MEKHALA

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 kilometres, 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 economy.

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.

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.


ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart from Bangkok mid-afternoon gliding gracefully north. At dusk, the Mekhala docks for an overnight stay at the peaceful Kai Tia Temple. After a superb candlelit dinner on deck, spend a relaxed evening under the stars.

Day 2: An optional wake-up call at 06.00 in time for a traditional offering of alms to the Buddhist monks is followed by a sumptuous yet leisurely breakfast en route. Late morning disembark at Bang-Pa-In for a guided tour of the Summer Palace, one of the finest examples of Thai architecture.

Then all aboard for an exhilarating long-tail boat ride to the ancient city of Ayuthaya. Feast upon an exquisite Thai lunch at a riverside restaurant and then take a trip back in time on a guided tour of the city’s spectacular ancient ruins. Return to Bangkok and the twenty-first century by air-conditioned mini-bus.


JOURNEY FROM AYUTHAYA TO BANGKOK

Alternatively you may leave your Bangkok hotel at 8:00 by air-conditioned transfer and travel by road to Ayuthaya to join the Mekhala in the afternoon, returning to Bangkok at about 1100 the next morning.


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 lifejackets
- 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


ACCESS

The Mekhala is stationed at The Menam Riverside Hotel, nearby Sathorn Road in Bangkok, return transfer from Ayuthaya is included. For trips starting in Ayuthaya, pick ups are either from the airport or hotels in Bangkok by private vehicle.

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