Thailand offers a wide variety of destinations to visit because it is a country with unlimited possibilities and spans 2,000 kilometers from north to south and is one of the best Travel Destinations in the World. You can visit the nation’s capital Bangkok, the northern cities of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, national parks, the temple ruins in Ayuthaya and Sukhothai, elephant sanctuaries, and stunning beaches. But there is so much more to see and do in Thailand! Continue reading!
Center of Thailand
The capital city of Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayuthaya, and Lopburi are all located in Thailand’s central region.
Do you like to get in-depth information about everything to see in this central region of Thailand? Try it out!
Bangkok
Thailand’s capital is Bangkok, also referred to as the “city of angels.” With a population of over 10 million, it is a city of contrasts, cosmopolitan, vibrant in the streets, rich in history, and traversed by the commanding Chao Phraya river. All of this indicates that it has attractions for all types of tourists.
What to see in Bangkok?
- The Grand Palace: It is Thailand’s most important tourist destination and Bangkok’s crown jewel. The famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha is one of many stunning structures found within the complex built at the end of the 18th century.
- Wat Pho Temple: Which is home to the world-famous gold-leafed Reclining Buddha and measures 46 metres in length.
- The Temple of Wat Arun: It is located next to the Chao Phraya river and is known as the temple of dawn. It is home to an impressive stupa that is widely considered one of Bangkok’s most iconic images.
- Chinatown: If you’re looking for a place to go during the day and also at night to enjoy eating at its street stalls, this is the place to go. Its streets are vibrant and busy, and they are full of shops.
- The flower market: It’s the biggest in Thailand, and it’s also one of the biggest in the world. A kaleidoscope of hues created by the diverse assortment of flora and florae.
What to do in Bangkok?
Visit the curious Train Market and Floating Market
Do you think it would be possible for a train to go through the midst of a market? So, that’s the way things work in this peculiar location. The problem is that there is insufficient room for the train to pass through, and as a result, the stalls need to be lifted. Do you really think that? You can’t avoid seeing it!
Take a boat ride on the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
The most well-known and vibrant floating market in all of Thailand may be found here. One of the most well-known things to do in Thailand is to sail down its primary channel, which is crowded with boats being pulled by women who are selling their wares. It is not to be missed!
Go shopping at its night markets
At night, a stroll through the famed Patpong Market on Silom street or the Asiatique area close to the Chao Phraya river is the perfect opportunity to do some shopping. Both of these areas are located in Bangkok.
Go up at night to a terrace bar in a skyscraper to see the views
Impressive are the cityscapes that may be seen at night in Bangkok when viewed from a tall building. For this purpose, we suggest that you travel to the Sirocco Terrace at the Lebua Hotel or to the rooftop bar of the Mahanakorn building, which is the tallest in the city. Both of these locations offer spectacular views of the city.
At this point, you have probably been interested in learning more about all that you will have the opportunity to see and do during your time spent in the capital of Thailand. In that case! In light of this, we have compiled extensive information regarding the many tourist attractions in Bangkok.
Kanchanaburi
As part of a trip to Thailand, you should make time to visit the province of Kanchanaburi, which is located about 180 kilometres north of Bangkok. This verdant region has a lot of exciting things to see and do.
What to see in Kanchanaburi
- The Bridge over the River Kwai: This well-known bridge, which has been featured in a number of films, serves as a symbol for the significance of this location during World War II.
- The Erawan Waterfalls: These waterfalls, which are about 60 kilometres from the country’s capital city of Kanchanaburi, are undoubtedly the most beautiful ones to see in Thailand. There are seven levels, and you can take a shower on some of them. Put in the effort and work your way to the top.
What to do in Kanchanaburi
Take a ride on the train
It is definitely worth it to take a train ride through the breathtaking scenery and cliffs that can be found in the province of Kanchanaburi. You can board the train at any one of a number of locations, one of which is the bridge over the River Kwai.
Walk the Hell Pass
The Japanese used prisoners of war to construct the most difficult portion of the train track during World War II. This section of the track was known as the “Hell Fire Pass” or the “hell pass.” It goes through a fairly steep region, which may be traversed on foot in around forty-five minutes. It is approximately 60 kilometres from the capital city of Kanchanaburi and can be accessed from the HellFire Pass Memorial.
If you have been interested in learning more, you can do so by reading the following information about the attractions that can be found in Kanchanaburi.
Ayuthaya
The city of Ayutthaya, located about 85 km from Bangkok, is home to some of the most interesting Temple Ruins to see in Thailand.
Wat Mahathat temple in Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya Historical Park
Its Historical Park is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The temples of Ayuthaya are the historical legacy of what was the most important kingdom in Southeast Asia from the 13th to the 17th century. The most interesting are:
- Wat Chai Wattanaram Temple: This beautiful and well-preserved Khemer-style temple is located along the Chao Phraya River. It is the most beautiful of all.
- The Temple of Wat Mahathat: In its day it was the main temple. It is quite dilapidated but it houses the famous Buddha’s head trapped by a tree.
- The Temple of Wat Phra Si Sanphet: It is the most spectacular, since it is made up of 3 imposing stupas.
- Wat Lokayasutharam: Famous for the large image of the reclining Buddha on the outside
Lopburi
This town, which is one of the oldest in Thailand, can be found around 150 kilometres to the north of Ayuthya. When King Narai was forced to flee Ayuthaya during one of the many Burmese invasions that the city had to endure throughout its history, he established his residence there. But ever since it became known as the Temple of the Monkeys, its notoriety has skyrocketed.
What to see in Lopburi
- The temple of Phra Sam Yot: It is the most well-known landmark in the city and is commonly referred to as the Temple of the Monkeys. It is a temple designed in the Khmer style that is home to a large number of monkeys. The month of November comes to a close with the celebration known as the “Monkey Festival,” during which large quantities of food are presented to the macaques.
- Phra Narai Ratchaniwet Palace: This is the Palace that King Narai constructed and used as his personal residence. It is built in a style that is a mashup of Khemer and French, and it is in quite a state of disrepair.
Northern Thailand
Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai, and Kamphaeng Phet are the most fascinating destinations in this part of northern Thailand, and you shouldn’t miss them!
Chiang Rai
It is the province that is located the farthest to the north in the country. On the opposite bank of the Mekong River from Burma and Laos is this landlocked country. It is about 380 kilometres away from Sukhothai, and about 190 kilometres from Chiang Mai, and that is where the capital of this region can be found.
What to see in Chiang Rai
- The Golden Triangle. During the 1950s and 1960s, this region of Thai geography was the epicentre of the country’s opium production. We can quickly cross the waters of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar by taking a boat ride on the Mekong River. This journey will only take a few minutes.
- The White Temple. This cutting-edge and captivating structure is entirely white and is covered with thousands of crystals, which cause it to shine brightly when exposed to sunlight. Don’t lose out on this opportunity!
- The Blue Temple. It is a restoration of an older Buddhist temple, which is now decorated entirely in indigo blue and contains a large image of Buddha that is white.
- Tea Plantations. The region of Thailand known for its tea production is called Chiang Rai. The Choui Fong plantation is breathtaking in its natural splendor.
- Clock Tower. It is one of the many things that people associate with the city. The very heart of the city is occupied by this tower that is entirely covered in gold.
What to do in Chiang Rai
Go to the Night Bazaar: The Night Bazaar is an excellent location in the city for both doing some shopping and having dinner.
Trekking: Chiang Rai is encircled by hills that are home to people hailing from a variety of ethnic groups. If you’re interested in adventure, some of the activities that are worth doing include trekking, learning about their towns, and living with them.
As you may well know, Chiang Rai is a destination in Thailand that offers a sufficient number of interesting things to see for you to include in your itinerary.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the country’s second most important region and is located around 800 kilometres north of Bangkok. The city itself is the centre of the region. It is also the region that has done the finest job of preserving the customs and rituals associated with Buddhism. Because of this, it is one of the most important destinations to visit in Thailand if you want to get a sense of the culture that defines the nation.
What to see in Chiang Mai
- Doi Suthep Temple: The so-called Mountain Temple is Chiang Mai’s crowning achievement and an authentic representation of the city itself. It is known for its stunning golden stupa, which sits atop a hill and provides visitors with breathtaking vistas of the city below.
- Wat Phra Singh: The so-called Lion Temple due to the statue of this animal that presides over the entrance is the most important temple in the walled city.
- Wat Chedi Luang: This temple, which is located in the middle of the city, is home to a sizable stupa made of stone.
- Its markets: The city of Chiang Mai is known as the “city of marketplaces.” There are shopping opportunities both during the day and at night, such as the Night Bazar.
Mae hong son
The long-neglected province of Mae Hong Son can be found approximately 240 kilometres west of Chiang Mai. It is possible to get there by taking a quick flight that only takes half an hour, or by driving along a scenic road that takes about five hours and has some twists and turns. It used to be very well known as the location in Thailand where visitors could see the Giraffe Women tribes. The area is known for its breathtaking natural scenery and for providing a glimpse into Thailand’s traditional rural way of life.
What to see in Mae Hong Son
- Pan Oung Lake: This breathtaking alpine lake makes you feel as though you’ve been transported to Switzerland.
- Bang Rak Thai Village. It is a Chinese settlement that is situated forty kilometres away from the city center, close to a lake, and in a very beautiful environment overall. You are able to get food there.
- The Temples of Wat Jong Klang and Wat Jong Kham. They are two stunning temples designed in the Burmese style, and they can be found right in the middle of the city.
- The Wat Phratat Doi Kong Mu Temple. It is also very Burmese in style, despite having a more contemporary feel. It sits atop a hill, providing guests with some of the most breathtaking panoramas in all of Mae Hong Son.
Sukhothai
About 350 kilometres to the south of Chiang Mai and almost 400 kilometres from Bangkok is where you’ll find the city of Sukhothai. As a result, this area constitutes the most southern portion of northern Thailand. It served as the nation’s first capital during the 12th and 13th centuries and is now recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Because of this, paying a visit to it is obligatory if the purpose of our trip to Thailand is to explore the ruins of temples.
What to see in Sukhotai
- Wat Mahatat: It was the most significant temple in the area. The ruins of it can be found in the middle of the walled city, and they provide some indication of its size. In addition to that, their Buddha statues are of the highest quality.
- Wat Si Sawai: Because it was originally a Hindu temple, its architecture is distinctive.
- Wat Sa Si: It is a stunning pagoda, and it can be found right in the middle of the pond inside the walled city.
- Wat Sri Chum: Perhaps the most well-known thing about it is the Buddha statue that stands at a height of 15 meters. It was built in a later era compared to the rest of the structures, and it is located on the outskirts of the walled city.
Islands and beach areas in Thailand
Depending on what you’re looking for and the time of year you visit, destinations such as Krabi, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao can be the ideal places to round off a trip. The islands and beach communities that make up Thailand are split between two distinct bodies of water. On the one hand, there are islands to visit in Thailand that are located in the Andaman Sea area, and on the other hand, there are islands to visit in Thailand that are located in the Gulf of Thailand.
Krabi
Krabi and its surrounding islands provide the ideal setting from which to experience the Andaman Sea and some of the most stunning beaches in all of Thailand. It is a flight of around two hours from Chiang Mai, and approximately 180 kilometres from Phuket.
Once you are there, the following excursions are available to you:
- Railay and the 4 islands: The Railay peninsula and its beaches, as well as the islands of Koh Kai, Koh Poda, Koh Tup, and Koh Mawr, will be on the itinerary for this excursion. You will have the opportunity to snorkel both during the day and at night among plankton that glows in the dark.
- James Bond Island, Phang Na Bay and Hong Islands: You will arrive in Phang Na Bay, which is home to James Bond Island, and you will finish off your journey on the beach and in the lagoon of Koh Hong.
- Phi Phi Islands: Wonderful day spent exploring some of the most well-known locations and beaches in the Phi Phi Islands, such as Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and the Phi Ley lagoon. And last but not least, snorkeling.
The most beautiful beaches in Krabi are:
- Aonang Beach: The major one in the heart of Krabi’s tourism district.
- Klong Muang: Beach that is peaceful and gives views of the Hong Islands.
- Phra Nang: The world-famous Railay beach, known for its breathtaking sunsets.
Phuket
It is widely considered to be the most popular beach resort in all of Thailand. There are very beautiful beaches there, and Chiang Mai can be reached by plane in just under two hours.
The following are some of the excursions you can go on.
- James Bond Island and Phang Na Bay. You will sail through the breathtaking Phang Na Bay on the way to the well-known James Bond Island. You will kayak through mangroves and explore the caves that are there.
- Phi Phi Islands: You will explore the most interesting locations on these breathtaking islands, and you will climb to the highest point on Phi Phi Don, from which you will have spectacular views of the Phi Phi Islands.
- Similan Islands: If you visit between the months of November and April, you will have access to a National Park that features a paradise with waters as clear as crystal and sand as white as snow.
Its most important beaches are:
- Panwa Beach: A haven of tranquility in the east of the island
- Kata Noi Beach: It’s one of the best beaches on the west coast, thanks to its expansiveness and its pure white sand.
- Patong Beach: Ideal location for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of tourists and parades
- Karon Baech: The beach with the most length and width on the island, and the island’s second most important tourist centre after Patong.
- Surin Beach: A tranquil, picturesque, and narrow beach located in the northwest of the island, complete with chill-out terraces where one can enjoy a drink in a relaxed setting.
Phi Phi Islands
Some of Thailand’s most stunning landscapes and beaches can be found on these well-known islands, which are situated halfway between Krabi and Phuket. It is also an option available to you if you would want to remain on the premises rather than embark on any of the other excursions.
What to see in the Phi Phi Islands
- Maya Bay Beach: Gorgeous beach made famous by the Leonardo di Carpio movie.
- Pi Ley Lagoon: Its emerald blue waters are breathtaking, and enormous cliffs surround it.
- Bamboo Island: Island with a white sand beach and crystal clear waters that are not forgotten.
- Monkey Beach: On the island of Phi Phi Don, a stretch of white sand, there are some very curious and occasionally bothersome tourists.
- View point of Phi Phi Don: After a little exertion on the climb, the best views of the Phi Phi islands can be seen from this location.
Koh Samui
If you want to choose an island in the Gulf of Thailand because of the weather when you travel, Koh Samui is the biggest and busiest. Of course, you’ll need a larger budget because travelling there and staying there are both pricey.
Among its most stunning beaches are:
- Chaweng Beach: The tourist hub is there. Its beach is excellent, but it is comparable to Patong in Phuket.
- Siver Beach: In the northeast of the island, there is a white sand beach and clear waters.
- Mae Nam Beach: Long and wide beach in the north of the island
- Taling Nam: One of Koh Samui’s best beaches is this long, deserted one in the west.
There are a few excursions in Koh Samui that are worthwhile, despite the fact that the trips to the most picturesque islands in Thailand are taken from Krabi or Phuket:
- Angthon National Park Islands: From Koh Samui, 42 protected islands with clear waters and coral bottoms for snorkelling are accessible in one and a half hours by boat.
- Koh Nang Yuan Islet: Island with a lovely beach that is connected to Koh Tao by a small strip of land. In incredibly shallow waters, you can also enjoy a nice snorkel.
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