Across the Chao Phraya River, you'll find Wat Arun, or the Temple of the Dawn, which is another stunning structure. These low-lying islands are lush with jungle and rimmed with striking white sand. The famous Wat Po and Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn (a great place to watch the sunset), are just a few minutes away. The drive is challenging, but beautiful, not to mention fun. Ko Phangan As Thailand's fifth-largest island, Ko Pha Ngan is a mix of rolling hills, lush jungles, and white-sand beaches. Enter Thailand expert Austin Bush, who recommends two of his favorite day trips. As well as housing cheeky macaques and muntjac deer, theres nowhere better in Southeast Asia to see wild elephants. Because Koh Phi Phi draws so many tourists, there are plenty of tour companies arranging tickets to other beach destinations, such as Phuket, Koh Chang, and Koh Lanta. Maenam Beach may be popular among families and backpackers, but it's still a degree removed from Samui's hyped-about spots, making it one of the best Thailand beaches. Perched atop an extinct volcano in the nations central north, the 13th-century ruins of Sukhothai, Thailands most impressive and significant Khmer historical site, is another must-see. Wat Phra Chetuphon 51,130 Points of Interest & Landmarks Religious Sites Riverside 13 best things to do in Thailand - Lonely Planet If youre looking for somewhere tropical, relaxed and has amazing food, you'll find it hard to pick somewhere more idyllic and relaxed. It's for good reason the main draw to Hua Hin is its powder-white beach that sits perched at the edge of the turquoise Gulf of Thailand. To really touch the heart of Thailands City of Angels, though, take to the water. Some are delicate jewel boxes covered in mirrored mosaics; others are towering constructions of hand-hewn teak, or centuries-old relics of exposed brickwork and carved stucco. Those in the know head north to spread their sarongs on Mae Nam a four-kilometre stretch of creamy-white sand dotted with resorts of low-level bungalows. The countrys most romantic ruins are in Sukhothai, in central Thailand the part everyone misses when they fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Everything from accommodation to transport and food is normally included in the price. Less than 30 minutes drive west from the hedonistic hub ofPatong, Phuket Towns colorful heritage buildings house excellent restaurants, boutiques and museums. These include 24/7 concierges and assistance in finding the perfect villa. The long, wide beach is always alive with activity, from sunbathers and tour-seekers, to street food vendors. 10 Best Beaches in Thailand | U.S. News Travel Over in far Northeastern Thailand, Isan culture prevails, and the tourist flood slows to a trickle. Experience the city at King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk, tour Damnoen Saduak floating market, or enjoy a delicious meal on a dinner cruise - the choice is yours! Image by Diliff sourced from wikimedia commons. 17 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Thailand | PlanetWare But a venture into the northernmost province of Mae Hong Son, on the border with Myanmar, will take the Thailand experience to a whole new level. The region is home to some of the best beaches in Asia. For adrenaline-charged water fun, try Black Mountain Water Park or visit The Venezia, a themed shopping center that even offers Gondola rides. Southeast Asias most popular holiday destination, Thailand continues to dazzle travelers with its glittering temples, tropical beaches, and mouth-watering food. Towering Buddhist temples, luxury resorts and wildlife-filled national parks the Land of Smiles really does seem to hold the key to happiness. In rural towns such as Nong Khai and other outposts along the Mekong River, youll see a different face of Thailand as you wander eccentric sculpture gardens, watch dragon boat races on the mighty Mekong and uncover prehistoric rock paintings in Ubon Ratchathani. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Sitting right on the border with Myanmar and Laos, the mountainous city of Chiang Rai is famous for its trekking in Lam Nam Kok National Park, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls such as the 70-meter-tall Khun Kon waterfall, lush forest, and hilltop tribe villages. Known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life, Bangkok is also a great gateway to the country's best temples and palaces. St Patricks Day? Top 10 Must Visit Destinations in Thailand | Thaiger Thailand is home to well-connected trains and budget airlines that can take you from one point of interest to the next quickly and effectively. Patong, the largest beach on the island, is Thailand's most popular beach. Anywhere from five to seven days will have you doing the loop at a relaxed pace. Heres his report from Phuket Town. Krabi Thailand: I list Karabi 4 th in my list, Krabi is the most natural top destination in Thailand. Local tip: You can support local enterprises by visiting places that provide employment opportunities for vulnerable locals, such as blind therapists. One of the most popular destinations in the Mae Hong Son province near the border with Myanmar, the small town of Pai has become a favorite among those looking for the slow, more rural side of Thailand. Krabi One of the amazing tourist attractions to explore in Thailand is Krabi which captivates the heart of the tourists with its serene beauty. 1. 16 of the best places to visit in Thailand - Times Travel Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Best Places to Visit in Thailand Chiang Mai Bangkok Phuket Ko Samui Phang Nga Railay Beach Trang Ko Phi Phi Chiang Rai Kanchanaburi Province Khao Sok National Park Lampang Hua Hin District Khao. Add in blinding white beaches, jungle trails, cheap beach-hut accommodation and access by longtail boat and this is one of the definitive Thailand experiences. Despite some bleaching of hard corals, iridescent fish and soft corals abound, and there are lovely island beaches to relax on between dives. Sharing its border with Myanmar to the west and Laos to the east, Chiang Rai is one of Thailands most ethnically diverse provinces. Read more to plan your travel to Thailand. Jungle walks, mysterious hill tribes and ancient temples are just some of the things to do around Chiang Mai. Thailands beauty is best enjoyed from accommodation which matches the quality of the countrys destinations and gives you a comfortable place to relax and enjoy. While in town, take a walk down San Kamphaeng Road, a 10-kilometer-long road where local crafters congregate to sell everything from celadon pottery to lacquerware to silk products. Chiang Dao is one of the best places to visit in Thailand for those who love the outdoors and prefer fewer tourists than the crowds found in nearby Chiang Mai and Pai. 1. The laid-back island is popular among expats and low-key travelers looking to get a bit off the tourist trail, but still have access to many conveniences. But by and large, what visitors are coming to Koh Tao for is diving, which is what gives this tiny island its monumental reputation. For a fun, relaxed afternoon, try some of Pattaya's museums, including Ripley's Believe It Or Not and the 3D museum, Art in Paradise. Its 30 ocean-view suites and. Hua Hin. Your pass is fully digital and is valid for 60 days from your first attraction visit so there's no need to rush around. Church of Our Lady of the Rocks in the Bay of Kotor near Perast, Montenegro. In search of Thailands ultimate backpacker scene? 1. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Detour:With branches around the country, Jaroenthong Muay Thai Gym has a training centre a short walk from Thanon Khao San. Hua Hin beach is massive. But its the marine life you wont want to miss giant purple star fish, pink brain coral, flocks of parrotfish, families of clownfish playing in anemones and, if youre lucky, an encounter with green turtles. Top Attractions in Thailand See all 2023 1. Erawan Falls Thailand has its fair share of exceptional waterfalls. 01 of 10 Patong Beach, Phuket Travelasia/Getty Images Address Patong Beach, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand Phuket ( pronounced "poo-ket") is the largest of the islands in Thailand. Yes Sukhothai Thani is a small town better known for being home to the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO site that houses the ruins of the 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom. The park is also home to many waterfalls, including the 150-meter-tall Haew Narok and the even more famous Haew Suwat, which appeared in the Leonardo DiCaprio's film, The Beach. One of the most popular holiday spots in Thailand, Koh Samui is home to mountainous rainforests, postcard-worthy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. Travel in Thailand: Top 5 Destinations You Must See No Destinations From the beaches of Koh Phi Phi, to the chaos of Bangkok, alongside the culture, jungles and history, there is just so much to see in Thailand There is no question about it, Thailand is one of our absolute favorite countries to visit. Ayutthaya is located only a short bus trip or train ride from Bangkok, making it convenient for a day trip if you're pressed for time. From white-sand beaches, stunning rainforests and temples to night markets, shops and big city hubbub, theres something for everyone. You'll want to take your time, though, as it has many nooks and crannies to explore. You can also go tubing, kayaking and rafting, and sleep in a floating hut. About 90 minutes north of the bridge are the Erawan Falls, a seven-tier waterfall and emerald green ponds hidden in the thick rainforest. Mrigadayavan Palace (Maruekhathaiyawan) was designed to stand completely on stilts, which allows the sea breeze to circulate on all sides and keeps the buildings cool. During this time, days are milder, and it's peak vacation season for western visitors. Covering an area of just under 2,000 square kilometers, this breathtaking park is home to rainforests, mountains, and grasslands. Sublime Southern Thailand - the ultimate tropical beach retreat. Pai is surrounded by densely covered hills rolling into green fields, majestic waterfalls, and hiking trails that seem to go on forever. Planning tip: Underwater visibility is best from February to April. With more than 1400 Thai islands to choose from, wheres a traveler to begin? Read our Privacy Policy. Hidden in a quiet corner of Ko Phangan island and accessible only by boat, Haad Yuans half-moon of fine white sand comes with a savage, unkempt beauty but without a hint of discomfort. Add blockbuster natural scenery, vibrant villages, a cosmopolitan capital and buckets of culture, and its easy to see how the Land of Smiles has turned many a first-timer into a repeat visitor. Known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life, Bangkok is also a great gateway to the country's best temples and palaces. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Krabi province is home to some of Thailand's most famous beach destinations-and Railay tops the list as one of the most stunning. The 15 best places to visit in Thailand - Lonely Planet When you close your eyes and picture the southern seas of Thailand, what you're likely picturing is the mesmerizing Phang Nga Bay. There is a small walking street market that comes alive every night, a variety of local and Western foods, and easy access to nearby Buddhist temples, waterfalls, and the impressive Pai canyon. Stunning Railay Beach, in particular, attracts climbers from all over the world, though it's also famous for its caves. The park is home to Malayan sun bears, tigers, and wild elephants, and sightings aren't rare once you get deep into the evergreen rainforest. Phuket 12. Destinations Asia Southeast Asia Thailand By Pete R. Updated On May 22, 2023 | Comment Thailand is hands down one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, thanks to its abundant beaches, islands, temples, and delicious street food, all at affordable prices. Soaring limestone karsts rise up behind sugar-white beaches lapped by turquoise water inRailay, easily one of Thailands most genetically blessed seaside destinations. Bangkok is a buzzing, baffling and mesmerising mix of ancient and modern, palaces and temples, gleaming skyscrapers and crowded alleys. Its that classic Thai stretch youve seen in pictures wooden fishing boats on a glassy-green sea, a white-pepper-fine sandy beach overlooked by towering forest-covered crags. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. So many wonderful things to see around Bangkok, so little time. While some of the markets do seem to cater more to the tourist crowds, others make for a nice authentic travel experience that involves getting in a boat and letting your guide take you through canals, where you'll see traditional houses on stilts and run into sellers offering wares from their own boats. Accommodation: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Chiang Mai. For those in a shopping mood, Bangkok is home to many shopping centers, including ber-luxurious Siam Paragon and travel-inspired Terminal21, as well as a number of traditional floating markets. So far south it almost edges into Malaysia, Ko Tarutao Marine National Park is Thailands last true island escape. Glorious beaches attract all kinds of travelers and vacationers. This large island in the Gulf of Siam has plenty of pretty beaches to choose from and the interior of the island is covered with coconut trees and soft, rolling hills. Home to a number of resorts, Railay is also a popular romantic escape for couples. The Pearl of the Andaman has long been a magnet for jet-setters and celebrities, who come to hang out in design-forward luxury hotels, be polished and pummelled in swanky spas and sip champagne cocktails on bright white yachts. Whether you are staying in a tranquil Thailand beach villa, or a hotel suite in a high rise Bangkok hotel, there are possibilities that will please everyone. Still, once you're on the island, it feels like another world away. Vietnam emerging as Southeast Asia's new tourist hot spot You can save you up to 50% compared to purchasing separate attraction tickets. The water here is calm, crystal clear, and has endless views out to shadowy islands in the distance. 10 Most Amazing Destinations in South Thailand - Touropia Koh Samui's neighboring archipelagos also have much to offer and are just a quick ferry ride away. KhaoYaiNationalParkin Isan isan easy-access wilderness, doable in a day trip from Bangkok. 1. Cycle around Yao Nois little coastal road and youll find little more than some crepuscular rubber plantations and a few ramshackle fishing villages, as well as comets of soft white sand beaches washed by calm, cosmically blue-green seas and views out over Phang Nga Bays limestone sea-stacks. Bangkok As the capital of Thailand, it's almost guaranteed that you'll be visiting Bangkok, if only as your entry and departure point into the country. They are also known for the massive boulders that cover their shores. Theres more to Kanchanaburi than the famous bridge over the River Kwai. The island is part of the Angthong Marine National Park and is just a couple hours by boat from Ko Phangan and . Two themed museums-the World War II Museum & Art Gallery and the JEATH War Museum-offer more insight into the times, with collections that cover everything from paintings to documents to WWII weapons. 26. We also feature properties and itineraries from a specially selected list of trusted operators. Just outside of the city, you'll also find a number of hill tribes, including the Meo Hill tribe and the Karen tribe. Here's my selection of the world's top five best places for jetset retirement. Another popular temple is Wat Tham Pla (also home to a cave and thousands of wild macaques), which can be reached by climbing a staircase flanked by the guardian Naga serpents. Bangkok is not only one of the best cities in Thailand, it also made it on our top 10 best cities in the world. If you're on a more leisurely schedule, plan on spending a few days exploring the ancient capital and rent a push-bike to tour both the old city and the new. The average room rate on Agoda's platform in Khon Kaen is 1,030 Thai baht (US$30), making it an attractive option for budget travelers. Local tip:Having your own transport is convenient, but not totally necessary. Exploring Phuket: For ideas on how to make the most of your holiday, check out what there is to see and do in the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island. 10 Best Places to Visit in Thailand in 2023 - BucketListly Blog For something a little more laid-back, head to Suan Son beach, which is about 12 kilometers south of Hua Hin. If you're visiting Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, it's only proper to round it out with Koh Tao. This bustling seaside town is jam-packed with restaurants, resorts, shopping, and lots of things to do. Here's how to experience the best of Thailand Tetra images / Getty Images. . There is no question about it, Thailand is one of our absolute favorite countries to visit. Reiki, crystal healing, acupuncture, reflexology and other non-indigenous methods of healing are also available. Manta rays and sharks (including whale sharks) are the top critters to spot beneath the waves. Flower Festival in Chiang Mai. Offering an opportunity to connect with Thai people on a deeper and more authentic level than the average village tour, community-based ecotourism (CBET) is a great place to start. Sarah Williams 30 November 2022 View Serene shrines, spectacular skyscrapers and the best street food on the planet are all waiting for you in Bangkok. Everyone does the Phi Phi islands, so head instead for Ko Hong. 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Thailand | PlanetWare You'll get to see many species of waterbirds, as well as a magnificent background of blueish mountains. There are a myriad of places to stay on the island, and Luxury Retreats offer some of the best villas in Koh Samui. Thailand's reputation as a country of beautiful landscapes and friendly people is due largely to the world-renowned southern beaches. But don't worry: quiet corners with shady palms and swaying hammocks preserve the tropical island mood, and you can easily spend your days dozing on sand-dusted beaches to recover. The nations northernmost corner is also arguably its most beautiful. Aside from the central Hua Hin beach, you can try nearby Cham Am Beach or Khao Takiab beach, home to Khao Takiab temple and hundreds of wild macaques. Ayutthaya was once the most important city in Thailand, and the old palaces and temples stand as a testament to this. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Not far from the market is Wat Jong Soong, a centuries-old temple in town. Disclaimer, 10 Enchanting Cities with Colorful Houses, 18 Best Things to do in Frankfurt, Germany, 23 Most Beautiful Islands in the Mediterranean. Written by Meagan Drillinger and Diana Bocco Updated Jul 13, 2022. Its a hard choice indeed to pick between these two paradise-like islands in Southeast Asia. Enclosed by towering limestone cliffs, washed by a Listerine-green lagoon and reachable only at low tide by swimming or taking a small boat through a dark and dripping sea cave, the beach of Hat Morakot was a pirate lair until the early 20th century. Hiking is the big drawcard around Chiang Rai, passing through tribal homelands that spill over the borders into Myanmar and Laos. One of the most popular ways to travel in Mae Hong Son is to drive the Mae Hong Son loop, beginning and ending in Chiang Mai. The bay is also home to Ao Phang Nga National Park, which keeps its natural beauty protected. The "Land of Smiles" is one of the jewels of Southeast Asia. ChiangMais smaller sister,ChiangRai, is within driving distance, with its spectacular White Temple and longboat rides on the Kok River. You can reach Phi Phi Don-the largest of the islands and the only one permanently inhabited-on a rented kayak or by hiring a small wooden boat to take you here. Ko Pha Ngan [SEE MAP] The island of Ko Pha Ngan is also found in the Gulf of Thailand, and it is best known for hosting huge parties in honor of the full moon. You can climb the 353 steps to Wat Phra That Mae Yen for stunning views over the valley, or take a day trip to the massive Tham Lod limestone cave system. Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Krabi. If you're lucky and the tide is out, it's a beautiful walk back towards the main part of the island. This is a popular beach resort destination but this is a place where families usually visit or people who want to stay away from crowd to enjoy peaceful holiday. Koh Tao, a smaller island right off the coast of Koh Samui, is one of the prime scuba diving destinations in Thailand. Each of the seven tiers also has its own name, and reaching them gets harder and harder as you go up after the fifth tier, visitors need to use slippery ladders while pushing through thick vegetation in order to continue. The second capital of Siam from the 14th to the 18th century, Ayuthaya has long since been eclipsed by other Thai cities, but time-worn relics of this golden age are littered around the streets. But Ao Nang is an attraction in itself, with so much to see and do right here on the mainland. So don't expect perfect turquoise waters or lively beach scenes. If an overnight stay is in the books, start at the northwest corner of the park, where Thung Sam Roi Yot Freshwater Marsh is located. Snuggled against the east coast of Thailand, this large mountainous island is webbed with jungle lagoons, sparkling waterfalls and empty beaches where you can sling your hammock between a couple of palms and fall asleep to the sound of the lapping Gulf of Siam. Kanchanaburi and the Bridge Over the River Kwai 3. Trek in the northern mountains 9. These infamous beach festivals are popular with young backpackers from around the world, and the revelry is unparalleled in Asia. It is the best holiday destination for couples or families. If tropical islands and beach days are more your cup of tea, join us in the far south of Thailand for a coastal holiday you'll never forget. Ayutthaya offers a magnificent peek into the glory of ancient Thailand, where visitors can wander the haunting but romantic ruins of the former capital. 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand | Best Places to Visit | Thailand 2023 Top 5 Popular Travel Destinations in Thailand | Medego A Postcard from Thailand: My trip to Phuket Town in photos, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. At the base of the stairs, vendors hawk everything from tasty local treats to goods handmade by villagers from the surrounding mountains. Recorded on the Unesco World Heritage list, the ruined temples and shrines are an evocative Thai history lesson. You might not need to venture that far, though. Check Hotel Prices in Chiang Dao. Ruins of this old city still stand proud despite enduring centuries of battle and exposure to the elements. Divers swim with sharks and rays who come out to play in its rainbow-tinted coral, while bottle-green jungle beckon keen hikers looking for something beyond its icing sugar-white beaches. Chiang Mai 7. Spend mornings walking along golden sands spotting farmers taking their prized water buffalo for a dip, afternoons meditating under casuarina trees, and nights practising moonlight yoga on the beach and youll feel miles away from any beach parties. Tour the best of Bangkok Between its golden temples, buzzy markets and famous culinary scene alone, there's plenty to love about Bangkok. Isan 11. If you click and buy a product, we may earn revenue. It is pretty much guaranteed that you will find everything you need to enjoy your time there. We have been to Thailand a few times now, and have pretty much created a routine for ourselves. Tuk-tuks are great ways to visit Bangkok and navigate its crowded streets. Having said all that, it is absolutely beautiful. All rights reserved. Yes Trisara, Layan Best for glamour Spilling down the hillside onto a mile of white beach on Phuket's upmarket northwest coast, Trisara is 40 acres of fabulousness. Its still there along the river, in the early-morning marigold markets and the narrow alleys and canals of Thonburi district, where the city began in the 1780s. The stunning historic park is in the Nakhon Ratchasima province to the northeast of Bangkok. (satay) sticks and enjoy the exuberant atmosphere. You will undoubtedly find it a peaceful place to relax after the commotion of Bangkok, but it is certainly no backwater either. Planning tip:Make time for the often overlooked temples and homestays in tea and coffee growing villages that make this one of the most charming corners of the country. Planning tip:Nearly every guesthouse, hotel and travel agency in Chiang Rai offers hiking excursions in hill country, some of which have a grassroots, sustainable or nonprofit emphasis. The park is also famous for its eco-luxury camps, where tents come with en-suite bathrooms, deluxe bedding, their own kayak, and some of the best meals you'll try in Thailand. Samui bristles with boutique hotels and boho bars but the most vaunted beaches (at Chaweng and Lamai) can feel crowded. Where do Bangkok residents go when they want a relaxing beach getaway? So weve asked a pair of writers to make the case for each. Over 12,000 Allied prisoners ended up dying during the one year the bridge was under construction and reconstruction, as the bridge was bombed and damaged more than once leading to it being known as the "Death Railway.". Planning tip:You might also be lucky enough to spot wild elephants inKhao Yai National Park, just a few hours from Bangkok. Today, the ruins of the kingdom can be toured while walking the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO site. 1. Thailands busy capital can be intimidating at first. This variety of terrain means an equally rich fauna, with gibbons, jackals, and even bears calling the park home. Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ayutthaya. Samui. Sukhothai's Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and much has been invested to restore and preserve one of Thailand's most significant historical sites. Allow at least half a day to visit Thonburi by bike or take a river boat. The next day, visit the lichen-covered 13th-century palaces, giant Buddhas and temples of Si Satchanalai HistoricalPark, lost in a rainforest garden where hornbills outnumber tourists. Hua Hin, of course. The location is every bit as dramatic as it is in the film and a day-trip by boat is a serene way to experience it. Some sights - like the temple that houses the 12-meter-long reclining Buddha and the tree roots embracing a Buddha head - are particularly stunning and not to be missed. Top 5 Cheapest Tourist Destinations in Thailand | GMT | Thaiger Long Beach is another nice spot on the island; while not a secluded place where you can hope for privacy, it's great for watching the sunset.