Full-day Khao Lak highlights tour with Buddhist temple blessing

-What you can expect-
Taking a closer look at Khao Lak local life rewards you with a deeper cultural understanding on this varied tour. You'll meet the locals, learn a little Thai boxing and be blessed by Buddhist monks. Then swap culture for nature with lunch at the beach and a visit to a turtle rescue centre. Malee, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll have some fun getting to grips with Thai Boxing moves, but the original purpose of Muay Thai was not about fun. It began centuries ago when the army developed battlefield tactics for unarmed combat. These ancient combat techniques eventually evolved into the popular sport we know today.'

It's all about getting to know Thailand's authentic side on this tour. First, we'll stop by the local school or the Orphanage Foundation for a glimpse of the local community. Next, it's on to a temple to offer the Buddhist monks a small donation in exchange for good karma and a sacred bracelet. There's time for a look around the colourful temple to take some photos, too.

After the calm of the temple, we'll raise the tempo and have a go at the high-flying kicks and powerful punches of Muay Thai boxing at a gym. After all that action, you'll be ready for a typical Thai lunch at Sai Rung Waterfall's restaurant. You'll have some time to reflect at the Tsunami Memorial, before an extra-special treat – a chance to learn about the elephants at a nearby seaside sanctuary. You'll round off your day with a visit to the turtle rescue and rehabilitation centre to find out about their work.