places to visit in central thailand

Central Thailand

Kanchanaburi

Nakhon Pathom

Prachuap Khiri Khan

The central region of Thailand is the area which contains and surrounds the national capitol of Bangkok . The area contains many places of historical interest and natural beauty. Everything from the old capital of Ayutthaya , to the world war II "death railway" to beach resorts can be found within a two hour drive from Bangkok. Traditionally the central region has extended all the way east to the Cambodian border, but due to recent development of places such as Pattaya , the East coast is now considered a whole region on its own.

We've highlighted the major tourist places on this page, along with articles from Chieng Fa and other resources. Although most of these places are easily reached within a few hours from Bangkok they also make great stopping places for leisurely travel further up country.

Major Attractions

Here's what you'll find when you venture outside of Bangkok, arranged by province.

Nakorn Pathom

About 80 miles south of Bangkok, this beach town has a lot to recommend it. Its almost the complete opposite of Pattaya, which is about the same distance in the opposite direction from Bangkok.

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Where to Travel in Central Thailand

Thailand » Central Thailand

Aside from Bangkok, central Thailand misses out on much of the tourism brochure love that’s afforded to both the south and the north. Sometimes that’s understandable – this is largely rice cultivation country , and it’s not as tightly packed with winning tourist attractions as other parts of Thailand – but that’s not to say there aren’t still heaps of gems worth tracking down. Planning on spending some time in central Thailand? Here’s where we recommend you visit.

Make the most of your visit to Thailand with a nighttime tour of Bangkok – get to the heart of the city’s culture, food, and sightseeing with one of our expert-led evening tuk tuk tours!

Nakhon Pathom

Just on the outskirts of the Thai capital, Nakhon Pathom is a generally under-visited destination, but it does hold its share of low-key attractions. Having said that, its star attraction – Phra Pathom Chedi – is nevertheless grandiose in size, holding the record as it does for the world’s tallest Buddhist stupa, and equally as one of the Buddhist sites in Southeast Asia that dates back the furthest.

Equally impressive is Phuttamonthon , among the tallest standing Buddha statues in the world. While you’re in Nakhon Pathom, you might also choose to visit local-feeling Lamphaya floating market – one of our favourite floating markets in the reachable vicinity of Bangkok – and the early-20th-century Sanam Chandra Palace and the park of the same name.

Lopburi is as famous for its monkeys as it is anything else. Easily reached by train or road from Bangkok, the city is home to Buddhist temples like Wat Phra Si Mahathat , but it’s at the shrine-like Phra Prang Sam Yot monument – built in the era of the Angkor empire , of which Lopburi was an important centre – that the famous monkeys are most well known to congregate.

They are fed and looked after by the city’s officials, such is their value in attracting tourists, but you’ll want to keep a close eye on your belongings at all times (keep your bag closed, food and drink out of sight, and your camera and other possessions on a close leash), since it’s no overstatement to say that the creatures get everywhere in this town – hanging from stupas, scuttling across telephone cables, and generally getting in the way and making a nuisance of themselves.

There’s even an annual festival in their honour, in which they are fed a huge fit-for-humans buffet spread as a way to thank them for their services to Lopburi’s tourism scene.

Kanchanaburi

Just a couple of hours from Bangkok by road, or a train journey from the capital’s Thonburi station that later becomes the scenic route to the Death Railway’s terminus at Nam Tok, Kanchanaburi is one of central Thailand’s more popular spots . The provincial capital is famed for its mix of World War Two cemeteries and other memorial sites, natural attractions, and a popular and relatively hedonistic nightlife scene (for these parts, at least) that’s primarily set along Maenam Kwai Road, which itself leads to the infamous Bridge Over the River Kwai .

This is also one of the most affordable parts of Thailand in which to travel – no more so than at the likes of the 10 Baht Bar on Maenam Kwai Road, where just a single 10-baht coin will get you a shot of one of the bar’s cheapest whiskies (among them the amusingly named Black Cock) with a mixer. Other bars and restaurants line the strip, and Kanchanaburi is also a popular place to participate in a cooking class .

Elsewhere, highlights – many of them the stuff of Thailand’s tourist literature – include the seven-tiered Erawan waterfall within the national park of the same name, moving cemeteries containing the graves of WW2 soldiers, a ride on the picturesque Death Railway laid by prisoners of war, and Hellfire Pass , a harrowing outdoor museum at the site of the part of the railway that was most difficult to lay and caused the deaths of the POWs involved in its construction.

Those keen on getting off the beaten track also shouldn’t leave Kanchanaburi province without seeing the outpost border town of Sangkhlaburi (see below).

Sangkhlaburi

Little-known Sangkhlaburi – just a short distance from Thailand’s border with Myanmar, in the outer reaches of Kanchanaburi province – is our kind of place: quiet, low-key, and local-feeling, yet supremely beautiful and brimming with things to do and see. Take a walk across the famous wooden bridge (the longest handmade wooden bridge in the country), across the manmade Vajiralongkorn Lake and connecting modern-day Sangkhlaburi’s main town with the village of predominantly Mon settlers from neighbouring Myanmar.

Make the trip across the bridge in the early morning in order to catch the spectacular local fresh market on the Mon side, where you’ll find delicious produce and snacks that you’ll likely not spot anywhere else in Thailand. Visit the sparkling, geometric-patterned Wat Wang Wiwekaram temple, and take a kayak or longtail boat out to see the remains of old Sangkhlaburi town , which sits beneath the lake having been deliberately sunk to create a dam. When the tide is at its highest, only a small white stupa can be seen protruding from Wat Samprasob temple, but when the water is lower you can see more of the structures or even get out and have a wander around what’s left.

Back on terra firma, make time for coffee at one of the town’s many cute cafés , and to simply soak up the town’s laidback vibe, where at times you’re just about as likely to meet a chicken crossing the road as you are a fellow traveller.

Close enough to Bangkok to make a visit in a day (and especially affordable if coming by train), Ayutthaya is famous for its temples – such as Wat Mahathat , where a Buddha head is photogenically and fascinatingly entwined in the roots of a banyan tree.

Ayutthaya makes for a great city to cycle around as you explore the various runs from the period when this was the capital of Thailand (then Siam) – other temples especially worth checking out include Wat Yai Chai Mongkon , Wat Phra Si Sanphet , and Wat Ratchaburana . Ayutthaya also has a particular reputation for its super-sized grilled river prawns , which are well worth seeking out.

Thailand’s smallest province is perhaps most often visited by tourists headed to Amphawa floating market . While we’re big fans of Amphawa, it’s a shame that most get to see little else of the province, which variously goes by the names Mae Klong and Samut Songkhram – although the increasing level of publicity afforded to the city centre’s Talat Lom Hup ‘railway market’ (literally ‘umbrella market’, for the way vendors have to pull in their wares and their awnings every time a train from Mahachai passes right through the middle of the trading space) means that many floating market day tours also now make a stop here.

Indeed, coming by train from Bangkok’s Wongwian Yai station (changing trains at Mahachai, which also involves a ferry hop across the Tha Chin river) is our favourite way to get to and see Mae Klong. Once you’re here, other highlights worth making time for include Wat Bang Kung , a Wat-Mahathat-style sight (see above) where not just a Buddha image but an entire temple has been totally swallowed up in the roots and branches of a banyan tree.

Be sure to hunt down Tha Kha floating market , too – much lower-key than Amphawa, and infinitely more pleasant to visit than neighbouring Ratchaburi’s Damnoen Saduak (of which we’re not particularly fond), it’s one of the few truly authentic floating market experiences still around.

Expique tours and experiences to make the most of your stay in Thailand

At Expique, we’re experts at showing you the unique parts of Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand that most tours don’t take you to – and which you probably won’t discover on your own. Joining one of our tours or experiences (or having us create a custom tour for you) is a great way to make the most of your time in Thailand and ensure you leave with a memorable experience.

• See the beauty of Bangkok by dark on our signature Bangkok Night Lights tuk tuk tour
• Discover local food and sights on our Evening Food and Tuk Tuk Adventure
• Explore Thai culture, history and food on one of our Walks of Bangkok walking tours
• Learn Thai art, cooking and more at our Market Experience workshops in the flower market
• Bring the kids to explore Bangkok’s waterways on our Family Canal and Tuk Tuk Adventure
• Let us customise an itinerary for special occasions, corporate trips or team-building events

Essential information for your visit to Thailand

Are you visiting Thailand? Take a look at our expert recommendations for:

• Unique hotels and places to stay in Bangkok
• Affordable, design-led hostels in Bangkok
• How to get around Bangkok like a local
• The ultimate guide to Bangkok’s best street food
• Authentic floating markets in and around Bangkok
• What to see and do in Bangkok’s old town
• Thailand’s most awesome national parks

Where are your favourite destinations in central Thailand? Let us know in the comments!

Photos by redlegsfan21; Adam Baker; Eli Duke; Chris Wotton

Want to explore more of Thailand? Contact us  about arranging to come on a custom-curated adventure with Expique.

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Top Places to Visit in Central Thailand

Central Thailand offers a travel experience far removed from that of the country’s southern shores. Here there are no beaches and no indulgent resorts packed with tourists, but instead, fantastic floating markets, pristine jungle, and a relaxed way of life.

With street food everywhere serving some of the best foods in Thailand , towering lime stone hills rising in the distance, gorgeous jungle, cultured towns and multi-coloured tuk tuks (three wheeled taxis) plying for your trade, this is the place to be.

And the good news is that it’s a lot cheaper than the south! Rooms in out of the way towns can cost as little as £3 a night. Sure they’ll be basic, but not lacking in comfort.

So following on with our region by region guide to South East Asia , this week we’ll be focusing on the temples, natural adventures and lifestyle in the provinces around Bangkok.

1. World War II History on the Infamous River

Only two hours drive west out of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a fantastic town where isolated lime stone cliffs merge with huge Buddha statues on the banks of the River Kwai. Lose yourself in World War II history and walk over the reconstructed Bridge on the River Kwai, immortalised forever by Pierre Boulle’s novel and David Lean’s film. Stare down into the muddy waters and visit the obscure Jeath war museum next door, where vintage guns, cars, and war pictures line the sweaty rooms.

Rent a scooter and drive past jungle where monkeys play on the road, or take an organised tour to Hellfire Pass. This stunning white washed museum in the middle of the rural province is dedicated to the Asian and Allied prisoners of war who lived and died while trying to build the Burma Death Railway for the Japanese.

Named because of the sea of flame lanterns that lit the night sky while the prisoners worked, this sobering experience allows you to walk the four kilometres of engorged rock where lizards and butterflies now live. Just be prepared to be quite shocked when the well-spoken British narrator’s voice starts talking from the museum’s speakers! Ride the railway back into town – rickety tracks through beautiful jungle.

Most guesthouses can organise tours taking in the bridge and pass and extremely fun bamboo rafting trips along tranquil rivers.

Check out the baby rabbits for sale in the night market, alongside street vendors serving barbequed freshwater fish. The Kanchanaburi strip is full of restaurants and bars, some playing music well into the night. Buddha Bar serves cool Chang beer on straw mats with a very chatty owner!

The best Pad Thai (Thai noodles) is served on the street, and if your stomach can handle it, try the fiery Papaya salad.

3. Experience the Ancient World of Ayutthaya

Just north of Bangkok is the ancient Siamese capital Ayutthaya. Tourist minibuses travel here from all over the central regions, but the most atmospheric way is to ride the 3rd class train for 15 baht (30p!).

Chat to the locals before arriving in the old station, where hordes of street vendors sell fruit, meat, and noodles all day. While renting a tuk tuk to explore the ancient town is fun, it’s worth hiring a cheap bicycle to explore at your own leisure. Just watch out for the huge Asian elephants walking through the complex!

The conical, 14th century temples are surrounded by landscaped gardens and beautiful moats, where fishermen try their luck in the teeming waters. Watch the old women worshipping at the 60 foot high Buddha, and feed the thousands of catfish climbing over each other in the old capital’s huge moat.

Make sure you organise an early morning boat trip where weedy fronds wave in the morning chop, and book a night time taxi ride to see the huge reclining Buddha lit up in all its glory. All the guesthouses are on Nareasuan Road, and the best has to be Tony’s Place – with its ancient art and rocking social scene.

4. Monkey Madness in Lopburi

For a unique Thai experience away from the tourist trail, Lopburi is a fantastic place. Here ancient Khmer (Cambodian) and Hindu ruins date back over 1000 years.

Expect crumbling temples shooting into the sky forgotten by time, with wild foliage growing around. But the most attractive aspect of this fantastic place has to be the troupe of Macaques which are….everywhere! Try and hide your hat or bag because they will try and grab it, but chuckle at them sipping the dregs out of soft drink cans!

Although only two hours from Bangkok, few visitors travel here, thus giving a true picture of provincial Thai life not dressed up for the cameras. Expect noisy scooters, street vendors plying their trade, and modern day high rises amid the ancient wonders.

Noom Guesthouse is a funky collection of 18 bamboo bungalows only three minutes away from the historical ruins. Rooms start at £3 a night, while the onsite restaurant serves western and Thai cuisine. The guesthouse also rents out scooters and offers caving, trekking, and rock climbing trips.

With historic ruins, World War II nostalgia, fantastic food, and a very friendly population, central Thailand is a perfect introduction to this incredible country. You might also like to view our guide to the most beautiful Thai islands or top places to see in the north of Thailand .

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What To See And Do In Central Thailand

Often bypassed by tourists rushing to the mountains in the north or the beaches in the south, central thailand is the country’s cultural heartland. fed by the chao phraya river, the fertile plain north of bangkok births much of the nation’s rice crop while towns such as ayuthaya and sukhothai were formerly capitals of once-mighty thai kingdoms. steeped in colorful history, the majestic ruins at both towns reward exploration by bike or by foot. other highlights include the beach town of hua hin..

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Central Thailand travel guide

When Bangkok overwhelms, easy escapes within a few hours' drive from the city provide welcome relief. The flat fertile Central Plains, known as the country's Rice Bowl, contain the ruins of former kingdoms that ruled these lands from as long ago as the 6th century AD. 

West of Bangkok

Here you will find attractions like the Rose Garden, with its tourist-geared cultural shows, and its close neighbour, Samphran Elephant Ground. Beyond the Rose Garden lies Nakhon Pathom with its colossal golden Phra Pathom Chedi and assortment of palaces, where many a Thai royal used to rest on journeys to places further afield. Southeast of Nakhon Pathom, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market ranks as a must-see on every first-time Bangkok visitor’s list.

Even further west is Kanchanaburi , site of the legendary World War II bridge across the Kwai River. The surrounding area is an outdoor adventure playground with endless possibilities for river rafting and trekking. West of Kanchanaburi are the ancient Khmer ruins at Prasart Muang Singh, while due north are the rainforests at Erawan and Sai Yok national parks.

North of Bangkok

Some 60km (37 miles) north of Bangkok is Bang Pa-In , a good stop on the way further north to the ancient city of Ayutthaya . The latter is a grand repository for faded ruins, dating to the 14th century when it functioned as Thailand’s capital. Some say the best part about Ayutthaya is getting there – on a teakwood barge winding up the sinuous Chao Phraya River. Still further north is Lopburi, the old summer retreat of the Ayutthayan kings.

Places to visit in Central Thailand Ayutthaya

The old Thai capital, Ayutthaya, 20km (12.5 miles) north of Bang Pa-In, is a Unesco World Heritage Site containing the ruins of buildings destroyed in 1767 by the invading Burmese army. Read more...

• Kanchanaburi

The sleepy, provincial town of Kanchanaburi has achieved wide-spread fame for its infamous railway, which was built during World War II by Allied POWs and Asian labourers under the watch of the Japanese. Read more...

Phra Pathom Chedi

Nakhon Pathom town, 56km (35 miles) west of Bangkok

The town of Nakhon Pathom is known for the colossal Phra Pathom Chedi. (A chedi is the bell-shaped part of the temple containing the relics of the Buddha. Cambodian-style spires called prang are a variation of the chedi ). Measuring 130 metres (420ft) tall, this golden landmark is claimed as the tallest Buddhist monument in the world, and possibly the oldest Buddhist site in the country, dating back to the year 3 BC. The original small Sri Lankan-style chedi was erected to commemorate the arrival of Indian Buddhist missionaries who supposedly brought Buddhism to Thailand via Burma that year.

In the early 11th century the Khmers invaded from Angkor, overrunning the city and replacing the original chedi with a more Brahman-style prang . Then, in 1057, King Anawrahta of Burma besieged the town, leaving the religious edifice in ruins. When King Mongkut (Rama IV) visited the old chedi in 1853, he was so impressed by its historical significance that he ordered the restoration of the temple. A new chedi was built, covering the older one; the present structure was completed by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

Set in a huge square park, the massive chedi rests upon a circular terrace and is surrounded by trees associated with the Buddha’s life.

www.palaces.thai.net

This is an eclectic collection of palaces and pavilions once used as a royal summer retreat. Most people make a stop here before continuing another 25km (16 miles) north to Ayutthaya. The palace buildings date from the late 19th- and early 20th-century reigns of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), who came here to escape the mid-year rains in Bangkok. Following the wishes of Chulalongkorn, the buildings that are dotted around the manicured grounds feature Italian Baroque, European Gothic, Victorian and Chinese architectural styles. Only part of the royal quarters is open to public view, but it provides a glimpse into Chulalongkorn’s penchant for European furniture and decor.

Buildings of note include the two-storey, Chinese-style Wehat Chamrun Palace  and the red-and-yellow Withun Thatsana observation tower situated on a nearby islet, as well as the Italianate Warophat Phiman Hall . The 1876 Thai-style pavilion in the middle of the lake adjacent to the main entrance, called the Aisawan Thipphaya-at , is regarded as one of the finest examples of Thai architecture.

Across the river and slightly south of the palace, Wat Niwet Thamma prawat is surmounted by a spire and as a result looks more like a Gothic Christian church than a Buddhist temple. The pleasant gardens are embellished with canals, fountains, bridges and quirky elephant-shaped hedges.

Damnoen Saduak floating market

West fo Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak floating market, in Ratchaburi Province. An early morning departure is necessary if you want to beat the tour buses from Bangkok that flock to this famous floating market by 10am.

While it is possible to walk along the bankside lined with souvenir stands, it’s advisable to hire a longtail boat to get a better sense of the water-bound commercial bustle. Be prepared to be caught up in a tourist jumble: this 100-year-old market is little more than a tourist sideshow today, with visitors clamouring to snap pictures of the colourful fruit- and vegetable-laden wooden vessels, paddled by sun-beaten women wearing wide-brimmed straw hats.

If you’ve hired your own longtail boat, it might be worthwhile asking the boatman to take you deeper into the canals where you can get a better glimpse of the lives of the canal-side communities.

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Places to visit in Central thailand

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The Best 9 Cultural Attractions in Central Thailand

Where to Go, What to See, and What to Do

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries – Aldous Huxley 1894 – 1963

Don’t make the mistake of overlooking the central plains of Thailand as the foundations of Thai society and culture are best uncovered here!

We’ve put together a list of the most incredible locations and attractions in Central Thailand. We’ve tried to keep those places closer to Bangkok at the top of the list and those further away towards the bottom. There are links to all the places mentioned to help you further with your planning needs!

Ayutthaya (North of BKK) City Ruins, Temples & more!

Central Thailand is probably best associated with the ancient ruins of  Ayutthaya , which nestles on an inland island surrounded by the three rivers of the Chao Phraya, the Lop Buri, and the Pasak. Four centuries ago and thirty-three kings later, the ruins are colossal and eternally impressive.

As the palaces and temples were constructed, so too were a fine network of canals and streets. The entire island was then enclosed with a fortified wall twelve kilometres (seven miles) in length.

A population of one million lived in the complex, which was also home to over 400 temples. Many of the temples were decorated with gold obtained from trade relations with the Japanese, Portuguese, Dutch, French and British thus allowing the city to prosper remarkable by the 15th-century.

Location: Ayutthaya ( map ) is situated some 85 kilometres (55 miles) North of Bangkok, which one can reach either by road or with ease, journey up the Mae Nam Chao Phraya River on one of the deluxe boats. A combination of both can be achieved by taking any number of tours available.

Wat Ratchaburana (Ayuthaya City) ~4.6 Stars

Wat Ratchaburana  ( map ) is a temple complex in Ayutthaya, situated across the road to the north of Wat Mahathat. It was built between 1424 and 1448 by King Borommaracha II in remembrance of his two elder brothers who fought for supreme power over the kingdom, yet somehow they managed to kill each other. It’s one of the finest architectural wonders of the region.

Renovations to the site were carried out in 1958 which resulted in the findings of a crypt that contained valuable Buddha images, traces of mural paintings, and golden jewelry, all of which can now be viewed at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum. The grounds are open daily from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Sukhothai Heritage Park (North East of BKK) ~4.7 Stars

Sukhothai Historical Park  is an impressive historical site in Central Thailand which can be seen from inside the walls of the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai. Fortunately, much of this ancient site still remains today. Within the walls of these ruins are some 20 temples and monuments.

Location : Sukhothai lies at the northern edge of the central plains 425 kilometers (255 miles) north of Bangkok and 350 kilometers (210 miles) south of Chiang Mai ( map ). The site is open from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm.

Kanchanaburi Town (West of BKK) Many Attractions!!!

The profound ambience surrounding the beauty of  Kanchanaburi  ( map ) with its rolling limestone hills and enchanting expansive countryside can be truly breathtaking at times. Then again, it can also feel hauntingly eerie on occasions, especially when you ponder the horrors that took place here decades ago.

I still get shivers running down my spine every time I visit this place. Writing about it as I am now, only brings back heartfelt memories of being on such an infamous site. 

Walking across the bridge over the River Kwai, taking a train ride on part of the winding track, strolling around the town’s cemetery or visiting the death museum that is dedicated to all those young lives lost, you cannot help but feel the pain.

Though Kanchanaburi has a dark side, it’s certainly well worth the unexpected. The town’s footings are at a junction of the two rivers Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai, which later join to form the Mae Klong.

Saraburi Province (North-East of Bangkok) Temples Galore!

The province of  Saraburi  is situated on the east side of the Chao Phraya river valley in central Thailand ( map ). The surrounding area is mainly made up of high plains and plateaus to the east and low flat plains to the west. The Buddha footprint seen in the small temple of Wat Phra PuddhaBat is one of the main attractions.

Lopburi Province (North of BKK) ~ Palace & Temples

Further north of Ayutthaya in Central Thailand lies the town of  Lopburi  which was once the former ancient town of the Khmer from the 10th to 13th century. This town lies 155 kilometers (96 miles) north of Bangkok and is home to hundreds of monkeys who seem to have the freedom of the city. Places of interest here are the King Narai’s Palace and Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat.

Maeklong Railway Market (South-West of BKK) ~4.2 Stars

While you are in this beautiful part of the world, do yourself a big favor – go and visit the  Maeklong Railway Market  ( map ) where you can do a bit of trainspotting of a different kind. This magnificent market is located south-west of Bangkok in  Samut Songkhram  on your way to the  Damnoen Saduak Floating Market . What is so fascinating about this particular place is its lively food market and the fact that local trains pass directly through the market as many as eight times a day between both the towns of Samut Songkhram and Samut Sakhon.

Wat Phra Mahathat – Southern Thailand ~4.7 Stars

Wat Phra Mahathat  ( map ) is considered one of the most significant temple complexes in Ayutthaya. Not only is it the largest but it is also the oldest dating as far back as the late 14th-century. These ruins are situated towards the northeast end of the island.

The splendour of this particular site has to be its huge Prang which originally stood some 46 metres or 150 feet tall. It later collapsed but was then rebuilt to a height of 50 metres or 163 feet.

Not far off from the temple complex, you will find a replica of what it may have looked like in its glory days. The grounds here are open daily from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Sangkhlaburi District (West) Hill Tribes, Temples & more!

The town of  Sangkhlaburi  is situated close to Burmese territory on the central western plains of Thailand. It’s nestled around a large lake and surrounded by high mountain peaks. If you travel from Kanchanaburi on highway 323, you’ll bare witness to some of Thailand’s most wondrous natural and historical diversions.

Ancient burial sites, a classic 13th century Khmer city, the notorious Hellfire Pass, mineral rich hot springs and spectacular waterfalls are just some of the many surprises along the way.

The outlying area of Sangkhlaburi is also host to a few hill tribe villages and home to the  Karen and Mon hill tribes . Thailand’s longest wooden bridge, wildlife sanctuaries, caves full of bats, and the Three Pagodas Pass are more places to visit here.

Central Thailand

• Bang Pa-in Royal Palace
• Saphan Phut (Memorial Bridge) Night Market
• Chao Phraya boat tours
• Wang Lang Market

Central Thailand is mainly plains and is a huge area of rice farming and agriculture. The Chao Phraya River is very important to Thailand’s history. Interesting places to visit are ancient historical temples, Bang Pa-in Royal Palace and Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Center in Ayutthaya Province, and Ko Kret in Nonthaburi Province. And if you like shopping, there are plenty of local markets in Bangkok for you to explore such as Wang Lang Market, Tha Phra Chan Market, Saphan Phut (Memorial Bridge) Night Market, and Asiatique Night Market. There are also Chao Phraya boat tours from Bangkok to Ayutthaya every day.

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Places to visit in central thailand.

• Amphawa Floating Market ( Amphawa )
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market ( Amphawa )
• Mae Klong Railway Market ( Amphawa )
• Tha Kha Floating Market ( Amphawa )
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Mahathat ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Chai Wattanaram ( Ayutthaya )
• Ayutthaya Weekend Nigh Market ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Niwet Thammaprawat ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Pho ( Bangkok )
• Wat Arun ( Bangkok )
• The klongs ( Bangkok )
• Wat Phra Kaew ( Bangkok )
• Great Palace ( Bangkok )
• Golden Mountain ( Bangkok )
• Wat Suthat ( Bangkok )
• Klong Lat Mayom Floating Market ( Bangkok )
• Wat Pak Nam Phasi Charoen ( Bangkok )
• Ayutthaya ( Bangkok )
• Talad Noï ( Bangkok )
• Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre ( Bangkok )
• Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception ( Chanthaburi )
• Chanthaboon Waterfront ( Chanthaburi )
• Khanom Kai Pa Tai shop ( Chanthaburi )
• Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Center ( Chanthaburi )
• River Kwai Bridge ( Kanchanaburi )
• Erawan National Park ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Tham Sua ( Kanchanaburi )
• Death Railway ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Ban Tham ( Kanchanaburi )
• Giant Tree ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Metta Tham Photiyan ( Kanchanaburi )
• Huai Mae Kamin waterfalls ( Kanchanaburi )
• Kanchanaburi Skywalk ( Kanchanaburi )
• Bang Bao village ( Koh Chang )
• Koh Kood ( Koh Chang )
• Koh Mak ( Koh Chang )
• Phra Chudadhuj Palace ( Koh Sichang )
• San Jao Phaw Khao Yai ( Koh Sichang )
• Chong Khao Khad ( Koh Sichang )
• Phra Prang Sam Yot ( Lopburi )
• Wat Huai Kaew ( Lopburi )
• Phra Pathom Chedi ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Wat Samphran (Dragon Temple) ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Sanctuary of Truth ( Pattaya )
• Pattaya Big Buddha ( Pattaya )
• Koh Larn island ( Pattaya )
• Wat Pa Pradu (Reclining Buddha temple) ( Rayong )
• Wat Namtok Thammarot ( Rayong )
• Prasae Estuary and Tung Prong Thong ( Rayong )
• Rayong Walking Street ( Rayong )
• Sangkhlaburi Mon Bridge ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Wat Saam Prasob, the Sunken Temple ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Phutthakhaya Chedi ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Wat Wang Wiwekaram ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Koh Chang island ( Trat )
• Koh Kood island ( Trat )
• Wat Bang Kung ( Amphawa )
• Amphawa community live museum ( Amphawa )
• Amphawa Chaipattananurak Foundation ( Amphawa )
• Wat Phanan Choeng ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Mongkhon Bophit ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Na Phra Meru ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Lokaya Sutha ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Thammikarat ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Sam Wihaan ( Ayutthaya )
• Bang Pa-In Palace ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Phra Ngam ( Ayutthaya )
• Khmer art stone carver ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Benchamabophit ( Bangkok )
• Muang Boran (Ancient City) ( Bangkok )
• Vimanmek Palace (Dusit Palace) ( Bangkok )
• Wat Ratchabophit ( Bangkok )
• Jim Thompson House ( Bangkok )
• Taling Chan Floating Market ( Bangkok )
• Koh Kret island ( Bangkok )
• Wat Traimit ( Bangkok )
• Chatuchak Week End Market ( Bangkok )
• Wat Pariwat ( Bangkok )
• Mahanakhon Skywalk ( Bangkok )
• Wat Bang Chak ( Bangkok )
• Lhong 1919 ( Bangkok )
• Amphawa ( Bangkok )
• Kundeejeen Community ( Bangkok )
• Thonburi district ( Bangkok )
• Wat Phai Lom ( Chanthaburi )
• Namtok Phliu National Park ( Chanthaburi )
• JEATH War Museum ( Kanchanaburi )
• Hellfire Pass ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Sa Long Ruea ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Tham Pu Wa ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Thipsukhontharam Big Buddha ( Kanchanaburi )
• Phra That Bo Ong Chedi ( Kanchanaburi )
• Khlong Phlu waterfall ( Koh Chang )
• Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat ( Lopburi )
• Phra Narai Ratchaniwet ( Lopburi )
• Phra Kan Shrine ( Lopburi )
• Wat Khao Wong Phrachan ( Lopburi )
• Khao Phraya Doen Thong Viewpoint ( Lopburi )
• Sanam Chan Palace ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Phutthamonthon ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Wat Klang Bang Kaew ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Wat Sri Sa Thong ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Jesada Technik Museum ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Pattaya Floating Market ( Pattaya )
• Khao Chi Chan ( Pattaya )
• Koh Si Chang island ( Pattaya )
• Rayong Botanical Garden ( Rayong )
• Koh Samet island ( Rayong )
• Khao Laem Ya National Park ( Rayong )
• Koh Mak island ( Trat )
• Ban Bang Phlap Community ( Amphawa )
• Wat Woratcheta Ram ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Phu Khao Thong ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Ratchaburana ( Ayutthaya )
• Elephant Kraal ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Putthai Sawan ( Ayutthaya )
• Prasat Nakhon Luang ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Khun Inthapramun (Ang Thong) ( Ayutthaya )
• Chao Phrom Market ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Phanom Yong ( Ayutthaya )
• Asiatique The Riverfront ( Bangkok )
• Wat Intharawihan ( Bangkok )
• Bang Krachao, Bangkok's green lung ( Bangkok )
• Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market ( Bangkok )
• Wat Bowonniwet ( Bangkok )
• Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market ( Bangkok )
• Artist's House (Baan Silapin) ( Bangkok )
• Chinatown ( Bangkok )
• Erawan Museum ( Bangkok )
• Neon Market ( Bangkok )
• Bang Kapi floating footbridge to cross the canal ( Bangkok )
• ICON SIAM ( Bangkok )
• Noen Nangphaya Viewpoint ( Chanthaburi )
• Bo Ploy Lek Petch ( Chanthaburi )
• Sai Yok Noi Waterfall ( Kanchanaburi )
• Crystal cave ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Tham Khao Laem ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Tham Mangkon Thong ( Kanchanaburi )
• Prasat Muang Sing Historical Park ( Kanchanaburi )
• Suk Jai Floating Market ( Kanchanaburi )
• Kanchanaburi Night Market ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Tham Khao Pun ( Kanchanaburi )
• Koh Larn temple ( Koh Larn )
• Wat Tham Yai Prik ( Koh Sichang )
• Wat Phanit Thammikaram ( Lopburi )
• Wat Maisupradittharam ( Nakhon Pathom )
• Wang Sam Sien ( Pattaya )
• Yomjinda Road (Old town) ( Rayong )
• Phra Chedi Klang Nam (Samut Chedi) ( Rayong )
• Three Pagoda Pass ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Koh Wai island ( Trat )
• Bang Noi floating market ( Amphawa )
• Wat Chulamanee ( Amphawa )
• Ayutthaya Floating Market ( Ayutthaya )
• Wat Mahathat ( Bangkok )
• Siam House of Bizarre Creatures ( Bangkok )
• Santa Cruz Church ( Bangkok )
• Wat Bot Muang ( Chanthaburi )
• Chedi Klang Nam ( Chanthaburi )
• Sea Farming Demonstration Unit ( Chanthaburi )
• Muang Phaniat ( Chanthaburi )
• Khuk Khi Kai ( Chanthaburi )
• Wat Tham Khao Noi ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Wang Khanai Hotsprings ( Kanchanaburi )
• Wat Somdet ( Sangkhlaburi )
• Gems market ( Chanthaburi )
• Wat Khao Sukim ( Chanthaburi )
• Khok Salung Railway Bridge ( Lopburi )

Find accommodation in Thailand

Historical parks in thailand.

There aare many historical parks in Thailand, most of them are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. The best known park is Sukhothai Historical Park with its stone Buddhas, a must see place to discover the great History of Thailand !

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Thailand floating markets

Floating markets are a Thai tradition that fortunately still exists today in the country even if they are not numerous and some are modern. The best known markets are located near Amphawa around 100 km away from Bangkok.

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Thailand national parks

There are two types of national parks in Thailand, land parks and martitime parks. Both offer the extraordinary landscapes of a country blessed by nature. Thailand national parks are among the most beautiful in the world.

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Numerous temples in Thailand

Thailand is a very bouddhist country that has thousands of temples. It is impossible to visit all of them but we give you here detailed practical information so you can discover many of the most famous temples in Thailand.

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All COVID-19 restrictions for coming to Thailand lifted from October 1 !

We have been waiting for it for months, hoping it will happen on July 1, but it will finally be October 1, 2022, when Thailand will lift the last COVID restrictions to enter the country. From this date, it will no longer be necessary to show...

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Central Thailand

Central Thailand has been a witness to many black pages of Thai history. To plunge in the past and dig the old-time, there are many places to visit in Central Thailand .

Table of Contents

Sri Nakarin Dam National Park

The IUCN category 2 parks are located in Kanchanaburi Province of Thailand . The park is famous for a seven-tier waterfall, extensive wildlife, caves of prehistoric time, dense green forest and peaceful ambiance of the vicinity. The famous Erawan falls quite accessible from the park.

The major attractions of the park are: Huai Mae Khamin waterfall, it is located on the west side of the park. A 7 level waterfall has many ponds and tiers at every level. Swimming here in the small ponds are advised. A well-defined trail is for hiking the waterfall.

Well equipped campsites , Khaoen Sri Nakarin viewpoint, Neramit and Phra caves, and natural hot springs are also worth places to visit in Central Thailand.

Two lesser-known waterfalls Pha Tat and PhaSawan, are also beautiful and worth visiting. The mountains in the forest are limestone decorated. The slow loris, civets, squirrels, bats, and leopard are abundant.

Bang Pa-In Palace

It is located on the banks of the river Chaopraya River in Bang Pa District. This magnificent Palace was once used by Royal Thais in summers.

The architecture of the Palace is of European style. Thai and Chinese architecture is also seen. A Khmer style prang is quite beautiful in the midst of the pond. The modern-day finishing is given by King Chulalongkorn.

The Palace comprises of many buildings like WehartChamrunt( Royal Palace), Shiny Heavenly Abode WarophatPhiman, Ho WithunThasana, Divine seat of AisawanThiphya art. The beautiful lush garden and an artificial pond in the vicinity is so picturesque.

A beautiful temple known as Wat Niwet Thamaprawatis also in the palace vicinity. Boating in the Chaophrayariver is also recommended for sightseeing. The Palace stands witness to many Royal events of and Royal guests.

Thailand–Burma Railway Centre

It is a private museum and research center in the Kanchanaburi district. It has restored the grave memories of the second world war. The mountains were cut in those days to build this railway line from NongPlaDuk Junction to Thanbusayat Station.

The building consist of a military cemetery, equipment, and tools which were used in the construction of railway tracks are on display, Model of the ‘death railway’ is kept here. The museum also has videos showcasing the events of that time.

The story of this railway center goes back to the time of world war 2 when the Japanese military forced the prisoners of war to build this railway. During the construction of this center, many prisoners died. Due to the large casualty, it is also known as the ‘death railway.’ The museum is private and managed by an Australian architect and his firm.

WatRatchaburana

It is a Buddhist temple located on an island of Ayutthaya Historical Park. The temple was built in the memory of two royal princes who fought to the death for the throne. The temple is known for the rare artifacts of lord Buddha found in excavations. Famous WatMahatat is near to this temple.

The architecture is of a typical Khmer style. The temple has a Prang in its center, symbolizing Mount Meru, a center of Universe in Buddhist mythology. There are secondary Prangs in the temple. Typical to its construction, an ubosot, viharn, is also found here in the temple premises.

Ornamentation of the temple has sculptures of Naga and Garuda of mythological significance. The artifacts and Buddha images are kept in the Chao Sam Phraya Museum. The other temples in the Ayutthaya are Wat Phrasi Sanpete, WatPhananChoeng must also be visited.

It is a small village located in Thong PhaPhum district of Kanchanaburi district of Thailand . Visitors coming to this village prefer homestays or in camps on nearby mountains.

The village is surrounded by lush forests from all sides and mist. It is famous for the mining of tin and tungsten. The village also borders itself with Myanmar and depicting multicultural ambiance. Burmese and Mong tribe people live in this village.

A traditional dress Sarong is a must buy from here. Indonesian Batik print on clothes is also found in the markets of E-Thong. Thong PhaPhum National Park can be visited from here. Also, the ‘death railway’ is quite near to this place.

The scenery and the mere whooping of gibbons and monkeys in the silent atmosphere are so calming. The village is untouched by roads or defined trails and thus is quite raw and less visited but worth visiting when on a visit to places in Central Thailand .

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi

It is located on the banks of the Mae Klong River, Kanchanaburi is at the west of Bangkok . The slower pace of the city makes it a loved spot for travelers. There are many places of historical importance in Kanchanaburi. The location is full of caves, waterfalls , forests, and natural existence.

Relaxation on River Klawai banks and walking on the bridge is soothing. The boat party karaoke passing by is such a delight to see. The slow train ride to Nam Tok is loved. Hellfire pass visit reminds of the black chapter of Thai history. Exploring SaiYok National Park and Tham Thon Lot National Park.

The epitome of beauty Erawan waterfalls can not be exempted from the much-loved visit. Visit war cemetery, and World War 2 always tops the list. The Srinakarind Dam on River KwaiYai is ideal for a picnic, the landscape beauty surrounding it cannot be expressed merely in words.

A 1OO-year-old tree standing isolated near Wat Thong Mangkonthang cave temple. The limestone covered Tiger caves on the hilltop is quite alluring. Kanchanaburi is one of the places to visit in Central Thailand.

Erawan National Park

Home to the famous Erawan waterfalls, the park is located in Kanchanaburi Province. The park is nature’s splendour, and a nature lover would be surely awestruck. The colder months of November to January would be best to visit and explore the Erawan National park.

The seven-tier magical Erawan waterfall having clear turquoise blue water is just impressive. Nearby Huai Mae Khamin’s waterfall is also not to be a miss.

The well defined and marked trails are best for exploring the park. Tryst with wildlife and capturing the macaques, wild boar, wild elephants, etc. would be an exciting activity.

The caves in the national park as Phartat cave, Ta Duang cave, Rua cave would leave you spellbound. Prehistoric era stones, evidence of human habitation in the area are also a delight for history lovers.

→ Check out this Erawan Waterfall and Kanchanaburi tour from Bankok

It is an iconic bridge build by Mon tribe people. It is located in the Phra Nakhon district. It has been registered as an ancient monument by the Government.

The 447-meter bridge is made up of wood connecting Thai and Karen crossing Old City moat. At the Mon end of the bridge, traditional Sarang wearing men and glimpses of the culture is seen. A souvenir market has unique Karen shirts and much more. Handmade products of Mon village should be bought.

The footbridge spans on the Song Kalia River. The Buddhist temple Wat Wang Wiwekaram is a landmark here. There is a culture in Buddhist festivals where a bowl of rice to offer as alms to the monks on the bridge.

The place around the bring is for admirers of exquisite architecture. The distinct culture of the two tribes at different ends of the bridge is so fascinating.

Prang Sam Yot

Also called Monkey Temple, the remains of this 13th century are located in the Lopburi district. Earlier it was a Buddhist temple, but now macaques rule the premises. Visitors come here to witness the naughtiness of present inhabitants.

There is an annual festival of Monkey buffet, which is, in reality, a feasting festival for these macaques. The Prangs are three in number. The towers are ornamented with Sculptures of hermits and mythological creatures.

The ruins of sculptures of Lord Shiva has also been witnessed in the temple ruins. When on a visit to Prang Sam Yot, one can also go to San PhraKan shrine, PhangKhaek. A bicycle ride from SomYot to reach these places would be fun.

Once a prosperous trading center, Ayuthaya is a ruin of a city located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province of Thailand. The Prangs and monastery remain the witness of its splendor. The town was initially been placed on an island surrounded by three rivers. Its location was purposely built for sustaining attacks of enemy provinces in the 18th century.

In 1767 Burmese army razed down the city, and since then, it was not built again; instead has been put in UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is now a historical Park, a fascination for avid architecture lovers.

The four giant temples of the 14th century stand amidst the canopy of ancient trees. WatPhra Si Sanphet is also here. It would be just to say that Ayuthaya represents the real Thai art and culture in its remains.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Ayutthaya

Check out these activities in Thailand

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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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.

Related Articles

Central Thailand

Provinces of the central region.

Central Thailand consists of 22 provinces, some of which are of particular interest for visitors. It is an area rich in history with the ancient city of Ayutthaya , the Khmer temples of Lopburi , the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi, Royal Palaces and Nakhon Pathom, the oldest city in Thailand with its famous Phra Pathom Chedi , the tallest stupa in the world.

Central Thailand is the country’s most populated area with Bangkok with its 12 million people being the centre of activity.

Lopburi Province

Evidence has been found that people lived in Lopburi as far as 3,000 to 4,000 years ago, during the Bronze Age. During the 10 th century Lopburi came under influence of the Khmer. A number of ruins, like the Prang Sam Yot Khmer temple still exist and are open to visitors.

Later on, Lopburi came under influence of Ayutthaya and became the second capital of the Kingdom. King Narai had a Summer Palace built in the city of Lopburi, which has been turned into a museum, the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum.

The monkeys of Lopburi Today the city is known for its large monkey population. Many of them stay around the 13 th century Prang Sam Yot . You can feed the monkeys, but be careful with your belongings. If the monkeys believe there is food inside a bag, they might snatch it. Every year in November the Lopburi monkey festival is held, during which local people bring the monkeys huge amounts of food.

• Phetchaburi

Phetchaburi & Ratchaburi Province

Ratchaburi Southwest of Bangkok and Phetchaburi more to the South are two adjoining provinces close to the capital with lots of attractive places for visitors. One of Ratchaburi’s best known places is the Damnoen Saduak floating market , a fun way to experience the traditional Thai market on the water.

Both provinces have a number of impressive natural caves, like the Khao Luang caves close to Phetchaburi. These caves are famous for the Buddha images inside and the rays of sun light coming in, giving the place a mystical atmosphere.

King Mongkut’s Summer Palace, Phra Nakhon Khiri is an impressive place on top of a hill in Phetchaburi town, visible from far away. The beautiful long sandy beach of Cha-Am has a very different atmosphere than Pattaya. In weekends and during Thai holidays it is very popular with Thai people.

• Kanchanaburi

Ayutthaya Province

Close to Bangkok and easy to reach by public transport is Ayutthaya , the old capital of Siam, as Thailand used to be called. The city goes back to the 14 th century and developed into the richest and biggest city of its time. In 1767 it was destroyed by the Burmese.

Today, Ayutthaya historical park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on an island surrounded by three rivers. Many of the temples, palaces and other buildings still exist, some of them well preserved making it a magnificent place to visit for everyone interested in history and architecture.

Just South of Ayutthaya is Bang Pa-In, where the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace of the Chakri dynasty can be visited. Most fun and relaxing way to go to Ayutthaya is to take a river boat from Bangkok, passing sites as the Wat Arun temple and the Grand Palace.

Chonburi Province

Chonburi Province is one of Thailand’s major beach destinations with Pattaya beach , Jomtien beach and Koh Larn island the most popular places. Pattaya can be reached by taxi in a little over an hour from Bangkok’s international airport, and has more to offer than just the beaches.

There are theme parks, international standard golf courses, markets, museums, temples and of course Pattaya’s infamous night life. Accommodation is available from guest-house to 5 star resort. Restaurants in Chonburi and especially in Pattaya cater to every taste, from Thai and Indian to food of almost every Western country.

Getting around in Central Thailand

Thanks to its proximity to Bangkok, there are plenty of public transportation options available in Central Thailand.

Buy tickets online Tickets for flights, bus, train or taxi from Bangkok or another city can be bought online at the 12Go website.

Air A number of cities can be reached by air served by carriers as Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air and Air Asia. Most low cost airline flights depart from Don Muang airport , others from Suvarnabhumi airport .

Train The State Railway of Thailand has a train service from Bangkok into every direction. Check their website for departure and arrival times and fares.

Check details and how to get tickets at Travel Thailand by train .

The main train station in Bangkok is Hua Lamphong station on Rama IV road. You can get there either by taxi or MRT subway .

Bus or van Travelling by bus and van is very popular in Thailand, and therefor there is a large number of bus services to every corner of the country. You will leave from one of Bangkok’s three bus terminals, depending on destination.

The Northern bus terminal (Mo Chit) on Kamphaeng Phet 2 road is the terminal for North and Northeastern Thailand and serves cities as Chiang Mai and Sukhothai .

The Eastern bus terminal (Ekamai) in Ekamai district serves Eastern Thailand with destinations as Pattaya and Trat (for Koh Chang ).

If you are going to the South or West like Koh Samui , Phuket or Kanchanaburi , head for Bangkok’s Southern bus terminal in Thonburi.

Taxi The most comfortable way to travel around Central Thailand is by air conditioned taxi.

Provinces in Central Thailand

• Nakhon Pathom
• Sangkhlaburi
• Buddha of Ang Thong
• Ayutthaya Historical Park
• Coral Island
• Bridge over the River Kwai
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
• Maeklong Railway Market
• Wooden Mon Bridge
• Buddha Footprint Temple

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The 18 Most Incredible Places To Visit in Thailand: Where To Visit For the Ultimate Thailand Vacation

Exploding with vibrant history, culture, and natural beauty, these are the best places to visit in Thailand for your first-timers .

Thailand is a country steeped in stunning beauty, magical history, and rich, cultural traditions. This country, in Southeast Asia, has become a hugely popular destination for travelers thanks to its low crime rate, affordable lifestyle, and huge variety of places to visit in Thailand.

My family absolutely adored our time in the country. We visited famous cities such as Chiang Mai, and Bangkok, and wandered through historic centers including Ayutthaya . We hiked to mountain caves in Koh Sok National Park, experienced ethical elephant sanctuaries, and even chilled out on the islands and beaches of Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands. It was a country that we absolutely fell in love with, not just for the range of attractions, but for the warm people, mouthwatering food, and how easy it was to travel through Thailand.

I spent weeks touring the country with my family, exploring where to visit in Thailand to have the most phenomenal and memorable travel experience. If you’re looking at where to visit in Thailand for your travels, I’ve got you covered

Why Should You Travel To Thailand?

Table of Contents

Thailand shocked us.

This massive Southeast Asian country quickly became one of our favorite family travel destinations . Thailand ranked up with the Philippines , Iceland , and Peru among the top. The country has become massively popular among ex-pats searching for affordable, beautiful, and safe destinations. And after seeing this for myself, I can understand its popularity.

Thailand is a huge country. You’ll find vastly different experiences in the northern, central, and southern regions. The northern regions of Thailand have stunning forests, unique tribal cultures, and vast, mountainous landscapes that have helped the country protect its borders for so long. Here you’ll find many of the country’s ancient Buddhist temples, mountaintop monasteries, and unique cultures such as the long-neck Karen hill tribes .

In the center of Thailand lies the massive economic hub of Bangkok, the most populous city in the country. Here you’ll find some of the country’s award-winning food experiences, great shopping, and crowded markets. But venture off the beaten path and you’ll also find historical treasures such as the Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railroad as well as beautiful national parks and river lodges.

Southern Thailand offers up some of the world’s most pristine beaches, intensely beautiful islands, and fascinating communities that live like nowhere else on Earth. You’ll find the region has its own unique cuisine that food lovers will adore while still retaining those magnificent Thai flavors.

The fact is that Thailand is, quite simply, a pleasure to explore. Everywhere that my family went, we encountered warm, wonderful people, inspiring stories, and those precious moments that lead to memories that last a lifetime. If you travel to any of these incredible places to visit in Thailand, you’ll come home with countless stories to tell.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand?

Thailand is a world-class destination that offers amazing travel experiences year-round. However, you’ll find that choosing the times that you visit Thailand will greatly impact your experience.

For the best weather, November through May is the dry season for most of Thailand. The exception to this is southern Thailand , where you’ll find cities such as Ko Samui, Phuket , and Ko Tao. In this region, the rainy season is from October through December .

Thailand is notoriously hot and humid. So if you’re looking for the coolest temperatures in Thailand, consider a visit between November and February. These months tend to offer the most comfortable temperatures. They average in the low 80s with little rain and humidity.

Thailand sees its hottest temperatures between March and April. However, if you’re looking for smaller crowds and lower prices than the November-to-February peak travel time, this makes for a great option. April tends to be the best time for shoulder-seasoned travelers. There are many great festivals and the heaviest rains are usually still a month away.

The Best Places To Visit in Thailand

If you’re planning your travels and are wondering where to visit in Thailand, you’ve come to the right place. Below, I lay out all of the best places to visit in the country and what makes each one so special.

The sprawling capital of Thailand, Bangkok will be the start and end point for most visitors to Thailand. But Bangkok is far more than a jumping-off point for the best destinations in Thailand. Bangkok is a destination on its own worthy of a few days of your Thailand itinerary.

Bangkok is a fast-moving, exciting city of over eight million people. It’s where you’ll find some of the best hotels in Thailand, and some of the most exciting things to do.

The city is connected by a network of canals and rivers that meander through neighborhoods and past golden temples. The rivers are dotted with Bangkok’s famous floating markets, royal palaces, and awe-inspiring temples. Tucked amidst glass skyscrapers are food markets, incredible parks, and some of the most mesmerizing Buddhist temples in Thailand.

Among the top things to do in Bangkok are visits to the Grand Palace, a monumental complex that houses Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha). You’ll also find famous streets such as Khao San Rd, and the epic Chatuchak Market with its labyrinth of over 8,000 stalls.

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.

You can find our guide to visiting Bangkok with kids right here .

Chiang Mai is among the most popular places to visit in Thailand. This stunning city in northern Thailand is centered by an old city, surrounded by moats and walls, dating back to 1292. The city is packed with ancient Buddhist temples such as Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. You’ll also uncover incredible food experiences and narrow lanes packed with unique shops.

Chiang Mai is a city built to explore. But the region surrounding it makes Chiang Mai a hub for day trips as well. Near Chiang Mai are fascinating attractions including the Doi Suthep hiking trail that takes adventurers to the mountaintop monastery known as Wat Phra That Doi.

If you love experiencing unique cultures, Chiang Mai is what most visitors use as a base to visit the hilltop Karen tribes. Most of these communities were created by refugees fleeing nearby Myanmar (Burma). There are several different Karen communities with unique cultures all living in the mountains near Chiang Mai and their stories are as fascinating as those of Thailand itself.

Our visit to the Karen hill tribes near Chiang Mai opened up some debate surrounding ethical tourism. You can read all about our visit the Karen hill tribes near Chiang Mai here .

Home to one of the most iconic experiences in Thailand, the ancient city of Ayutthaya is one of the must-see stops in the country. The city, founded in 1350, is about 50 miles north of Bangkok. In the 14th century, Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and today it is home to some of the most magnificent temples in Thailand.

At the heart of the city is Ayutthaya Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive collection of temples, reliquary towers, and wats is one of the most sought-after experiences in Thailand.

Wat Phra Mahathat is among the most famous sites in Thailand. Nestled within the complex is the head of a statue of Buddha that nature has attempted to reclaim. Now, the peaceful visage peeks out from among a nest of roots, drawing visitors by the thousands.

Other awe-inspiring things to do in Ayutthaya include a visit to Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, which is the home of a giant reclining Buddha and the statues of dozens of sitting Buddha statues, many of which have been draped in golden sashes.

You can read our complete guide to Ayutthaya here .

Kanchanaburi

History and nature buffs will find Kanchanaburi to be one of the top places to visit in Thailand. This region of the country has risen to fame due to its dark connections to the country’s Japanese occupation during WWII.

Kanchanaburi is home to the infamous Bridge of the River Kwai and much of the horrific “death railway” linking Myanmar(Burma) to ports of Southern Thailand. The railway was built using forced labor provided by Allied prisoners of war and Chinese slaves. In the process, thousands of prisoners perished under inhumane working conditions.

Today, the narrow bridge brought to fame by the Hollywood movie can be sauntered across at leisure. Other stops along the way include the Kanchanaburi war Cemetery and “Hellfire Pass” one of the most tragic sections of the railway line.

It’s not all dark tourism in Kanchanaburi though. The province is home to the Erawan and Sai Yok National Parks. These stunning Thailand National Parks are home to magnificent waterfalls such as Erawan Falls, a seven-tier wonder in the depths of the rainforest. You’ll also find wondrous cave systems and beautiful resorts floating right on the river.

You can check out our complete guide of things to do in Kanchanaburi, Thailand here .

The small city of Pattaya is Bangkok’s beach getaway. The city, which is about an hour and a half south of Thailand’s capital draws visitors from the city in droves on weekends and holidays. If you have a chance to make the journey during the week, you may feel like you have it all to yourself.

Apart from beautiful beaches, this Thai holiday destination also features beautiful islands, glass-bottom boat tours, and the Chanthaburi Sapphire Mine, where you can enjoy tours.

Those visiting Thailand with kids might get a kick out of Siam Pattaya. This outdoor park has an impressive display of miniature monuments from around the world. Among them are the London Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, Angkor Wat, and even the Bridge of the River Kwai.

Among other touristy attractions are a Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum and a 3D museum known as “Art in Paradise.”

Koh Samui is an island located off the shores of Suratthani in southern Thailand known for having some of the best beaches in the country. This resort island is cored by luscious green mountains, rainforests, and soft, white sand beaches where you can catch some of the best sunsets in the world.

Koh Samui is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand for family vacations. Along with the natural beauty of the island are resorts that are home to some of Thailand’s best spas, and stunning temples such as Wat Phra Yai, home to a nearly 40-foot-tall statue of Buddha

A visit to Koh Samui wouldn’t be complete without exploring some of the marvelous islands and archipelagos nearby. The area is where you’ll find Ang Thong National Marine Park, which covers 42 islands. This protected area is home to sharks, rays, turtles, and countless species of birds.

North of Koh Samui off the western coast in the Gulf of Thailand sits the island of Koh Lanta. The island is part of the same archipelago as its southern neighbor but is a significantly smaller and more relaxing destination.

Although you can see the entire island in less than a day, it’s a popular destination for multi-day getaways, especially for those who want to unwind amidst a jam-packed Thailand itinerary.

Koh Tao is among the best SCUBA diving destination in Thailand. With endless visibility, bright corals, and fascinating shipwrecks, the reputation of this tiny island is catching on among visitors to Thailand. Underwater explorers will often come face-to-face with massive grouper, barracuda, peaceful whale sharks, eagle rays, black-tipped reef sharks, and other fascinating undersea creatures.

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Thailand, the island of Phuket hosts the most popular beaches in the country. Not only are there a wealth of incredible things to do in Phuket such as a nearly 150-foot Buddha on Nakkerd Hill that gazes out over the island.

Phuket draws visitors by the thousands thanks to its dramatic scenery that has been the backdrop of famous Hollywood movies including Khao Phing Kan, otherwise known as “James Bond Island,” and  Phi Phi Ley, made famous in the Leonardo di Caprio movie “The Beach.”

Exploring the amazing day trips from Phuket is one way to experience this glorious region on the west coast of southern Thailand. But don’t miss exploring the city itself. Phuket is home to a wealth of wonderful shops, restaurants, temples, and outdoor markets that shouldn’t be missed.

You can read our guide to the best things to do in Phuket here .

Located off the eastern shores of Phang Nga Bay across from Phuket are the 200 islands and vast forests of Krabi Province. Known for its luxurious beaches, the shores of Krabi are also popular for their dramatic landscapes. The shoreline features rugged limestone cliffs that drop majestically into the ocean. The cliffs often draw rock climbers from around the world.

Krabi day trips include some of the most popular ones in Phuket as well such as the Phi Phi Islands and Koh Panyee  a fascinating Muslim village floating deep in Phang Nga Bay. Krabi province is also home to the majestic Thung Teao Forest Natural Park.

This incredible park is home to mostly virgin rainforest and features magnificent warm water pools, a 1.7-mile hiking trail, and crystal-clear ponds that are very popular swimming holes. Visitors can wade in nearby waterfalls and experience some of the wonderous and unique flora and fauna of the park.

Sukhothai Thani

Home to Sukhothai Historical Park, the 13th-century ruins of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the small town of Sukhothai Thani is one of the most fascinating places to travel in Thailand. The park is home to 193 ruins dotted across 26 Buddhist temples. Among them are the remains of a royal palace and a series of dramatic stupas.

What draws most visitors to Sukhothai Thani is Wat Mahathat. This gorgeous temple features a pillared pavilion centered by two nine-meter tall Buddha statues. Among some of the other popular attractions are Wat Si Sawai, which is the park’s oldest temple and sits in the middle of a lake, and Noen Prasat, which was once a royal palace.

The city of Chian Raig is the northernmost major city in Thailand. Sitting close to the borders of both Myanmar(Burma) and Laos and surrounded by lush national parks and filled with historic Buddhist temples, this is one of the most sought-after, but rarely visited places in Thailand.

Chiang Rai draws visitors with a penchant for exploring. Lam Nam Kok National Park, which is just 30 minutes from the city, features a series of cascading waterfalls. Among the most popular is the 230-ft Khun Kon waterfall, which drops dramatically into a shallow stream.

Chiang Rai is also known for its access to some of Thailand’s most vibrant hilltop communities including the Karen, Akha, Hmong, Lahu, Lisu, Palong, and Mien (Yao) tribes. Some of these villages require long hikes to reach, but they offer some of the most authentic and unique experiences in Thailand.

Kao Sam Roi Yot National Park

There are many amazing national parks in Thailand, but Khao Sam Roi Yot is one of the most impressive. The park, whose name translates to “Mountain of 300 peaks”) is packed with pristine beaches, impressive caves and caverns, and the largest freshwater marsh in Thailand.

The park offers camping near Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh where visitors will have easy access to hiking trails and swimming holes and epic views of the mountain range.

One of the biggest draws of Kao Sam Roi Yot National Park is Phraya Nakhon, an immense cave system. The cave itself isn’t the top draw though, within Phaya Nakhon sits a delightful royal pavilion that’s often bathed in light from above.,

Running through the center of the park is the Khao Daeng Canal. Visitors can take a boat tour through the park and experience the dense mangrove forests right to the beautiful coastal waters of the Gulf of Thailand.

Khao Yai National Park

Three hours northeast of Bangkok is Khao Yai National Park, home to one of Thailand’s largest populations of wild elephants. The park, which covers a massive 1,250 square miles is jam-packed with mountains, rainforests, and grasslands.

Along with the 140-200 elephants that roam free within the park are gibbons, jackals, the Malayan sun bear, and the Asiatic black bear. and for those chasing scenes from the movie “The Beach,” the park is also home to the breathtaking Haew Suwat Waterfall.

Among the most popular experiences here are hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also hire a park ranger who can bring them to rarely visited sections of the park including watering holes that are popular with the wildlife of the park.

The town of Pai sits in the northwest section of Thailand just a short distance from the border with Myanmar(Burma). This quaint town, 3 hours from Chiang Mai, has become one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand thanks to its relaxed pace.

Pai offers a glimpse of the “less-touristy” side of Thailand. The city is surrounded by lush hills teeming with waterfalls and crisscrossed with scenic hiking trails. Among the attractions surrounding Pai are Pai Canyon, which is home to a 3.7-mile hiking trail with mind-blowing views and some of the best sunsets in northern Thailand.

Other attractions that draw visitors to Pai are the scenic rice terraces, the towering Wat Phra That Mae Yen temple, the immense Tham Lod limestone caves, and the Pai hot springs, which offer travelers the chance to relax after a long day of exploring.

Situated off the coast of Krabi province in Phang Nga Bay is Koh Lanta, an often overlooked island destination in Thailand with magical beaches, incredible parks, and beautiful towns.

Koh Lanta offers a southern Thailand getaway that is far more peaceful than the bustling cities of Phuket and Krabi. The island, which sits just a short distance from the mainland, and is connected by a bridge, offers an easy escape that still gives you access to the mainland attractions.

Koh Lanta is over 18 miles long and features some excellent small resorts, lots of fantastic, locally-run restaurants, and countless quaint shops and markets.

One of the most famous spots to visit in Koh Lanta is Koh Lanta National Park. Koh Lanta National Park consists of a series of 16 major islands (and several smaller ones) off the southern shores of Koh Lanta. Nearly half of the island park is covered in lush rainforest and mangrove forests. It’s a wonderful destination for laid-back travel and popular with ex-pats.

Koh Sok National Park

Although far from the most famous places to visit in Thailand, Koh Sok National Park is one of my personal favorites. The park is located just an hour and a half from the town of Suratthani.

This massive rainforest is packed with incredible plants and animals, including a small population of wild elephants. Among the limestone hills, waterfalls, and hiking trails are a series of jaw-dropping floating lodges in Cheow Lan Lake where guests can enjoy kayaking, nature trails, and guided boat rides through the flooded wilderness.

One of the park’s biggest attractions is Elephant Hills, a luxury lodge and elephant sanctuary where former working elephants, along with their mahouts (trainers/caregivers) are rehabilitated and given shelter and food. Visitors have the chance to feed and interact with these magnificent animals in a safe and ethical way.

Are You Ready To Visit These Incredible Places in Thailand For Yourself?

Thailand was a magical destination for family travel. The hot weather, brilliant beaches, delicious food, and stunning history were just the icing on the cake. If you’re looking for a memorable travel destination, these stunning places to visit in Thailand are sure to delight

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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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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 Sep 5, 2021 and updated Dec 16, 2023.

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18 Best Places To Visit In Thailand

O ne of the most exciting destinations in Asia, Thailand is beautifully set up for vacationers. With a tourism industry that is well developed, reliable transport options, mouthwatering (and fiery) food, a huge variety of scenery, and some of the most incredible temples in the world , the Southeast Asian nation is justifiably a place that many travelers to Asia yearn to see. It's a country where tourists could easily spend months hopping from sublime beaches to forested peaks, from frantic cities to tranquil countryside. It's also relatively inexpensive, with life in Thailand markedly more affordable than in the United States. 

Getting around the country is easy, with a far-reaching rail system, a good network of flights between destinations, and buses and boats connecting many spots. Given the vast range of places to see and the affordability of Thailand, visitors might find themselves more likely to run out of time before money, so savvy travelers will think about winnowing down their choices, focusing on specific sites worth seeking out. If you need to know where to go, the list below will certainly help — we've put this together based on personal knowledge gleaned when visiting the country while also focusing on the importance of having a good geographical spread and also to enable you, the reader, to have a range of experiences across different environments.

Read more: 22 Underrated Tourist Destinations In Asia To Add To Your Bucket List

This UNESCO World Heritage site, known officially as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, lies a short distance north of Bangkok. A visit here will bring travelers close to the incredible ruins of what was once, many centuries ago, the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Ayutthaya was founded in the mid-1300s and was a thriving center for four centuries before being destroyed in 1767 by the Burmese army. 

The site was chosen for many reasons. It was close to three rivers, allowing for marine trade but far enough from the sea and its tides to ensure foreign battleships couldn't reach here. Today, the park is a shadow of the former city in terms of size and scope, but walking around the towers and monastic buildings gives visitors a sense of the grandeur of the metropolis. Regional influences are apparent in the shapes of certain structures, especially some towers that recall the forms found at Cambodia's Angkor Wat.

The joy of the current Thai capital is that, day or night, there is always something to do. Bangkok, known by Thais as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (loosely meaning Big City of Angels), is a churning circus of delight, with sizzling street food, stunning temples, and shopping everywhere. The public transport system is extensive and inexpensive, with a great subway called the BTS Skytrain (which is technically overground) and cheap taxis. Bangkok is where to find arguably the most famous backpacker street in the world, Khao San Road, where banana-Nutella pancakes and cheap beer keep travelers happy. 

For more authentic city sights, temples like Wat Arun Ratchawararam, Wat Pho, and Wat Benchamabophit ("wat" is Thai for temple) will have visitors gazing in awe at the gilded spires and steep rooflines. Elsewhere, the street food in the Chinatown area called Yaowarat will have diners licking their lips, and shopaholics can splash the cash (or plastic) at the multi-story malls and sprawling night markets.

Temples are among the highlights of a trip to this laid-back city in the north. The 14th-century Wat Phra Sing is among the most revered shrines in Chiang Mai, its large Buddha idol sitting in a gorgeous hall decorated with ornate wood carvings and intricate murals. The statue is the focal point during the annual Songkran festival (marking Thai New Year) held every April and is paraded around town as part of the celebration. On the outskirts of town, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep has a long staircase leading to the main pagoda temple and statues of serpents visible on the sides. The views of Chiang Mai and the beautiful countryside surrounding it are breathtaking. 

Visitors looking to stock up on gifts can find endless choices at Sunday's Thapae Walking Street, a vast evening market where crafts, clothing, and more wait to be snapped up. Be sure to try the food in Chiang Mai, where Lanna cuisine (named for the culture in this part of Thailand) is less sweet than the dishes further south, using more herbs and not as reliant on coconut milk.

A three-hour drive northeast of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai is another serene city packed with heritage. It also shares its name with the province near Thailand's borders with Myanmar and Laos. There are many mountains here, making for some beautiful natural scenery. One of the most spellbinding sights is Wat Rong Khun, a temple that is a brilliant white color, a color intended to represent the purity of Buddha. Located around 8 miles from Chiang Rai, the temple buildings and statues sparkle in the sunlight. Glass is embedded in the white plaster, making the whole place seem ethereal and otherworldly. 

Another nearby temple with an extraordinary hue is Wat Rong Suea Ten. This time, the color is a deep, rich blue, seen on statues, roofs, and buildings. Chiang Rai has fantastic trails for countryside hiking and options for arranging trips to visit people living in the mountain communities around the city.

Close to the Malaysian border, Hat Yai has excellent markets and a fascinating mix of cultural influences. The large university here ensures that there is a strong educational presence in the city, and Hat Yai is also a hub for transportation in the south. Shoppers will enjoy the wares at busy markets like Kim Yong Market and Santisuk Market, with the latter especially popular for electronics. 

While other parts of Thailand are notable for their striking Buddhist temples, Hat Yai's most appealing religious structure is the Songkhla Central Mosque, a few miles north of the city. It has a grand gold dome in the center and four soaring minarets around its perimeter, while a reflecting pool in the front helps to frame the structure (the reflections of the mosque in the water are riveting). Hat Yai also has Buddhist temples, with the more than 100-foot-long reclining Buddha statue at Wat Hat Yai Nai being particularly impressive. For amazing city views, take a cable car ride to the hills above Hat Yai. Be aware that the cable car doesn't run in bad weather.

The part of Thailand where, historically, the Thai royal family would spend summers is located less than three hours southwest of Bangkok by car. Visitors will find much to enjoy here beyond the beaches, which are predictably pretty, with the calm water of the Gulf of Thailand providing excellent swimming. A little north of the city, Maruekhathaiyawan Palace was constructed in the 1920s, repurposing teak from another palace to create its breezy, bright form. Visitors can pay a small entrance fee to tour the building, known as the "Palace of Love and Hope." 

As in many Thai cities, shopping isn't just restricted to the daytime. The Hua Hin night market offers clothing, crafts, jewelry, and many places to eat, with seafood especially popular. For some unique outdoor exploration, Wat Khao Takiap sits on a hill just south of Hua Hin and has fabulous city views and the remarkable sight of a giant Buddha statue by the waterfront, set among a jumble of imposing rocks.

Kanchanaburi

Moviegoers of a particular generation will likely remember the epic film "The Bridge on the River Kwai," a tale set during World War II where prisoners of war were enlisted to build a bridge by their Japanese captors. While the film was a work of fiction, it was loosely based on a true story. The actual bridge is very real, located in Kanchanaburi province, not far from Bangkok. It has become quite the tourist spectacle, even spawning an annual River Kwai Bridge Festival that honors those who perished here in the war and features performances, cultural shows, and fireworks. 

Many soldiers from that era are buried in the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, while the Jeath War Museum looks at the harsh conditions that prisoners had to endure. The countryside here is a welcome relief from the urban landscape, and visitors will see forests and rivers, experience cooler air than in nearby Bangkok, and have the chance to raft and hike.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Getting to this park from Hua Hin is simple as it is less than 40 miles from the seaside city. For a sense of what to expect here, visitors only need to look at the park's name, which loosely translates to "The Mountain with 300 Peaks." The incredible, moody limestone karsts that are the hallmark of certain parts of coastal Thailand are on show here, as well as small bays and stretches of empty beach. There are also sections of mangroves, marshy areas, and canals. 

The main spot that attracts most visitors is Phraya Nakhon Cave, a mammoth chamber where light manages to stream in, a cave that has its own environment, with plants growing within. There is even a structure inside the cave built to celebrate a former king who visited the park many years ago. Elsewhere in the park, travelers can find more caves to explore and a massive area of wetlands.

Khao Yai National Park

For visitors to Bangkok wanting to immerse themselves in nature, Khao Yai National Park is a tremendous option, situated around 90 miles to the northeast. Khao Yai is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site together with the Ta Phraya National Park to its east and is prized for its rich plant life and extensive selection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. This is an important habit for wildlife, including many endangered species. 

While travelers might not see the Siamese crocodile, the most endangered of all the animals here, they can visit knowing that it still lives in the park, as do the leopard cat and the banteng, a type of cattle indigenous to here. Khao Yai is also the only place on Earth where the white-handed and pileated gibbons share habitats and cross-breed. Numerous environments appear throughout the park, from tropical rainforests to sweeping grasslands and dry evergreen forests, another reason for the great diversity of flora and fauna in Khao Yai National Park.

An easygoing island (Ko, also spelled Koh, is the Thai word for "island"), this destination in Krabi province has fantastic beaches. Some see it as a more relaxed, less commercial alternative to Phuket, the larger island to its northwest. The languid pace of development here, for some, makes this a refreshing vacation spot, and its different beaches appeal to different types of travelers. Klong Dao, for instance, is set near the arrival point for most boats and has a good range of places to stay, making it a popular choice among families that visit.

Ko Lanta attracts many backpackers who come for some simple relaxation, and it's also a big draw for divers, primarily for the clear water and vibrant reefs. The small islands south of Ko Lanta, past the lighthouse, are also excellent spots for snorkeling and diving. Access to the island, which has a mountainous spine that gives it a real sense of drama, requires getting on a long-tail boat or ferry.

This island is possibly the most deluxe in the country. Visitors are lured here by the fabulous beaches, especially during the drier months of December through August, with the first few months of each year especially busy. Much of the activity of Ko Samui centers around Chaweng Beach, a sweeping stretch of sand that extends for miles along the sea. This is the beating heart of the island, a neighborhood with beach clubs, plush resorts, restaurants, cafes, bars, shopping, and bustling nightclubs. There is even a water park, excellent watersports adventures, and mini-golf courses in this part of the island. 

A much quieter option is Lamai Beach, another gorgeous area of sun, sea, and sand. At the southern end of the beach, travelers will find the large, weathered boulders known as Hin Ta Hin Yai (this translates to "Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks"), mammoth granite formations that have been colored and eroded by the forces of wind and seawater.

Keen divers will be all too aware of the charms of Thailand's waters, especially this idyllic chain of islands. Derived from the Yawi word for "nine," Similan refers to a group of islands established as a national park in 1982. While Ko Similan is just one of the islands in the archipelago, it is often used to help identify the greater sum and is part of the official marine park name — Mu Ko Similan National Park. 

This is one of the best diving locations in the world, with rare types of coral and a vast array of marine creatures to see. Divers can look for sponges, whale sharks, dolphins, turtles, eels, lobsters, and more. Limits are placed on the number of visitors, with only 525 divers allowed daily, though many more can swim, snorkel, and admire the water. There is very limited lodging on the islands, with only bungalows and campsites available, so visitors usually stay at Khao Lak on the mainland.

Not far from Chiang Mai, this town is an excellent place to experience pastoral Thailand. Pai is well accustomed to overseas visitors and has a developed tourism scene. Travelers come here to explore the countryside, to go rafting in the river, and for the ability to really get close to nature by camping in the region. 

In terms of traditional sights and constructed landmarks, Wat Phra That Mae Yen is usually near the top of the list. Set up on a hill in a small village on the outskirts of Pai, this temple has fantastic city views, not least from the giant white Buddha that anchors the shrine. For another serene excursion, join the scores of travelers who head to the area's rivers to go tubing, a soothing, low-impact way to enjoy the splendid scenery. Fans of pachyderms can book a stay at Thom's Pai Elephant Camp,  where they can even learn what it takes to be a mahout, the official name for an elephant handler.

This is one of the most popular islands in Southeast Asia , with a coastline that curls and weaves, creating headlands, promontories, deep coves, tucked-away inlets, and a good selection of gorgeous beaches. At times, the size of the place might make visitors forget that Phuket is an island, the largest island in the country, no less. 

Size is also a talking point at Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkhon Ek Nakkhiri, known by many simply as Phuket Big Buddha, a complex with a mammoth statue of Buddhism's founder. The idol of Buddha is more than 150 feet in height and is built of concrete and marble. From its vantage point on Nakkerd Hill, the statue offers views of some of Phuket's most famous stretches of waterfront, like Karon Bay and Chalong Bay. There are many beaches around the island, from popular spots like Rawai and Mai Khao to hidden-gem refuges such as Banana Beach. Fans of sunsets should hit Laem Phromthep, in the island's south, for peerless views of the sun disappearing below the horizon.

Railay Beach

This peninsula in Krabi province can only be reached by boat, making it feel like an island, a trick of geography that might seem confusing until you get there. The broad, sandy beach on the west of the peninsula gently curls along the water across a narrow strip of land from the main ferry pier on the east, and since it faces west, the sunsets are spectacular. They are especially stunning at low tide when the sea recedes to leave small patches of water reflecting the sun as it drops, setting the ground ablaze in golds and pinks. 

The scenery is also hypnotic, with towering limestone cliffs at either end of the beach. These cliffs attract many visitors who come to Railay Beach primarily to climb the rocks but also to take advantage of the sumptuous sand and sea. A small cave shrine called Phra Nang is the sole traditional tourist site, a little haven that sailors particularly revere.

The center of life in the post-classical Sukhothai Kingdom, Sukhothai is another fascinating journey into the past. Along with other nearby towns, Sukhothai is a UNESCO World Heritage site, part of a nexus that was home to temples, monasteries, military outposts, and a governmental body, all of this existing more than 700 years ago. The grandness of the development will be evident during a visit to the Sukhothai Historical Park, where the temples, pagodas, large statues of Buddha, moats, and sturdy walls attest to the scope of this center. 

There are even remnants of a dam used to control the water supply, illustrating the advanced engineering and planning in place many centuries ago. One highlight is Wat Si Chum, a temple where a huge Buddha seems to fill the entire space. The statue is brightly lit from above as the shrine's roof is no longer intact, destroyed by the ravages of time.

Thung Teao Forest National Park

Krabi is a province that tourists often visit just for the beaches, including several spots mentioned in this list. But Krabi isn't all about the sea. Thung Teao Forest National Park is a deep dive into the wonderful world of flora and fauna, with walkways that pierce canyons of trees and waterways that delight for various reasons. 

The marquee attraction here is the emerald pool, also known as the crystal lagoon, a gorgeous body of water whose shimmering colors mesmerize all onlookers. It's also an excellent place for a refreshing dip and a beautiful spot for cooling off from the tropical temperatures. Other parts of the park offer stunning contrasts, from the whites of limestone cliffs to the dense green of thick jungles and forests and some seriously excellent birdwatching. While it doesn't really get cold here, be sure to spend some time in the natural hot springs that flow through sections of rock. There is never a bad time to experience natural hot springs, after all.

A low-key town southeast of Bangkok and close to the border with Cambodia, Trat has a seductive, easygoing charm about it, as it has yet to succumb to the lure of mass tourism. It also features some excellent shopping, a busy commercial center with plenty of trading in precious gems (there is a strong ruby mining industry in Trat province), and one that welcomes plenty of potential buyers and sellers from neighboring Cambodia. Some of that trade will be in fruits, as Trat is a powerhouse for growing produce, helped by consistent rainfall that keeps fruit trees healthy and hydrated. Among the sweet delights are longan, mangosteen, and salak, or snake fruit, named for its scaly skin. 

For many, Trat is just a stopover for a trip to nearby islands. The largest is Ko Chang, a destination with undulating mountains and hills, sheer cliffs, and large tracts of forest. There are also some astonishing beaches, especially along the west coast.

Read the original article on Explore .