An exciting 5-day trip to Bangkok and Khao Yai, blending rich cultural explorations of temples, delightful street food experiences, bustling markets for shopping, and a refreshing day amidst Khao Yai's nature. This itinerary is designed to be budget-friendly and leverages public transport where possible.

Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK), clear customs, and take a taxi or Airport Rail Link/bus to The Public House Hotel.
For budget travel, consider the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi to Phaya Thai station, then a short taxi/tuk-tuk ride to your hotel. From Don Mueang, A1/A2/A3/A4 buses connect to key areas.
From Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Airport Rail Link is about THB 45 for 1 person to Phaya Thai. A taxi might cost around THB 300-400 for 1 person, plus toll fees.
Explore the magnificent Grand Palace complex, including the sacred Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), a must-see cultural landmark.
Dress code is strict: shoulders and knees must be covered. You can rent appropriate clothing at the entrance if needed. Be wary of touts outside.
Visit Wat Suthat Thepwararam, known for its elegant architecture and the Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) just outside, a historical religious structure.
A quieter temple, offering a peaceful contrast to the Grand Palace crowds. Great photo opportunities at the Giant Swing.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos and culinary delights of Bangkok's Chinatown (Yaowarat Road), famous for its endless street food stalls.
Try various dishes like dim sum, seafood, oyster omelets, and durian fruit. Getting here by Tuk-tuk or Grab is convenient from the old city area.
A taxi or Grab from the Grand Palace area to Chinatown will cost around THB 80-150 for 1 person.
Visit the sacred Bangkok City Pillar Shrine, a significant spiritual landmark believed to house the city's guardian spirit.
Observe local customs and respectfully dress with covered shoulders and knees. It's a short walk from the Grand Palace area.
Explore Wat Maha That Yuvarat Rangsarit Ratchaworamahawihan, an important royal temple known for its monastic university and meditation classes.
This temple is less frequented by tourists than others, offering a more serene experience. It's also known for its Sunday amulet market.
Learn about the history and culture of the Rattanakosin era (Bangkok's founding) through interactive displays at this engaging museum.
A great way to understand the city's past with air-conditioned comfort. Offers a good break from the heat.
Enjoy an authentic Thai street food lunch near the exhibition hall, sampling local favorites like Pad See Ew or Boat Noodles.
Look for stalls with many locals – a good sign of delicious and affordable food.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Chao Phraya River, enjoying the views and perhaps stopping at a riverside cafe for a refreshing drink.
This area offers great views of Wat Arun across the river, especially beautiful during late afternoon.
Take a local bus or Grab from Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall to Tha Tien Pier area.
Visit Asiatique, a large open-air mall and night market combining dining, shopping, and entertainment with a Ferris wheel and riverside views.
Accessible by free shuttle boat from Saphan Taksin BTS station pier. Great for souvenir shopping and a pleasant dinner by the river.
Take the BTS Skytrain (TripAdvisor) from National Stadium (near your hotel) to Saphan Taksin station, then the free shuttle boat to Asiatique.
Begin your journey to Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush landscapes and wildlife.
For a budget-friendly option, consider taking a minivan from Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Pak Chong (Khao Yai's gateway town), then hire a songthaew or local taxi. A private car hire offers more flexibility but is pricier.
Minivan from Mo Chit to Pak Chong is approximately THB 180-200 for 1 person. Negotiate a day rate for a local vehicle to explore the park upon arrival.
Visit Haew Narok Waterfall, Khao Yai National Park's tallest and most impressive waterfall.
A short walk through the jungle leads to stunning views.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Be aware that the water flow varies seasonally, with its peak during the rainy season.
Enjoy a local Thai lunch at a restaurant near the National Park entrance or in Pak Chong.
There are several roadside eateries offering delicious Thai food at reasonable prices.
Explore one of Khao Yai's charming attractions like The Bloom (a flower garden) or Primo Piazza (an Italian-themed village with shops and cafes).
These spots offer great photo opportunities and a pleasant stroll. Choose based on your interest.
Travel back to Bangkok after a day of enjoying Khao Yai's natural beauty and attractions.
Aim to leave Khao Yai by late afternoon to avoid heavy traffic back to Bangkok.
Minivan from Pak Chong back to Mo Chit Bus Terminal, then public transport to your hotel.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local eatery near The Public House Hotel after your day trip.
The Sukhumvit area offers a wide range of affordable and delicious dining options.
Dive into a shopping spree at MBK Center, a renowned Bangkok mall famous for its affordable electronics, fashion, souvenirs, and food court.
Bargaining is common for certain goods. The 5th floor has a great food court with various Thai and international options.
Take the BTS Skytrain (TripAdvisor) from Phrom Phong (near your hotel) to National Stadium station, which is directly connected to MBK.
Enjoy a wide array of budget-friendly Thai and international dishes at MBK Center's popular food court.
Purchase a cash card at the entrance, load it with money, and use it at various stalls. Unused credit can be refunded.
Experience a thrilling and intriguing puzzle adventure at The Last Prison Escape Room, located in the Aree neighborhood.
A fun and challenging activity if you enjoy puzzles and mysteries. Booking in advance is recommended.
Explore Pratunam Market, one of Bangkok's largest wholesale and retail markets, offering incredibly cheap clothing, accessories, and textiles.
Best for bargain hunting. The area also has many street food vendors for a quick snack or early dinner.
From Aree (after the escape room), take a short BTS ride to Phaya Thai, then a short walk or taxi to Pratunam, or use a Grab/taxi directly.
Enjoy a budget-friendly street food dinner right in the heart of Pratunam, sampling more local delicacies.
Don't miss the famous Chicken Rice (Khao Man Gai) stalls around the market!
Savor a final authentic Thai breakfast at a street stall or local eatery near your hotel.
Try a traditional congee (rice porridge) or 'Jok' for a warm and comforting start to your day.
Do some last-minute shopping at Terminal 21 (themed floors by global cities) or Central Embassy for a more upscale browsing experience, depending on your preference.
Both are conveniently located along the BTS line. Terminal 21 offers a great food court and diverse shops.
Terminal 21 is easily accessible by BTS to Asok station. Central Embassy is near Phloen Chit BTS station.
Complete check-out procedures from The Public House Hotel.
If your flight is late, ask about late check-out options or luggage storage.
Depart from your hotel and head to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) for your flight back to Indonesia.
Allow ample time for travel to the airport, especially during peak traffic hours. The Airport Rail Link is reliable for BKK.
A taxi or Grab directly to the airport will be around THB 300-500 for 1 person (plus tolls), or use the Airport Rail Link/bus for a more budget-friendly option.
This 5-day itinerary for Bangkok can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.