railway track market whose vendors scramble to pack their wares away whenever a train approaches. Discover Amphawa and Tha Kha floating markets on a longtail boat and experience traditional Thai riverside life in its authenticity.

This captivating week-long program will show you the best of central Thailand and offer you a unique opportunity to experience the traditional Thai way of life.

Discover Old Siam Thailand Tour Map

Starting from Bangkok, a short train ride east leads you to Chachoengsao. Visit Wat Sothornwararam Worawiharn, famous for its beautiful Italian marbled hall, followed by a boat trip to the century-old market Talaat Baan Mai and the Chinese shrine of Wat Leng Hok Yee. Next on the itinerary is Talaat Klong Suan, another 100-year old market selling a dazzling array of quaint items. We will bring you to Suan Khun Thor to meet a respected local healer who will introduce you to traditional Thai diagnosis methods (Note: doctor not available on Mondays). Finally, enjoy the scenic drive to Khao Yai.

Overnight at Khao Yai.

After breakfast, drive into the National Park. Hike along a short forest trail to Nong Phug She Tower, where you have a good chance of spotting elephants and other animals when they visit the nearby wildlife pond for water. Continue to Heow Suwat Waterfalls, which was used as a site location for filming the movie 'The Beach', and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool water. Then drive through the scenic countryside to Grande Monte Vineyard for lunch, followed by a relaxed tour around its sweeping vineyard to sample locally-grown grapes and wine.

Overnight in Khao Yai.

Drive to Ayutthaya and begin your sightseeing tour of this historic capital with Bang Pa In summer palace and the riverside Wat Nivet Thammapavat. By a local Kermit tuk tuk, explore some of Ayutthaya's most important monuments, including Wat Mahathat and Wat Pra Sri Sanphet. Enjoy lunch at a pleasant riverside restaurant before driving north to Ang Thong province to see the reclining Buddha statue at Wat Pa Mok Worawihan and Ban Phae drum village. Continue driving to Uthai Thani.

Overnight in Uthai Thani.

This morning, visit Wat Chantharam (Wat Tha Sung) with a magnificent crystal hall before taking a stroll through a local market and bike around a small island to fully experience rural Thai life. Enjoy a lunch cruise on the idyllic Sakraekrang River which sees very few tourists. This afternoon, drive to Kanchanaburi where we will have time to visit the Bridge over the River Kwai and the JEATH War Museum.

Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Spend this morning at Erawan National Park, home to the spectacular 7-tiered Erawan Waterfall. You are recommended to don a pair of good walking shoes and bring along your swimming suit if you wish to swim in the fall's natural pools. Then drive to Phra That Cave and explore its Stalactites - and stalagmites - filled interior. Following lunch, take a short train ride along the infamous Death Railway through Kwai Noi gorge. We bring you to an elephant camp where you can experience an elephant ride through the lush jungle before sailing down Kwai Yai River on a bamboo raft.

Overnight in Kanchanaburi.

Start this morning with a visit to the Khmer temple complex of Wat Prasat Muang Singh. Drive to Samut Songhkhram. Visit a unique country market along the railway tracks and witness the speed and dexterity of the vendors in packing their wares away whenever a train approaches. Spend this afternoon strolling around the fruit orchards and temples in the area. If your visit falls on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, we will introduce you to a bustling weekend evening floating market, where you also have the option of taking a night-time boat ride to see fireflies.

Overnight in Amphawa.

On this final morning, wake up early and partake in an age-old Buddhist tradition of giving alms to monks. At Tha Kha** floating market, take a fascinating boat ride through the maze of klongs (canals), plantations and Buddhist temples before stopping to enjoy a glass of palm sugar syrup and chat with a local family. Following lunch, proceed to King Rama II Memorial Park where you can meet Thai artisans specializing in making Benjarong porcelain. Finally, return to Bangkok this late afternoon.

** Tha Kha market is held every Saturday and Sunday. Weekday availability is 5-6 times a month depending on the lunar cycle calendar. On days when Tha Kha is not open, we will head to Ladplee Floating Market.