unpopular places to visit in thailand

22 Incredible Hidden Gems in Thailand You Won’t Believe

Posted on Last updated: May 23, 2023

Looking to get more off the beaten path in Thailand? These hidden gems in Thailand might be a bit more difficult to get to, but you can guarantee they will be much less crowded than Khao San Road (but is that really saying anything?)!

After you’ve experienced the bustle of Bangkok, eaten street food on Yaowarat Street , explored Chiang Mai, and even made it down to the coast… you are just getting started with the amazing places to see in Thailand.

Here are some jaw-dropping offbeat places to visit in Thailand, everywhere from the islands to the mountains. And yes, Thailand DOES have mountains. There’s a lot more to explore in Thailand than you think!

What to Know Before Visiting these Hidden Gems in Thailand

If you have been before or have traveled in the country for a while already, you’ll be familiar with the occasional difficulty of wifi, cell service, ATMs, and other amenities. Keep in mind that visiting more offbeat destinations in Thailand might take this to the next level. Be prepared for little or less connection, bring cash, and get ready to be amazing by nature!

Getting around Thailand is quite simple via bus, transfer, or sometimes flight. Save uncertainty and book many Thailand routes in advance here on Bookaway.

Before you visit Thailand, Make sure to check the Thai visa requirements beforehand (as they are ever-changing in this travel climate). Don’t forget to pack bug spray, sunscreen, hats, glasses, and even a rain jacket for those tropical storms!

Doi Inthanon National Park

Pa Pong Pieng Rice Terraces

Bali? Nope, a wonderful Thailand hidden gem! You can find stunning rice terraces like those of Vietnam of Indonesia in Thailand’s north – in Doi Inthanon National Park to be Exact.

This area is far off the beaten track in Thailand – in fact, it’s right on the border of Laos! If you like hiking, this scenic area may take a while to get to but is stunning.

Pu Chi Fa Mountain

is a peak in Doi Inthanon National Park, one of Thailand’s high points at more than 1442 meters. It is hidden away up a steep trail and is harder to reach than the other attractions on this list so it gets fewer visitors – but that still means around 200 people per day!

Doi Tung Mountain – Hikes and Orchids!

Doi Tung means “Flag Mountain” in Thai, but it’s known as part of the Golden Triangle by Westerners – which was once part of the infamous drug-smuggling region of Thailand! Many tours to this region will touch upon its history with opium.

The actual mountain itself has been known among locals for its beautiful orchids, but is now becoming popular with tourists for the incredible Buddhist temples.

Nong Han Kumphawapi – Red Lotus Lake

Nong Han means “un-walled” and was originally built as a reservoir to prevent flooding in Bangkok. Now it is known as the Red Lotus Lake because of the THOUSANDS of reddish-pink lotus flowers that characterize it, and the surrounding karst hills.

Surrounding this lake, you can experience a variety of activities such as camping, fishing, swimming or just hanging out on the beautiful beaches that surround it. It’s a must for photo ops with hundreds of lotus flowers in the background – if you get there before the picking begins!

Haad Yao -7km Long Beach Near Krabi

Hat Yao is the longest beach in Krabi and is much lesser known by tourists than the popular Ao Nang region. It has beautiful white sand and is great for walking on during low tide, sunbathing, relaxing, or swimming with the small fishes that live underwater!

Haad Yao is not as developed yet – which is why it’s one of the hidden gems of Thailand – so there are only a couple of hotels for a great getaway.

Khao Rang Hill Viewing Platform in Phuket

Khao rang means “colorful hill” and the view is indeed colorful from this unique viewpoint. It is a small hill with stairs leading to the top where you can find a gazebo and many shops that sell local products such as honey, bananas or coconuts.

If you love viewpoints like me, Rang Hill is a must-see in Phuket… but many don’t make it here. Be sure to stop by the fascinating stilted platforms for sunset with a loved one.

Marvel at the Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) may be known by some tourists, but few make the trek out to actually see it. This is a gem of Thailand because it is completely unlike ANY other Thai temple with its design and construction.

See, if you look closely, you will see fascinating shapes like gargoyles, frightening faces, hands reaching up from hell, and more unexpected features that are not quite as ethereal as most temples. It’s definitely a sight to behind once in your life.

Many visit the Wat Rong Khun white temple on the way from Chiang Mai to Laos, or also as a day trip from Chiang Mai. It’s worth seeing either way as it’s very spectacular.

Drive the Samoeng Loop

The Samoeng Loop is the best way to experience the beautiful countryside of Chiang Mai. It has amazing views and great photo opportunities!

Most tourists skip driving this loop in favor of simply visiting Chiang Mai, but it is definitely worth a try if you love exploring hidden places off-the-beaten-path. This route will allow you to see the real Chiang Mai and maybe even some hill tribes too.

Chase Waterfalls at Tham Erawan National Park

This beautiful Thailand hidden gem is located in the middle of a forest and it is full of waterfalls, caves, cliffs that you can climb for an amazing view over the area. It also has wild animals such as monkeys and deer!

This offbeat Thailand destination outside Bangkok may not always be on top of everyone’s list when planning their trip but those who do come here won’t regret it. It’s best-known for its multi-tier waterfalls making their way through beautiful forests.

Visit the Muang Boran Ancient City (Outdoor Museum)

This absolutely fascinating and unusual place to visit in Thailand is actually an ‘outdoor museum’ designed to mirror a traditional Thai village and lifestyle. There are temples and pagodas, and you’ll find traditional architecture next to experimental and unique constructions – like this island temple wrapped by a fish!

Muang Boran can be reached in about an hour from Bangkok. It’s on the coast just south of the city. Book a ticket in advance with a transfer option from Bangkok.

Visit the Hippie Mountain Town of Pai

To be honest, I’m sure you’ve already heard of Pai. But I still need to list it because it is really a must-see and is still considered a bit more of an offbeat destination than most of Thailand.

Pai is a tiny mountain village located in the hills of northern Thailand with a lot to offer for travelers that are looking to get away from it all. Pai is not only known as an adventure destination with waterfalls and hikes surrounding it, but also has some great places to stay, eat, and party for backpackers.

I recommend spending a few days in Pai (most travelers extend their stays here), and taking a scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai for the truly adventurous ones.

But, if you are short on time and don’t want to drive, Pai is absolutely still worth seeing in a private day trip from Chiang Mai .

Pang Oung Lake

This part of Thailand is not that well-known, but offers amazing views and cool things to do. Most tourists stop at Pai (or Chiang Mai, for that matter), but if you keep going all the way to Pang Oung you’re among only a few.

The road has great scenery with lots of curves (which you will have been used to from the drive from Chiang Mai to Pai ). Being only a few miles from the Myanmar border, the scenery is totally different and mountainous. You’ll be surprised by pine trees and mountain fog!

Koh Kood/Koh Kut

Koh Kood is an island in Trat province, which is in the Eastern region of Thailand. It’s about an hour boat ride from Koh Chang and can be reached by speedboat during high-season (November to May). The island has only been made accessible via land since 2008 and still has one of the smallest populations in Thailand, making it one of the best hidden gems.

The other thing that makes this island special are the mangrove forests along its coast – these can even be visited on tours. There are also some of the most amazing untouched beaches and cool caves you might want to check out while you’re there.

Explore Thap Lan National Park

This park has been called the “jewel in Thailand’s crown” because it is incredibly beautiful. The word to describe this place would be peaceful–it’s a great spot for biking, hiking and general exploring. Check out a beach along the reservoir, too!

One of the best things about this area is that it isn’t overrun with tourists making you feel suffocated. You’ll be imersed in nature and have plenty of space for yourself.

Wat Chaloemprakiat Prachomklao Rachanusorn Temple – Unique Floating White Temples in Lampang

That’s quite the mouthful, isn’t it? This temple is comprised of different white pagoda structures atop jagged rocky mountains. It has a very unique design and is definitely worth visiting if you are in the area. How did they get there? They were actually carried up piece by piece many years ago by monks. Impressive, right?

The best time of year here is during Buddha’s birthday where locals flock with flowers to pay their respects. To learn more about visiting this place, visit My Chiang Mai Tour for full directions.

Check Out the Sala Keoku Concrete Sculpture Garden

Another hidden gem in Thailand! This place features concrete sculptures that are quite fairytale-like and different from other ones around Thailand. They were built by one man–a monk who was an incredible architect named Luang Pu Boun Leua Sourirat. He also built the Buddha Park on the Lao side of the river.

He designed all of the structures but unfortunately, he passed away before his dream could be completed. Now it will never be finished which makes it feel very authentic and homey knowing that someone just wanted to build a refuge for people instead of wanting fame or glory. It’s definitely worth visiting if you find yourself in Wat That province.

Enjoy the Kaeng Sam Phan Bok “Grand” Canyon

Kaeng Sam Phan Bok, meaning three thousand holes, is a large canyon that has the biggest ‘rock reef’ on the whole Mekong River. It is known by some as the “Grand Canyon of Thailand” because, well, it’s the biggest canyon in the country!

Amazing rapids form in this area in the wet season, which actually formed the holes in the first place.

Chase More WAterfalls at Khao Yai National Park

Another worthwhile visit while spending time around Bangkok would be Khao Yai National Park which covers than 200 square miles with mountains, waterfalls, hiking trails, and tons of green!

You can expect to see monkeys wandering around, lush forests to explore and even some small waterfalls (plus you can swim in them). The best time of year to go would probably be during the winter months when temperatures are cooler.

To fully enjoy the park and get transportation sorted, make sure to book a popular Khao Yai National Park Tour that visits all the best spots.

Swim and Explore the Remote Trang Islands

The Trang Islands are a group of islands in the south-eastern part of Thailand. They’re about an hour from Pak Meng Pier,. The best way to get there is by speedboat or sea plane – this is why they are such a hidden gem of Thailand! You can find coves, caves, and beautiful untouched watery places.

Swim in the Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave) on Ko Muk

Tham Morakot, also known as the emerald cave for obvious reasons, is a cave in the Trang Islands of Thailand that you can swim into through a small opening. The emerald waters are what make this place stand out over other caves though. There are lots of stalactites and stalagmites inside (some up to 40 feet long) and the water glows green from the sunlight.

See the Temple Hidden in a Cave ( Tham Phraya Nakhon)

Located near Rayong province on the east coast of Thailand not far from Bangkok, Tham Phraya Nakhon island actually has three different “thams” within its borders: Tham Yun Hae, Tham Plai Haeng Yai, and Tham Phraya Nakhon. These are cave temples you will have no doubt seen in photos.

Tham Plai Haeng Yai is the most popular of these three caves and can easily be visited as part of a tour. The cave itself isn’t very deep – it’s around 100 meters in length and about 20 meters wide at its widest point. There are lots of Buddha images inside (over 50), however, what makes this cave special is that there’s an opening near the top where light shines in during certain times of day – more early. in the year. This means you get two different lighting effects depending on when you visit!

Hope you enjoyed these hidden gems in Thailand! Pin this!

See also: my hilarious guide to things to know before backpacking Southeast Asia !

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10 Most Underrated Destinations in Thailand

In the 19th century, Horace Greeley was credited with telling young men to go West. If he were alive today, he might say, “go off the beaten path, traveler.” There’s no better place to take his advice to heart than Thailand . Get thee out of Bangkok and Phuket to places that are scenic, filled with wildlife or offer deserted beaches on less developed islands. Whether you’re exploring traditional fishing villages or ancient temples, there are plenty of underestimated destinations in Thailand just waiting for inquisitive travelers. Accommodations may not always be luxurious, but that’s part of the adventure when you get off the beaten path.

10. Ko Yao Noi [SEE MAP]

Ko Yao Noi is a relatively unspoiled island in Phang Nga Bay despite being a 30-minute boat ride away from the glitz and glamour that is Phuket. There are some resorts on the island, but budget accommodations also are available. Ko Yao Noi or “small long island” is mountainous. The east side of the mountains has beaches where you can swim and snorkel. The west side is a good place to see mangrove forests and rice flats. You can also take diving lessons on Ko Yao Noi or cruise the bay to other islands. The island is quiet, making it one of those destinations in Thailand to relax in a hammock.

9. Khao Yai National Park [SEE MAP]

If you want to see wildlife in its native habitat, head to Khao Yai National Park, just three hours by car from Bangkok. Thailand’s first national park is home to elephants, barking deer, gaurs, macaques and bears. It also is home to about 300 species of birds, including Thailand’s largest population of hornbills. The best time to see reptiles is March or April when the reticulated python, Chinese ratsnake and water dragon, and crested lizard come out to play. Other attractions include a bat cave (three million live there), waterfalls (Haew Narok is the highest), camping and hiking trails.

8. Phetchaburi [SEE MAP]

When you’ve got a sweet tooth, indulge it at Phetchaburi. The Thai city is famous for its desserts, especially khanong mor gaeng, a custard. The capital of a province with the same name, Phetchaburi is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. A hill is a highlight of the city, mainly because the royal palace (Khao Wang) and a wat or temple sits atop it. Spelunkers might enjoy a visit to the Khao Luong Caves outside of town. One cave features Buddhist statues set among the stalactites while the other features an ancient tree in the middle.

7. Ko Kradan [SEE MAP]

If you need some downtime on your whirlwind tour of Thailand, the island of Ko Kradan in the Andaman Sea just might be the ticket. Ko Kradan is a short, narrow island that’s part of Had Chou Mai National Park. Sunset Beach is a great place to go snorkeling in coral reefs that are close to shore of Sunset Beach. The island’s other main beach, Paradise, doesn’t have good snorkeling but it does have great sandy beaches for lazing on or beachcombing. It’s a great place to view other islands and the mainland.

6. Ko Maak [SEE MAP]

Thailand has many beautiful islands of which Ko Maak is one of them. Described as a tropical paradise, this pretty island is located in the Gulf of Thailand close to the border with Cambodia. No less beautiful are the beaches and the crystal clear water surrounding the island. The center of the island is forested with rubber farms and coconut plantations. The large reefs make Ko Maak a good place to snorkel and drive if relaxing on super beaches gets too boring. You can also take lessons in Thai boxing and cooking. Note: Bring lots of cash as they’re no ATM on the island.

5. Lopburi [SEE MAP]

Located just over 150 km (90 miles) from Bangkok, Lopburi has long been a travel destination, most likely beginning with the Italian explorer Marco Polo who mentioned it in his book, Travels. The city is most well-known for its crab-eating macaques that freely roam the city and have earned the city the nickname Monkey City. They are especially prevalent around the Khmer temples and shrines, which in themselves are worth a look. A word of warning: These monkeys like to pick pockets and may attack you if they think you have food. Lopburi celebrates the Monkey Festival every November.

4. Phimai Historical Park [SEE MAP]

Phimai Historical Park is a good place to see Khmer temples that are among the best preserved in Thailand. It has temples that are comparable to what you’ll see at Angkor Wat, but you won’t be fighting the crowds to see them. There’s a twist to the temples here, too: they were built by Hindus but in the style of Buddhist temples, though they still retain Khmer architectural characteristics. Most of the buildings in Phimai Historical Park wee constructed in the 11th and 12th centuries. Phimai Historical Park at the end of the ancient Khmer road from Angkor.

3. Ko Muk [SEE MAP]

Getting to Ko Muk (also known as Koh Mook), one of the larger islands off Trang Province, takes a bit of planning: only one ferry a day travels between the island and mainland. Once there, you’ll find the popular Farang Beach, which is the departure point for Tham Morakot, a cave that is accessible only at low tide. The cave, with its emerald green water, is the island’s most famous attraction. You’ll also find traditional fishing villages on the island. Ko Muk (the name translates as Pearl Island) offers a low-key lifestyle. Residents are predominantly Muslim, so visitors are asked to dress appropriately away from the beach.

2. Sukhothai Historical Park [SEE MAP]

Not only is Sukhothai Historical Park an underestimated destination, it’s also considered a sacred destination in Thailand. It was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1238. The historical park is surrounded by an ancient wall and moat. Located in northern Thailand, the park has 21 temples with the largest having 200 pagodas. Though it’s in ruins now, you can still see how the Khmer and Sri Lankans influenced the architectural styles of this medieval kingdom. The busiest zone is the central zone that is filled with temples, canals, ponds and vegetation, but the other zones also are worth a look-see.

1. Ko Kut [SEE MAP]

Located 100 km (60 miles) off the coast of eastern Thailand near Cambodia is the island of Ko Kut (also known as Koh Kood). It is a mountainous island with not a lot to do but lie in a hammock and gaze at the scenery – it’s considered one of the most scenic islands in Thailand. This island has nice sandy beaches and is sprinkled with waterfalls, the largest of which is Kling Chao. If you get a sudden burst of energy, you could snorkel or go kayaking, or take a walk in the jungle. The island also has several fishing villages such as Ao Salat and Ao Yai that are worth exploring.

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21 of the most unusual attractions in Thailand

Thailand is home to a host of amazing attractions. From floating football pitches to unusual temples and quirky rock formations, you will find something fascinating to visit in every region of Thailand. Some are well-known and easy to reach, while others are off the beaten track . Shown here in alphabetical destination order, check out our selection of 21 of the most unusual attractions you can see in Thailand.

1) Ayutthaya: Buddha head in tree roots

The stone Buddha head at Wat Mahathat is one of the must-see sites in Ayutthaya . There is also some mystery here because nobody knows for sure how the Buddha head became entwined by the tree roots. 

Wat Mahathat dates back to the 14th century but was destroyed when the ancient Siamese capital of Ayutthaya fell to Burmese troops in 1767. Many of the Buddha images were decapitated by the invaders. One theory suggests a tree simply grew around where the stone Buddha lay. Another theory says that the stone head was abandoned by would-be looters (possibly in the early 1900s). Whatever the true story, it is a remarkable sight and one to look out for if you visit Ayutthaya. Location map

2) Bangkok: Cabbages & Condoms restaurant

It’s not every day you get to eat in a condom-themed restaurant. This quirky dining venue in downtown Bangkok features condoms for lampshades, a condom Father Christmas and even the usual after dinner mints are replaced with condoms. 

Despite the sanuk nature of the restaurant, there is a serious message behind it. Cabbages & Condoms is the brainchild of Mechai Viravaidya, who wanted to promote better understanding of family planning and safe sex. The restaurant has a slogan that proudly declares, “Our food is guaranteed not to cause pregnancy” and helps fund the Population and Community Development Association (PDA). The memorable name of the restaurant comes from Mechai saying that condoms should be as common and as easy to buy as cabbages.   Location map

3) Bangkok: Robot building 

Many first-time visitors to Bangkok will travel past this unusual building on the Skytrain without giving it a second glance. But if you view it from the ground you can see more clearly that it is designed to look like a robot.

The Thai architect who designed the building was inspired by his son’s toy robot. Originally constructed for the Bank of Asia, the building is now occupied by United Overseas Bank (UOB). When construction was completed in the mid 1980s, this was the tallest building in the Sathorn area. Although it now looks relatively small compared to other high-rise structures in Bangkok, it’s distinctive design still stands out.   Location map

4) Chachoengsao: Giant Ganesh statue

To the east of Bangkok, Chachoengsao province is home to a number of large Ganesh statues. Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist nation, but statues and shrines to Hindu deities can be seen across the country. In Thailand, the elephant-headed god Ganesh is known as Phra Phikanet. The 30-metre high Ganesh in the photo is at Khlong Khuean Ganesh International Park in Chachoengsao.

Phra Phikanet is known as the remover of obstacles and is also known for his love of the fine arts. Thai people will often pray to the elephant-headed deity when about to start something new whether it’s a business venture, an exam or a wedding. Phra Phikanet is also associated with success, wealth and wisdom.   Location map

5) Chaiyaphum: World Cup rock and ‘Thailand’s Stonehenge’ 

Pa Hin Ngam National Park in Chaiyaphum is popular with Thai visitors who come here to enjoy the scenery and admire the unusual rock formations. Situated in North-East Thailand , the park’s name translates as the ‘forest of beautiful stones’ and lovers of football have noted that one of the rock formations resembles the World Cup trophy. 

Wind and soil erosion in Chaiyaphum have carved out the distinctive rock formations at Pa Hin Ngam. This Isaan province is also home to another striking natural rock formation, Mor Hin Khao. Known colloquially as ‘Thailand’s Stonehenge’, Mor Hin Khao is a couple of hours drive from Pa Hin Ngam. And if you can’t get enough of these unusual rocks, travel to another Isaan province, Bueng Kan, and admire the viewpoint at Hin Sam Wan (Three Whales Rock) .

Location map (Pa Hin Ngam) Location map (Mor Hin Khao)

6) Chiang Mai: Bua Tong sticky waterfall

Located an hour’s drive to the north-east of Chiang Mai city , Namtok Bua Tong isn’t your typical waterfall. The mineral deposits on the limestone rocks means they actually provide some grip and you can walk up them. 

Walking up the waterfall still requires some effort, and you will be thankful for the ropes that are there to help you, but it’s not every day you have the opportunity to climb up a waterfall. Location map

7) Chiang Mai: Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park

Did you know you can make paper from elephant dung? Visit the aptly named Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park in Chiang Mai to learn all about the process. From collecting the dung, then rinsing it, and then drying out the fibres in the sun. This eco-friendly attraction in Chiang Mai is educational, but also a lot of fun for all the family with visitors able to try their hand at making the paper.

Elephant Poo Poo Paper products can be bought at the park as well as online or at various shopping venues around Chiang Mai including One Nimman and Central Festival. Location map

8) Chiang Rai: Jungle Bubbles at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

For accommodation with a difference, stay at the unique Jungle Bubbles at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in the Chiang Rai countryside. Observe elephants in their natural habitat with an unforgettable overnight stay.

The transparent Jungle Bubbles provide amazing views of nature and the resident elephants. And at night you have prime views of the starlit sky.   Location map

9) Chonburi: Buddha mountain

The mountain of Khao Chi Chan is the backdrop for a stunning 130-metre tall Buddha image. The golden outline of the Buddha was laser etched into the rock in 1995 to honour the Golden Jubilee of King Rama IX the following year. The project was an initiative by the Supreme Patriarch, the most senior Buddhist monk in Thailand.

Khao Chi Chan is located in Chonburi province around 30 minutes drive south of Central Pattaya . Combine a trip here with a visit to the nearby Silverlake Winery and Nong Nooch Gardens. Location map

10) Kanchanaburi: Wooden bridge at Sangkhlaburi

The longest wooden bridge in Thailand can be found at Sangkhlaburi in Kanchanaburi province . The formal name is Uttamanusorn Bridge, but it’s more commonly known in Thailand as Saphan Mon.

At over 400 metres long, the bridge provides a physical and cultural link to the Thai and Karen people in the main town of Sangkhlaburi at one end of the bridge and the Mon community in the village at the other. Each morning local people gather on the bridge to make merit and give alms to monks. Location map

11) Ko Kood: Treetop dining

On Thailand’s East Coast , the beautiful island of Ko Kood offers up a unique dining experience .

At the luxurious Soneva Kiri , guests can enjoy dining in the treetops courtesy of the resort’s amazing bamboo pods. While you enjoy the birds-eye view from the tree canopy, specially trained waiters deliver the food via zipline.   Location map

The treetop pods are closed at certain times of the year for regular maintenance and safety reasons. Please check directly with the resort if you are planning to visit.

12) Ko Panyee (Phang Nga): Floating football pitch

The floating village of Ko Panyee in Phang Nga Bay is a unique destination in its own right. But what makes it even more unusual is the fact that local youngsters decided to build a football pitch from driftwood and scrap materials.

Remarkably, the team with the floating football pitch went on to establish themselves as one of the best teams in Southern Thailand. The original ramshackle pitch has been upgraded a number of times since it was first built in the 1980s and can still be seen today.   Location map

13) Krabi: Cavemen traffic lights

The caveman traffic lights in the centre of Krabi Town are a worthy inclusion in our list of unusual attractions. 

The lights pay tribute to the fact that Krabi has the longest history of continuous settlement anywhere in Thailand. Archaeologists have discovered evidence dating back 30,000 years that shows Neanderthal remains in the limestone caves around Krabi.  Location map

14) Krabi: Penis Shrine at Phra Nang Cave

Foreign tourists who see Phra Nang Cave for the first-time may be shocked at the sight of a ‘penis shrine’. The phallic symbols are lingams and while it may appear amusing to Western eyes, this is a sacred place and should be treated with respect by visitors. 

According to local legend, the cave near Railay Beach is inhabited by the Princess Goddess Phra Nang. There are a number of different stories attributed to Phra Nang. The carved wooden lingams – which are associated with fertility and virility – are offerings to her. Local fishermen still come here to pay respects to Phra Nang and ask for a safe journey at sea.   Location map

15) Loei: Phi Ta Khon Ghost Museum

The lively Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival takes place annually in the Dan Sai district of Loei. The exact dates aren’t confirmed until nearer the time, but is usually held in June. If you can’t make it to Loei for the festival itself, the next best thing is the Phi Ta Khon Ghost Museum.

The museum is located in the grounds of Wat Phon Chai and features a selection of the elaborately decorated masks and costumes that are an integral part of the Ghost Festival. Information in Thai and English explains more about the exhibits. Location map

16) Lopburi: Monkey temple

Although you will see monkeys at various locations around Thailand, there is one destination above all others which is synonymous with monkeys: Lopburi.

Situated around 90 miles north of Bangkok, the city of Lopburi is an interesting one to visit with its historic Khmer temple ruins. The most famous temple ruin is Prang Sam Yod and it is in this area where thousands of monkeys roam using the temple as their base.  It’s an extraordinary sight for tourists, but one which locals seem to take in their stride. After all, it’s the humans who have encroached on macaque territory. The monkey population was here first and lived around Prang Sam Yod centuries ago when the area was covered in forest.

Not all residents are keen on the monkeys and the problems their growing population can cause. But others are ambivalent towards the simian population and appreciate they bring in tourist revenue. There is even an annual Monkey Banquet Festival in Lopburi to thank the resident macaques. Location map

17) Pattaya: Sanctuary of Truth

The brainchild of a mega-wealthy Thai businessman, the Sanctuary of Truth is part gallery, part religious building, and part museum. And with work still ongoing on the imposing wooden structure, it’s also part workshop. Hugging the seashore in North Pattaya , the Sanctuary of Truth has been carved from wood using traditional techniques.

Work began in 1981 and is expected to continue for a number of more years. The Thai man who created the building, Lek Viriyaphant, died in 2000. His other cultural projects in Thailand include the Ancient City (near Bangkok) and Erawan Museum (see below). Location map

18) Samut Prakan: Erawan Museum

This may be a museum, but as soon as you see it from the outside, you know this is not going to be a standard museum experience. A huge three-headed elephant figure, representing the elephant god Erawan, sits on a pedestal on top of the building.

The museum is another labour of love from Thai businessman Lek Viriyaphant. Along with Ancient Siam (also in Samut Prakan) and the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, the Erawan Museum is part of Khun Lek’s legacy aimed at preserving Thai culture and arts for future generations to enjoy.  Location map

19) Samut Songkhram: Mae Klong Railway Market

In many ways, this amazing market epitomises Thailand. Not only is Thailand a land of traders and entrepreneurs, it’s also a country where creativity and a ‘ mai pen rai ‘ attitude overcomes many problems. Mae Klong Market was already established when authorities decided to build a railway line here. But instead of moving, the vendors adapted in an ingenious way. 

When the train approaches, they pull up their canopies and umbrellas and wait until the train has passed before carrying on as normal. Mae Klong Railway Market is known in Thai as ‘Talad Rom Hoop’, a reference to the folding up and down of the umbrellas when the trains pass. The market is located in Samut Songkhram province around 45 miles south-west of Bangkok.  Location map

20) Si Saket: Beer bottle temple

The formal name of this unusual temple in Si Saket in North-East Thailand is Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo. However, it’s usually referred to as Wat Larn Kuad (‘million bottle temple’). More than a million bottles – most of them green or brown beer bottles – have been recycled and used to decorate the temple buildings. Even the bottle caps have been recycled and used to create mosaics. 

Monks at the Isaan temple began collecting the bottles in the 1980s and took two years to complete the main temple building which is set around a concrete frame. Since then, the temple complex has expanded and donations of bottles has enabled other structures to be completed including prayer rooms, a crematorium, and toilets. Location map

21) Yasothon: Giant toad

Erected in 2015, the giant toad statue in Yasothon pays homage to local folklore and the story of the toad prince, Phraya Kankak.

In the story, the toad prince defeats the rain god in battle and in doing so saves the local human population. In return, an agreement was reached that humans would tell the rain god when they were ready for rain by firing rockets into the air. This same folklore is also the origin of the annual Rocket Festivals which take place across North and North-East Thailand. 

The giant toad houses an observation deck and museum. An educational centre also explains not just the legend of Phraya Kankak, but the importance of toads to the ecosystem which in turn helps locally grown crops including rice and watermelons. If you visit Yasothon, look out too for the large naga statue nearby. Location map

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Roy Cavanagh

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Roy Cavanagh is a freelance writer with a passion for Thailand and Thai culture. Owner of the online travel guide, thaizer.com , Roy has travelled to every region of Thailand and shares his valuable tips and insights with us. Read more articles from Roy

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Are you ready for some Michelin-starred cuisine in Bangkok? Book a table at J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorain at U Sathorn, where you’ll be treated to an innovative French tasting menu par excellence. Like if you’re a foodie drawn to the finer things in life. 🎥 @acroxthepond 📍J’aime , Bangkok

Terminal 21 takes you on a trip around the world from one destination – a unique and immersive airport-themed shopping centre in Pattaya. Each of the floors have a different city as its theme, including: Paris, London, Rome, Tokyo, San Francisco and Hollywood. There are even replicas of the Eiffel Tower and Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can shop until you drop with around 600 shops, a cinema, restaurants and a food court with plenty of reasonably-priced food options. 🎥: @onelifetravelwow 📍: Pattaya

Thai New Year, or Songkran, takes place on 13th April, however the holiday period lasts three days. It is often celebrated by a huge water fight, with the water representing purification. It is a time when people reunite with their families and pay their respects to older adults, ancestors and sacred Buddha images. If you’re visiting Thailand during Songkran, you will have an amazing time, but do prepare to get wet. Are you visiting Thailand during Songkran? If so where in the country will you be? 🎥: @gyun_s and @bright.yun_ 📍: Bangkok

Pattaya is more than just its beaches and ‘Walking Street’ – there are so many beautiful spots to visit including cafes, bars, restaurants and attractions. You’ll find a replica of the Eiffel Tower in Terminal 21 Shopping Mall. For those with a sweet tooth, there is Great & Grand Sweet Destination. Soak up the history and spirituality at stunning temples. 🎥: @worldpitou 📍: Pattaya

Koh Ngam is a small island, 400 metres of the southeast of Koh Chang and accessible from there by kayak. The name Koh Ngam means ‘beautiful island’ and in this case it really does live up to its name. With a spectacular double-sided white sandy beach, visitors to Koh Ngam can experience both sunrise and sunset from the same beach. 🎥: @valentin_wie_der_sommer 📍: Koh Ngam

Khao Yai is a national park, less than 3 hours from Bangkok. It covers more than 2,000 square kilometres over 4 provinces. Temperatures in Khao Yai are lower than other areas of the country, making it a more comfortable place to explore the flora and fauna that call Khao Yai home, including 280 different species of bird. The air is clear and the nature trails are perfect for trekking, whether you want to explore for 45 minutes or 6 hours. A night safari is also available to book, allowing visitors the chance to spot some of the more nocturnal species in the park. It is also the perfect location for birdwatching, skygazing or camping. 🎥: @worldpitou 📍: Khao Yai

Markets are always a popular day-trip option when travelling, but most will not compare to the floating market in Damnoen Saduak, one of the biggest and most popular in Thailand. Here, the sights, sounds and smells are incomparable and you’ll find boats filled with exotic fruit, vegetables, fish, homewares and more. Others sell treats and snacks including fried chicken, pad thai, ice cream or sticky rice. There are also traditional wooden houses on stilts to see along the way. You can explore by boat or by foot. Just an hour away from Bangkok, yet feeling like a world away - the floating market will ensure a unique and memorable experience from your Thailand adventure. 🎥: @asianlife_fr 📍: Damnoen Saduak

If you take a speedboat trip from Koh Kood, you’ll find the stunning island of Koh Mak. It’s a small, quiet island, privately-owned by five families and a great place to relax. Here are five suggestions on things to do if you choose to visit Koh Mak: 1. Relax at Turtle Beach – Turtle Beach (Ao Tao Kai) is a remote beach on the far northern tip of the island that is totally worth the difficult trip to reach (via a very small road in a bit of disrepair or by kayak from Happy Days resort). It is stunning and you may well have the full beach to yourself when you visit. 2. Explore Koh Kham – a small island a ten-minute boat ride away with black volcanic rocks dotting the shoreline in various shapes and formations. A great location for snorkelling and diving with crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. 3. Visit Ao Soun Yai Beach – One of the two main beaches on the island, stretching 2km. There are bars, restaurants and resorts nearby and plenty of shade from palm trees to relax under. 4. Dine at Ta-Lay Time restaurant – The perfect spot for dinner at sunset, this budget-friendly restaurant has the best views and gorgeous food. 5. Stay at Naivacha Tent -This glamping spot has an unbeatable beachfront location with great facilities including free wi-fi. It’s a great alternative to a traditional bungalow. Which of these would you choose to do first on your arrival to Koh Mak? 🎥: @alikainwanderlust 📍: Koh Mak

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai. It shimmers in the sunlight due to its blend of whitewash and transparent mirrored chips adorning the structure of the temple. It must be seen with its incredible detail, sculptures and beauty. There is so much to view in the grounds and visitors can purchase a medallion from the temple store, write their name on it and hang it on a pagoda-shaped tree to commemorate their visit. Like this post if The White Temple is on your ‘to-visit’ list. 🎥: @letsjustgoaway14 📍: Chiang Rai

Just under three hours from Bangkok is the island of Koh Samet. It is a popular weekend getaway for Thais and those living in Bangkok (including foreigners) and if it’s popular with Thai people then it must be a great place for visitors to explore too. Quiet during weekdays and fun on the weekends, Koh Samet has gorgeous white sand beaches and great year-round weather with dozens of beach resorts, bars and restaurants. Visitors are also allowed to camp there if they wish. Like this post if Koh Samet is on your travel list. 🎥: @lifeinthailandnow 📍: Koh Mamet

Are you an adventurous foodie? Add this Treepod dining experience at Soneva Kiri to your dining bucket list. What’s the most unusual place you’ve had a meal? Tell us in the comments. 🎥: @paigunna 📍@discoversoneva

Take a boat from Pak Bara Pier in Thailand, or Langkawi in Malaysia to Koh Lipe. This small island is dubbed the Maldives of Thailand. It’s part of the Tarutao National Marine Park and has a charming, laid-back feel. Like if you think you’d enjoy spending time here. 🎥 @expeditioustraveler 📍Koh Lipe, Thailand

12 Hidden gems in Thailand: Visit lesser known places in the Land of Smiles

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Joanna Horanin

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Hi there! 👋 I’m Joanna, author of The Blond Travels. If you find my articles helpful, I’d be happy if you could follow me on Instagram , or buy me a coffee . Support from readers like you means a lot to me and helps to keep this website alive. Thank you! 🙏

It is estimated that Thailand is visited by 50 million tourists every year. It’s almost as many as the country’s inhabitants. So, are there any lesser known places in Thailand, where there are no crowds? Sure! Here are 12 hidden gems worth visiting when travelling in the Land of Smiles.

I would like to admit that I had some reservations when writing this article. Every month my blog is read by thousands of people. If half of them goes to those recommended spots, there won’t be hidden Thailand anymore. On the other hand, local people there told me that they would like more tourists. They are counting on them as it brings more money and more possibilities for their families. So, when you visit them, please remember about responsible and sustainable travelling.

Your plan for your first trip to Thailand

If you’re looking for hidden gems, lesser known places in Thailand , you are on the right blog. Here are those that stole my heart and I’ll remember them forever. I hope that you will enjoy them, too.

Chanthanaburi – the gem of Thailand

Chanthaburi is located in the west of the country. It’s a lovely little town, ideal for a few days. One of the attractions is the gem stones market. Traders from all around the world come here to sell and buy precious stones. There’s also an opportunity for you to buy jewellery for a very good price.

Read more about Chanthanaburi and the market.

Rayong – The best seafood in the country

Even Thai people say that the best seafood in the country is from Rayong. It’s a town, which is a transit area between the land and Koh Chang. There are not that many tourists here, which is a shame.

Right on the beach, at the shore, there are restaurants and bars, where you can eat delicious fish, prawns and crabs as well as watch the fishermen doing their work.

Read more about Rayong province.

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Trat – unkown corner of Thailand

Trat is located in the west as well and it’s my favourite place in the region. If you have your own mode of transport, you can go outside of the town, visit beautiful little villages, where local people cook amazing food and prepare ecological soap. They can also take you for a really nice trip around the area.

Read more about Trat.

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Spend a day with your private guide, find out more about the country and make new friends.

Mae Kampong – a mounting resort near Chiang Mai

This village is one of the favourite holiday destinations for Thai people. It attracts visitors with its unique architecture and cool climate. Many come here to enjoy road trips in the area. There are lots of places to visit, including waterfalls, view points and very unique coffee shops.

Find out more about Mae Kampong.

Lamphun and Lampang – hidden gems of the north

I put these two together as I think they should be visited at the same time, one by one. Both have some unique architecture and culture. There are a few temples to visit, some good eateries and you can take a nice trip outside of them, through towns and villages.

Find out more about these two towns.

Khanom – Pink dolphins and beautiful beaches

Khanom is a town in the South of Thailand, near Nakhon Si Thammarat. During the winter you can go dolphin watching. If you visit the town in a different season, you will be able to enjoy calm and peaceful atmosphere, sandy beaches, green forests and amazing waterfalls.

Read more – Khanom – an undiscovered paradise in Thailand.

Koh Yao Noi – A small oasis of peace

Koh Yao Noi is a small island near Krabi. Not many people come here because the beaches don’t have as many facilities as in other places. I think that this is the reason you should go to Koh Yao Noi.

Lack of mass tourism on Koh Yao Noi is a great advantage. Here you will breathe some fresh air and you’ll be all alone on the beach.

Find out what to do on Koh Yao Noi.

Nakhon Si Thammarat – A shadow theatre

You won’t find many attractions in Nakhon Si Thammarat. There are a few temples, a night market and except that, the city is rather sleepy. However, one reason to visit it is the shadow theatre, which is a great collection of the puppets. They organise performances for their visitors, which will introduce you to this old and rich aspect of the Thai culture.

Read more about the shadow theatre in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Promlok – You won’t forget it

If you’re looking for hidden gems in Thailand, Promlok is the place to go. It’s a little village near Nakhon Si Thammarat. Promlok is a home to Promlok Community – an initiative of the local people. Thanks to them you can spend your holidays in a real family-run guesthouse, go for a trek, visit the local mountains and get closer to the traditional way of life.

Find out more about Promlok Community

Koh Klang – The secret of Krabi

If you’re going to Krabi Town, stay a day longer, rent a boat and go to Koh Klang. It’s an island inhabited by Muslim people, who welcome visitors with open arms. You will see how rice is harvested, how they fish and how they produce clothes and fabrics. Seafood here is to die for, too. There are a couple of places to stay on Koh Klang, so it will be a great rest from the more touristy spots.

Read more about Koh Klang

Koh Kret – An oasis of peace

Koh Kret is not really that unknown. Quite a few people come here when they visit Bangkok, especially if they visit Thailand often. However, I think it’s worth mentioning here to remind you that even in Bangkok you can find some cool, unknown places.

Koh Kret is an artificial island, near Bangkok. It’s inhabited by people who produce ceramics. It’s a good place to go during the weekend when the weekend market is on. Don’t forget to try some craft beer and walk, or drive, around the island to see some amazing gardens and palm trees.

Read more about Koh Kret.

Talad Noi – Something special in Bangkok

Talad Noi is a district in Thailand, located near Chinatown . It’s the oldest area of Bangkok inhabited mostly by Thai-Chinese. It’s an amazing place with lots of grafitti art, little temples, but most of all, it’s the place to go if you need to fix your moped or car, or you need some car parts.

Read more about Talad Noi in Bangkok.

Unknown Thailand – How to find lesser known places?

Many people ask me how I find these lesser known places in Thailand. First of all, I follow a lot of Thai sites, I read a lot of blogs of people who live and travel in the country. At the moment we also have Instagram, where you can easily find cool spots.

The second way of finding hidden gems in Thailand is renting a scooter and visiting small towns and villages. Walking is also a great way of doing it. I also recommend hiring a local guide , who will show you unknown spots. Thanks to that I have visited a lot of amazing sights and seen really great locations in Thailand.

Did I inspire you to get out of your comfort zone and find some hidden gems in Thailand? I hope I did. The country is huge and despite its popularity you can still find some unknown places in Thailand. It’s worth visiting at least one of them to get to know the culture a bit better.

If you ever go to Thailand, come back here, leave a comment and let me know if you liked it.

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12 must-visit hidden gems in Thailand

Want to see things that’ll truly stop you in your tracks? Then a tour of Thailand should be next on your bucket list. The country practically glows (and not just because of all the smile-y locals and tropical sunshine!).

To find out what makes the Land of Smiles so wanderlust-worthy, we tapped into our travelers and Go Ahead Tours expert Kevin, a manager on our Market Innovation & Development Team. He helped handcraft one of our brand-new small group Adventure Tours —and even taught English there for a year before starting at EF! Here are some of his favorite places to visit in Thailand .

See all the hidden gems in Thailand on tour

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Offbeat Places in Thailand

Here are some of the best unique places in thailand:, quick navigation.

Sam Phan Bok, The Grand Canyon of Thailand

One of the most fascinating rock formations in Thailand, Sam Phan Bok is a must visit during the rainy season. Showcasing natural splendour, these volcanic rock formations is a place where you can roam around and witness something beautiful in every nook and corner of the Mae Kong River.  It literally translates to 3000 holes and offers the visitors a landscape that appears like large mountains in the middle of a river. Location : Ban Pong Pao, Lao Ngam Sub-district, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province Price : Free Highlight : It is also called the Grand Canyon of Thailand due to the presence of so many basins of different shapes in the small islet making it a very photogenic place to see here. Suggested Read: Amazing Things to Do in Thailand

Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew

An initiative by a group of monks, Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew is one of the most unusual places to visit in Thailand. The temple is a beautiful symbol of an environment-friendly initiative as it started with the monks encouraging the visitors to bring along their beer bottles which eventually turned out to make the beautiful exteriors of this temple. The unique temple presents a wonderful creation of art and waste. Location : Si, Khun Han District, Si Sa Ket 33150, Thailand Timings : 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Price : Free Highlight : The temple complex is made up of more than 1.5 million bottles which differ in shapes and sizes and used in different places to decorate the temple complex. Even the bottle caps are being used to make mosaics and designs in the temple. Planning for a honeymoon trip to Thailand, then you can Checkout:  Thailand Honeymoon Trip

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Red Lotus Sea

Gear up to see millions of lotuses in one place when you visit the Red Lotus Sea in Thailand. Counted among the unusual places in Thailand where one can see the brilliant spectacle of nature, Red Lotus Sea is where you can enjoy a relaxed morning with your loved ones and explore a hidden gem of Thailand. The quiet lake is a nice getaway for a picnic among the lotus blooms. Location : Unnamed Rd, Tambon Chiang Wae, Chiang Haeo, Kumphawapi District, Udon Thani 41110, Thailand Timings : 6 am to 12 pm Highlight : The place hosts a Red Lotus Sea festival and offers one of the most unique things to do in Thailand during the Valentine weekend in Thailand when one can witness the peak blooms. Must Explore: Resorts in Pattaya

Recommended Read:  Things To Do In Phuket Thailand

Koh Hingham

Adorned by beautiful stones, Koh Hingham is a beautiful uninhabited island associated with many stories. There is a legend that the island was cursed by the Thai deity, Tarutao that anyone who takes the pebbles from the island will be cursed forever. One can see thousands of pebbles scattered on this island and always have to stop the urge to pick and carry them home as they are too beautiful. You can look forward to having fun in the miniature chedis built on the island or you can just write cute messages on the rocks and leave it there to be seen by tourists in future. Location : Koh Hingham, Thailand Price : 800-1000 THB (1800-2260 INR) Highlight : The island is replete with stones and people keep sending it by post or mail if they ever take away the stones along with them from the island Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in Thailand

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Mo Hin Khao

Witness some of the most beautiful stone sculptures at Mo Hin Khao in Thailand. It has some interesting rock formations which boast of interesting shapes like mushrooms, boats, elephants, turtles and Chedis. The place is definitely a treat for the eyes and a must-visit for those who are interested in camping in the realm of nature. Location : Ban Wang Kham Khan, Moo 9, Tha Hin Ngoam Sub District, Muang District, Chaiyaphum Province Timings : 08:00 am - 5:00 pm Highlight : The place is called the Stonehenge of Thailand as it is said that there are five extraordinary rocks from which a white light would appear during Buddhist Sabbath nights (full moon, 8th day of waxing moon, 8th and 15th day of waxing moon) You can also explore  Chatuchak Market in Bangkok as it is a shopaholic’s dream destination and also a delightful feast for your senses. Also Checkout -  Bangkok Trip Packages

Sra Morakot

Located in the middle of a tropical forest, Sra Morakot is one of the most unusual places to visit in Thailand to treat your eyes. It is known for its crystal clear waters where you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of nature when the day is full of sunlight. One can see the bubbling water when you are there as a result of minerals being settled down in the pool. The place is a surreal escape when you are tired of the daily worries of life. Location : It is located about 60 kilometres (36 miles) outside of Krabi Town Timings : 08:30 AM - 05:00 PM Price : 20 Baht / 44 INR Highlight : This pool is created with the runoff natural spring water that comes down to form a pond of crystal clear blue waters. Recommended Read:  Places To Visit in Krabi In One Day

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Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phra Chom Klao Rachanusorn

One of the famous temples in Lampang, Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn is a must visit to see the breathtaking vistas. The place has been relatively unexplored and recently emerged on the tourist map of Lampang despite being a Buddhist pilgrimage site for 2000 years. It is known for its floating temples on the mountains built as a result of the hard-hitting efforts of the monks who carried the pagodas to the top with the help of 50 workers. Location : Wichet Nakhon, Chae Hom District, Lampang 52120, Thailand Timings : 7:30 am - 6:30 pm Price : 200 THB / 450 INR Highlight : It offers some of the most mind-blowing views of the surroundings from the top as you can see the gentle mountain slopes of the Thung Thung Valley and the beautiful stupas on it. Popular Read:  Best Casinos in Bangkok

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Death Railway

Built in the Second World War, Death Railway narrates one of the most horrific stories of Thailand’s history.  With many labourers dying because of various reasons, Death Railways is among the most interesting but unique tourist places in Thailand also resonating with its history. The Siam Burma Valley is called the Death Valley since its associated with the death of more than 12,000 Allied prisoners of war (POWs) and tens of thousands of forced labourers during its construction. Location : Ban Pong, Thailand to Thanbyuzayat, Burma Highlight : Along with the railway line, tourists can look forward to seeing the memorials and museums that are built in Kanchanaburi to know more about of Death Railway. Must Checkout:   Adventure Sports in Thailand Must Book -  Bangkok Packages For Couples

Blue Maze Canyon - Sra Nam Pud, Krabi

If you are a water baby, one of the must-visit unusual places in Thailand is the Blue Maze Canyon in Krabi. Encompassed by dense green foliage, this is a spot where you should brace yourself to be enthralled as you will get to see a lagoon boasting of sparkling blue color. It makes a panoramic landscape and offers a pleasant respite when you are visiting Krabi. Location : Khlong Thom Nuea, Khlong Thom, Krabi 81120 Thailand Timings : January to April, November to December; From 10 am to 3 pm Price : 930 THB / 2100 INR per vehicle Highlight : On the surface of it, the pool appears to be glowing in the sunlight making it appear like a mystical landscape. Explore More:  Things to Do in Phang Nga Bay

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Doi Mon Jong

Sao Din Na Noi

Wander amidst the most offbeat places in Thailand which showcase the beautiful vestiges of history at Sao Din Na Noi. It is replete with some of the most unique and amazing rock formations and offers plenty of birdwatching opportunities. The landscape of Sao Din Na Noi is believed to be 10000 to 30000 years old and could have been at the bottom of the sea before it was a place of habitation for the dwellers in Paleolithic period. Location : Sao Din Na Noi, Amphoe Na Noi, Chang Wat Nan, Thailand Timings : 6 am to 6 pm Price : 100 THB / 230 INR Highlight : Some of the interesting exhibits like stone axes and bangles which were found here can be found on display at the Nan National Museum. Also Explore:  Best Villas in Thailand

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Tham Phra Waterfall

Enjoy one of the most unique things in Thailand when you visit the Tham Phra Waterfall in Thailand. Surrounded by green forests, Tham Phra Waterfall is an enjoyable getaway where you can witness a large waterfall with many big stones. It is believed that the biggest natural slide is located at Tham Phra Waterfall. It can be reached by a serene boat ride and offers a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Location : Sok Kam, Seka District, Bueng Kan 38220, Thailand Timings : 8 am to 5 pm Highlight : It is one of the most preferred spots in Thailand to enjoy the serenity of nature. Some of the activities which one can enjoy here include swimming, playing in the water or just having a refreshing time in the surroundings. Recommended Read: Top Beaches in Phuket

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Wat Mae Kaet Noi

If you are searching for the most unusual places in Thailand, Wat Mae Kaet Noi should definitely be on your list. Also called the Temple of Hell, this place showcases numerous sculptures and paintings which symbolise numerous concepts associated with Buddhism and a vivid description of Naraka as discussed by Buddha. Apart from depicting what constitutes Hell, the temple also describes Nirvana showcasing those who have attained enlightenment. Location : Highway 1001, Tambon Pa Phai, Amphoe San Sai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50210, Thailand Price : 10 THB / 22 INR Highlight : This place is a must visit if you want to have a dose of adventure with some unusual experience of Hell on earth. Get a complete trave guide to   Phuket Island Hopping . Must Book & Checkout -  Phuket Honeymoon Packages

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun, also called the White Temple is one of the most offbeat places in Thailand. The temple is known for its interesting architecture which stands for the unique imagination of the architect Chalermchai Kositpipat and the teachings of Buddha and Buddhist symbolism on various aspects of life, heaven, hell, karma etc. The temple is known to house many relics of Buddha, has a meditation hall and an art gallery which is open to the visitors. Location : Off Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road), 15 kilometres South West of Chiang Rai town Timings : 8 am to 6 pm Price : 50 THB / 110 INR per person Highlight : The whole temple is built in white colour which symbolises the purity of the Buddha. Suggested Read: Best Resorts in Phuket

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Thi Lo Su Waterfall

It's one of the most gorgeous limestone waterfalls in Thailand which is known to enthral you with its rumbling sounds and a picturesque vista. Thi Lo Su is one of the biggest waterfalls in Thailand in terms of the cumulative amount of space containing water. It is located amidst the pristine landscape of Umphang Wildlife sanctuary and offers a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of life. Location : Amphoe Umphang Tak Province, western Thailand Timings : 8.30 am - 5.00 pm Highlight : It is believed that the spread of Thi Lo Su Waterfall is equal to an area of five football fields. Also Know: Places to Experience Bangkok Nightlife

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Mokoju Peak

Explore some rejuvenating trekking trails and watch the variety of wildlife when you visit Mokoju Peak in Thailand. One can be accompanied by a park ranger to visit the summit of the peak when doing one of the most electrifying and unique things in Thailand here and then witness the mind-blowing views which nature has to offer. The place is an unmissable attraction for birdwatchers who can look forward to seeing a number of birds here like rufous-necked hornbill, Burmese yuhina, coral-billed scimitar babbler, grey peacock-pheasant, mountain hawk-eagle. Location : Mokoju Mountain, Kamphaeng Phet, Thailand Highlight :  Located in the national park, Mokoju Peak is one of the most unique places in Thailand for the offbeat visitor to enjoy activities like birdwatching, swimming, rafting, canoeing, kayaking etc. Must Explore:  Islands near Pattaya You May Also Book -  Pattaya Tour Packages

Best of Bangkok

Mae Klong Railway Market

For the shopaholics, visiting the Mae Klong Railway Market is one of the most unique things to do in Thailand. Located on a train line, this is a market in the middle of which a train runs directly through. This traditional Thai market is known to pose a unique spectacle for every visitor and sells a variety of items ranging from vegetables, food and fruits. Location : Kasem Sukhum Alley, Mae Klong, Samut Songkhram, 75000 Timings : 6:00 am to 5:00 pm Highlight : Among the locals, the market is known as Talat Rom Hoop which translates to ‘’Market Umbrella Close’’ as every time the train has to cross the market, the vendors lower their umbrellas pull back their wares just within few minutes. Popular Read:  Best Restaurants in Bangkok Book & Checkout -  Pattaya Couple Packages

Best of Phuket

Lam Khlong Ngu National Park

Surrounded by the serenity of hills and valleys, Lam Khlong Ngu National Park is one of the most unusual places in Thailand known for its exquisite caves. These caves are a must visit if you crave a dose of adventure on your Thailand trip as it can only be enjoyed by those who fulfil a minimum requirement of physical fitness. Some of the popular attractions which should not be missed when visiting here are Nang Kruan Waterfall, Kliti Waterfall and Monolithic Cave. Location : Chale, Thong Pha Phum District, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand Timings : 08.00 am to 16.00 pm Price : Foreigner: Adult 200 THB / 450 INR, Child 10 THB / 22 INR Thai: Adult 40 THB / 90 INR, Child 20 THB / 45 INR Highlight : The major attraction of Lam Khlong Ngu National Park are its caves which are an enticing scene for the tourists along the valley and cliffs. Must Experience: Best Floating Markets in Thailand

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Best of Pattaya

Doi Chang Cliffs

Visit the Chiang Dao to enjoy one of the most beautiful nights of stargazing when you are there in Thailand. Literally meaning ‘at the level of the stars’, Doi Chang Cliffs is a renowned place to capture the most impressive views of the Milky Way. It is also a delight for trekking lovers who wish to have a strenuous climb in order to see the most gorgeous views of the stars to be rewarded after a tough climb. Location : Doi Chang Cliffs, Muang District, Phrae Province, Thailand Highlight : If you are a trekking lover, Doi Chang Cliffs is one of the must-visit places to witness the 360-degree views of the surroundings after a rugged climb through a scenic landscape. Also visit  Old Phuket Town as it is very much famous for being home to a number of cafes and restaurants that delight the taste buds of visitors with unique local delicacies like Dubik, Ranong, Rasada, Yaowarat, Krabi and Thalang. May Also Book -  Thailand Family Packages

Best of Chiang Mai

The beach is called the Golden Scale Dragon Spine as the stretch that glimmers during the sunlight take the shape of a spine of a dragon in the colour of gold.  It appears like a swimming sea dragon and one of the most unique places to see in Thailand on your vacation. The curve stretches for about 3 kilometres and showcases the mysterious and enthralling beauty of nature with its creation during the day. Location : Khao Khaung, Moo 1 , Tambon Ton Yong Po, Muang, District  Sa-Tun. Price : Free Highlight : One of the famous legends associated with the beach says that anyone who takes a walk on this dragon spine will obtain pure energy from the sea that will help to enhance your inner self. Must Checkout:  Romantic Places To Visit in Bangkok Also Book -  Thailand Group Tour Packages  

Best of Krabi

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- By Flights:  You can reach Thailand by air taking a flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport which has connectivity to almost all major countries in the world. - By Ships:  Tourists can also reach by ships, which leave from Singapore and many other southeastern countries. An ultimate place to relish the taste of adrenaline-raising experiences right in the middle of lush woods ,  Flying Hanuman   is a haven for all adventure enthusiasts.

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Thailand Top Attractions

Dream World Amusement Park in Thailand, is one of the superb entertainment and fun-filled parks to indulge in a plethora of activities with family and friends. The park was inaugurated on 12th Nov 1993. The Kitiparaphon Family is instrumental in creating the park to meet the rising interests of the locals and the foreign nationals. About 1000 million BAHT was invested in building up this magnificent park.Spread across an area of 25 hectares of land, the park is segregated into 4 zones, namely Dream World Plaza, Fantasy Land, Dream Gardens and Adventure Land. Visitors can add this amusement park to their Thailand tour packages and experience almost 40 adventurous rides and other thrilling attractions. The heartbeat of the amusement park is Asia's first hanging roller coaster inside the Adventure Land. You can also find the model of the Grand Canyon as a part of the exciting river rafting.The key feature of the park is the mesmerizing "Colour of the World" street parade which is held every weekend. Several other animal shows and Hollywood stunt shows entertain the audience. Kids will have fun following the cutouts of their favourite superheroes and posing with them for a photo shoot.The amusement park is one of the prominent travel destinations of Thailand. It is elegantly decorated with miniature gardens and trees, offering a perfect weekend getaway. Situated in the Pathum Thani province, it is a perfect entertainment spot for people of all ages. Dream World park is considered to the best theme park in Bangkok, a complete relaxation from the humdrum of city life.Suggested Read: Nature Places Near Bangkok

Located in Khlong Sam Wa, the Safari World, within an area of 170 acres is a drive-in zoological park divided into two parts. The first is the Safari Park to house a large variety of animals like zebra, deer, giraffe, birds tigers lions, bears, etc. in a natural habitat. The second is the Marine Park which hosts events like the famous dolphin show. The Safari World Zoo is the perfect place for families with children to visit during their Thailand trip. Come face to face with thousands of rare and endangered species roaming freely in their natural habitat. The park provides a coach service for visitors who do not drive in.Timings: Opens daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PMPrice: The approximate price ranges from 50 Baht to 350 Baht. 

If you’ve ever wondered what Bangkok looks like from a bird’s perspective, now is the chance to experience it on your own. Home to Bangkok’s highest observation point, the MahaNakhon Skywalk building stands out as a marvelous piece of architecture. Offering some of the most unique experiences in the city, the Skywalk and its accompanying experiences generally make it to all of the best itineraries in Bangkok. Explore this breathtaking attraction as part of exclusive Thailand packages that ensure an unforgettable journey through the vibrant and culturally rich landscapes of this Southeast Asian gem.Upon entering the pixel-shaped tower, one is greeted by a sleek, modern lobby fitted with ticket counters. Adjacent to the booking area is MahaNakhon’s skyride zone; the newest digital experience added to the building, the Skyrides at MahaNakhon offer virtual reality experiences where one can navigate their way through virtual skies as if on a plane.Once off the ride, a corridor of digital walls come alive to lead you to the multimedia elevator- the fastest in Bangkok and one of the building’s most prized assets- which then carries you all the way to the Observation Deck on the 74th floor. The Indoor Deck at the 74th floor offers fantastic panoramic views of the city’s skyline from within the comfort of its glass walls. Having had one’s fill, one can then take the one-way hydraulic lift to the 78th floor, wherein lies the primary attraction of MahaNakhon- the Skywalk.Also known as the ‘Peak’, the MahaNakhon Sky Deck and Glass Skywalk offers unparalleled views of the city. Here, one can take a picture on Bangkok’s highest point, marvel at the scenery below, or even stop for a drink at the Rooftop Bar.Visiting the Observation Decks, however, is not the only thing to do at the MahaNakhon Building. Having finished with one’s experience on the Skywalk, one could head back down to the 4th floor to enjoy duty free shopping at the King’s Power retail outlets.Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bangkok In 1 Day

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10 unseen Thailand destinations to visit before they’re too popular

A lot of destinations in Thailand have become so popular that they’re pretty much always crowded. But there are plenty more off the beaten path places that almost nobody goes to, and they’re absolutely worth it. Actually, we shouldn’t say “nobody”, since these spots are all somewhat popular with Thai tourists.

We love these types of places because while they can get crowded on weekends, during the week you often get them all to yourself. Each of these places is somewhere we’ve visited and loved, and a big part of that appeal was the thought that we had discovered a secret that most others don’t know about. If your travels take you near any of these secret Thailand destinations, you should definitely stop by.

Pro tip: The absolute best time to visit these destinations is during the week when there is no public holiday. Even better yet, if you can make it on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, you can avoid any carry-over weekend crowd.

1. Sunrise over the sea of fog in Phu Chi Fa

Sunrise over the sea of fog with the iconic cliff at Phu Chi Fa

Phu Chi Fa is a small mountain on the Thai-Lao border in Chiang Rai Province and it has one of Thailand’s most iconic sunrises. Very few foreign tourists make it there, and that’s part of the draw. Each morning, the sun rises over a dense sea of fog and creates s beautiful scene. Even when it gets crowded, it’s only at sunrise (everyone skips the also-stunning sunsets), and they all leave well before the sunrise is even over or the fog has cleared. Check out our Phu Chi Fa guide to plan a perfect visit.

2. Laem Son National Marine Park

Laem Son has a number of stunning islands where you’ll be one of just a few people there. When we went we had a few of the beaches we visited completely to ourselves. This is where you can find the white sand, the clear turquoise sea, the lone coconut palm sticking out over the water, and most important of all, no queue of tourists waiting their turn to take a photo.

3. Wild elephant safari at Kuiburi National Park

Seeing wild elephants is an incredible experience

Kuiburi in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is truly one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. Elephants are so strongly linked with Thailand and it’s understandable that so many people want to experience these amazing creatures. Thankfully, more and more people are staying away from zoos and riding camps and going to elephant sanctuaries instead (though some of these are much less humane than they’d like you to believe). But there’s an even better way to see elephants in Thailand, and that’s in the place where they belong, out in the wild.

Asian elephants tend to live in thick forests so they usually can’t be seen on a safari like their African cousins. Kuiburi’s thin forests and grasslands are the exception, and you can almost always see wild elephants here. Promoting tourism that creates value for the conservation of the land that wild elephants need to survive is the single best way you can help protect these incredible animals. Check out our guide to seeing wild elephants in Thailand for all the details.

4. Flight of a million bats in Phitsanulok Province

5. The crazy sandstone formations along the Mekong at Sam Pan Bok

6. Tea Plantations in a fascinating Chinese village

To make this even more worth a visit, just outside the town there’s a border crossing where you can pop over into an area of Myanmar under the autonymous control of one of the Shan militias. There’s an ethnic minority Tai Yai village that’s really fascinating to see. The way history, war, tribalism, conflict, and migration all come together around Ban Rak Thai make it a microcosm of the world that’s incredibly interesting, and that’s all on top of it being just a beautiful and tranquil place.

7. An alpine lake in Pang Ung

8. Stunning mountaintop pagodas in Lampang Province

9. Gae Dam wooden bridge over a beautiful lotus swamp

10. Thailand’s largest freshwater marsh

Check out our guide to one day in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park and scroll to the Beung Bua section for info on visiting. If you have the time, a full day in the park is great, but if you’re just passing through, the marsh alone is worth stopping.

Let us know your under-the-radar spots in a comment below, or give an update if you’ve recently been to any of these destinations.

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10 Lesser-Known Island Paradises To Visit In Thailand Once You’re Bored of Phuket And Krabi

Thailand’s little known islands

When you hear beaches and island paradises in Thailand, some of the first places that pop into your mind are Phuket and Krabi. Well, with travel restrictions slowly being lifted, most tourists are sure to flock back to them.

With the abundance of Thailand islands waiting to be explored by the masses, we’ve picked 10 of them to shortcut your research.

Note: The best season to explore these paradises is from April – May, before the monsoon season hits. 

1. Koh Yao Noi  – just between Phuket and Krabi

Located right between Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi (Little Long Island) is known for its slow paced local life that most tourists give a miss. 

It also has no big hotel names on its shores, with the resorts here being 100% locally owned. But don’t worry – you’ll definitely still be able to score some awesome shots for Instagram here.

Tree House Villas is a posh resort with a private beach – perfect if you’re on honeymoon with your wifey or hubby. This resort has a chill, romantic ambience where you can relax in the privacy of your very own mini pool away from the crowd.

Paradise Koh Yao Resort is another resort on the island where you could check-in and enjoy your mini pool with a view of the resort’s private beach. This is a good option if you’re working with a lighter budget but don’t want to scrimp on the luxury.

Coconut Farm & Restaurant is one of the local highlights here. It’s a small coconut farm house in the middle of a paddy field, where you’ll get spoilt by owners here because of their warm hospitality. Their coconuts are home grown and they will go pick their freshly picked coconuts for you.

Their farm house has a great view of the paddyfield where you can embrace the island’s natural landscapes. 

Tree House Villas Address: 24 Moo 4, T.Koh Yao Noi, A.Koh Yao, Phang Nga, Thailand 82160 Telephone : +66 7 658 4460 Tree House Villas website |  Google Maps

Paradise Koh Yao Resort Address: 24 Moo 4, T.Koh Yao Noi, A.Koh Yao, Phang Nga, Thailand 82160 Telephone: +66 7 658 4450 Paradise Koh Yao Resort website |  Google Maps

Coconut Farm & Restaurant Address: Ko Yao Noi, Ko Yao District, Phang-nga, Thailand 82160 Coconut Prices:   ฿ 30/Piece Opening Hours: Daily during peak season (Nov-Apr) Coconut Farm & Restaurant Facebook |  Google Maps

2. Koh Phayam  – Maldives of Thailand

Koh Phayam is the closest island from Ranong mainland, and it’s frequently visited by local tourists.  This is your chance to chill with the locals the Sabai Sabai way. 

The Blue Sky Resort Koh Phayam is the Thai version of Maldives and offers you a mangrove backyard pool.

At this resort, you can just rent a kayak from the comforts of your hut and paddle around the mangroves. You can directly contact the resort for kayaking inquiries and special rates. 

With Wats left and right in Thailand, there are tons of travelers that are temple’d out. Unlike the majority of temples in Thailand, Wat Koh Phayam ’s charm is its unique floating ordination hall – not something you’d commonly find in temples in Thailand. 

The Blue Sky Resort Koh Phayam Address: 1/22 Moo 1 Ko Phayam, Mueang Ranong District,  Ranong Province, Thailand 85000 Telephone: +66 2 247 7310 | +66 2 247 7311 The Blue Sky Resort Koh Phayam website |  Google Maps

Wat Ko Phayam Address : Moo 1, Tambon Ko Phayam, Amphoe Mueang Ranong, Ranong, 85000 Admission Fee: Free Google Maps

3 .  Koh Adang  – hidden gem near the Malaysian border

Koh Adang is another island in the deep south of Thailand and close to the Malaysian border. It’s another paradise getaway for you to add to your island hopping list. 

Travelling to the deep south can be tiring, so an easy tip for you to stick around is to stay overnight at the Adang Island Resort. They offer a private beach and you could laze around on the poolside or bathe in the emerald waters that’ll make you forget all about life back in the city.

Koh Adang viewpoint is a must-visit spot when on the island. Those not entirely into lazing on the beach can enjoy hiking instead. Don’t hesitate to ask the resort staff how to get there.

Adang Island Resort Address: 30/23 Satunthani Rd. Phiman Muang Satun, Thailand 91000 Telephone: +66 8 9654 8888 Adang Island Resort website |  Google Maps

Koh Adang Viewpoint Address: Koh Tarutao, Mueang Satun District, Satun, Thailand 91000 Google Maps

4. Koh Mak  – scenic sunsets and clear blue waters

Koh Mak is a peaceful escape from the nearby Koh Chang’s tourist traps. Surprisingly, the island is quite popular amongst local tourists and is where you could make more Thai travel buddies.

Bars, beers, and beaches will fill your time here – especially during sunset – so go chill at Blue Bar Pearl , a popular spot amongst regular bar-hoppers.

The bar stretches out onto the bay and will give you a scenic view of the orange sky come sundown.  

Note: Taking the speedboat from Koh Chang to Koh Mak is very easy from 1 November to 31 April, as it’s peak season. There are daily wooden boat rides as well. 

Blue Bar Pearl Address: 1/8-1/9, Moo 2, Koh Mak, Trat, Thailand 23000 Opening Hours: 9AM – 11PM, Daily Telephone: +66 8 1810 2679 | +66 8 9819 4511 Blue Bar Pearl w ebsite |  Google Maps

5. Koh Bun Le  – into the unknown of the deep South

Koh Bun Le is a short ride from the party island of Koh Lipe. This small island will give you a taste of local islander life. One of the top things to do is bunk over at Ban Ko Bun Le School home-stay bungalows, which will give you a simple, no-frills experience of island life. 

Having a drink by the beach is a favourite pastime for many, especially island hoppers who frequent the place. Ha Moo Ba Bar is right in front of Pangka Bay, and is a romantic spot to spend some time with your boo and beer and watch the sunset. 

Ha Moo Ba Bar Address: Pnagka Bay, Ko Bulon Le,  La-ngu District, Satun, Thailand Google Maps   

Ban Koh Bun Le School Bungalow Inquiries Address: Koh Bun Le La-Ngu, La-ngu District, Satun, Thailand 91110 Contact details:   +66- 7-472-4700 Facebook I Google Maps

6. Koh Kula  – beach camping in paradise  

Forget famous party islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan for their pub crawls and full moon parties and head to Koh Kula for the ultimate peaceful getaway.

Koh Kula is a small island that’s great for shorter trips for those strapped for time. Those looking to be one with nature can head here – your phone signal bars will be low and there aren’t a bevy of bars and restaurants here; just pure nature.

Wake up in a tent with a beach view instead of snoozing in a hotel, or bunk in at the National Park’s bungalows. 

You’re able to book a tent, bungalow, and boat transfer with Mu Koh Chumphon National Park , but make sure to do that before reaching the island – not much signal, remember?

Besides just camping or checking into bungalows, kayaking is a fun and relaxing activity here. The kayaks will be arranged by the national park staff for you to start paddling. 

Mu Koh Chumphon National Park Address: Sawi District, Chumphon, Thailand 86130 National Park Fee: Locals ฿40, Foreigners ฿200 Rental Tent Fees:  ฿1500/ Night 6 Pax,  ฿300/Night 2 Pax National Park Staff Contact Details:  Khun Samreang +66 8 9970 0504 Google Maps

7. Koh Talu – snorkeling and diving spot

You don’t always need to be a certified diver to go under the sea, because snorkeling is a popular activity when in Koh Talu as well. You’ll only need a mask, snorkel, and a pair of fins to swim with the fishies and see coral life in shallow waters. 

If you don’t want to travel too far down South and are around Hua Hin or somewhere that’s closer to Bangkok, Koh Talu is a pretty accessible spot.

There’s also a sea turtle conservation project that’s got activities for you to get to meet these tiny marine critters and melt from their cuteness. 

Those looking for bigger adventures down in the deep blue ocean can go diving instead – this is especially fun for open water divers and sea turtle lovers.

Koh Talu Dive Site, Snorkeling & Sea Turtle Conservation Address: Koh Talu Island Resort ( Bangsaphan Sea Pearl Island Co. Ltd. ) 111/1 Moo 10 Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77170 Bangkok Office Telephone: +66 8 9810 3092 Koh Talu Dive Site, Snorkeling & Sea Turtle Conservation website

8. Ko Phra Thong – eco-island with leopard cats

Around the Andaman Sea live groups of Moken people, who are popularly known as “sea nomads” for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle by the ocean. Koh Phra Thong is one of the islands in Thailand where you’ll get to meet them.

Visitors to the island can book a stay at Moken Eco Village . Their houses are traditionally on built stilts, and you will find traits of these traditional houses at the resort.

Who would’ve thought a luxurious eco village would be so close to touristy Phuket and Krabi?

Also, this little eco island can be a bonus to cat lovers, because it’s home to Leopard Cats.

Leopard Cats are quite shy, nocturnal, and almost behave like domestic house cats. It can be rather tricky to find them, but those on the lookout for these wild kitties can ask the friendly resort staff to give you some tips on how to spot them.

Moken Eco Village Address: Koh Phrathong, Kuraburi Phangnga, Thailand 82150 Telephone: +66 8 9810 3092 Moken Eco Village w ebsite |   Google Maps

9. Koh Mook – mystical blue lagoon

Koh Mook is another island that’s a little closer to Krabi, which is home to the iconic Emerald Cave.

To get here, you’ve got to swim through an 80 metre cave, which is the only way in and out. It can get pitch black swimming through the cave, so the best hours to visit are from 2PM – 4PM during peak season (November – May) when the sun is shining down the brightest. 

Once you’re done relaxing, head back to Koh Mook Sivilai Beach Resort , an affordable luxury resort with a private beach to relax.

Koh Mook Sivilai Beach Resort Address: Kantang District, Trang Province, West Coast of Koh Muk Telephone:   + 66 8 8765 0994 Koh Mook Sivilai Beach Resort website |  Google Maps

Emerald Cave Address: Kantang District, Trang Province, West Coast of Koh Muk (Andaman Sea) Best hours to visit: 2PM- 4PM during November – May (peak Season) Google Maps

Note: You’ll have to book a private tour or boat to get to the cave.

10.  Koh Si Chang – the only Royal Summer Palace island in Thailand   

Koh Si Chang is an island close to Bangkok for city dwellers looking for a relaxing getaway that is close by.

One of the locals’ favourite things to do here is to visit sacred spots around the island. Add Mondop Roi Phraphutthabat Buddha Footprint to your list to enjoy a beautiful view of the island – and get some pretty shots while you’re at it.

This island is also home to Sichang Palace, making it the only island in Thailand with a royal palace on it. 

This attraction is where you walk through bits of Thai history – this is where King Chulalongkorn built his summer royal residence.

The palace buildings are built in a unique Thai-European style, which gives you an insight into the artistic minds of Thailand in the late 1800s, where architectural inspiration was borrowed from the West.

Mondop Roi Phraphutthabat Buddha Footprint Address: Tha Thewawong, Ko Sichang District, Chon Buri, Thailand 20120 Admission Fee : Free Opening Hours:  8AM-5PM, Daily Google Maps

Sichang Palace (Phra Chudathut Ratchathan Palace) Address: Tha Thewawong, Ko Sichang District, Chon Buri 20120 Admission Fee: Free Opening Hours: 9AM-5PM Tuesday – Sunday Google Maps

Visiting lesser-known islands in Thailand

Thailand’s a huge country with islands galore, but there is something for anyone – no matter if you’re an island hopper or a beach bum. With a range of islands that are not as well known, we hope you get to visit more of Thailand’s ocean-sides you may have never seen before!

Cover images adapted from (Clockwise from Left):   @adangislandresort , @minkumiko , @rubensoltvedt

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10 Most Unusual Experiences & Things to Do in Thailand - Have a Try!

• Eat Birds Nest Soup
• Stay In a 5-Star Luxury Tree House With Private Swimming Pool
• Stand On The Wat Pha Tak Suea Skywalk (Chiang Rai)
• Take Your Chances On a Cursed Thailand Beach (Phuket/Krabi)
• Take a Trip to The Human Body Museum (Bangkok)
• Experience a Thai Massage From A Prison Inmate (Chiang Mai)
• Visit a Prisoner in Bangkok's Notorious Bang Kwang Prison (Bangkok)
• Visit the Airplane Graveyard (Bangkok)
• Visit The Wooden Temple - Sanctuary of Truth (Pattaya)
• Visit the Batcaves in Khao Yai

The land of smiles is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Asia. Thousands flock to the country off the back of its reputation for excellent food, tropical beaches, mountain terrain, and most of all Thai people's happy go lucky outlook on life.

If you have ever been to Thailand, then you will already know that Thai culture is like no other, and experiencing what Thai's call 'Thai-ness' is an unusual experience in itself.

However, after getting settled into the Thai way of life and the unusual becomes the norm, for those that still have itchy feet and feel Thailand still has so more to offer, then why not consider checking out some of the more unusual activities available in Thailand while on your holiday adventure?

In this guide, we are going to help you add to your Thai experience by walking you through the 10 most unusual experiences in Thailand.

1. Eat Birds Nest Soup

As Thailand is so famous for its diverse cuisine we thought we would begin with something out of the ordinary on Thailand's food menu. Birds nest soup is actually a Chinese invented dish but it is also incredibly popular amongst the locals in southern Thailand.

Though, getting to the locals that eat birds net soup is not easy as they tend to live in remote areas off the usual tourist routes. Therefore, if you are looking to give this strange but oddly popular dish a whirl, then next time you are in Bangkok visit a restaurant called Nam Sing in Chinatown (Yaowarat Road).

Although, we should warn you that this dish is one of the most expensive in the Kingdom as dishes start at around THB 200 ($6.50) and can reach as high as THB 1,000 ($30.00).

2. Stay In a 5-Star Luxury Tree House With Private Swimming Pool

Next on our list is something not for the faint-hearted, or at least not for those scared of heights. You can find treehouse bungalows on most of Thailand's popular backpacker islands, but none like the luxury experience offered by a treehouse resort that overlooks the Keemala village on the West coast of Phuket island.

The resort has a host of luxury treehouses set in the dense forest. Each one comes complete with its own sunbed area, outdoor shower, and luxury king size beds. Some even have swimming pools attached to them. What's more is all the treehouses here have a scenic view overlooking the forest, villages below, and the Andaman Sea.

What makes this one of Thailand's 10 most unusual experiences is the fact that you can stay in a luxury treehouse and live life to the max!

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. Stand On The Wat Pha Tak Suea Skywalk (Chiang Rai)

In the north of Thailand, there is a glass-floored sky-walk that sticks out of the edge of a cliff face. From the walkway leading up to the skywalk, the view is out of this world, and once you reach the main attraction which is the skywalk itself, you will be met with stunning panoramic views of the Mekong River and its surroundings.

What makes this attraction so unusual is that this walkway sticks out like a diving board over a swimming pool. Except below you, there is nothing but air and mountainous terrain hundreds of feet below. As the treck up to the skywalk runs across the borders of Laos, to get here, we recommend that you book a hotel in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai and arrange a tour from here.

4. Take Your Chances On a Cursed Thailand Beach (Phuket/Krabi)

The black pebble beach of Koh Hingham is in the south of Thailand. According to Thai mythology, the Gods adorned the beach with precious stones and then placed a curse over the entire island. If you have ever visited a beach and taken back a pebble or two as a souvenir, then you would not expect any come back. However, if you dare take one form the black pebble beach of Koh Hingham, then it comes with the risk of facing the wrath of the ancient Thai god Tarutao!

Visitors that take any of the black stones from this island will be cursed forever until the stone is returned. It could be worth testing out, but if you do, watch the horror of the Thais that take you to this island – their superstition is so strong that they might even refuse to take you back to your hotel and leave you on the island.

5. Take a Trip to The Human Body Museum (Bangkok)

Inside the human body museum, there are 14 dissected human bodies from Japan. Ultimately what makes this one of the most unusual experiences in Thailand is the fact that these are in fact bonified real bodies - no pun intended! Why the university didn't simply design models is a mystery.

This is certainly one of the strangest museums in the world. That said, for Thais, it is not that strange at all!. Thais tend to not get queasy over when it comes to the dead. In fact, all you need to do is turn on the Thai news or look at the pictures in a Thai newspaper to see that the cameramen do not hold back when reporting on tragic accidents.

Albeit, there is a good reason these bodies are on display. The bodies are in the medical faculty at one of Thailand's top universities – Chulalongkorn. Each body is displayed at a different level of dissection for educational purposes. If this sounds like an unusual experience you would like to try out, then the showpiece is also open to the public and free to enter between 10:00 – 16:00 Monday to Friday.

6. Experience a Thai Massage From A Prison Inmate (Chiang Mai)

If you happen to visit the north of Thailand, namely Chiang Mai, then check out the 'Women's Correctional Institution Vocational Training Centre' for non-violent offenders. The facility was set up to help female inmates train and learn skills that will help them find gainful employment after their release.

One of the most popular skills taught at the facility is how to perform the famous Thai massage. As a result of this, the trainee inmates need real-life subjects to test out their newfound skills, and the facility needs a way to keep funding going in order to remain open. Therefore, if you want to support this project, pop in between 8 am to 4.30 pm from Monday to Friday and a correctional officer will escort you to the massage area where you will pay just 180 baht for a 1-hour session.

7. Visit a Prisoner in Bangkok's Notorious Bang Kwang Prison (Bangkok)

Thailand's most notorious hotel is known as the Bangkok Hilton – except this is no ordinary hotel as you don't get to choose a room and some people never get to check out. Bang Kwang is one of the country's largest prison facilities and has been the subject of numerous movies.

The prison's inmates have been incarcerated for crimes as petty as theft for more serious crimes such as drug trafficking and homicide. Despite this, the prison allows the general public to come in and visit any of its prisoners for 30 minutes.

8. Visit the Airplane Graveyard (Bangkok)

In one of Bangkok's western districts called Bang Kapi, there is a rather unusual graveyard full of old airplanes. The graveyard became an attraction after someone stumbled across it finding two Boeing 747s abandoned here. From here onward two McDonnell Douglas MD-82 jetliners were added as well as another Boeing 747.

The jetliners are a popular attraction because one of them was the very plane that caught fire in Phucket in 2007, and you can climb inside all the planes and sit in the cockpits, passenger seats, as well as explore the cargo/baggage holds.

You can easily get a taxi here from any hotel in Bangkok via the highway. Just ask the taxi to take you to Soi 103 Ramkhamhaeng Road.

9. Visit The Wooden Temple - Sanctuary of Truth (Pattaya)

The Sanctuary of Truth is arguably one of Thailand's strangest temples. It is also one that is not advertised as a tourist attraction very often but easily accessible from Pattaya and Bangkok.

It is located on a large beach at the Ratchavete Cape near Pattaya where the temple clearly stands out because of its hybrid of religion, philosophy, and art.

The temple boasts out of the ordinary sculptures and a structure that gives it an almost eerie look and feel. Even eerier is that the temple is almost entirely carved out of wood so you will hear its constant creaking in the wind – some still believe the temple is home to numerous ghosts.

The temple began construction in 1981 and stands at 100 meters tall, and you will notice that its construction was never finished. Not only is this an unusual temple, but its wooden structure and constant creaking also make it quite creepy.

If this sounds like your kind of unusual experience, then we recommend arranging a half-day trip from Pattaya or a full-day trip from Bangkok.

10. Visit the Batcaves in Khao Yai

Khao Yai has fast become one of Thailand's popular attractions for both domestic as well as foreign tourists. The province is just outside of Bangkok to the northeast and is very easy to get to thanks to its recent upsurge in popularity.

However, unlike most tourist destinations in the Kingdom of Thailand, there are no beaches or mountains here. Instead, there Khao Yai is a lush rural area with scenic hilltop views, waterfalls, lakes, farms, rice paddies, and in general a slow pace of life.

There is also a huge national park here which is home to a wide number of species indigenous to Thailand which includes millions of vampire bats!

Now it might sound crazy, but you can book a trip to walk into the bat caves in Khao Yai national park which are home to what nature experts believe to be over one million vampire bats.

Inside the caves, there is a labyrinthine of tunnels that you can traverse with a tour guide, and as you shine your torch to the caves' ceilings you will see the local inhabitants sleeping upside down in true bat fashion!

That said, seeing the bats sleeping and the inside of the caves is not the highlight of this unusual experience. Once you are done exploring, you can step outside the caves and set yourself in a nearby field overlooking the cave mouth. Come dusk the bats will begin to emerge.

Initially, the bats begin by trickling out until eventually a huge black cloud of bats grouped together to take to the skies shifting through the sky like a black mamba snake!

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It was a whirlwind across a number of cities, but a very comprehensive experience across the many sides and cultures of China. Most days had sufficient activities, but weren’t overwhelming, which was great.Across cities, we had excellent tour guides, like Kitty (Beijing), Jenny (Xian), William (Guilin/Yangshuo), Kris (Shanghai), and Tony (Yellow Mountains.)

From the time we landed in Beijing until we left, we were well taken care of. My wife and I had Lily Liu as our guide and she was amazing. From arranging visits to all the different sights, to teaching us the history, it was fantastic.

The tour was excellent. Selinda was very knowledgeable about all the aspects of our tour. Selinda was very interesting and knew so much Chinese history

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

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Best places to visit in thailand.

With a history that spans centuries and an exotic and friendly culture, Thailand welcomes travelers with white sand beaches, bustling cities and world-renowned culinary traditions. But with all that Thailand has to offer, you might be overwhelmed by where to head first. U.S. News considered attractions, seasonality, food options and more to determine the best places to visit in Thailand. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Railay Beach

Kanchanaburi province, khao sok national park, hua hin district, khao yai national park.

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is a welcome reprieve from the commotion of Bangkok. Here, you'll be treated to beautiful, mountainous landscapes and an Old City full of historical temples, such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. Venture outside of the city to Doi Suthep temple for sweeping views of the city below. Night markets are also a must-do in Chiang Mai, so pencil in time for the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (one of Thailand's oldest and most well-known night bazaars). And no matter what, leave time for a visit to Elephant Nature Park for some rest and relaxation with Thailand's gentle giants.

Thailand's capital city is nothing short of exhilarating. The city offers a hearty mix of big-city bustle and modern sights, such as the Jim Thompson House, alongside ancient attractions, including Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. Just don't forget to pack modest clothing for visits to sacred sites, or you won't be admitted. While here, be sure to visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the largest street markets in the world – and eat at some of Bangkok's more than 300,000 street food stalls (some Michelin starred). At night, take in the skyline by exploring the rooftop bar scene.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and also the most popular with travelers. The island draws visitors in with its many palm-fringed beaches and relatively low travel costs, including everything from food to hotels. Hit up highly regarded Patong Beach, party the night away in the Patong district or head inland to Phuket Old Town to experience more local culture and find cheaper lodging options. Complete your once-in-a-lifetime trip by taking a long-tail boat tour to other islands in the area to swim, snorkel or scuba dive.

Home to five-star resorts, amazing nightlife and some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches , the island of Ko Samui has something for everyone. When you're not lounging on the white sand, pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment, visit an elephant sanctuary or explore ancient temples like Wat Plai Laem and Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Save time in your schedule for a daytrip to nearby Ang Thong Marine Park, a 42-island archipelago that is accessible via speedboat. Here, travelers can kayak, snorkel and scuba dive.

Although the region was devastated by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Phang Nga has recovered and rebuilt. During the cool (though still relatively hot), dry season (from November to February), tourists descend upon the province to check out protected areas like Mu Ko Surin National Park, one of the best diving sites in Thailand. Hiking and snorkeling are also excellent ways to explore while admiring southern Thailand's natural beauty. Before leaving, don't forget to save time for a visit to Ao Phang-Nga National Park, famous for its caves, emerald green waters and the picturesque James Bond Island.

Railay Beach features four stunning stretches of sand to sink your toes into. Railay West and Phra Nang Beach are two of the peninsula's most popular beach spots, offering luxury resorts, soft sand and jaw-dropping views of limestone cliffs. Tonsai Beach is more laid-back and budget-friendly thanks to its quieter, more removed location. Meanwhile, Railay East, while not great for swimming, is where you'll find some of the area's best nightlife venues. Regardless of which beaches you choose to visit, you'll have access to some of Thailand's best rock climbing locations, plus various walking paths and coral reefs.

Trang's secluded beaches and stunning islands have made it an up-and-coming travel destination. The dramatic surrounding landscapes (think: lush jungles and limestone mountains) contrast beautifully against the beaches' white sands and crystal-clear waters. You can spend days island-hopping to see and do all that Trang has to offer. Top activities you may enjoy include snorkeling around Ko Kradan, swimming to a hidden beach cave on Ko Muk and wandering through Thung Khai Botanical Garden. And after you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, head to one of Trang's 10 districts to immerse yourself in Thai culture.

Ko Phi Phi features some of Thailand's most popular beaches. Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two main islands, is known for its lively party scene, hidden coves and deep coral reefs and gardens that are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Meanwhile, the smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is where you'll find verdant cliffs surrounding Maya Bay's beautiful beaches, which you may recognize from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie "The Beach." The best time to visit is between November and April, though be prepared for hordes of other visitors during this time.

Situated in northern Thailand, there are countless reasons to visit Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten (The Blue Temple) and Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) are two of the city's most popular cultural landmarks, but travelers should also save time for the incredible Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai's iconic all-white temple. After exploring Chiang Rai's architectural wonders, enjoy a boat tour of the Mae Kok River, go shopping at the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar or explore the Baan Dam Museum, a collection of buildings created by artist Thawan Duchanee.

Thailand's third-largest province captivates travelers with its natural beauty. Its diverse landscape – which features everything from seven-tiered waterfalls, rivers and mountains to Neolithic caves and national parks – is ideal for outdoor pursuits, including hiking and rafting. But a trip here wouldn't be complete without visiting some of the area's World War II sites, including the notorious Bridge over the River Kwai. Start your history lesson at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre, an interactive museum that tells the tragic story of how the Thailand-Burma Railway was built. Then, stop by the JEATH War Museum to see a replica of a prisoners-of-war camp.

Even if you don't consider yourself an outdoorsy person, a trip to Khao Sok National Park is sure to take your breath away. Home to limestone cliffs, awe-inspiring waterfalls and the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, Khao Sok is an incredibly bio-diverse area. Here, you'll find roughly 200 kinds of flora and many different animal species, including tigers, elephants and Southern pig-tailed macaques (monkeys). The park sees a lot of rainfall year-round, so for the best chance of staying dry, time your visit during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

For a vacation full of rich cultural attractions, head to Lampang. Sitting about 70 miles southeast of Chiang Mai, Lampang is known for its horse-drawn carriages, authentic Thai cuisine and ornate temples, including the ancient Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang. Spend some time browsing for souvenirs along Kad Kong Ta, a thoroughfare that turns into a street market on weekends, or learn about the production of the chicken bowl at the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to nearby Chae Son National Park, where tourists boil eggs in the park's natural hot springs.

A popular resort destination along the Gulf of Thailand, the Hua Hin District offers a full roster of activities to pick from (think: water parks, golf courses and night markets). Visitors can ride banana boats at Hua Hin Beach or enjoy the views from the top of Khao Takiap hill (just beware the resident wild monkeys). Hua Hin also serves as an excellent jumping off point for daytrips – spectacular sights like the Phraya Nakhon Cave and Kaeng Krachan National Park, the largest national park in Thailand, are located less than 40 miles outside of the city center.

Khao Yai National Park boasts a number of impressive superlatives: It's the oldest and most-visited national park in Thailand, the country's third-largest national park and one of mainland Asia's largest intact monsoon forests. Plus, this stunning national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features more than 30 miles of hiking trails, some of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Keep in mind, though that guides are required for most of the trails. While exploring, you may spot some of Khao Yai's wild residents, including elephants, sun bears and several species of hornbills.

Named Ko Chang (or "Elephant Island" in Thai) because of its elephant-shaped headland, this large island is more secluded than Phuket but no less beautiful. Its west coast is dotted with stunning coastlines (some sandy, some rocky), small towns and a variety of accommodation options, while its interior offers tropical jungles and gushing waterfalls to trek through and to. But remember, Ko Chang's tourism infrastructure isn't as well developed as other Thai islands, so getting here is a bit more of a trek.

Located in southern Thailand near the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is a popular stopover for tourists traveling between the two countries. This cosmopolitan city is a premier shopping hub, boasting several malls, night bazaars and a unique floating market, where travelers can purchase local delicacies and goods from vendors stationed in small boats along a canal. When you're not bargaining for the best price, check out the impressive Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, a temple constructed entirely out of stainless steel. Another can't-miss tourist attraction in Hat Yai is the towering statue Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj, which sits within Hat Yai Municipal Park.

This northeast Thai city is ideal for travelers who prefer a jam-packed vacation itinerary. Start off with a visit to the temple Wat Phothisomphon, then learn about Udon Thani's Chinese heritage at the Thai-Chinese Cultural Center. Other travelers will want to prioritize Udon Thani's natural wonders, which include Nong Prachak Public Park and serene Red Lotus Lake. While you're here, considering making a daytrip to nearby Ban Chiang, a Bronze Age UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important prehistoric settlements in Southeast Asia.

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Mu Ko Similan National Park

Pattaya City

Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park

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The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Thailand

As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, it’s no secret Thailand is home to some truly spectacular places. White sand beaches and palm trees are the first images that come to mind for many, but Thailand also encompasses tropical forests, mist-covered mountains and compelling ancient monuments. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

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Thi Lo Su Waterfall, for seeing the biggest waterfall in Thailand

The highest and largest waterfall in Thailand , Thi Lo Su towers 300 meters high and spans across 500 meters of naturally carved limestone ridge in the Mae Klong River. Tucked away in the remote Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary of Tak Province, a Unesco World Heritage site , Thi Lo Su is the mightiest of a collection of nearby waterfalls, each accessible by foot or boat depending on the season.

A jungle reserve deep in Southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is said to be the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, with some sources claiming it offers comparable biodiversity to the Amazon rainforest. Its central lake spans a 185-square kilometer area, home to a huge variety of wildlife from elephants and tigers to hornbills and pythons. Visitors can take in its beauty kayaking through the morning mist or hiking the outskirts, or participate in a number of guided activities like exploring its caves or climbing to find extraordinary perspectives.

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Koh Bon, for incredible scenery

This tiny spit of land is part of the Similan Islands National Park in the Western Andaman Ocean, accessible exclusively by boat from the main Koh Similan Island, and stands as one of the amazing attractions in Thailand. While Koh Bon’s rugged coastline and stretches of white sand beaches offer stunning scenery, the island’s main attraction lies beneath the surface. Its surrounding waters are teeming with incredible marine life, like majestic manta rays, eagle rays, and several species of shark.

Phu Chi Fa, for meeting local tribes in the mountains

This sacred mountain lies about a two-hour drive north of Chiang Rai smack along the Laotian border. Visitors will arrive at a quaint base hilltribe village, offering amenities like restaurants and homestays, from where a 750-meter trek brings you to the mountain’s summit. While not particularly challenging, it is possible to organize local transport to the summit as well. The mountain’s uncontested beauty emerges at sunrise, when its views expand across a sea of fog and low-lying mist that lifts to reveal sweeping meadow-scapes flush with thousands of flowers and other local fauna, among snaking tributaries of the Mekong River basin. The attraction is popular among local Thais, and it is customary for the Thai children to sing traditional songs in hilltribe costume as the sun rises.

Emerald Lake, for island-hopping in Ang Thong National Marine Park

Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Bay is among the most iconic Thai landscapes, made famous the world over by Leonardo DiCaprio’s 2000 film adaptation of Alex Garland’s The Beach . The real inspiration for the narrative, however, is the Gulf of Thailand’s untouched archipelago Ang Thong National Marine Park , 42 undeveloped islands off the coast of Koh Samui. Known locally as the Golden Basin, one of Ang Thong’s most incredible natural wonders is its eponymous Emerald Lake, a stunning, serene water body connected to the sea through underground tunnels surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.

Su Tong Pae Bridge, for daring thrill-seekers

Located in breathtaking Mae Hong Son province , the drive to get to this ancient bamboo bridge is worth the journey itself, meandering through the remote, mountainous region of northern Thailand bordering Myanmar to the West – often seen by a journey along the 600-kilometer Mae Hong Son Loop. The bridge was constructed generations ago by local villagers and monks over land donated from the local rice plantation owners, and is still used daily for locals to traverse the expansive rice fields. The bridge, a source of pride among the local community, translates to “successful prayer” in the local Burmese-influenced dialect of Thai Yai.

Sam Phan Bok, for a unique canyon

Affectionately referred to as “the Grand Canyon of Thailand,” this rock islet in the Khong River is best seen during the dry season of January to April, when the eroded rock formations emerge from receding water levels. The area is rife with superstition influenced by local legends, including the respect given to its signature dog head-shaped stone that has inspired many myths related to the canyon’s development.

Tham Lot Cave, for a massive system of caves

This huge cave system in Northern Thailand was once home to an ancient community known as the Lawa tribe – archaeologists have discovered pre-historic clay pottery and carved teak coffins throughout the complex. Accessible by bamboo raft along the intravenous Nam Lang River, visitors can explore the cave’s subterranean magic among natural stalactite and stalagmite formations and enormous, ghostly chambers.

Aow Kao Kwai, for a slice of paradise

Also known as Buffalo Bay , this quiet seascape is one of the most unique and untouched beaches in Thailand, curving delicately to enclose mangrove forests and the calm tides that spill out into the unrivaled beauty of the Andaman Sea . The beach is one of two on tiny Koh Phayam Island, itself one of Thailand’s best-kept-secrets, offering weary island-hoppers reprise from all-night beach parties and parking lots of taxi boats ubiquitous to more name brand destinations.

Khao Ngon Nak, for rewarding views after a hike

Known as Dragon Crest Mountain, this incredible hike is located about 30 minutes north of Ao Nang in Krabi Province. From the start of the Hang Nak Hill nature trail it is about 3.7 kilometers to reach the peak, with several viewpoints and waterfalls accompanying the journey through the dense forest – until reaching its apex at 565 meters above sea level and awarding visitors with expansive views of the surrounding land and seascapes.

Millennium Hilton Bangkok, for seeing the city skyline

While many of Thailand’s most beautiful and unique sites are deep within its sprawling wilderness, the chaotic urban jungle of its crown city offers some of the most interesting topography of all. With dozens of rooftop bars and pools throughout the city, the infinity pool at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok is a tranquil oasis overlooking the city’s iconic Chao Phraya River, with views extending toward Lumphini Park and Bangkok’s jagged skyline beyond.

Koh Nangyuan Viewpoint, for excellent snorkeling and scuba diving

Just a short longtail journey from its more famous sister island of Koh Tao , Koh Nangyuan is a gorgeous, self-sustainable group of three teardrops of land connected by a ribbon of beach. The islands themselves are carved out of ancient volcanic rock, tapering off into three distinct bays packed with marine life and incredible biodiversity of coral species for world-class snorkeling and scuba diving . After lazing around on the beach, a quick 15-minute walk brings visitors to its storied viewpoint, offering a panorama of the winding beach below and views of the north end of nearby Koh Tao.

Elephant Nature Park, for engaging with elephants

Headquartered in the outskirts of Chiang Mai – with new branches operating in both Phuket and Koh Samui – this wildlife sanctuary is home to a number of happy, playful elephants all rescued from their previous lives of captivity in the logging or tourism industries. Fancy a visit? It features on Culture Trip’s action-packed 10-day Northern Thailand adventure . The centre’s expert staff educate visitors on the lesser-known controversies surrounding the use and treatment of the kingdom’s most revered animal, while offering opportunities to engage with the resident elephants in their natural day-to-day environment, bathing, playing, and of course, lots of eating!

Phanom Rung Historical Park, for ancient history

This Hindu Khmer temple is set at the foot of a dormant volcano, and said to have been an early model for the world-famous Angkor Wat complex near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Its origins trace back to the 10th century, when Khmer influence spread across today’s map of Thailand, and was delicately restored over 17 years by Thailand’s Department of Fine Arts.

Mor Hin Khao, for rocks shrouded in mystery

According to local legend, when the area of Chaiyaphum was first settled, a white light would appear from within these five large rocks during Buddhist Sabbath nights , which fall according to the moon cycle. Made of sandstone in combination with other minerals, these mysterious natural spires coined the “Stonehenge of Thailand” are reminiscent of the naturally wind-carved outcrops of areas like the southwest United States , yet flanked on all sides by enormous fields of colourful tulips.

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Visit Thailand: Top 25 things to do and must-see attractions

The 25 best things to do in thailand (bucket list).

You’re looking for the best places to visit in Thailand?

You’re at the right place!

No matter if you prefer to visit cities such as Bangkok , Chiang mai or Chiang Rai , historical sites ( Ayutthaya and Sukhotai) or to relax at the beach ( Phuket , Koh Lanta , Koh Samui islands and more!) , you will find the perfect destinations for your holidays in this article.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 25 best things to do in Thailand , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

And to make thongs even easier for you, I have also written detailed itineraries in Thailand, from 1 week to 1 month . You will find them at the end of this article.

You will see, planning your trip to Thailand will be super easy!

So, where to go in Thailand?

2. Kanchanaburi and the Bridge Over the River Kwai

3. ayutthaya, 5. sukhothai, 6. chiang mai, 7. chiang rai, 8. trek in the northern mountains, 9. mae hong son province, 13. ao nang / railay, 14. koh phi phi, 15. koh lanta, 16. ko yao noi, 17. koh samui, 18. ko pha ngan, 19. the similan islands, 20. the national parks of thailand, 21. pattaya, 22. seeing elephants in thailand, 23. diving in thailand, 24. enjoy a thai massage, 25. discover thai cuisine, bonus: festivals and celebrations in thailand, going to thailand: flight prices, thailand tours, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you, the best places to visit in thailand.

In order to help you plan your stay in Thailand, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
• Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
• Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, + Best Southern islands!
• Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Thailand travel guide with Bangkok, the capital city.

When you will arrive in Bangkok, you will directly be struck by the noises, smells, traffic jams and crowds. In other words, you will be immersed in the atmosphere of this very dynamic city !

If you visit the center or the north during your trip to Thailand , there is a good chance you will land in or leave from Bangkok. Take the opportunity to spend 2 or 3 days there , while you recover from jet lag and adjust to Asia.

Even if opinions are mixed about the biggest Thai city, it remains a must-see for a trip to Thailand.

Here are the Best Places to visit in Bangkok:

• The Royal Palace (or Grand Palace) : an emblematic site, one of the most visited in Bangkok. Inside, you can admire the temple of the Emerald Buddha, a museum and several pavilions with impressive scenery.
• Wat Arun : this Buddhist temple is located along the river, on the other side from the Royal Palace. It includes a central Prang (a tower) 82 meters high, entirely covered with small pieces of colored porcelain and statues.
• Wat Pho is the third most famous temple in Bangkok. There you can see the famous 45 meters long reclining Buddha statue.
• Khao San Road : formerly a backpacker area, Khao San Road is now visited by all categories of tourists. Very lively, there are shops, bars, restaurants and guest houses where you can stay in Bangkok at a low cost.
• The Golden Mount : built on a hill, the temple offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
• Chinatown : the lively and crowded Chinatown district, with many street stands and shops. There, you shouldn’t miss the Wat Traimit, a temple housing the world’s biggest golden statue (5.5 tons!).
• The weekend market in Chatuchak : with its 15,000 stands, this market is the largest in Thailand and even in all of Asia. And as its name suggests, it only opens on weekends. Divided into several parts, you will find absolutely everything there: clothes, souvenirs, shoes, food, jewellery…
• The Siam district features many shopping centers including the MBK Center or Siam Paragon. This is the most famous area for shopping in Bangkok.

If you want more information about Bangkok, you should read my detailed article: The 20 best things to do in Bangkok.

Kanchanaburi is located 130 km northwest of Bangkok .

Even if you have never heard this name, you have probably heard about the Bridge Over the River Kwai, one of the most important tourist and historical site in Thailand. It’s the symbol of the city’s tragic past during the Second World War.

In Kanchanaburi, the Japanese army enslaved thousands of prisoners of war to build more than 400 km of railway line between Thailand and Myanmar. Between disease, brutality and malnutrition, more than 16 000 people have died during the construction.

Of the 688 bridges built by the Japanese army, it was the only steel bridge built in Thailand.

If you are interested in history, you should really visit Kanchanaburi and its main points of interests:

• The railway museum, about the history of “the death railway” and the harsh living conditions of the prisoners
• The Allied Military Cemetery, where the graves of nearly 7,000 soldiers are located
• Jeath War Museum, where you can see letters and personal belongings of prisoners
• World War II Museum and its view over the famous bridge
• And of course don’t forget to cross the bridge itself!

In addition to the Bridge Over the River Kwai, there is another (more cheerful) place to visit in the surroundings of Kanchanaburi: Erawan National Park.

Erawan waterfall , a 7-level waterfall, is the main attraction of the park. There, you can take a dip, walk on a botanical trail along the river and see a few caves.

The Historic City of Ayutthaya is located about 75 km north of Bangkok .

Former capital of the Kingdom of Siam , and for a long time an important economic and commercial centre , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is clearly one of the best places to visit in Thailand!

As Ayutthaya is easily accessible from Bangkok by bus (1h30), train (2 h) or car (45 min), it’s the perfect day trip destination.

In Ayutthaya Historical Park , you can discover dozens of ruined temples spread over fifteen sites. It’s very large, so it will take you about a full day to visit the 6 main temples.

To visit them, you should buy the 220 Bahts pass, it’s the most convenient. However, if you don’t want to visit them all, you can also purchase each ticket separately.

Here are the 6 temples included in the pass:

• Wat Mahathat: one of the most famous, you have maybe already seen the picture of Buddha’s head statue enclosed in the roots of a tree.
• Wat Ratchaburana and its very well preserved Trang (tower)
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet, in my opinion one of the most beautiful in Ayutthaya
• Wat Phra Ram
• Wat Maheyong
• Wat Chai Watthanaram, to see at sunset

To visit Ayutthaya, you can rent bicycles (50 bahts per day), a motorcycle , or take a tuk-tuk tour . If you come by car , you just have to park your car in the car parks located at the entrance of each temple.

As some temples are really far from each other, I don’t recommend walking between the sites.

As several rivers are crossing in Ayutthaya it’s also possible to discover some of the temples by boat. The best time to do this is fore sure at sunset!

You will find every information you need to visit Ayutthaya in my article: How to visit Ayutthaya?

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Thailand around Ayutthaya, you can go to Lopburi , an hour’s drive away.

Lopburi, one of the oldest cities in the country hosts a few ruined temples. However, they aren’t the main attraction there!

Most visitors actually come to see the numerous monkeys who colonized the area . There are literally hundreds of them among the ruins.

The most famous site, both for the monkeys and for its architecture, is Prang Sam Yot

Store your food in your bag and be careful with your hat and sunglasses.

If you want to visit temples during your trip to Thailand, you can also visit Sukhothai .

Sukhothai Historical Park is located in northern Thailand, 400 km from Bangkok, and 280 km from Chiang Mai.

Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai is a former capital of the Siam kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site features several ruined temples spread over 3 areas:

• The central area (entrance at 100 Baht): it’s the most interesting, you will find there the largest and best preserved temples. On foot, allow about 2 hours to visit the temples. You can also rent a bike, but to be honest, it’s not very convenient for such short distances.
• The North zone (entrance to 100 Baht) mainly includes 2 temples, the most famous being a giant 15 meters high sitting Buddha. To get there from the central area, you will need a bike or a car.
• The West zone (entrance at 100 Baht): As the ruins are far from each other, it’s best to visit it by car. But, honestly, apart from Wat Saphan Hin and its Buddha statue located on the top of the hill, there isn’t much to see.

It will take you about 4 hours to visit the 3 areas by car and a full day by bike. It’s really a must see during road trip in Thailand !

You can find detailed information about Sukhotai in my article: How to visit Sukhothai Historical Park?

You want to discover the North of Thailand? Then you should head to Chiang Mai.

As the city has an international airport, you can arrive there directly by plane, usually after a transfer in Bangkok. It’s also possible to reach Chiang Mai by bus or train from Bangkok, and of course by car.

Here are the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Enjoy a walk in the old town, where most temples are located. This includes the famous Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man
• Take a Thai cooking class: the city is the main destination in Thailand for this activity
• Discover the local markets: between Warorot Market, the Night Bazaar and Saturday/Sunday Night Markets, there are enough to keep you busy!
• Go to Huay Lake to eat in bamboo huts by the water. It’s Thai people’s favorite place to go out on weekends
• Head to Doi Suthep Temple , located 10 minutes by car from the city, in Doi Suthep National Park.
• Visit Bhubing Palace and stroll through the flowered gardens of the Royal Family’s winter palace
• Going to an elephant sanctuary (without riding them!).

If you want more details about the best things to do in Chiang Mai, you should read my article: Visit Chiang Mai: The definitive guide .

Chiang Rai is the other major city in northern Thailand .

It’s located 200 km northeast of Chiang Mai and has an airport with daily flights to Bangkok or southern islands such as Phuket or Krabi . You can also reach it by bus or car, but there is no railway station (the nearest one is in Chiang Mai).

What to see in Chiang Rai, Northern Thailand

• The white temple or Wat Rong Khun: this is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why travelers go to this city. The White Temple is known worldwide and I must admit that its reputation is well deserved. It’s truly impressive!
• The blue temple or Wat Rong Suea Ten: as you may have guessed, everything here is blue, from the giant statues at the entrance to the Buddha! A very nice site to visit and the entrance is free.
• The Night Bazaar: this night market is the perfect place to buy all kinds of souvenirs. It’s cheaper than the one in Bangkok and prettier.
• Go to Singha Park to take the classical picture of the great golden lion at the entrance. If you continue down the road, you will arrive at a scenic point overlooking a tea plantation. There is also a farm with animals.
• The Black House Museum or Baandam Museum: a rather unusual place with small houses decorated with crocodile skins and other objects that are quite “dark” and original.
• Khun Korn Waterfall , the largest waterfall in the Chiang Rai area, is easily accessible and can be reached by foot in about 30 minutes from the car park.
• The Huai Pla Kang / the Wat Huai Pla Kank / The big pagoda: a group of 3 gigantic and totally different monuments located in the same place. It’s impressive to see and very pretty.
• The Mae Fah Luang Garden can be found on top of Doi Tung mountain . Stroll through the beautiful flower park and visit the Doi Tung Royal Villa, the residence of the Princess’s Mother.

You will find every information you need to visit Chiang Rai in my article: The 17 best things to do in Chiang Rai .

You should take advantage of your holidays in Northern Thailand to go on a trek . It’s the perfect region for these kinds of activities!

Many tour companies offer treks of various lengths and difficulty levels to explore the mountains and meet the region’s ethnic groups .

You can visit Akha, Karen (a tribe famous for its “women with long necks”, also known as “giraffe women “) or Kahu villages and maybe even sleep in a local house .

These treks are increasingly being organized with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable development (for the most part, at least). The money raised is used to finance health centers or to provide scholarships.

Mae Hong Son is one of the most isolated province in Thailand . It stands on the border with Burma.

Pai, the best-known city in this region, is located 145 km northwest of Chiang Mai. It’s popular with Thai people (who are not afraid to travel all the way from Bangkok!) and tourists.

There are no major tourist attractions there. People simply come to Pai for its unique Hippie and bohemian atmosphere as well as to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding area.

And if you want to go out at night to eat or have a drink, you will find plenty of options to choose from.

Last but not least, Pai is also known for its drug trafficking.

Around Pai , you will find several waterfalls, hot springs, a few temples and Pai Canyon , a famous place to admire the sunset.

Isan, a region located northeast of Bangkok, i s somewhat overlooked by tourists in Thailand . It’s however a great place to visit if you want to get off the beaten track or have already visited Thailand’s more popular tourist areas on a previous trip.

There, you will find Khao Yai National Park , considered as one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This large 2,100 km² area is ideal for hiking and is home to many animals , including tigers, leopards, pythons (a little bit scary, I must admit!) but also gibbons and birds.

The best way to discover Isan is to rent a scooter or a car and go on an adventure through the authentic villages and the magnificent landscapes deserted by tourists.

And while you’re in the region, you shouldn’t miss The city of Nang Rong and its Khmer temples.

Although they aren’t as famous as Angkor temples in Cambodia, they are nevertheless worth a visit.

To admire them, you will need to go to Phanom Rung Historical Park . Built on the top of a volcano, it towers above the surrounding area and is home to several temples.

I can’t write a travel guide about Thailand without mentioning Phuket.

Located in the South of the country, in the Andaman Sea , it’s the largest island in Thailand and definitely one of the most touristic.

In Phuket, all the activities are concentrated on the West side of the island, specifically near Patong.

If you want to go to the bar or to a nightclub, you should head to Bangla Road. In Patong you will also find a very popular beach , as well as many hotels for every budget , from large resorts to small guesthouses.

If you enjoy entertainment and partying , this is the perfect place!

You prefer to relax and enjoy the calm? No problem, there are also quieter beaches on the island, such as Kata beach or Nai Harn beach. However, don’t expect to have the beach all to yourself!

In Phuket, you will also be able to do many activities: rock climbing, kite-surfing, paragliding, inner tubing, four-wheelers, bungie jumping, zip lining, high ropes courses, and scuba diving.

An important tip: always be cautious about the quality of the equipment , and try to inquire about the agency’s reliability. Each year, accidents happen because the safety regulations are not always followed.

In Phuket, you can also visit Phuket Town, a pleasant old town with pretty buildings in Chinese-Portuguese style architecture and a main street lined with cafés and trendy boutiques.

From Phuket , you can also go on day-trips to the neighboring islands , such as James Bond Island or Koh Phi Phi (continue reading for more details).

If you want more info about the best things to do in Phuket, you should read my article: Visit Phuket: the definitive guide .

Krabi is located in front of Phuket , on the other side of the Andaman Sea.

Krabi’s claim to fame is the karst formations that border its coast , as they greatly contribute to the spectacular beauty of the landscape.

Things to do in Krabi, Thailand:

• Tiger Cave Temple or Wat Tham Suea : Climb the 1,237 steps to reach the top and enjoy the stunning view of the area.
• Khao Kanab Nan: These karstic rocks shaped like crab claws are the town’s emblem.
• Wat Kaew , a white temple found in Krabi Town.
• A day trip to the islands – The most popular one is the 4-island tour: Turtle Island, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Mor Island.
• The Night Market, for discovering the local cuisine.
• The Tab Kak Hang Nak Nature Trail hike: Climb for 4 km and then enjoy the view from the summit.
• Emerald Pool: a natural emerald-green pool, perfect to take a dip!
• Khao Phanom Bencha National Park for a stroll in the tropical forest.
• A trip to Koh Phi Phi

Eager to know more about Krabi? All the info you need to plan your stay is in my article: Visit Krabi: the definitive guide.

Ao Nang is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Krabi. If you’d like to go to the beach during your stay in Krabi, it’s the closest spot in the area.

In Ao Nang, you will find long beaches of fine sand and clear turquoise waters. Many cafés, restaurants, and tour agencies can be found on the main street bordering the beach. It’s also where you will find hotels for any budget .

Along with swimming, you will also be able to enjoy many activities: scuba diving, kayaking through the mangrove, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and biking.

From Ao Nang, you can reach Railay , a large peninsula that can only be reached via long-tail boats. It will take you less than 10 minutes to arrive at Railay West Beach.

This beach, surrounded by huge karstic cliffs , is stunning! Right behind the beach, you will find shops, restaurants and hotels.

While visiting Railay, you should also go to Phra Nang Beach. Often listed amongst the most beautiful beaches in the world , it’s truly magnificent, despite being very busy!

Last but not least, Railay is a great destination in Thailand for all rock-climbing lovers. Around 700 paths are available to chose from, with options for both beginners and experts.

The islands of Koh Phi Phi, located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Koh Lanta, are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

These islands are well-known thanks to the movie “The Beach” , featuring Leonardo Di Caprio. The famous Maya Bay Beach on Koh Phi Phi Leh has quickly become the place to see during a tour in Southern Thailand.

Over 8 years, nearly 5,000 visitors walked up and down the beach every day.

As you can probably guess, this mass tourism had disastrous consequences for the local ecosystem and the corals. It got so bad that the Thai authorities had to take action, and thus the beach has been closed to the public since 2018.

But don’t worry, you can still see the beach from the boat during your day-trip!

There are also some very beautiful beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don , the second island. Here again, you can enjoy many activities: water-skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, scuba diving or snorkeling . Rock climbing is also quite popular.

You will have no difficulty finding accommodation on the island, given the ever-increasing number of hotels or youth hostels.

You will also have no problem finding places to go out and party . Koh Phi Phi is very lively and its nightlife is one of the best in Thailand!

However, if you’re looking for peace & quiet, you’d be better off visiting another island in Thailand.

Koh Lanta is another beautiful island to visit during your trip to Thailand.

Located around 70 km to the south of Krabi , in the Andaman Sea, you can easily reach it by boat from Krabi or Phuket.

If you’re looking for a Thai island with dazzling sandy beaches that are not too crowded , it’s an excellent choice. The further away from the port you go, the quieter it gets!

The best way to visit Koh Lanta is to rent a scooter for the day and go explore the beaches. Here are my 3 favorites on the island:

• Khantiang Beach: A very pretty beach topped by the Diamond Cliff bar/restaurant, one of the best places to admire the sunset.
• Khlong Chak Beach: A smaller and more intimate sandy beach.
• Bamboo Beach: A large and wild sandy beach, bordering the jungle. It was practically empty when we were there in January (tourism high-season in Thailand).

From Koh Lanta, you should really take the 4-island tour :

In a day, you will visit Koh Chueak, Koh Waen, Koh Muk and Koh Ngai islands. You will leave with the boat in the morning and stop several times for snorkeling and beach-exploring on the four islands, before returning to Koh Lanta around 16h.

From Koh Lanta, you can also go on a day trip to Koh Rok island . The tours offer several snorkeling stops around the island and some time to enjoy the beach.

You plan to visit Koh Lanta during your trip to Thailand? Then you should read my detailed article: The 15 best things to do in Koh Lanta

Let’s now talk about my favorite island: Ko Yao Noi. I have been really lucky to discover this little paradise during my trip!

It’s a bit less known compared to the other islands I told you about. I had never heard about it before organizing my trip to Thailand and stumbled upon it by chance.

Ko Yao Noi (Don’t confuse it with its neighbour, Ko Yao Yai!) is located just 30 minutes aw ay from Phuket in speed boat.

It’s the perfect island to relax in a bungalow by the seaside during your holidays. The beaches are really nice!

You can easily tour the island on scooter to discover the beaches such as Long Beach or Luild Beach for example.

But you should above all do the boat day excursions to discover the other islands. There are several possible options with different choices of islands to see.

My favorite passed by Monkey Island, Ko Pak Bia, Ko Lao Lading and Ko Hong . The scenery was really stunning, it was for sure one of the best moments of my trip.

Another excursion from Ko Yao Noi takes you to 4 islands + James Bond Island. The scenery is very nice as well, even if James Bond Island is super touristy.

You can find detailed information about Ko Yao Noi in my article: The best things to do in Koh Yao Noi.

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand.

After Phuket, it’s the second largest island .

Koh Samui attracts a wealthy clientele who come to enjoy the beaches and the 5-star hotels and luxury spas. The goal? Relaxation and tanning!

And at the end of the day, the island will come alive: Koh Samui is the perfect place to party all night long!

During the day, you shouldn’t miss the Big Buddha Temple and Na Muang waterfall, 2 major tourist attractions you can discover on a day trip.

Ko Pha Ngan is located next to Ko Samui.

The famous Full Moon Party takes place on this island. Every month, on the night of the full moon, a gigantic party attracting thousands of people is held on Haad Rin beach . Music, dancing, games, and of course free-flowing alcohol are on the menu!

And if you want to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the island , you should rather avoid the full moon party dates.

The Similan Islands are located northwest of Phuket, in the Andaman sea.

This archipelago of 9 islands is a protected zone that makes up the Similan Islands Marine National Park .

It’s the ideal place to go diving in Thailand , the Similan Islands being among the 10 most beautiful sites in the world . The water is particularly crystalline and populated by many fish and corals.

To discover the islands and explore the seabed, the easiest way is to opt for a day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak . The tour includes transfers to the port, breakfast, boat trip, lunch and snorkeling in 3 or 4 different places

And of course you can also do “real” scuba diving with air tanks . Dozens of diving centers offer it.

There are several national parks in Thailand , both lands and sea. They all offer breathtaking landscapes and a perfect opportunity to discover the flora and fauna of the country.

Here is a list of the most beautiful parks to visit in Thailand:

• The Similan Islands National Marine Park that I mentioned above.
• Khao Yai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located east of Bangkok.
• Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai Province. There, you can find the country’s highest mountain, known as “The Roof of Thailand”.
• Erawan National Park and its many waterfalls
• Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park near Ko Samui
• Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani Province, where you can discover one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests
• Doi Suthep National Park , near Chiang Mai

Note that collecting flowers, pebbles, shells or coral as well as feeding fishes is strictly forbidden in all Thai National Parks

It’s also prohibited to use drones.

Pattaya, located less than 200 km away from Bankgok, is Thailand’s main seaside resort .

The city mainly attracts tourists coming to have fun and enjoy the crazy nightlife in gogos-bars or other cabarets featuring shemales . Its reputation is rather sulphurous and prostitution is particularly present.

Here are the 5 best places to visit in Pattaya, Thailand:

• Pattaya Walking Street , the pedestrian street, with its trendy shops and restaurants
• The Sanctuary of Truth , built of wood and adorned with many statues
• The Floating Market
• The Nong Noon Garden , a beautiful botanical garden

In Pattaya, you will also find many shopping centers and several golf courses .

You may have the opportunity to see elephants during your stay in Thailand.

I insist a lot on the word “see”, as I don’t recommend you to ride elephants for a safari . You probably now how these elephants are treated, So I really don’t encourage you to participate.

Please note that an elephant would never naturally agree to carry you on its back, only mistreated elephants do so. So don’t listen to what their owners tell you.

Several sanctuaries around the country recover and take care of abused, beaten or abandoned elephants. You could spend half a day or day, helping the staff to feed or wash them .

In Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park , is one of the most famous for its ethics. Everything is done to ensure the elephants live in an environment as close as possible to wild conditions.

If you go to Thailand to dive and snorkel, you will be delighted. The destination offers some of the most beautiful diving spots in the world.

From all the islands, whether Phuket, Ko Samui or Koh Lanta, you can observe the seabed equipped with masks and snorkels or, for the more adventurous, try scuba diving.

Here are the most famous diving places in Thailand:

• Ko Tao, about 1h30 from Koh Samui. This island is a world famous place to learn scuba diving.
• Similan Islands, west of Phuket and Khao Lak
• Ang Thong National Park, also towards Koh Samui
• The Surin Islands, near the Similan Islands

After a long day spent visiting, nothing beats a good massage to get back on track for the next day!

In Thailand, you will find many massage parlours and most hotels also offer this service.

Foot, leg and back massage, no matter what you prefer, you will have the choice! The great news is that Thai massages are very affordable: prices start from 250 Bahts (about 7-8 euros) for one hour.

Of course, there are also more luxurious versions: 5-star spas are a great place to get a massage in an idyllic setting, in the middle of lush gardens or by the sea.

During your trip to Thailand, you will also have the opportunity to discover local gastronomy

Of course, we have all seen picture of scorpion skewers , grilled crickets or even lively big worms presented on tourist markets. Fortunately, this kind of food is most of the time a tourist attraction and isn’t very representative of Thai cuisine.

There is one thing I will tell you right away: Thailand is one of the best travel destination for food lovers!

During the month I spent there, I tested all kind of street food and restaurants. Although most dishes are quite simple, based on meat + rice or noodles, they are always topped with many vegetables and spices and are very tasty!

So here is a brief overview of the dishes you can enjoy in the country:

• Fried rice, a sautéed rice with vegetables and meat (choice of chicken, pork, beef or sometimes shrimps)
• Pad Thai: generally fried noodles with shrimp, eggs, peanuts and soy sprouts
• Pat See You: large noodles sautéed in soy sauce
• Pat Krapao: with chicken and basil
• Le Lap Mou: minced meat with aromatic herbs, served with rice
• Som Tam, a papaya salad with fish, lemon and chili sauce. Tastes great, but you need to like spicy food!
• Tom Kha Kai: a chicken soup with coconut milk
• Kaeng Phed : a red curry with chicken or pork
• Khao Niao Ma Mouang or sticky rice with coconut milk and mango: a dessert you can find everywhere in Thailand

Now, you know everything about the best places to visit in Thailand.

However, there are also many festivals and events happening throughout the year!

Here is the list of the most famous festivals in the country:

• Songkran: the Thai New Year (in April) is celebrated with giant water battles taking place in the cities.
• Krathong Law: the world famous lantern festival, featuring thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky and rivers. It celebrates the end of the rainy season in November.
• The Flower Festival takes place in Chiang Mai for 3 days in February.
• The international kite festival (in March – All over the country).
• The vegetarian festival: In order to purify themselves, participants will not eat meat for 9 days. The ceremonies are particularly impressive, especially when people in trance pierce their skin with various objects.
• Chinese New Year usually takes place at the beginning of February. Celebrations are being held in Thailand’s major cities.
• Lopburi Monkey Festival, a giant banquet is organized to thank the monkeys for attracting so many tourists. Takes place in November.

And you, what would you like to visit during your trip to Thailand?

Flight prices to Thailand vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them as soon as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner . It’s the best way to pay the best price!

When you get the results, don’t hesitate to check out multiple website to make sure there is no hidden fee.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Thailand by yourself. (All my Thailand travel guides are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Thailand tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Thailand tours by clicking the button below:

Thailand travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 1 comment.

Very nice article to visit Thailand, very documented and very complete! thanks for your patience to elaborate it so well! very helpful for my upcoming trip in Thailand!

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20 Best Places to Visit in Thailand — From the Country's Oldest National Park With Secret Waterfalls to Stunning Islands With Excellent Diving

There's no shortage of beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

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Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

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For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

Tip: Book a room at the Capella Bangkok or Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — two iconic luxury hotels with stunning locations perched on the Chao Phraya River.

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Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

"I would say for anybody, whether it's their first time or a repeat trip to Thailand, if you have been there or you haven't, [you have to visit] Chiang Mai," said Grant Ekelund , Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and senior travel consultant and Asia specialist at InsideAsia. "It's such a neat city. It’s one of those destinations that has something for everyone … Are you a foodie? Do you want to hike? See cool temples? Have amazing trekking opportunities? It can all be done [here], and it slots into any itinerary perfectly."

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene. For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio's character went in search of an island paradise in the film "The Beach," which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

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While we’re on the topic of Koh Phi Phi, we’d be remiss not to mention Krabi province as a whole. Located in southern Thailand, bordering the Andaman Sea, Krabi is home to many of the beautiful beaches and islands that make Thailand famous. 

"I've been booking many [trips to] Krabi lately," said Ekelund. "It ticks a lot of boxes for people. You've got the beauty, cool cliffs, and interesting geology. It has a beach, but it's for people who don't want to simply park it on the sand for 10 days. Krabi offers activities and more." Some highlights include the beach town of Ao Nang, as well as islands like Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lipe, Railay Beach, and several national parks.

Koh Yao Noi

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My first trip to Thailand was to the small island of Koh Yao Noi back in 2013. One of the most beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is flecked off the coast of its sibling island, Koh Yao Yai. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages comprise most of the land here, along with the luxe Six Senses Yao Noi resort tucked along the eastern coast. The property’s infinity pool is legendary for its explosive sunrise views that blur the distinction between the sky and sea.

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Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

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Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. "Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are," said Ekelund. "We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don't have a city built up around it."

Mae Hong Son Loop

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Of all the places I've visited in Thailand, none stick with me as much as the Mae Hong Son Loop. This 300-mile route is most often tackled by travelers on the back of motorbikes looking to brave the mountain switchbacks that descend into the thick jungle and pass from small village to small village. It's not a journey to be taken lightly — motorbike experience is strongly recommended — but those who make the trip are rewarded with spectacular scenery and access to remote communities.

Khao Yai National Park

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Thailand has more than 100 national parks. The oldest is Khao Yai National Park, which also happens to be the country's third-largest. Within the park lies a web of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, and herds of elephants.

"Khao Yai has a lot of bat caves, too, which is one of the coolest things I've ever experienced," said Ekelund. "I stood there for 30 minutes while an unending stream of bats flew over my head. It was all so beautiful. It's a beautiful park with waterfalls, trekking, and hiking. Plus, it's just a couple of hours [by car] from Bangkok."

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Approximately two hours southeast of Chiang Mai is the city of Lampang. Much like many large cities in Thailand, Lampang has its fair share of temples, street food, and markets. But unlike the others, it feels like a place where time has stood still. Just listen for the sound of clip-clopping horse carts, still used for transportation, and you'll understand what I mean. Because of Lampang's integral role in the teak trade, many migrants from Myanmar made this northern city home, and you'll find teak mansions and Burmese-style temples everywhere.

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Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. "I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is," said Ekelund. "It's a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It's a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange."

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No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand's largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

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Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

"It's hard to beat Koh Samui. It's just beautiful," said Ekelund. "If you want easy access without a full resort stay, I recommend Anantara Bophut . You can walk to Fisherman's Village, and you won’t feel like you're 'stuck' at a resort. If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms."

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The tiny island of Koh Tao, located in the Gulf of Thailand and not too far from Koh Samui, is one of the country’s best locations for diving and snorkeling. In fact, most avid divers will tell you that Koh Tao is their destination of choice in Thailand. The palm-fringed island is best known for its abundance of sea turtles.

Kanchanaburi

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Shrouded in thick jungle and sliced by miles of track belonging to what was once known as the “Death Railway,” Kanchanaburi has a dark and tragic history. The infamous train route, which crosses the River Kwai, was built from 1940 to 1943 by prisoners of war taken by the Japanese in World War II. Today, only a small section of the rail route is open and takes travelers on a journey through the mountain cliffs and bamboo forests of Kanchanaburi. "If you're into history, beautiful vistas, trains, and wildlife, you can get all of that in Kanchanaburi. It's a place not many tourists go, either, so it has a lot to offer," said Ekelund.

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Trang is the province directly south of Krabi, which means it has the same beautiful stretch of Andaman Sea coastline, except with a fraction of the crowds. There’s no shortage of islands to explore around Trang, like Koh Kradan and Koh Muk. Koh Muk's crown jewel is the secret Emerald Cave, which can be entered via a dark tunnel that leads to a protected beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

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Located in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak can be thought of as Phuket’s much quieter cousin. Less than two hours from Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is home to miles of sprawling, empty beaches, plus it offers easy access to beautiful national parks.

"I've been hyping Khao Lak quite a bit for people who want something quieter," said Ekelund. "You have easy access to the Phuket International Airport, but it's much more chill than the other Andaman Islands. It has beautiful beaches, good infrastructure, a great spot for dining, and it’s not hard to get to."

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Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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South of Bangkok, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is best known for the glamorous, frenetic beach town of Hua Hin. The province runs down the skinny arm of the country, bordering the Gulf of Thailand on one side and Myanmar on the other. Here’s where you'll find Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park. The park's top attractions include a series of spectacular caves and a sprawling freshwater marsh. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beaches, islands, walking trails, and thick mangrove forests. It’s just an hour from Hua Hin and about 3.5 hours from Bangkok.

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This long, skinny island, also in the province of Krabi, flies under the radar, but it’s one of my favorite places in the country. Koh Lanta is home to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, an amazing spot for diving and seeing undeveloped beaches.

17 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Thailand

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Jan 19, 2024

Thailand is a travel destination that truly has it all. Basking on the palm-lined beaches in Krabi, climbing stupas in Chiang Mai, and eating sizzling street food in Bangkok are just some of the things that make this a bucket list destination.

But before you become overwhelmed with how much Thailand has to see and do, rest assured that the entire country is well-connected via trains and budget airlines. It even has efficient taxis and car services that can take you long distances for a fraction of the prices that it would be in North America or Europe.

If you're researching destinations and things to do on your next tropical vacation, check out our list of the best places to visit in Thailand.

2. Chiang Mai

3. ayutthaya, 4. koh samui, 7. kanchanaburi, 8. sukhothai, 9. chiang rai, 10. kao sam roi yot national park, 11. hua hin, 12. pattaya, 13. khao yai national park, 15. mae sariang, 16. koh lanta, 17. koh tao.

Thailand's capital is a fast, buzzing city of more than eight million people. Known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life , Bangkok is also a great gateway to the country's best temples and palaces. And while it's easy to forget when walking among Bangkok's skyscrapers, the city's heart is on the water-the many canals networking throughout the neighborhoods and the vibrant Chao Phraya River, which you can tour on a long-tail boat cruise.

Gazing up and down at the skyscrapers that line the Chao Phraya River, with the long-tail boats and water taxis sputtering across, is an unforgettable sight. In fact, it's that first view of the river that will really make you feel like you have arrived in Bangkok. Many of the city's most important historical sites can be found near the river, too, from the Grand Palace and Wat Pho to Charoen Krung Road and Khaosan Road .

For those in a shopping mood, Bangkok is home to many shopping centers, including the über-luxurious Siam Paragon and travel-inspired Terminal21, as well as a number of traditional floating markets . For a more unique experience, nothing can beat Chatuchak Market - one of the largest outdoor markets in the world and a labyrinth of over 8000 stalls (be prepared for the inevitable experience of getting lost there), Chatuchak has it all and sells it at local prices.

At the top of the things to do in Bangkok is the Grand Palace , a complex of buildings that include Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the Royal Reception Halls, and Wat Pho, which houses a 46-meter-long reclining Buddha covered in gold leaf. Across the Chao Phraya River, you'll find Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, which is another stunning structure.

Lumpini Park , located in the heart of the city, extends like a green oasis in the concrete jungle that is Bangkok. Often missed by visitors, the park is a great place to see local life-from seniors practicing Thai Chi near the lake (where you can rent boats to paddle away the afternoon) to massive water monitor lizards.

The best street food in Thailand can be found in Bangkok, as well. Stroll down any side street and you're sure to find vendors dishing out delicious local delicacies. Areas like Khaosan Road and Chinatown are great places to start.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok

Shrouded in misty, jungly mountains , Chiang Mai is one of the best destinations in Thailand for travelers looking to see a different side of the country: a city of ancient constructions, thick tropical rainforests, hill trekking, laid-back local energy, and surrounding natural beauty.

A good way to see the wild side of Chiang Mai is to head out to Doi Inthanon National Park , which is part of the Himalayan mountain range and home to remote villages and stunning viewpoints.

Chiang Mai is home to more active Buddhist temples than any other city in Thailand, including the famous Doi Suthep (a favorite viewpoint with impressive views over downtown), Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Just outside of the city, you'll also find a number of hill tribes, including the Meo Hill tribe and the Karen tribe. Organized tours can take you there to learn more about their history and lifestyle and to buy handicrafts tribe members sell to sustain themselves.

While in town, take a walk down San Kamphaeng Road, a 10-kilometer-long road where local crafters congregate to sell everything from celadon pottery and lacquerware to silk products.

Chiang Mai's historic Old City is bordered by channels that are the remains of a moat, and sections of the old city wall can be seen around its perimeter. Within the Old City are some of Chiang Mai's oldest temples, the coolest restaurants, and the best hotels . Near the Old City is also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, home to dozens of shopping and food stalls.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai
• From Bangkok to Chiang Mai: Best Ways to Get There

Located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya was once Thailand's capital — back in the 14 th century, when the kingdom of Siam was at its strongest. For people who love ancient history, Ayutthaya is an absolute must because you can walk among the temples which really feels like you are stepping back in time.

Today, the ruins of the kingdom can be toured while walking the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO site. Home to many prang (reliquary towers), wat, and stucco statues, the park is surrounded by three rivers and deep moats and covers an area of 289 hectares.

Wat Phra Mahathat is perhaps the most famous temple here thanks to a statue of a Buddha's head entwined in tree roots. Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest of the temples in the park, features three large silver-looking Chedis, while Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is best known for its giant reclining Buddha and the hundreds of sitting Buddha statues surrounding the temple, all draped in golden cloth.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ayutthaya
• From Bangkok to Ayutthaya: Best Ways to Get There

Home to some of the best palm-fringed beaches in Thailand and plenty of luxury resorts, Koh Samui has a lot more to offer than sunbathing heaven.

One of the most popular holiday spots in Thailand, Koh Samui is home to mountainous rainforests, postcard-worthy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. There are also plenty of spas and temples to discover here, including the famous Wat Phra Yai and its 12-meter-tall Big Buddha.

Koh Samui's neighboring archipelagos also have much to offer and are just a quick ferry ride away. Koh Tao , a smaller island right off the coast of Koh Samui, is one of the prime scuba diving destinations in Thailand. Ang Thong National Marine Park (which extends over 42 islands in the area) is a protected area, home to many exotic animal species, and a perfect destination for trekking through the thick Thai jungle.

Tip: Don't miss Maenam Beach on Koh Samui. This quiet area along the north coast has a few beachfront restaurants and shops and is much quieter compared to the other towns on Koh Samui closer to the luxury hotels.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Koh Samui
• From Bangkok to Koh Samui: Best Ways to Get There

Situated off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is home to some of the country's most visited beaches and is a popular destination for a beach vacation. Travelers can go to Kata Noi beach for quiet scenery, to Nai Harn Beach to find crystal-clear waters under the shade of palm trees, and to Surin Beach if they're looking for luxury resorts and high-end cuisine overlooking the sea.

The spiritual side of Phuket can be found at the top of Nakkerd Hill , where the 45-meter-tall Big Buddha towers over the island. Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket and home to a stupa said to hold a bone fragment of Buddha.

Phuket Town is worth exploring on foot to discover the Sino-Portuguese buildings that line up Thaland Road and the old shophouses converted into thriving businesses and markets.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island
• From Bangkok to Phuket: Best Ways to Get There

Over 200 islands make up Krabi province, with a significant amount of land now designated as national parks. The region is home to some of the best beaches in Asia . Krabi's coast is also rugged, characterized by vertical steep limestone cliffs that are very popular with climbers. Stunning Railay Beach , in particular, attracts climbers from all over the world, though it's also famous for its caves.

If you're trying to plan out your trip here, plan on a boat ride to the stunning Phi Phi Islands , followed by visits to the mainland destinations of Ao Nang and Klong Muang, plus islands like Koh Yao Noi and Koh Lanta. Each destination in Krabi is tropical and sunny with fabulous beaches but has its own distinct vibe.

The Phi Phi Islands are surrounded by limestone rocks and offer coral-fringed waters and some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. Sailing, kayaking, and bird-watching are popular here. Visitors looking for some land activities can head inland to explore Thung Teao Forest Natural Park , a mostly virgin rainforest with warm-water natural pools and lush rainforests alive with exotic fauna.

• Top-Rated Beaches in Krabi
• From Bangkok to Krabi: Best Ways to Get There

Kanchanaburi is best known for its dark connection to WWII, especially the construction of the bridge over the River Kwai. Infamous for being part of the "Death Railway," the bridge was part of the line meant to connect Thailand with Burma (Myanmar), and it was built using forced labor provided by Allied prisoners of war.

Over 16,000 POWs died during the construction of the railway, including many British soldiers. The Royal Air Force bombed and damaged the bridge extensively during the war-but it was quickly rebuilt and still stands today. Most of the railway line, however, was eventually abandoned or not finished.

Nowadays, it's possible to walk across the bridge on narrow side platforms or take a short train from one side to the other. The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery nearby is the final resting place of the many prisoners of war who died here, while the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre recounts the story of the railway construction and the men who lost their lives for it, using interactive displays and video exhibits.

Two themed museums-the World War II Museum & Art Gallery and the JEATH War Museum -offer more insight into the times, with collections that cover everything from paintings to documents to WWII weapons.

For those with some extra time to explore, Kanchanaburi also offers a lighter side in the form of stunning nature. About 90 minutes north of the bridge are the Erawan Falls , a seven-tier waterfall and emerald green ponds hidden in the thick rainforest.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kanchanaburi

Sukhothai Thani is a small town better known for being home to the Sukhothai Historical Park , a UNESCO site that houses the ruins of the 13 th -century Sukhothai Kingdom. Surrounded by ancient city walls, the park contains 193 ruins in total-a combination of 26 temples, a royal palace, and many stupas and examples of stucco statuary.

The most impressive temple on the grounds is Wat Mahathat , which features nine large stupas (the main one holding relics of the Buddha), a pillared pavilion, and two nine-meter-tall standing Buddha images. Two other ruins you can't miss are Noen Prasat , a former royal palace, and Wat Si Sawai , the oldest temple in the park. Wat Sa Si, located in the middle of a lake and accessible only through a wooden bridge, is one of the most photographed.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sukhothai

Sitting right on the border with Myanmar and Laos, the mountainous city of Chiang Rai is famous for its trekking in Lam Nam Kok National Park , with trails leading to stunning waterfalls such as the 70-meter-tall Khun Kon waterfall , lush forest, and hilltop tribe villages.

As with most Thai cities, temples are a huge attraction in Chiang Rai, with Wat Rong Khun (or White Temple) coming up at the top of the list. Wat Rong Khun is technically no longer a temple but a privately-owned compound redesigned and rebuilt by Chalermchai Kositpipat, one of Thailand's most famous contemporary visual artists. Another popular temple is Wat Tham Pla (also home to a cave and thousands of wild macaques), which can be reached by climbing a staircase flanked by the guardian Naga serpents.

Tiny Wat Phra Kaew , famous for once housing the Emerald Buddha until it was moved to the Grand Palace in Bangkok , and Doi Tang mountain -home to a botanical garden, a former royal residence, and a temple with fantastic views-are also worth a visit.

Khao Sam Roi Yot (which means "mountain of 300 peaks") national park is home to Thailand's largest freshwater marsh, as well as mangrove swamps, scenic beaches, limestone caves, and lots of tropical jungle trails.

There's too much to see and do here for a quick day trip, so plan on staying for a weekend at least if you want to tick several spots off your list. If an overnight stay is in the books, start at the northwest corner of the park, where Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh is located. You'll get to see many species of waterbirds, as well as a magnificent background of blueish mountains. A small campground and some bungalows are nearby if you need a place to stay for the night.

Pine-lined Sam Phraya Beach also has a basic campground plus a restaurant, while Laem Sala Beach is best known for being the access point to Phraya Nakhon , a massive cave with a royal pavilion built inside. Phraya Nakhon can only be reached after a steep, 30-minute uphill walk, but what awaits you inside is definitely worth it. Sai Cave also requires an arduous climb, but offers a viewpoint and a cool respite from the heat in a stalactite and bat-riddled cavern.

Khao Daeng Canal is another great way to explore the mangrove forests and get a closer look at the animals that call it home. You can hire a boat in the Khao Daeng village or ask near the park about finding a ride.

Once just a quiet town best known for being the king's summer retreat , Hua Hin has become a popular beach resort destination. Don't expect perfect turquoise waters or lively beach life here, though this is more of a destination for those visiting with family, or singles who want to sunbathe in peace, away from the crowds.

Overcrowding is definitely an issue on Hua Hin Beach, so you can try nearby Cham Am Beach or Khao Takiab beach , home to Khao Takiab temple and hundreds of wild macaques. Hua Hin is particularly popular in December and January, when European tourists arrive here to escape their own freezing winter.

Just a few kilometers outside the town towards neighboring Cha Am, you'll find the Thai-Victorian style Maruekhathaiyawan Palace , built completely out of teak wood and once the summer retreat of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). For adrenaline-charged water fun, try Black Mountain Water Park or visit The Venezia , a themed shopping center that even offers Gondola rides.

The Pranburi Mangrove Forest and Kaeng Drachan National Park are both within 1.5 hours from Hua Hin-they offer raised wooden boardwalks; waterfalls; and lots of wildlife, including wild elephants.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hua Hin

Once a quiet fishing village, Pattaya is now the closest beach getaway for Bangkokians, less than two hours away. While most visitors come here to escape the buzz of the Thai capital and soak up some sun, there's much more to do in this beachfront town.

Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach) and Koh Samet beach are good places to start your visit-they're full of colorful food stalls, beach umbrellas, and stunning beach resorts. Koh Larn (Coral island) is famous for its glass-bottom boats that offer amazing views of the coral reefs, while Koh Larn Island is the prime destination for active pursuits such as parasailing and windsurfing.

For a quick sightseeing day trip from Pattaya, head to Chanthaburi Sapphire Mine -organized tours will give you a fascinating insight into the mining that's been going on in the area for centuries. Or visit Siam Pattaya , an outdoor park that holds miniature replicas of world-famous monuments, including the Statue of Liberty, Angkor Wat, and the Bridge over the River Kwai.

If you want to see at least one temple while you're here, Wat Phra Yai Temple is the one. Also known as Big Buddha Hill, this wat features an 18-meter-tall golden Buddha overlooking the entire town.

For a fun, relaxed afternoon, try some of Pattaya's museums, including Ripley's Believe It Or Not and the 3D museum , Art in Paradise.

• Read More: From Bangkok to Pattaya: Best Ways to Get There

Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's oldest national park and still one of the most popular because of its large population of wild elephants . Covering an area of just under 2,000 square kilometers, this breathtaking park is home to rainforests, mountains, and grasslands. This variety of terrain means an equally rich fauna, with gibbons, jackals, and even bears calling the park home. Haew Suwat Waterfall , famous for a scene in Leonardo DiCaprio's The Beach movie, can be accessed on foot when hiking the park.

Visitors can take to the trekking and biking trails here, or hire a park ranger to drive them to the usually inaccessible water holes where elephants congregate to drink.

Read More: Exploring Khao Yai National Park: A Visitor's Guide

One of the most popular destinations in the Mae Hong Son province near the border with Myanmar, the small town of Pai has become a favorite among those looking for the slow, more rural side of Thailand. Once known as just a backpacker's paradise, Pai is now attracting hikers and peace lovers as well - or just anybody wanting to explore the less-traveled roads of Thailand at least for a few days.

Pai is surrounded by densely covered hills rolling into green fields, majestic waterfalls, and hiking trails that seem to go on forever. It's all the beauty of the authentic Thai countryside dotted with signs of the western bohemian world - organic food and quirky cafés included. While Pai itself is small, the surroundings will keep you busy. There's the Pai Canyon and its heart-stopping trails to hike, the Tha Pai Hot Springs for a warm bath, and rice terraces as far as the eye can see. You can climb the 353 steps to Wat Phra That Mae Yen for stunning views over the valley, or take a day trip to the massive Tham Lod limestone cave system .

I visited Pai as part of the Mae Hong Son loop, a 600-kilometer mountain loop road that passes through several villages and towns along the way. The loop starts in Chiang Mai and most people who make the journey have Pai in mind as one of the top destinations.

While in Mae Hong Son province, a visit to Mae Sariang is definitely a good idea. Unlike Pai, which is a jam-packed tourist destination, Mae Sariang offers a glimpse into a more traditional and local way of life.

It's a crossroads of travelers on motorbikes completing the famous Mae Hong Son loop, so expect to find many affordable guesthouses and small restaurants. The town is also right next to the Salawin National Park, which is cut by the Salween River.

Surrounded by rolling mountains, Mae Sariang is one of the best places to visit in Thailand in order to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the north. Visit the Morning Market for a real look into daily life. Not far from the market is Wat Jong Soong, a centuries-old temple in town.

Krabi is a large province and is often favored for the Phi Phi Islands or the mainland beach town, Ao Nang. While both are fantastic beach destinations, Krabi is also home to Koh Lanta, a lesser-traveled island that is a hidden paradise of beaches, affordable resorts, and delicious food.

Not far from the Krabi mainland, Koh Lanta is easily accessed from Koh Phi Phi or Phuket by water. The other option is to fly into the Krabi airport and drive, as the island is connected by a bridge to the mainland. Still, once you're on the island, it feels like another world away.

The island is approximately 30 kilometers long and six kilometers wide, meaning it is easy to see the whole island in a day. You'll want to take your time, though, as it has many nooks and crannies to explore. Long Beach is the most famous beach here; it stretches for five kilometers. All along the shorefront are small resorts, bungalows, and charming restaurants. The water here is calm, crystal clear, and has endless views out to shadowy islands in the distance.

At the southern tip of Koh Lanta is part of the Koh Lanta National Park, which actually consists of several islands, though the largest is Koh Lanta. The laid-back island is popular among expats and low-key travelers looking to get a bit off the tourist trail, but still have access to many conveniences.

If you're visiting Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, it's only proper to round it out with Koh Tao. The third island in this archipelago, Koh Tao is by far the smallest but offers so much for travelers looking to kick back and relax.

This pint-sized island is small enough to explore in a day, but once you get there, you likely won't want to leave anytime soon. Koh Tao was put on the map for its unparalleled diving but has been growing in popularity among upscale travelers who are drawn to its burgeoning resort scene.

But by and large, what visitors are coming to Koh Tao for is diving, which is what gives this tiny island its monumental reputation. Submerged beneath the blue-green waters are dynamic reefs, shipwrecks, and mesmerizing rock formations. Wildlife is humming, with eagle rays, whale sharks, barracuda, snapper, grouper, blacktop reef sharks, and so much more.

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Exploring Bangkok: The Thai capital of Bangkok is often the gateway to most destinations in Thailand. If you're landing here first and need tips on what to do while you're here, see our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bangkok .

Exploring Phuket : For ideas on how to make the most of your holiday, check out what there is to see and do in the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island .

More on Thailand

8 of the best places to visit in Thailand

Dec 16, 2023 • 9 min read

Here are the best places to visit in Thailand © Westend61 / Getty Images

When people think of Thailand , they often think of relaxing on a  pristine beach  with a refreshing cold drink in their hand.

Although Thailand is indeed blessed when it comes to diversions of the sandy persuasion, this country of more than 513 sq km (198 sq miles) also boasts virgin forestland, picturesque mountains, lively nightlife, raucous markets and of course, cities with their own unique histories and cultures. Unlike what many would believe, Thailand is a multifaceted destination, appealing to everyone from the hedonistic foodie to the ascetic seeking enlightenment (and everyone in between).

Fly-and-flop aficionados will of course head to a tropical island , as do most first-timers to the country , dazzled by the variety of destinations peppering Thailand’s waters. Likewise, culture vultures are most suited to big cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai , while nature enthusiasts will be best served by combing through the emerald-green mountains of the kingdom’s north and northeast or the jungles along Myanmar’s border. With decent railway infrastructure, buses, ferries, cars for hire and many airports, it's easy to get around : you just need to choose the places to visit in Thailand that best match your interests.

Best city for food and nightlife

Many travelers to Thailand land in Bangkok only to immediately transfer to another destination. Although that is all well and good, they may be missing out on a city that, in spite of welcoming more tourists than any other city in the world in 2023, remains strangely underrated. After all, Bangkok is the perfect launching pad for day trips to the surrounding region , with floating markets and beaches to the south and popular national parks to the north. That makes it a great place to stay for a couple of days at least before heading to another part of Thailand.

With over 10 million residents, Bangkok is a sprawling megacity. But all it really takes to navigate Bangkok is a little advance preparation. The city’s more than 320,000 restaurants serve a wide range of cuisines from Thai to Ethiopian to Latvian, and its more than 500,000 street food vendors ensure that food is available anywhere in Bangkok 24 hours a day. In Bangkok, or Krung Thep Mahanakorn (the “City of Angels”), the world is your oyster … or chicken satay skewer, or bowl of soup noodles.

Bangkok's bars and clubs offer a surprisingly wide range of styles and drinks. Of the establishments on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list , four are in Bangkok. The city also has a penchant for speakeasy-type places, as well as Japanese-style bars (Japanese being one of Bangkok’s biggest expat communities). If a drink is what you’re after, you will not go thirsty – spring for Q&A Bar’s  Pinkish, a twist on the Negroni with rhubarb and grapefruit gin, the potent Old Fashioned jazzed up with turmeric at Vesper , or go classic with a good, crisp martini at Bamboo Bar .

Planning tip:  Bangkok’s bars and clubs are not permitted to be open all night – in fact, most close at the relatively early time of 1am.

2. Chiang Mai

Best City for Temples

The former capital of the Northern Lanna empire, the Chiang Mai area boasts more than 300 temples. Some, like Doi Suthep , are famous for their stunning viewpoints; others, like Wat Suan Dok , serve as the burial grounds for the ashes of Chiang Mai’s former royal family. The charmingly weatherbeaten Wat Chedi Luang , founded in 1385, enjoys a convenient location smack dab in the middle of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh , home of the Lion Buddha, dazzles in the sunlight with its golden stupas. 

But there is plenty to see besides temples. Northern Thai cuisine is unlike any other in Thailand, inspired as it is by Chinese elements and nearly 200 years under Burmese rule. Northern Thais also dress and dance in a distinctive manner, as well as speak their own dialect, called kum mueang. Its many outdoor markets, such as Talat Warorot and Talat Jing Jai, sell food, clothing and knick-knacks that make perfect souvenirs.

Planning tip: Chiang Mai is a great base from which to explore the surrounding mountains, caves and waterfalls, all of which could take at least three days of your trip. From late February to early April, Chiang Mai is usually inundated with smoke from farmers burning land in the mountains to plant their crops. Opt for the Thai “winter” of November to January or the rainy season .

Best island for a blend of cultures

Although it is the biggest island in Thailand,  Phuket hosts an entirely different culture from the rest of the country: a mix of Hokkien Chinese, Thai and Malaysian elements. Hokkien-style fried noodles, o-aew (a jelly made from plant seeds), o-tao (an oyster omelet topped with pork rinds) and moo hong (braised pork belly stew) are all dishes that originated in Phuket and are difficult to find even in the rest of Thailand. Little wonder, then, why Phuket is one of Thailand’s most-visited destinations.

Phuket’s architecture is also unique – evidence of its past when it was ruled by the Portuguese. Sino-Portuguese shophouses, with their distinctive colors, tiles and fusion of both Western and Eastern styles, line the streets of the Old Town and are reminiscent of the shophouses in Penang and Singapore. With its top-tier beaches and Old Town culture, Phuket is perfect for both first-timers and couples and can easily take up a week of your visit.

Planning tip: September to October is Phuket’s rainy season, so try to avoid the island during this time. There are plenty of other great destinations beyond Phuket to consider visiting too.

4. The far north

Best region for hiking

Known as the Golden Triangle, the apex of Thailand’s far north – where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – has served as a destination for die-hard nature lovers for decades. Be it via motorcycle, mountain bike or simply walking, exploring this area yields not only striking natural beauty but also the chance to visit both Laos and Myanmar (if only, typically, for a short period of time). Once known as a major production spot for opium, the Golden Triangle is now where visitors come to cruise along the Mekong against a spectacular background, camp in moderate (for Thailand) weather, or visit an elephant camp (or all three!)

Sleepy Chiang Rai , the former capital of the Lanna dynasty, is only 9km (6 miles) south of the Golden Triangle, making it an ideal spot from which to trawl through the surrounding area. This city holds its own attractions as well, including the world-famous  Wat Rong Khun , or White Temple, and is worth exploring for a day in itself.

Planning tip: It's a 1.5-hour trip from Chiang Rai to the Golden Triangle. Aside from renting a car, you can hire a taxi or take a bus, which should cost around 950 or 400 baht, respectively.

5. The Upper Gulf

Best region for floating markets

The region south of Bangkok is easily reached from the capital, taking up a mere hour or so of driving (depending on traffic). Here is where you will find Thailand’s most famous floating markets, including Damnoen Saduak (at its busiest in the early morning) and Amphawa (more popular with locals and with a more nightlife-y vibe).

The famous Maeklong Railway Market can also be found here, where vendors pull up part of their stalls to allow a train to (slowly) pass six times a day. In Bang Kachao , called "the green lung of Bangkok" for its proximity to the capital, you can hire a bicycle to roll through the wilderness on concrete passageways, passing over canals hiding monitor lizards and reaching the island’s own floating market, Talat Nam Bang Nam Phueng. You can even take a day trip from Bangkok to the beach for sea breezes and fresh seafood ( Pattaya is only 2 hours away by car or bus, after all).

Planning tip: Besides driving, you can take a taxi, bus and train to sites such as Damnoen Saduak and Ampawa, where you can also stay overnight along the water.

6. Khao Yai National Park

Best for wildlife

A 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai has been a popular weekend retreat for nature-loving Bangkokians for decades. As a result, the area around the national park – Thailand’s third largest – is generously studded with houses, hotels, restaurants, shops and even amusement parks. Not surprisingly, it is an ideal place to bring the whole family.

The top attraction, of course, is the 2166 sq km (836 sq miles) that comprise Thailand’s most-visited national park. Blessed with a wealth of hiking trails for everyone from a beginner to an experienced trekker, cooling waterfalls and an impressive range of wildlife, including monkeys, leopards, bears and elephants, Khao Yai can provide hours of entertainment for people of any age. Park rangers can be hired to help spot animals by guiding visitors to the places where you're most likely to see them, or to direct them to the best viewpoints or waterfalls nearby.

Planning tip: You should hire a guide ahead of time if you are going wildlife spotting. A park ranger can be found through the park’s website .

7. Ko Samui

Best island for water sports

If you were to picture the ideal tropical island with soft beaches and turquoise water, chances are you would be picturing Ko Samui . Although not as popular as Phuket, Thailand’s second-largest island still lures more than 2 million visitors a year, making it one of the most-visited islands in the country.

Besides its many charming beaches, Samui also hosts Ang Thong National Park , an archipelago of islands perfect for snorkeling and sea kayaking, Na Muang waterfalls for casual swimming, snorkelers' favorite Silver Beach, and countless spots for scuba diving. On-land attractions are also abundant, including fishing villages, golf courses and a surprising number of wellness retreats.

Planning tip: Samui has a surprisingly long “dry” season from December to August when chances of rain are minimal.

8. Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Best destinations for history buffs

The historic city of Ayutthaya  served as Siam’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries before it was ransacked by the Burmese. The remnants of that city have since been established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect fodder for scrambling and exploring. Bike rentals on the edge of the historical park turn Ayutthaya into an even easier place to navigate, making for a pleasant morning of culture/exercise under a canopy of green leaves.

Sukhothai , Siam’s first capital, was built on a smaller scale and also allows bike rentals, making it an ideal hands-on history lesson for families with smaller children. Also a World Heritage site, Sukhothai’s towers and Buddha statues are less visited than its younger sister down south, making it more pleasant for people who prefer to avoid large crowds.

Planning tip: Ayutthaya can be accessed by river boat, which takes up to an hour from Bangkok (less time than driving there). Get to Sukhothai by plane, train and bus or car. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2023

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27 Amazing Places to Visit in Thailand

From exploring canyons in Pai to partying it up in Bangkok, here’s our list of the absolute best places to visit in Thailand.

Thailand is one of the most popular countries in the world for tourists, and for a very good reason.

There’s just so much to see and do in Thailand that any type of traveller will easily feel at home there, whether they’re looking for parties, adventures, or just casual relaxation. There are so many amazing places to visit in Thailand!

Table of Contents

Khao Sok National Park

Kanchanaburi, khao yai national park, kamphaeng phet, tonsai beach, koh phangan, ang thong national marine park, koh phi phi, phanom rung historical park, mae hong son, the best places to visit in thailand.

The entire country is very welcoming and it’s heaven for all tourists as there are a lot of diverse places to visit in Thailand.

From the cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, to tropical rainforests and ancient temples, to sandy shoes of islands like Ko Samui and Ko Phi Phi, Thailand is just an incredible destination to visit . Here is our list of the best places to visit in Thailand, based on personal experience.

Khao Sok National park is one of the most well-known natural places to visit in Thailand.

One of the best places to visit in Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is located on the mainland in southern Thailand. It’s a large rainforest that was made into a national park in 1980.

Khao Sok National Park is quite sizeable and is home to a wide variety of wildlife such as elephants, porcupines, bears, hornbills, and so much more.

On top of being one of the oldest rainforests in the world and a viable home to some of the world’s largest mammals, Khao Sok National Park is most known for its unique and one-of-a-kind flowers like the Bua Phut.

Khao Sok National Park is very well maintained.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Khao Sok National Park, although there are only two maintained trails.

There are floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake, which are immensely popular, and the million-years-old limestone cavers are a sight to see as well.

READ MORE: Read all about our time at Khao Sok National Park .

Thailand is known for its incredible tropical paradise feel, and while there are a million spots like that in the country, few are as vibrant, charming, and relaxing as Koh Lipe.

Koh Lipe is the southernmost island in Thailand, and it’s sparsely populated in contrast to many of its counterparts.

Unlike many of the other islands in Thailand, Koh Lipe is not too developed.

You will find some of the most Zen and charming white sand beaches in the country, as well as pure and almost untouched nature, which make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

The beautiful beaches with their crystal-clear turquoise waters and very fine white sand are stunning.

Scuba diving, watching sunsets, yoga, observing bioluminescent planktons, hiking, and so much more is possible on the island paradise that is Koh Lipe.

We suggest this eco snorkeling tour when you visit Koh Lipe, one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Anyone who is not sure where to go in Thailand but wants to see something totally unique and chilled vibe should definitely opt for a trip to check out the best things to do in Pai .

It’s a charming little town that’s very close to Chiang Mai – the second largest city in Thailand – and for such a small town, there is a mind-bogglingly large number of activities to explore.

The entire atmosphere of Pai is very calm and relaxing, and it’s considered something like a hippie commune in the middle of Thailand, where backpackers and visitors go to relax.

There is so much to explore and so much to see in Pai.

Some of the popular things to do in Pai are exploring the canyon, Pembok Waterfall, and driving around with a scooter amidst gorgeous nature while some of the friendliest folk you’ll ever meet are surrounding you.

The history of South East Asia is incredibly vibrant, turbulent, and diverse, and it’s filled with tales of old kingdoms in the form of old ruins left behind after their fall.

Ayutthaya, the old capital city of one of those thriving kingdoms, Siam, was sacked and looted after a conflict with Burmese forces.

The ancient city of Ayutthaya used to be one of the most important trading posts in this part of the world, but it was also a centre for arts, culture, and religion, which is what most of the ruins are all about.

Here you’ll find plenty of old temples, whose silhouettes shape the sunset skies, and enormous stupas that evoke a lost feeling of grandeur.

We suggest you book a tour of ancient Ayutthaya to get the most out of your time in the ancient city.

The Historical Park of Ayutthaya is one of the most unique places to visit in Thailand because it looks and feels entirely magical.

As the former capital city of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai is a cultural city that offers plenty of rest and relaxation for those who seek that. It’s also one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand.

It has hundreds of temples and unique streets and shops that make Chiang Mai one of the best places to visit in Thailand all on their own.

Wat Phra Singh is the coolest temple in Chiang Mai. You can get a shared taxi into the hills outside Chiang Mai to explore the gorgeous temple complex of Wat Phra Singh.

However, the real charm of Chiang Mai is the sheer amount of outdoor activities it has to offer. The surrounding nature of Chiang Mai is so pristine and varied that you’ll have a hard time trying to do anything else but have outdoor adventures.

Trekking is something everyone should do while visiting Chiang Mai, especially exploring the many trails in the Mae Tang and Chiang Dao districts.

You can also cycle, which is one of the most recommended things to do here, particularly if you like exploring the more rustic backdrop of Chiang Mai.

A unique way to get the adrenaline flowing in Chiang Mai is by taking the zip-line through the jungle .

There are plenty of other adventurous things to do here in northern Thailand, like rafting, zip-lining, and kayaking, all of which are very streamlined and incredibly easy to start doing.

Other fun things to do in Chiang Mai are see a Thai Boxing match, get a Thai Massage, or try a cooking class. You can get in touch with all aspects of the local culture in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai is easily one of the best places to visit in Thailand!

Don’t miss our epic guide of the top things to do in Chiang Mai.

The town of Kanchanaburi has a long but dark history.

It used to be an important strategic location in World War II, mainly because of the Death Railway Bridge, which was one of the most important things built there in WWII.

Most of the things to see here are concerned with the war, and that’s why there are plenty of important and haunting museums.

To learn firsthand about this history, we suggest that you join a tour to visit the famous River Kwai Bridge and the Death Railway .

However, this city is also considered to be a gateway of sorts into the nearby gorgeous and pristine national parks.

The Erawan National Park is one of them, which is one of the most beautiful things to see in Thailand, as it has a multi-tiered waterfall that’s the perfect spot to visit for any nature lover.

History buffs will also enjoy this region because of the centuries-old ruins, like the Prasat Muang Singh, which used to be an old trading post and town in the 12th century. For history lovers, this is one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

READ MORE: Check out this post about the best things to do in Kanchanaburi !

Chiang Rai is the sister town of Chiang Mai, and even though it’s not considered as popular, it’s still a fantastic destination on its own that deserves a lot more love.

Found in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is close to the borders of Laos and Myanmar.

Chiang Rai is a destination filled with temples and historic buildings, but also spots ideal for trekking and exploring.

You’ll find historic buildings like the White, Black, and Blue temples in Chiang Rai, each with its own vibrant and unique aesthetics.

Join a private tour of Chiang Mai to make the most of your time and enjoy the beauty of these majestic buildings.

One thing that every visitor should do in Chiang Rai is visit the northernmost point of the country, as it’s only a short drive from the city.

It is a signpost marked location that’s found on the border with Myanmar that connects the two countries via a bridge.

Among many other things, the nearby Tree Top Adventure Park is considered one of the best adventure activities in Thailand, where you can find rope bridges and zip lines surrounded by gorgeous scenery. This is a top attraction near Chiang Rai!

READ MORE: Check out these awesome things to do in Chiang Rai .

Khao Yai National Park is the first national park in Thailand and is also one of the largest ones. It’s one of the best places to visit in Thailand for nature lovers.

It’s one of the most biodiverse parts of Thailand where you’ll find wildlife like monkeys, elephants, deer, macaques, and hundreds of other unique species.

Khao Yai National Park is incredibly beautiful too! Filled with stunning waterfalls, natural caves, deep rainforests, and gorgeous scenery, it’s no surprise that Khao Yai National Park is one of the most popular Thailand attractions.

Camping is one of the most popular things to do here, which is why there are plenty of campsites dotted around Khao Yai National Park.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Thailand to escape the crowds and the bustling city like, definitely check out Khao Yai National Park.

Koh Tao, a picturesque island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking an idyllic tropical getaway.

With its white sandy beaches, lush greenery, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Koh Tao offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The island’s captivating beauty and laid-back atmosphere create a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.

Not only does Koh Tao boast some stunning landscapes in Thailand, but it is also the country’s premier destination for learning how to scuba dive.

The calm, warm waters surrounding the island provide excellent visibility and an abundance of vibrant marine life, making it the ideal location for novice divers to gain confidence and master their skills.

Furthermore, Koh Tao is home to numerous professional dive centers offering PADI certification courses at competitive prices, making it the most affordable and accessible place in the country for scuba diving enthusiasts.

In addition to its underwater allure, Koh Tao offers a diverse range of activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and yoga, as well as mouthwatering Thai cuisine and bustling nightlife.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and welcoming atmosphere, Koh Tao truly is a must-visit destination in Thailand.

Check out our guide on the best things to do in Koh Tao !

Bangkok is the single most visited place in Thailand, and it’s an enormous metropolis that offers just about anything for anyone.

It’s considered the pillar of tourism in Thailand, and even though it might often feel like a place filled with tourists, it’s actually perfect for a visit.

Bangkok is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand because there’s an excellent mix of urban and outdoor things to do.

You’ll be able to explore the city properly and subsequently fall in love with Thai culture.

One of our favourite things to do in Bangkok was to tour the floating markets of the Chao Phraya River.

However, having an adventure is also highly recommended, especially if you like adventurous activities like leaping from a plane, wakeboarding at Taco Lake, cycling, trekking, zip-lining, and so much more.

The Grand Palace is also one of the best places to visit in Bangkok. The glittering temple complex of the Grand Palace is absolutely fascinating.

There is no shortage of things to do in Bangkok, and it’s the capital city of the country and truly one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Bangkok .

Down in the far south of Thailand, not too far from the Malaysian border, are some of the most spectacular islands in the Andaman Sea.

From Lipe to Libong, Kradan to Ngai, there’s no shortage of awesome places to explore down here.

One of our favourites though is the picture-perfect island of Koh Mook.

This old-fashioned paradise is the perfect place to use as a base for exploring all the other islands, and there’s plenty to do there to keep you occupied for a few days.

It’s laidback, beautiful, has lots of good spots to stay and some great restaurants. Well worth a visit!

READ MORE: Plan your trip with our guide to the best things to do on Koh Mook .

The quaint town of Kamphaeng Phet is an underrated destination.

In many ways, it’s the opposite of the regular Thailand tourist attractions because it rarely sees many tourists, at least not international ones.

However, this is a town with a wide palette of things to see and do, especially if you’re a fan of history and tradition.

One of the coolest locations is the Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well an archeological dig site that’s dotted with numerous temples and old ruins.

In the historical park, you’re free to wander and explore as much as you like, although make sure not to climb anything that resembles a Buddha statue.

The nearby Phra Ruang Hot Springs are just a pleasure to visit as they’re literally filled with hot water with healing and therapeutic properties.

On top of that, you have a very welcoming local culture, which makes this town one of the best places to go in Thailand.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these things to do in Kamphaeng Phet to your itinerary.

Another one of the best places to visit in Thailand is Koh Lanta. From kayaking to motorbike exploration, the beautiful island of Koh Lanta offers everything.

It’s a totally laidback and charming destination, one that offers a lot more activities than it may initially lead on.

It’s a perfect destination for travellers on all budgets and there’s just so much to see and do.

Because it’s not as visited as many other islands, it’s not as developed, but that gives it a much more relaxed and homely vibe.

The long and empty beaches are ideal for relaxation, and the roads are perfect for driving a motorcycle.

This is a destination that you’ll definitely want to stay for as long as possible, especially in a place like the Crown Lanta Hotel .

The street food is also unbelievably good, and there are also restaurants that serve traditional and unchanged recipes from centuries ago.

From hiking and exploring the stunning and unforgettable Koh Lanta National Park to scuba diving and kayaking through water caves, Koh Lanta is just an ideal traveller’s destination.

Due to it being in a unique position on the west coast of southern Thailand and flanked by limestone cliffs, Ao Nang is practically impossible to develop more than it already is.

However, being slightly underdeveloped is just one of the main draws of Ao Nang because that lends it a very specific atmosphere of adventure.

You’ll be able to explore some of the finest backdrops in Thailand such as jungles and beaches.

Rock climbing is one of the most popular things to do here because of the limestone cliffs, which are natural borders that separate Ao Nang from the rest of Thailand.

You can also go trekking, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, and basically anything that’s involves the outdoors, all the while enjoying one of the hippest and relaxing atmospheres in Thailand.

We definitely recommend that you explore the underwater world by snorkelling or diving while you’re there.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Ao Nang.

If anyone says “paradise” doesn’t exist, they haven’t been to the islands of Thailand.

Postcard-worthy beaches rest underneath limestone cliffs and the shining Southeast Asian sun.

Rich Thai culture complements the beauty of nature, with elaborate temples, crowded night markets, and friendly locals inhabiting the land.

For the best introduction to the stunning scenery and warm culture of Thailand, visit Phuket, the country’s largest island.

At roughly 576 square kilometres, the list of things to do in Phuket is quite long.

For those who want to relax and soak in the sun, you can spend quality time with Phuket’s many beaches and dine out at the island’s best restaurants.

For those who want to experience authentic Thai culture, you can tour the Buddhist temples, take a cooking class or visit a local boxing match.

For those who want to have a little adventure and explore nature, you can go island hopping, swimming in waterfalls, or hiking to a scenic lookout point.

There are so many things to see in Phuket that cater to any sort of traveller.

Phuket’s attractions can suit budget, mid-range, and luxury travel styles, and Phuket also makes a great starting point for venturing out to Thailand’s other islands.

Cheap ferries and boat tours connect Phuket with the other islands in the Andaman Sea, so you can easily base yourself in Phuket and take day trips to the other surrounding islands.

Or, you could conveniently fit Phuket into an island-hopping extravaganza , which we highly recommend!

Either way, Phuket is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Plan your trip to Phuket with our comprehensive guide .

Even though Koh Kood is one of the largest islands in Thailand, it has the feel and atmosphere of a much smaller one.

That’s because the island is barely inhabited, and there aren’t even any towns, just fishing communities.

Its main draws are the beaches and pure relaxation – along with a little snorkelling .

The beaches on Koh Kood are often considered to be the best beaches in Thailand.

There are resorts on the island, but due to its size and number of stunning beaches, you’ll want to explore and get around, which isn’t an ideal situation.

The roads aren’t perfectly maintained, but they’re more than good enough for scooters.

However, the quality of the beaches is so good that it’s entirely worth visiting this island, even with the mild inconvenience of poor roads.

Planning a trip through the many islands of Thailand can seem overwhelming.

There are over a thousand Thai islands and they all have something different to offer.

The big developed islands have lots of accessible tourist attractions, and the small uninhabited islands have raw, untouched natural beauty.

To make your trip-planning easier, visit the bigger islands like Ko Samui that have a diverse range of landscapes and activities and explore them thoroughly.

One of the most rewarding islands to visit is Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket.

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with pristine beaches.

Koh Samui has had a reputation for being quite ritzy and expensive.

There are lots of luxury resorts, fancy hotels and vacation packages on Ko Samui that appeal to the wealthy. But recently the more local, affordable side of Koh Samui is beginning to surface.

Backpacker hostels, street markets, night markets, cheap tours and a long list of attractions are starting to pull more young budget travellers to Koh Samui.

READ MORE: Be sure to add these activities to your Ko Samui itinerary!

Koh Surin is an archipelago that consists of two main islands, Surin North and Surin South, but it’s actually part of a larger national park, called Mu Koh Surin National Park.

The islands of Thailand are often considered some of the best reasons for visiting the country, and if that’s the case, then Koh Surin is the best of the best in the country.

They’re arguably the most biodiverse part of Thailand, and even though they’re known most for their marine life, the land wildlife is just as diverse.

The beauty of Koh Surin is so stunning, it’s almost unbelievable.

From the pristine nature to incredible hidden beaches to perfect camping spots, Koh Surin is a remarkable sight.

It’s absolutely worth a visit, though it’s also worth mentioning that a large portion of the islands are off-limits to everyone.

As one of the oldest cities in Thailand, Lopburi offers a lot of different things for every type of visitor.

There are plenty of attractions in Lopburi, from historic landmarks to natural retreats.

Spots like Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahatat and the old spiritual site, Phra Khan Shrine, are old ruins that perfectly encapsulate what Lopburi was all about.

However, the thing that Lopburi is most known for is the sizeable population of macaques that live freely in the city and are found everywhere.

We’d recommend that you check out the monkey temple when you visit.

Here you can easily find plenty of natural spots, too, like Ang Sub Lek, which is a reservoir outside of town that’s ideal for an afternoon of relaxation.

Southern Thailand is known for its white sand, crystal clear waters, dramatic islands and laid-back lifestyle.

It is also a hub of adventure and activity, such as rock climbing, diving, kayaking, snorkelling, and plenty more.

Tonsai Beach , in the Krabi province, is a small village based in a bay on the Thai mainland, which is only accessible by boat.

We’d recommend you check Tonsai Beach out on this tour , along with several other great beach spots.

Its neighbours, Ao Nang and Railay have long been favourite traveller destinations because of their imposing limestone cliffs, drawing a huge crowd of dedicated rock climbers and BASE jumpers.

Tonsai is the lesser-known of its counterparts, and as a result, is a lot more rustic. But in this lies its beauty, and it is the kind of place you come for a day and stay for a week or longer.

The typical crowd that congregates at the beach are budget-focused, bohemian backpackers.

Rock climbing is the main daytime activity, but for those who prefer to keep both feet on the ground, sea kayaking, slacklining, hiking and exploring tend to chew up the hours.

In the evenings, the art of fire dancing takes over the scene, and all up and down the beach, the hypnotising views of twirling flames is dominant.

Reggae music drifts from all the bars, and exhausted adventurers lounge on the cushions, in a slight conversation between intermittent naps.

The haze of “herbal smoke” floats in the air, and everyone is happy and relaxed.

The little market town of Sukhothai might appear uninteresting and unremarkable at first but it’s actually an important spot of old historical ruins: Sukhothai Historical Park.

This town used to be a kingdom in the 13 th century, which is considered to be the golden age of Thailand, and the Sukhothai Kingdom was one of the most prosperous of the time.

Today, the town has a quaint and charming feel, but it’s entirely worth visiting to explore the ruins of the old quarters.

The town is one of the best places to visit in Thailand, and the best way to explore is by taking a bike tour .

The Sukhothai Historical Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s one of the most impressive ones in Thailand. It’s worth coming here to see Sukhothai Historical Park alone!

This is one of the quietest and most relaxing islands in Thailand, even though it used to be one of the main party spots in the country a few decades ago.

However, developments of other islands led Koh Phangan to be slightly sidetracked, leaving its developments at a slow pace.

That’s not a bad thing, however, because that means the island today is just the ideal place for those that want to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern Thailand.

The beaches are absolutely stunning and are arguably the main draw of the island.

You may also enroll in cooking classes, go boating, or just relax in a pub while you’re watching the sunset.

We’d recommend you spend some time on the water enjoying the beauty of island life.

READ MORE: Check out all of the great things to do on Koh Phangan !

Located in the south of Thailand, home to towering limestone karsts and white sand beaches is the stunning Trang province.

For those looking to get off the beaten path in one of the world’s most touristed nations, Trang offers a multitude of incredible attractions and activities without the crowds.

The main hub in the province is Trang City, an interesting town filled with delicious street food, curious artwork, and heavy Chinese influence.

Most people that come through Trang City use it as a launching point to get out to the nearby islands of Koh Mook, Koh Kradan, and Koh Ngai.

And while those islands are indeed gorgeous, it’s worth spending at least one day here to experience an authentic Thai city that hasn’t been spoilt by tourism.

Split into two sections, Trang City and Trang Old Town, you’ll find an eclectic culture where Buddhists, Catholics, and Muslims live in harmony, celebrating life and food with pride.

Locals are proud of their heritage and feel a distinct connection with the nearby sea.

Dugongs live in the Andaman Sea right next to Trang, and residents happily display their fondness of these captivating creatures through paintings, statues and monuments all around the city.

What really sets Trang apart from the rest of the country though is its unique cuisine. Thais from all around the nation visit Trang on holiday purely to sample their delicious versions of seafood, dim sums, and pastries.

It’s a truly wonderful place, and well worth a stopover when looking for unique places to visit in Thailand.

Be sure to add these great things to do in Trang to your itinerary!

As one of the most beautiful destinations in Thailand, Ang Thong National Marine Park is just a joy to explore.

It’s not only gorgeous and scenic but it’s also filled with mystery as it is believed to be the place where sea gypsies live.

This archipelago, specifically Emerald Lake, was also featured in the movie The Beach.

There are over 40 islands that are part of Ang Thong, each more beautiful than the last. Book a boat tour to visit the national marine park and see the best of the islands while you’re here.

You can explore to your heart’s content some of the most diverse marine life in Thailand here.

Ko Samui is the most popular place to book tours here. But in addition to Ko Samui, you can book a tour from Koh Pha Nhan or Koh Tao.

The islands of Koh Phi Phi are very popular among tourists in Thailand, but with good reason.

The natural scenery here is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Everything you’d expect to see on a postcard from a tropical island paradise, like soft white sand, brilliant turquoise water, and lush green palm forests, you can find all over the Phi Phi Islands.

Koh Phi Phi is actually an archipelago of six different islands.

The only inhabited island is Ko Phi Phi Don. This is the biggest island out of the six and it is still no bigger than 10 square kilometres.

Travellers can only stay on Ko Phi Phi Don, and there are tons of hostels, resorts, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions.

The island is so small that you can walk everywhere, and you can visit the other islands by kayak, long tail boat, or speed boat.

Koh Phi Phi Leh is the second largest island and is home to great snorkelling sites and picturesque beaches and lagoons.

We’d recommend you check out this snorkelling eco tour when you visit Koh Phi Phi.

READ MORE: Plan to do these exciting things whilst visiting Ko Phi Phi

Even though Buddhism is the most represented religion in Thailand, Phanom Rung is a Hindu temple that has persisted over the region that was first ruled by the Khmer.

While this temple isn’t quite on the same level as the magnificent Angkor Wat, it’s still a stunning and unique temple as it is the only Khmer temple that’s built on an extinct volcano.

The surroundings around the temple are breathtaking; however, the real star of the show is its sanctuaries.

From the top sanctuary, you have a great view of the rest of the region.

The Phanom Rung Festival is something that every visitor should strive to attend, as it happens only in April.

It is a gorgeous parade of traditional sounds and sights, as well as dances and even fireworks.

As a decidedly provincial town with obvious Burmese influences, Mae Hong Son is ideal for those that don’t really know what to do in Thailand but prefer to have a relaxing and calm time.

This town in northern Thailand is relatively small, and at times, it hardly looks like a normal Thai town.

Unlike the rest of Thailand, Mae Hong Son has a mostly different culture, where it has far fewer tourists as it focuses more on domestic tourism rather than international.

Most of the visitors are Thai, which is why there is almost no party culture in this town, but rather calm and quiet activities for those that want to get away from other places in Thailand full of tourists.

On the other hand, trekking in Mae Hong Son is definitely one of the best things to do in Thailand as the terrain and landscape are so perfect that you’ll never want to leave.

Want a real adventure? Check out the Mae Hong Son Loop – the best motorcycle adventure in the country.

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About the Author - Alesha and Jarryd

Hey! We are Alesha and Jarryd, the award-winning writers and professional photographers behind this blog. We have been travelling the world together since 2008, with a passion for adventure travel and sustainable tourism. Through our stories and images we promote exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations and fascinating cultures as we go. As one of the world's leading travel journalists, our content and adventures have been featured by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, CNN, BBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Washington Post, Yahoo!, BuzzFeed, Channel 7, Channel 10, ABC, The Guardian, and plenty other publications. Follow our journey in real time on Facebook , YouTube and Instagram .

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