Thailand is the main tourism centre for Southeast Asia, and due to its accessible position, it draws more visitors than any other country in the region. It is one of those nations that has something to offer almost everyone, from its picturesque beaches and elaborate temples to its delectable street food and rich cultural heritage.
Thailand will quickly become one of your favourite vacation destinations, whether you want to visit its variety of activities and attractions, learn more about its rich cultural history, or simply relax on one of its beautiful beaches. Do you have reservations? Here are 5 fantastic spots to visit in Thailand, as well as some activities to do while you’re there.
Bangkok
More than eight million people live in the vibrant city that serves as Thailand’s capital. Bangkok is well known for its cosmopolitan feel and vibrant street life, in addition to being an excellent starting point for seeing the rest of Thailand. It is easy to forget when wandering among the city’s skyscrapers that Bangkok’s district canals and the busy Chao Phraya River, which can be explored on a long-tail boat excursion, are the city’s real throbbing heart.
Bangkok offers a wide variety of shopping possibilities, from the opulent Siam Paragon and the travel-themed Terminal 21 to a number of genuine floating marketplaces. Chatuchak Market, one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, is a labyrinth of more than 8,000 stalls offering everything conceivable at local prices (be prepared for the inevitable experience of getting lost there).
While the existence of not one, but two racetracks in Bangkok may surprise some, the stunning Royal Bangkok Sports Club horse racing track in the heart of the city is guaranteed to provide an exciting day for everyone. You may spend the day at the track eating, drinking, and watching some of the best horse racing in Asia. When visiting Thailand, don’t forget to check out the RBSC if you want to learn more about a crucial facet of Thai culture and experience something a bit different from the usual tourist attractions.
Located in the middle of the city of Bangkok, The Grand Palace is one of the most significant architectural symbols of Thai culture. This grand and opulent palace was ordered to be built in 1782 by King Rama I, founder of the Chakri Dynasty. The vast palace is a visual feast, and it is there that you may see the famous Jade Buddha The huge and exquisite paintings at the Grand Palace, the well-kept gardens that surround it, and the sheer number of structures all add up to an unforgettable glimpse into Thai royal life.
As you wander Bangkok’s bustling streets and take in the wonderful sights, make sure to keep an eye out for street food stalls as you’re sure to be in for the treat of a lifetime. Bangkok is famous for its street food vendors and it’s actually home to one of only two street food stalls in the world that hold a Michelin star.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is one of the greatest places to visit if you want to see a different side of Thailand, one with hill trekking, historic monuments, and dense tropical rainforest.
Wat Phra Singh, Doi Suthep (a well-known hilltop with breathtaking views of the city), and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep are just a few of the many functioning Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Many hill tribes, including the MeoTaki Karen, live in the countryside around Bangkok. Excursions may be scheduled to gain a better understanding of their culture and to purchase some of the unique things produced and sold by the tribespeople.
While you’re here, take a trip down the 10-kilometer San Kamphaeng Road, where local craftsmen sell everything from celadon pottery to lacquerware to silk goods.
Remains of the city wall may be seen all across the historic Old City of Chiang Mai, which is encircled by canals that are all that is left of a moat. The city’s ancient Old City is home to some of Chiang Mai’s oldest temples, hippest restaurants, and cosiest hotels. The renowned Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, with its many stores and eateries, is nearby the Old City.
The City of Ayutthaya
80 kilometres north of Bangkok lies Thailand’s former 14th-century capital – the city of Ayutthaya, and once again, this location is not to be missed by any interested in learning the country’s culture.
In the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ayutthaya Historical Park, tourists may explore the ruins of the old kingdom. Three rivers, vast moats, a number of prangs (reliquary towers), wat, and stucco statues are all present in this 289-hectare park.
One of the temples in the city that is most easily recognizable is Wat Phra Mahathat, which has a statue of a Buddha’s head intertwined in tree roots.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest temple in the park, is home to three giant silver Chedis, while Wat Yai Chai Mongkol is well-known for its enormous reclining Buddha and the other sitting Buddha statues that surround the temple and are all covered in golden cloth.
Koh Samui
With some of Thailand’s best palm-fringed beaches and a number of opulent resorts, Koh Samui is more than simply a haven for sunbathers.
The magnificent Thai island of Koh Samui is well-known for its untamed jungles, picture-perfect beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. There are several spas and temples, including the well-known Wat Phra Yai and its enormous Big Buddha (height: 12 meters).
The nearby archipelagos are also worth seeing and are easily accessible by boat from Koh Samui. Koh Tao, a little island close to Koh Samui, is one of the top locations in Thailand for scuba diving. The 42 islands that make up Ang Thong National Marine Park’s protected region are home to a variety of endangered animal species, making it the perfect location for a jungle trek.
Phuket
The world-famous Phuket requires little introduction. It is Thailand’s most popular tourist destination, and for very good reason. For those looking for peace and quiet, Kata Noi Beach is great; for those who like swimming in the cool shade of palm trees, Nai Harn Beach is ideal; and for those who prefer five-star lodgings and good dining with a view of the ocean, Surin Beach is ideal.
Go to Nakkerd Hill, where the Big Buddha, stands 45 meters tall and provides breathtaking views of the island if you’re hoping to experience Phuket’s spiritual side. The largest temple in Phuket, Wat Chalong, is supposed to have a fragment of the Buddha’s bone within its stupa.
It is worthwhile to explore Phuket Town on foot to witness the Sino-Portuguese architecture along Thailand Road and the historic shophouses transformed into bustling businesses and markets.
Conclusion
Whether you’re interested in Asian cuisine, culture, or nature, Bangkok should be at the top of your travel bucket list as there’s absolutely no way you won’t be able to find something that will turn your vacation into a memorable experience.