Thailand is world-renowned for its breathtaking beaches, spa resorts, incredible water sports, stunning temples, amazing food and unbelievably colorful culture. You’ll need several months to experience it all, so here’s a neatly curated a list things to do in Thailand. Book your tickets today to visit the Land of Smiles!
The Grand Palace
This 150-year old palace in Bangkok is the home of the king and Thailand’s entire government plus the country’s Royal Mint. The palace is enormous, beautifully decorated and surrounded by huge walls built in 1782.
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Right next to the Grand Palace is Wat Phra Kaeo, where you’ll find the beautiful Emerald Buddha temple. Offer prayers here and enjoy the Thai Buddhist culture at this temple.
The National Museum
Wat Pho, the National Museum in Bangkok houses artifacts, photos and paintings that document centuries of Thai civilizations. Check out the nearby City Pillar and National Gallery as well, for a deeper cultural study.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Unbelievable handicrafts, home decorations, clothing, jewelry, bags and souvenirs await you at this market in Bangkok. Use the Nancy Chandler Map so you don’t get lost here!
Khon Theatre Performances
Travel back in time to 15th century Siam through magnificent masked dances called Khon at the Sala Charlermkrung Royal Theatre in Bangkok. Most of these performances are based on Thailand’s rendition of the Ramayana.
Pak Khlong Talat and Yaowarat
Visit Pak Khlong Talat for the grandest display of native flowers you’ve ever seen. A visit to this place is like taking a bath in floral fragrances and riotous colors. You can even take some flowers home with you.
Canal Cruising
Cruise Bangkok’s backwater canals in a houseboat or a canoe, enjoying the local birdlife and the blissful scenery. Visit Khlong Om in Nonthaburi to check out sandstone sculptures by local Mon Artisans.
Hua Hin
Head to the marvelous beaches at Hua Hin for a dip in the bluest waters you’ve ever seen. The white sandy beach is perfect for beach bumming, jogging, golf and even horse riding!
Pai
Pai is a little pastoral northern mountain town full of mountain trails, waterfalls, hot springs and elephant camps. Get ready for some mountain biking, trekking, whitewater rafting and culture study of hill tribes.
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Elephant Trekking
Visit Mahawangchang Elephant Camp just off Bangkok for some up-close encounters with elephants in their natural habitat. Ride bareback on a behemoth, and watch the elephants play in the river.
Phanom Rung
This Hindu shrine was built between the 10th and 13th centuries by the Khmer dynasty. The sandstone and laterite shrine represents the home of Lord Shiva in the Himalayas and sits on an extinct volcano. The sun pours into all of its 15 east-facing doorways four times a year, which is welcomed with great pomp and fireworks.
Incredible Railay
Railay is a limestone-cliff surrounded peninsula with lovely white sand beaches. Here you can enjoy elephant trekking, beach bumming, mountain climbing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, snorkeling plus cave exploring at the Diamond Caves. Enjoy a Thai massage at the Railay Spa offers after a day of adventuring.
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is a fantastic wildlife resort that houses barking deer, wild boar, Asian elephants, bears, Malayan tapirs, gibbons, langurs and pig-tailed macaques. Explore the park’s cave-riddled limestone karsts, jungle forests, rivers and lakes, natural pools, waterfalls and admire the stunning hill top vistas.
The Ruins of Ayuthaya
Ayuthaya is an island, located at the confluence of three rivers. Once known as Siam, the ruins of the city’s ancient 400 temples and three palaces offer a fascinating study into Thailand’s glorious past.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is a verdant region with several national parks, waterfalls and the River Kwai Bridge that was built by WWII POWs during the Japanese occupation. Be sure to explore the nearby Srinakarind National Park and Erawan National Park and also the limestone caves.
Chiang Mai
If you’re interested in fantastic views, study of hill tribes, outdoor adventures and historical culture and architecture, head over to Chiang Mai. You’ll find dozens of Buddhist temples here, the most famous being the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. Don’t miss a visit to Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Walking Street to enjoy great Thai food and shopping for souvenirs.
Coastal Islands
Hop on a boat and explore Thailand’s coastal islands; get an eyeful of gorgeous landscapes, beaches and the vibrant party scene. Notable is the Ko Phi Phi spa resort island, whose Monkey Beach is populated by 100s of monkeys.
Floating Markets
Check out Thailand’s floating markets on rivers and lakes. Canoes, rafts and houseboats sell fresh veggies, flowers and raw seafood. You can also grab fresh pies and noodle dishes off the boats. This is one of the best things to do in Thailand.
Conclusion
Thailand has something for every kind of visitor – the nature lover, the backpacker, the adventurer and the culture vulture. Make sure you have plenty of juice in your digicam when you get to this lush gem in South East Asia!