Begin your adventure in India, exploring its vibrant markets, iconic landmarks, and rich history. Then, fly to Vietnam, where you'll discover the bustling streets of Hanoi, the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay, and the historic town of Hoi An. Finally, venture to Thailand, where the vibrant energy of Bangkok and the serene tranquility of Chiang Mai await. This well-rounded itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a taste of the best that India, Vietnam, and Thailand have to offer.
We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
Sirin is the BEST!
My recent trip to Chiang Mai was nothing short of magical, and our tour guide played a huge part in making it so memorable. From the moment we met, Sirin welcomed us with warm hospitality and an infectious passion for sharing the beauty, history, and culture of northern Thailand. More
Jenny Tse, Oct 2024
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Excellent Trip Planning by Alisa Liu at Asia Highlights
Alisa did a wonderful job! She was very detail oriented, extremely responsive and answered my questions very promptly. She incorporated all of the places we wanted to visit and was able to book hotels, airline tickets and special event tickets (to the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival which was sold out when I tried booking on my own.) Alisa was great to work with and I recommend that others use her for their trip planning. More
Effie, Sep 2024
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Excellent experience in Bangkok
Ying was our guide in Bangkok. She was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. She knew exactly how to move us through crowds quickly so that we could see all we wanted to say and made good recommendations for other things we were interested in. I would not hesitate to recommend Ying or anyone that helped us at Asia highlights More
Dr. Meshagae Hunte-Brown, Aug 2024
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Tour Highlights
Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Visit the great monuments in Delhi to find the trails of the great dynasties in Indian history.
Witness the miracle in the history of architecture and the symbol of true love, the Taj Mahal
Stay on a luxury cruise to sail and explore the enchanting Halong Bay.
Spend a half-day to take care of the Rescued Elephants in Chiang Mai
Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration
The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you.
Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.
Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in New Delhi. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.
Explore the rich history of Delhi with visits to some of its most iconic landmarks:
The Jama Masjid: Discover India's largest mosque, standing majestically across from the Red Fort.
Rickshaw Ride in Chandani Chowk (30 minutes): Immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of commerce with a delightful cycle rickshaw ride through Chandani Chowk. This bustling area's narrow lanes are a testament to traditional craftsmanship, preserving Delhi's renowned artisanal heritage.
Humayun's Tomb: Step back in time as you visit this garden-tomb, built in 1570. This architectural marvel holds cultural significance as the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, inspiring future masterpieces, including the iconic Taj Mahal.
Qutub Minar: Marvel at the Qutub Minar, a towering 73-meter-high structure adorned with a spiral staircase of 379 steps. This grand tower was erected to commemorate Muslim rule in Delhi following the defeat of the last Hindu ruler. The Qutub Minar is the tallest of its kind in India, featuring five distinct stories with projecting balconies. The first three stories are crafted from red sandstone, while the final two combine marble and sandstone for a stunning finish.
Embark on a convenient one-way transfer from Delhi to Jaipur. Our professional driver will meet you at your hotel and drive you to your next destination, whether it's another hotel, the airport, or the railway station. This 260-kilometer journey will take approximately 6 hours, with a midway stop for refreshments (available on direct payment basis) and restroom use.
As your day unfolds, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing ambiance of Jaipur. Experience a captivating sunset at Nahargarh Fort, a historic hilltop fortress that overlooks the city. Known as the "fort of victory," Nahargarh Fort stands as a testament to India's medieval military prowess. While this visit does not include access to the palace's rooms, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Jaipur as the sun sets on the horizon. Enjoy this enchanting moment during your visit to the Pink City.
Amber Fort: Begin your journey with a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort. This 17th-century masterpiece, built by Maharaja Mansingh, showcases the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal heritage.
Hawa Mahal: Admire the architectural beauty of Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of Winds," built by King Sawai Pratap Singh. This five-story structure boasts 953 pink sandstone windows, or "jharokhas," and provided royal ladies with a discreet view of everyday life and city processions. Your guide will ensure you capture the best photographs of this stunning palace.
Cooking Class at Ikaki Niwas: Immerse yourself in Indian cuisine during a visit to a local family's home. Experience their warm hospitality as they introduce you to beloved dishes, including three varieties of Indian bread and main courses like butter chicken, bean curry, and a potato dish. Learn the art of using Indian spices and try your hand at cooking like a local. While in their kitchen, you might even be treated to some lively singing and dancing. Share a meal with the family, exchanging stories and gaining insight into their daily lives. Before you leave, you'll receive a copy of the recipes you've learned.
Jantar Mantar: Explore the Jantar Mantar, one of the five astronomical observatories commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1728. This site reflects the Maharaja's deep interest in celestial observations and the functioning of celestial bodies.
Mehtab Bagh: Located north of the Taj Mahal complex on the opposite side of the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh is a serene and scenic spot in Agra. It offers breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, making it a must-visit for its natural beauty. Often referred to as the 'Moonlight Garden,' Mehtab Bagh features shaded pavilions, fountain jets, fragrant flowers, and lovely pools. For a truly mesmerizing experience, visit Mehtab Bagh in the late afternoon and witness a splendid sunset over the Taj.
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah: This mausoleum, often described as a "jewel box," is a hidden gem of Agra. Believed to have inspired the Taj Mahal, the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah showcases Mughal architectural elegance. Built between 1622 and 1628, it marks a transition in Mughal architecture with red sandstone and marble embellishments. The complex includes various outbuildings and beautiful gardens. Adorned with exquisite Persian motifs like wine vases, trees, and flowers, this monument exudes charm and historical significance.
Agra Fort: Discover the majestic Agra Fort, which was originally built by Emperor Akbar on the west bank of the Yamuna River. Jahangir later enhanced it with exquisite palaces and lush gardens. Today, Agra Fort stands at the heart of the city, showcasing its grandeur. Marvel at the impressive Diwan-i-Arm (hall of public audience) and the elegant Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience), which were added by Shah Jahan for receiving different types of audiences.
Taj Mahal: Witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal, an architectural masterpiece and a monument of eternal love. This immaculate creation, which took 22 years and 20,000 skilled artisans to complete, is made of gleaming white marble. The marble was quarried from a location 200 miles away and transported to the site using a fleet of 1,000 elephants. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the Taj Mahal in the mid-17th century as a profound symbol of his deep love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
One way transfer between Delhi and Agra : The driver will report at a pre-fixed time at your Hotel & shall transfer you to your next destination with drop at pre-booked Hotel / Airport / Railway Station. There shall be midway stop for refreshments (on direct payment basis) & was-room use.
Hanoi Water Puppet Show: Experience an enchanting evening with a unique water puppet show, rooted in Vietnamese folklore. Puppeteers manipulate wooden puppets with long rods, accompanied by traditional music.
Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour: Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter on a half-day walking tour. Dive into narrow alleys, visit a local family, and stroll through Dong Xuan Market. Sample local drinks and dishes along the way. The tour concludes at O Quan Chuong Gate, with transportation back to your hotel.
Embark on the Orchid Premium Cruise journey through Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Lan Ha Bay. It begins with a warm welcome at Lot 32 - Tuan Chau Marina, followed by a transfer to Orchid Cruises via a feeder boat. Enjoy welcome drinks and a safety briefing as you set sail.
As you cruise through the picturesque Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, savor a delightful lunch. Explore the enchanting Trung Trang cave on Cat Ba Island with its stunning geological formations and rich history.
Take a refreshing swim in the tranquil Tra Bau area. In the evening, indulge in a cooking demonstration, Happy Hour, and a fusion dinner on board. Appreciate the bay's beauty at night, try your hand at squid fishing, or engage in card games. Spend the night on board, immersed in the bay's tranquility.
Kickstart your morning with a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a perfect way to embrace the bay's tranquil beauty. For early birds, the option to catch the dawn is open, with the timing depending on the season and guidance from our sailors.
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in the restaurant as the cruise continues. Explore the hidden charm of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay with kayaking activities in the Ao Ech area.
As the clock approaches 8:30, it's time to check out and bid farewell to Orchid Cruises. Before concluding your cruise adventure, relish a delightful brunch on board while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. The journey ends at 11:30 as you disembark Orchid Cruises, taking with you cherished memories of your trip.
Set out on an enriching journey to uncover the historical treasures of Hanoi. Your first stop is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a site of immense significance as the resting place of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam's revered former leader. Please note that the mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and during afternoons.
Next, venture to the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic structure built by King Ly Thai To in 1049. This pagoda holds great cultural importance in the hearts of Hanoi's people.
Your exploration continues with a visit to the Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's rich educational heritage. This ancient institution, founded in the late 11th century, is a revered symbol of learning and culture.
Conclude your journey with a delightful cyclo tour through the legendary Old Quarter, renowned for its '36 streets of 36 wares,' each bearing the name of the original 36 artisan guilds dating back to the 13th century.
Start your day with a visit to a lively food and flower market, where locals gather for fresh produce and vibrant blooms.
Explore Wat Suan Dok, a historic temple serving as the resting place for Chiang Mai's former kings and Royal Family members.
Drive 30 minutes to Doi Suthep Mountain, relishing stunning views of Northern Thailand's landscape. Visit Wat Phra That, a revered temple founded in 1383. You can climb 309 steps to reach it or opt for a tram ride for a small fee.
Return to Chiang Mai and enjoy a 20-minute rickshaw ride through the tranquil old town streets before heading back to your hotel.
Escape to the Elephant Rescue Park, located about 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai, where you'll find a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of these gentle giants.
During your visit, you'll spend a half-day nurturing and connecting with the elephants. Engage in various activities, including feeding, walking alongside, embracing their gentle presence, and even bathing these magnificent creatures.
Your private guide will meet you at your hotel lobby around 8 a.m., and you'll set out for the park, approximately one and a half hours away. Upon arrival, change into provided uniforms and participate in an introductory session before starting the activities.
Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Chiang Mai Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.
Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- Hand-picked star-rating accommodations
- Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-cx-9
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At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.