A trip to Thailand is a rite of passage for any seasoned traveler.
As magical destinations go, Thailand is definitely up there. There are awe-inspiring temples, endless beaches trimmed in aquamarine waters, there are miles and miles of lavish forests and lively wildlife.
The most fulfilling and thrilling Thailand holidays include a few locations:
Here’s a list of the top 10 places in Thailand you need to visit.
10. Khao Yai National Park
Located in the Sankamphaeng Mountain Range, Khao Yai National Park is the third largest park in Thailand and holds a perfect mix of evergreen rainforests and billowy grasslands.
Despite its high elevation, the stunning landscapes are a true gift from Mother Nature.
Khao Yai National Park has a number of waterfalls hidden within the forest. The most famous is the 260-foot high Haew Narok, which is also the largest in the park.
If you’re a movie fan, you will surely remember the waterfall featuring in the movie The Beach. Then head to Haew Suwat waterfall and be ready to feel like DiCaprio!
One of the best reasons to visit Khao Yai National Park is because of its rich and diverse wildlife. There's an extraordinary abundance of creatures to spot, such as macaques, sambar deer, freshwater crocodiles, and Asian black bears, just to mention a few.
9. Ko Samui
It goes without saying that Thailand has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and Ko Samui is an island you absolutely can’t miss.
Did you know that Ko Samui was largely unknown until the 70s when two young backpackers went on an adventure on a coconut boat and discovered this heaven on Earth?
Today, Ko Samui is one of the preferred tourist destinations in the world, and many high-end resorts have spread their villas on the shores of this magnificent island.
Even well-developed beaches like Hat Chaweng have small quiet spots at the southern end of the beach where visitors can find a secluded paradise away from the crowds, like Little Chaweng or Chaweng Noi.
Travelers who prefer enjoying a good old night out won’t be disappointed either; Na Thon will offer you plenty of excellent restaurants and lively bars.
There are also many Buddhist temples and religious sites worth a visit.
Did you know that Wat Khunaram features mummified remains of holy monks? The temple is also home to the 3 meters seated Buddha, also known as the “Big Buddha.”
For nature lovers, Ko Samui has all you need. The mountainous region offers endless forest trekking trails, including a breathtaking waterfall that dips directly into a natural pool, perfect for swimming.
8. Chiang Mai
Surrounded by the beautiful landscape of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a blossoming city among tourists from all over the world and the starting point to explore the lush forests & hill tribes of the region.
This city is the perfect blend of history, architecture, and traditions.
Lose yourself in the charming historic center with its beautiful ancient temples. The most famous temple is undeniably Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, just outside Chiang Mai on a mountain overlooking the city.
Chiang Mai also has gorgeous opportunities for outdoor adventures that are worth enjoying.
For nature and sports enthusiasts, explore the mountainous region and admire the perfect wildlife while trekking, ziplining, or river rafting.
7. Phanom Rung
Phanom Rungi is an enchanted Hindu temple sitting on an extinct volcano in northeastern Thailand.
Featuring outstanding architecture, the temple was constructed by the Khmer culture between the 10th and the 13th century as a holy place of worship to the Hindu god Shiva.
Did you know that only four times a year, the sunlight shines through all the 15 doorways, creating an enchanting and mystical atmosphere?
This is when the Phanom Rung Festival is celebrated, and during this magical day in April, you can witness a breathtaking display of sounds and lights.
6. Phuket
Phuket is surely one of the leading tourist destinations in the world.
Famous for its pristine beaches, diving spots, glorious nature, and luxury spas, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and is connected to the southern part of the country by two bridges.
The beaches and white sands, the blue lagoons with turquoise waters, and the laid-back atmosphere of the island are what travelers love most.
Head to Patong Beach, the most popular beach, or to Phang Na, its gorgeous caves and grottoes will offer you an incredible adventure.
Phuket is also an incredible place to relax and unwind.
It is not a secret that traditional Thai massages are among the most loved by spa enthusiasts. In Phuket, there are many options from beach massage to high-end luxury spas.
One thing is certain: you can always have your well-deserved relaxation and pampered moment in these breathtaking settings!
5. Khao Sok National Park
Surrounded by lush tropical forests and towering limestone mountains, Khao Sok National Park has some of the most spectacular scenery in Thailand.
It dates back 160 million years, making it considerably older than the Amazon rainforest.
Cheow Lan, a turquoise lake with floating houses and colorful long-tail boats, is nestled at the heart of the park. For thousands of years, it's been home to the largest virgin rainforest in Southern Thailand.
Lose yourself in a realm of pristine nature and lavish vegetation. Visit the hidden caves and wild waterfalls or have a fun day ziplining and kayaking on the Sok River.
Khao Sok National Park is also Thailand’s wildlife haven, and it’s believed that over five percent of the species on the planet live within the park.
It is common to spot Malaysian tapirs, pig-tailed macaques, and with a bit of luck, you might even be able to see the rare Asian elephants or tigers!
4. Ayuthaya
The city of Ayutthaya is one of the most incredible places in Thailand.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Thailand.
Ayutthaya's importance as a historical region can be traced back to its founding in 1350.
It was once declared the most magnificent city in the world, and for good reason.
The city was created when King U-thong had become king of Sukhothai and decided to move the capital of the Thai Kingdom to Ayutthaya, which was then just a small town on the river Chao Phraya.
The wealth and power of the kingdom glorified Ayutthaya, where three palaces and more than 400 temples were built.
Unfortunately, in 1767 the Burmese attached and destroyed the majority of the towers, monasteries, temples, and palaces.
However, many of the ancient remains are still intact, and visitors from all over the world fly here to relieve the glorious golden era.
3. Koh Tao
Who needs another paradise when you can lay on the white sands of Koh Tao?
This tiny island off the southern coast of Thailand had been largely uninhabited until the late 1900s, and it now sees its popularity grow every year.
Pristine beaches, turquoise waters, granite rock formations, and a dreamy, laid-back atmosphere make it the best destination if you’re planning a trip to Thailand.
Did you know that “Tao” means turtle? It is no secret that Koh Tao is one of the top spots for scuba divers who flock here from all over the world to admire the green turtles breeding on the white shores every year.
Koh Tao is not only a turtle’s paradise; Here, you’ll find an incredible variety of marine wildlife, including butterflyfish, batfish, whale sharks, and bull sharks.
Be sure to experience other fun activities like rock climbing, sailing, mountain biking, and game fishing.
Or if you feel like having a zen moment, many yoga schools organize beach lessons at sunset!
2. Bangkok
Thailand’s capital city is undoubtedly one of the most exciting cities in the world, with plenty of fun things to see and do.
Although Bangkok can sometimes be seen as a jam-packed cosmopolis, it is a perfect blend of spectacular skyscrapers, bustling markets, magnificent palaces, ancient temples, and fun nightclubs.
The best way to experience the city is by hopping on a traditional tuk-tuk, at the heart of the authentic Thai experience. Riding in one of these open-air three-wheeled vehicles is an incredibly fun activity and affordable way to experience the city.
Bangkok is very well known for the incredible temples dotting the city. Make sure you don’t miss the Emerald Buddha or the Wat Phra temple, which is home to the famous reclining Buddha.
Shopping malls and floating markets, wild nightlife, and sports are extraordinary in Bangkok, but the flavors of the street food scene are sensational.
From scores of street vendors to market stalls and a variety of restaurants for every budget and taste, Bangkok offers a fantastic dining experience.
The city is also wild with nightlife.
1. Ko Phi Phi
You simply can’t leave Thailand without having visited Ko Phi Phi.
Phi Phi Islands are a must-see when visiting the stunning Thai Phuket coastline. The archipelago is located off the coast of Krabi and features sun-soaked beaches, lush rainforests, and beautiful limestone cliffs.
Although the largest and most famous island is undoubtedly Ko Phi Phi, there are also secluded beaches waiting to be discovered.
Head to Tonsai Bay or Long Beach for a calmer escape, far away from the crowds.
For a stunning 360 degrees view, hike up to Phi Phi Viewpoint.
One mile south of Phi Phi Don is Koh Phi Phi Leh, a lavish oasis of crystal clear water and limestone rocks. This is the place where you’ll find Maya Bay, which served as the gorgeous background for The Beach movie.
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For nature, spirituality, or something else -- a trip to Thailand is one to remember.
This is just 10 of many places we recommend visiting in Thailand.
