Spectacular tropical beaches, majestic temples, and stunning landscapes — these are just some of the beautiful things that “The Land of Smiles” or Thailand has to offer. This beautiful Southeast Asian country is a tourist paradise.
Replete with breathtaking islands, pristine beaches with sparkling waters, lip-smacking food options, and truly vibrant culture, a single visit here is bound to leave you with memories for a lifetime! If at all you’re planning a trip, embrace yourself for a busy itinerary.
Wondering where to start from? Don’t worry; we will walk you through a list of the 27 best places to visit and things to do in Thailand. So, ready to find out more about Thailand attractions? Read on!
Ride a Tuk Tuk
Want to get a first-hand taste of the country’s culture? Then shun taxis, buses, and everything and instead take a Tuk Tuk to roam its road and markets! Taking a Tuk Tuk ride is one of the best things to do in Thailand.
Considered by many to be an unofficial national symbol, the Tuk Tuk is arguably the country’s most popular mode of public transportation. As colorful as they are convenient, these three-wheeled open vehicles provide tourists with an authentic and exciting travel experience.
You can find many Tuk Tuk tour operators across the country, including Tuk Tuk Hop in the national capital. However, do consult with a local guide before you hire a Tuk Tuk. This is because the drivers often capitalize on tourists’ fancy to charge overinflated fares.
If you’re able to successfully negotiate the prices, riding a Tuk Tuk is undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in Thailand. It is indeed a very ‘Thailand thing to do’.
Address: 1/11 Trok Mahathat, Maharaj Road, Phra Nakorn, Bangkok 10200, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am to 8:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/fXRAxCTFCMFpyPPa8 | Phone Number: +66900632660
The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is bound to leave you gaping in awe at its stunning architecture and intricate detail.
Located in the heart of the national capital, the Grand Palace has served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782. As you stroll through the grounds of this complex, you’ll find time-tripping by on rosy wings. Just submit yourself to the grandeur of The Grand Palace and revel in its splendor.
Make sure you’re carrying a camera along with you; the views accorded by The Grand Palace and its surrounding buildings are something that you’d most definitely want to capture and keep with yourself for all of the time to come. Oh, and don’t forget to look up their dress code before visiting. You’ll be refused entry if you fail to abide by it.
By Andy Marchand, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/t7iHyz1ZrBMqWemB6 | Phone Number: +66 2 623 5500
Floating Market aka Water Market
Very few markets in the world can match up with the beautiful and quaint floating markets here. It is not a surprise, thus, that the water markets feature among the top Thailand tourist attractions.
Replete with fresh fruit, local souvenirs, and cooked food, these floating markets have plenty in store for you besides stunning views.
Although Bangkok is home to many water markets, the most popular one is the Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi. Do plan a trip to this unique place when you visit the country.
Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5SFv2FJ7qVTwGpmB7 | Phone Number: +66879693428
Get the famous Thai Massage
There is perhaps no greater way of unwinding in this country than treating yourself to the famous Thai Massage.
However, do bear in mind that these massages are nothing like the kind you might be used to – kneading and manipulating the muscles and limbs, occasionally with the application of certain oils and lotions. One of the many such massage centers is Nimman House Massage.
The therapists will work your entire body by employing a sequence of movements that closely mimic yogic stretching. Curiosity piqued? All you have to do is take a trip to any one of the country’s countless parlors!
By Tara Angkor Hotel, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 59 10 Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, เมือง Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 10:30 am to 10:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/nimmanhouse?share | Phone Number: +6653218109
Sathorn Unique Tower
Although the Sathorn Unique Tower isn’t an official tourist attraction, many tourists make an effort to climb it.
The Sathorn Unique Tower is an abandoned skyscraper whose construction began during the late 90s but was never completed due to the global financial crisis.
Even though it is incomplete, it is still 49 stories tall, and if you want to experience bewitching views of the capital city from its top, all you need to do is offer a token monetary amount to the security guards of this building and climb to its top.
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By Alexander Blecher, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Charoen Krung Rd, Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10330, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/VRmDpvR1vBwtq5D98 | Phone Number: +66 2 255 2542
Enjoy Bangkok Nightlife at Nana Plaza
Bangkok’s nightlife is vibrant and beautiful; Nana Plaza, formerly known as Nana Entertainment Plaxa, is where it truly unravels itself.
Originally built as a shopping center, this entertainment complex occupies a three-story commercial building in the Khlong Toei District.
Nana Plaza is characterized by vibrant splashes of color and an eclectic crowd. Visit this place to experience the thrill of nightlife and party like there’s no tomorrow.
Address: 3, 1 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday: 7:00 pm to 3:00 am, Sunday and Monday: 8:00 pm to 2:00 am | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Y32B3fJHtP4xibff9
Visit the Iron Bridge at Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is home to the Bridge Over the River Kwai, an essential historical and tourist site that features among the top Thailand attractions.
The bridge serves as a chilling relic of the Second World War and is a symbol of the city’s appalling past. Connecting the country and Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), it was built by several prisoners of war, countless of whom lost their lives during the process.
Film lovers, you’d most likely be acquainted with this haunting World War II trivia, courtesy David Lean’s 1957 poignant war-drama, “The Bridge on the River Kwai”. If you haven’t watched it yet, do so after visiting the bridge; you’ll be able to better grasp the site’s gravity.
Address: ข้ามแม่น้ำแควใหญ่ Tha Ma Kham, Mueang Kanchanaburi District, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4RUjV2Uxg4taKn6s9
Koh Phi Phi
Situated in the Andaman Sea, the Koh Phi Phi is, without a doubt, one of the most visually attractive destinations in the country. There are six islands in the group, which are administered by the Krabi province.
They shot to fame courtesy Danny Boyle’s 2000 flick “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film featured Maya Bay, which is a globally famous tourist destination now.
Although the bay is closed now to contain the damage caused by the massive number of tourists that frequented the place over the last decade, the surrounding isles will make your time at Koh Phi Phi extremely memorable. Meanwhile, there are reports that the bay will be open by early next year.
If a party on the beach is on your cards, this is where you should be heading to.
By Luxure, CC BY 3.0 au, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2SQcyKfMWQStPky36
Golden Triangle: Meet Laos and Myanmar
The Golden Triangle is the point where the borders of Burma, Thailand, and Laos meet. It is undoubtedly a ‘Thailand point of interest’.
Locally, this point is referred to as “Sop Ruak”, for this is also where the Mekong River meets the Ruak River. The views accorded by this beautiful place can give you excellent fodder for your Instagram handle.
Since the 1950s, the Golden Triangle has been one of the two principal opium-producing areas in the world, the other being the Golden Crescent comprising Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran.
Visit the Hall of Opium in Golden Triangle Park, which houses multiple exhibitions that throw ample light into both the history and the effects of this industry.
By SaiLp, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 370 ถนน ท่าแพ ซอย 4 Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Chiang Saen, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 24 hours | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/rqZWEECyW6c2HLTc7 | Phone Number: +66-53784446
Watch a Muay Thai Fight
If you’re a martial arts fan, you must watch at least one Muay Thai fight during your trip here. Almost all major cities in the country host a ring for these fights.
Recognized as the country’s national sport, Muay Thai or Thai boxing is a close-combat technique that exists as a blend of stand-up striking and different clinching techniques. One of the best places to watch a Muay Thai fight is the Channel 7 Boxing Stadium.
The sport is also frequently referred to as “the art of eight limbs” for the discipline is characterized by the synchronous use of elbows, shins, fists, and knees.
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By Gerrit Phil Baumann, CC BY 3.0, Link
Address: 998/1, 998/1 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd, Chom Phon, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand | Timing: Sunday: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M9sM979HKAyqjCiJ6 | Phone Number: +6624957777
Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai
Opened in 1998, the Elephant Nature Park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Thailand. It is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center, offering sanctuary to numerous distressed elephants from all over the country.
Besides allowing tourists to serve as volunteers, the place also has several educational aids that help you learn about the intricacies and nuances of wildlife conservation.
As the country’s national animal, elephants are highly respected here and nowhere is it expressed more clearly as at this world-famous facility.
Address: Kuet Chang, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/thvrhUvKLuePSm538 | Phone Number: +6653272855
Attend the Songkran Festival
Celebrated each year from April 13 to April 15, the Songkran Festival is celebrated to commemorate the Thai New Year.
By tradition, the festival requires everyone to sprinkle water on one another, for it is believed that doing so washes away everyone’s sins and misfortunes.
Needless to say, people take the occasion to launch full-blown aquatic attacks on one another, a spectacle that is as fun to witness as to participate in.
By Uwe Aranas, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Monkey Buffet Festival at Lopburi
Held annually in Lopburi, the monkey buffet festival is easily among the most fascinating festivals you’ll come across in your lifetime.
The popular British daily, The Guardian, once described it as one of the strangest festivals out there, stating that it belongs in the same league as Spain’s bizarre baby-jumping festival.
The festival involves offering a sumptuous treat of fruits, vegetables, and other food to the local macaque population. Wondering what to do in Thailand? Go witness the monkey buffet festival among the ruins of the ancient Phra Prang Sam Yot temple!
Address: RJ37+5JF, Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/m8depLfaiakauEeCA | Phone Number: +66 3677 0096
Visit Wat Arun
Named after Aruna, the God of Dawn, Wat Arun is a spectacular Buddhist temple that is perched on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. It’s a steep climb, but the view is totally worth it.
Laden with ceramic tiles and colorful porcelain, the 79-meters tall tower makes for an extremely appealing sight.
At the entrance of the temple, you’ll find yourself greeted by a pair of mythical giants- they are said to act as the guardians of the Wat Arun.
By Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 158 Thanon Wang Doem, Wat Arun, Bangkok Yai, Bangkok 10600, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/URv6zLDgivRJSeNh7 | Phone Number: +6628912185
Island Hopping in Thailand
The country is home to as many as 300 scintillating islands. So, if you ever find yourself grappling with the question “what to do in Thailand”, turn to these isles to get your answers.
Island hopping gives you the glorious opportunity to explore these multitudes of beautiful places up close and personal. You will find plenty of excellent tour operators across the country, including the Trang Island Hopping Tour.
By Karelj, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 28/2 Sathani Alley, Tambon Thap Thiang, Muang, Trang 92000, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:00 am to 9:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/38c3erCm2Pt6g6LQ6 | Phone Number: +66620631274
Wat Rong Khun – White Temple
At first glance, Wat Rong Khun looks straight out of a Disney movie set. This temple is situated outside the town of Chiang Rai, and it is one of the country’s primary tourist attractions.
Built in the style of a Buddhist temple, Wat Rong Khun is known across the world as “White Temple”, a nickname that is self-explanatory once you have a picture of the temple at your disposal. It’s a pity that you can’t visit this place at night.
It is a privately held art exhibit owned by Chalermachai Kositpipat, who was also responsible for its construction and design. Upon his discretion, the place was opened to tourists in the year 1997.
By Uwe Aranas, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 60 หมู่ที่ 1 Phahonyothin Rd, Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Friday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xzCqzSZwKTEw595Z6 | Phone Number: +6653673967
Go Hiking at Pha Daeng National Park (Chiang Dao National Park)
Known formerly as the Chiang Dao National Park, it sprawls across a massive 1155 square kilometers.
It is home to an incredible spectrum of flora and fauna. On the one hand, it houses the wild champak, Malabar ironwood, Heang, and belleric myrobalan, and on the other, it is the abode of the goral, barking deer, palm civet, and banteng, to name a few.
Additionally, the place is extremely popular among hiking enthusiasts too. Climb Doi Puk Phak Ka, the reserve’s highest summit located at 1794 meters above sea level, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views.
By Pawyilee, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 273 หมู่ 5 Chiang Dao, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai 50170, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours | Google Map Location:https://goo.gl/maps/9fpYow2Ap3b8hd5R6 | Phone Number: 02 561 4832
Meet the Hill Tribes
Want to observe and educate yourself on a new way of life? Well, visit the hill tribes of Northern Thailand, away from the rush of city life, to enjoy peaceful nights and calm, relaxed mornings.
Nestled at elevations of more than 1000 feet, these ethnic groups are primarily subsistence farmers who farm their densely forested communities using slash-and-burn agricultural techniques.
The seven major hill tribes are Karen, Lahu, Hmong (also known as the Meo), Lisu (also known as the Lisa), Akha, Mien (also known as the Yao), and Paduang.
One of the places from where you can get information about these tribes is the Hill Tribes Cultural Center in Kamphaeng Phet.
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By Steve Evans, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 288 หมู่1 Khlong Lan Phatthana, Khlong Lan District, Kamphaeng Phet 62180, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Friday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WJzdGEV8yaXDcy1CA | Phone Number: +6655868609
Eat the country’s cuisine Pad Thai
Your trip can’t possibly be considered complete until and unless you’ve treated yourself to at least one plate of lip-smacking Pad Thai.
This stir-fried rice noodle dish is an immense hit among tourists and locals alike and can be found across multiple street food outlets as well as restaurants.
Made with rice noodles, eggs, shrimp, bean sprouts, peanuts and an assortment of vegetables, this dish is known for hitting all the right flavor notes and is guaranteed to leave your taste buds permanently enchanted.
There are countless places where you can taste authentic pad thai, and one of them is Thipsamai.
By avlxyz, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KWdpD3xzwagiXPpu7 | Phone Number: +6622266666
Diving at Koh Lanta
We couldn’t help but cap this list with the mention of yet another mesmerizing island. This time it’s Ko Lanta, situated 70 km south of Krabi in the Andaman sea. You can take a boat from Phuket or Krabi to get here.
The seas surrounding the Koh Lanta are said to be an absolute diving paradise, with Hin Muang, and Hin Daeng considered to be the best diving sites in the area. There are many diving centers here as well, including the Ko Lanta Diving Center.
Address: 180 Moo 1, Koh Lanta, Sala Dan, Krabi 81150, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/MX7pvv6PtjdViEXL8 | Phone Number: +6675668065
Visit the Historical Ayutthaya
The historic city of Ayutthaya is easily one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in the country.
Currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya used to serve as the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It was one of the foremost commercial and economic centers at the time.
A trip to the Ayutthaya Historical Park will bring you face-to-face with dozens of ruined temples that are spread across its 15 sites. Make sure you’re carrying a journal during your visit over here; you wouldn’t want to miss making a note of the fascinating facts and trivia that the site has to offer.
By Justin Vidamo, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 196 หมู่ที่ 4 Khlong Tho Rd, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/ayuthaya_historical_park?share | Phone Number: +6635242286
Visit Mae Hong Son
Looking for a place to beat the noise and chaos of the city crowd? You won’t find a better place in this country than the Mae Hong Son province.
Although the place packs no popular tourist attractions as such, it is famous among tourists for the peaceful atmosphere and splendid views that it provides.
Having said that, Mae Hong Son does pack its fair share of attractions. Pai, the region’s best-known city, contains a number of hot springs with refreshing waters, waterfalls, and temples to captivate your imagination.
The Pai Canyon is a major tourist hot spot too. Planning a party with your friends? This is where you should be heading to.
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Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jtukXDe2dDNs22Gx9
Visit the Best Party Street: Khaosan Road
If you love partying but are operating under a tight budget, Khaosan Road in Thailand is where you need to be.
Constructed in 1892, the Khaosan Road is extremely popular among tourists for its pocket-friendly hotels, restaurants, and bars. This place is almost as popular as the beaches of the country.
Here, you will come across a wide assortment of stuff — from handicrafts to paintings to extremely handy backpacker items. Khaosan Road will always have something or the other in store for you!
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8indn8xjH37PNz119
Ao Nang
Are you a beach person? Then you cannot, under any circumstances, exclude Ao Nang from your itinerary.
Besides filling your mind with peace and tranquility, the sparkling turquoise waters and fine sand beaches of Ao Nang also double up as an excellent subject if you want to flex your photography muscles.
At Ao Nang beach, you can immerse yourself in a bevy of activities, including kayaking, kitesurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and biking.
By kallerna, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/svEBA39UHXpuxrPt7
Explore the Khmer Ruins
History buffs would already be aware of the fact that between the 10th and 13th centuries, the Khmer Empire was recognized as the most powerful in South East Asia.
A visit to the Phimai and the Phanom Rung Historical Parks will give you the opportunity of exploring the ruins of this great empire in person.
Although the Khmer ruins are not as expansive as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, they pack enough relics to keep you engrossed easily for a good couple of hours.
Address: 341/3 ใน Phimai District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oKyAEEQnMaoUu6p68 | Phone Number: +6644471535
Try to eat the Durian Fruit
The Durian fruit holds the dubious distinction of being the world’s smelliest fruit. So if at all you’re considering eating it, make sure someone’s recording you; the expressions are going to be priceless!
Such is the infamy of the fruit’s pungent odor that you’ll observe multiple signboards across hotels, taxis, and buildings in the country all stating the same thing- “No Durian Fruit Allowed”.
Ensure, thus, that you don’t attempt to crack the fruit open in a closed space, for that can lead to disastrous outcomes.
To escape the fruit’s natural taste, you could consider trying out its dried version or even ice creams that are fashioned out of it.
By Kalai, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Similan Islands
To the northwest of Phuket Sea, in the Andaman Sea, rest the Similan Islands, one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
If you’re a diving enthusiast, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better location than the crystalline waters here. Want to properly explore the seabed and discover the place? Your best bet is to opt for a day trip from Khao Lak or Phuket. This place is a tourist paradise.
By No Troubles Just Bubbles, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: MJ4X+XH2, Lam Kaen, Thai Mueang District, Phang-nga 82210, Thailand | Timing: Monday to Friday: Open 24 hours | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/p92rUQWrYJVGzQBP8 | Phone Number: +66 (0)76453272
Now that we’ve pretty much spelled out your itinerary for you, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get going! Oh, and don’t forget to bookmark this page. If you make it to all of the places over here, do let us know. Remember, we’re rooting for you!