Thailand is a breathtaking country with attractive destinations in the Southeast Asia. There are four regions in Thailand, the north, the northeast, the central, and the south. Each region has its own significance and attractions. Northern region of Thailand is known for its mountain landscapes, cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. The northeast region is famous for its rural villages, historical parks and spicy food. The central region is the political and economic center of the country. Bangkok is the capital and main hub of the country at the central region. The south region is known for its marine life, tropical islands and beaches.
There is a vast variety in Thailand for visitors whether they are looking for nature, culture, leisure, vibrant nightlife or recreational adventure. Thailand has an abundance of flavors, one for every type of person. In Thailand, no one gets bored as there is always something to enjoy there. Though Thailand is full of beautiful sights but which of these sights should be visited at top priority by the tourists?
Following are the best places to visit in Thailand:
Bangkok
First and foremost, the most essential place is the heart and capital city of Thailand. Bangkok is a hustling bustling metropolitan city that has managed to remain connected to its roots as well. The traditional spirit kept alive by the people of the star city is what makes it so desirable, magnetically pulling over 20 million tourists every year. Thailand has a diverse culture, architecture and art, as there is a mix of Indian, European, Chinese and South Asian ethnicities residing there. In this capital, the delightful sights would be the Grand Palace, the sacred Wat Pho Palace and the lively Khao San Road, Jim Thompson House Museum, Bangkok Metropolitan Museum, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market. All of these places are located near the Rattanakosin Island which is the historical center of the city.
- The Grand Palace: The palace has been an official residence of the Kings since 1782. It is a compound of creatively crafted buildings with beautiful Thai architecture. The palace comprises of number of halls, pavilions, patios and gardens. The sacred most part of the entire Palace is the Emerald Budha’s Temple (Wat Phra Kaew) which withholds a treasured image of Budha carved from a single piece of jade.
- Wat Phra Kaew Temple: This temple in Bangkok is known as the Temple of the Emerald Budha. This temple is considered as the most sacred temple as the Budha carved from a single piece of jade is seated there. The temple is situated within the complex of the Grand Palace. The temple and the palace are the apt epitomes of Thai architecture and artistry, with their complicated designs and ornamentations. Both the temple and the palace are open from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm. The admission fee for foreigners is 500 baht but it is free for the Thai nationals.
- The Wat Pho: 16th century’s temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Another name for this temple is the Reclining Budha’s Temple, as there is 46-meter-long Budha lying at the midst of the temple. The temple has several attributes, healing and learning are one of them. There are various inscriptions and illustrations on number of fields namely, medicine, history, astrology and literature. The temple also consists of a Thai school of massage, which is still taught and practiced there.
- The Khao San Road: Backpackers and budget travelers from all over the world are compelled towards this well-known street in Bangkok. It is filled with bars, shops, restaurants, hostels and massage parlors that meet the variety of needs and taste of all the customers. The street is also famous for its nightlife, food and entertainment. It is the perfect place to socialize with people from different backgrounds and have the time of your life in Bangkok.
- Jim Thompson House Museum: This house museum in the center of Bangkok houses all the art collection of Jim Thomspon an American businessman who developed the architect of Thai silk industry after the Second World War. The museum consists of several Thai houses that Thompson relocated which showcases his admiration for the beauty of the Thai culture. The museum also presents the exquisite Thai artifacts, such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles from not only Thailand but also other Asian countries. The museum stays open from 10:00 am till 6:00 pm with the last guided tour at 5:00 pm. The fee of admission is 200 baht for adults and for the people under the age of 22, the fee is of 100 baht.
- Bangkok Metropolitan Museum: This museum in Bangkok exhibits the art of Thailand from the ancient times to the present, therefore the entire history from past to present-day. The area of the museum covers around 8000 square meters. Around 40,000 objects of various kinds, such as maps, models, paintings, photographs and artifacts are displayed over the four floors of galleries. There are interactive displays at the museum as well, such as multimedia presentations and special exhibitions. The open days and timing of museum is from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, however remains closed on public holidays.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market: This market in Bangkok is also known as JJ market. This market is one of the world’s most well-known and biggest markets. There are around 15,000 selling stalls of different varieties such as clothing, handicrafts, antiques, accessories, books, plants, food, pets and many more. The visitors in the number of thousands are pulled towards the market at weekend due to sheer fascination for it. Both tourists and visitors who come there to shop, enjoy, bargain and eat in the lively atmosphere of the place. The market is open for Saturdays and Sundays from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm and from 6:00 pm till midnight on Fridays.
Khao Yai National Park
Thailand’s wildlife haven. It is the animal kingdom, where the entire hierarchy of animals can be found, such as, monkeys, bears, elephants, gibbons, hornbills, bats and even tigers. Apart from this, forest can also be excessed through hiking and the enchanting waterfall can be enjoyed. Caves can also be explored there as well as different flavors of wine from the wineries nearby.
Phuket
This is Thailand’s most eminent island destination. Where the white sandy beaches can be admired along with the turquoise waters and tropical views. Nearby islands like Phi Phi, Lanta and Yao Noi can also be visited for breathtaking sceneries and activities. This island is also perfect for family travelers, as it comes up with the perks of Safari World Zoo, the Simon Cabaret Show, and the Dream World Amusement Park.
Krabi
In Southern Thailand, it is another beautiful province. Here, the most scenic landscapes of the country can be found to delight one’s eyes with. The best rock climbing and kayaking opportunities can be explored by visiting Ao Nang and Railay. For more explorations, the islands of Koh Hong, Koh Poda, Koh Lao Liang are ideal as these places have more secluded beaches with snorkeling spots.
Chiang Mai
As this place is enriched with the historical significance and heritage of the Northern region of the country, it is called the capital of Thailand in the means of culture “Cultural capital”. The ancient temples of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Chedi Luang can be visited. Furthermore, the night markets, cooking classes, and the elephant sanctuaries can also be paid a visit, for they have their own value. Chiang Mai also plays the role of a great trekking base in the mountains of the North.
Chiang Rai
The most unique and enchanting temples of the country are situated in this charming city of Chiang Rai. The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), and the Black House (Baan Dam) can be visited there. The Golden Triangle where Thailand meets Myanmar and Laos can also be visited in a day trip.
Ayutthaya
The Former capital of Thailand, which was prospering and flourishing back in the days until it was sacked by the Burmese in 1700s. The city can be explored for its ancient ruins of temple places and statues that mark the glorified identity of the city in the bygone days. The historical park of this city, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site also deserves a visit.er ErhmhkhmHHHhHH
Koh Samui
A variety of beaches, resorts, and activities according to the preferences of the tourists can be found here at the most popular islands of Thailand. The soft sand of Chaweng beach can help the people feel relaxed. The Lamai beach gives the luxury of enjoying the life at night with its soothing views. Bophut beach is all about the awe-inspiring beauty of the nature. Furthermore, the places that can be visited here are the Fisherman’s Village, the Big Budha Temple, and the Na Muang Waterfall.
Sukhothai
An ancient city of Thailand that was once the first capital of the country. This city is considered to be the birthplace of the architecture and art of Thai, highlighting several elegant and graceful structures that mirrors the Buddhist influence. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site “the Sukhothai Historical Park” can be visited as well. The giant images of Budha can be also seen at Wat Si Chum and Wat Mahathat.
Kanchanaburi
A West Thailand province, known for its natural charms and historic value. The River Kwai that was built by the prisoners during the times of World War 2. The death railway Museum, the War Cemetery, and the Hellfire Pass Memorial are also worth-visiting. The picturesque views of Erawan National, having a series of pools and waterfalls can be enjoyed as well.
Pai
In Northern Thailand, Pai is a small town popular among backpackers and hippies. A relaxing and peaceful atmosphere is provided by the valleys and mountains there. The exciting activities of hiking, biking, rafting, and yoga can be relished. The Pai Canyon, the Tha Pai Hot Springs and the Pai Memorial Bridge are also worth visiting.
Isaan
The Northeastern region of Thailand, which is overlooked often by the tourists offers a rural and most authentic sight to the countryside of Thailand. The culture, cuisine, and language of the Isaan people who have a distinct identity from the rest of Thailand can be experienced here. Phanom Rung Historical Park, the Khao Yai National Park and the Mekong River can be visited for eye-witnessing the vision of beautiful nature and historical glamor of Thailand.
Koh Tao
A paradise island for lovers. It’s a small island in the gulf of Thailand. The name of the island means “Turtle Island” in Thai. The island is famous for its beauty of nature on both land and the sea. In Koh Tao there are various white sand beaches, peaceful bays and enchanting hills, in which some are only accessible through boat or vehicles of four-wheels. The biodiversity of this island is very rich, as there are several species of plants, animals and oceanic life. The marine species such as the sea turtles are more significantly famous that can be seen in the area of Shark Bay.
This island is renowned as one of the best destinations for scuba diving. There are over 25 diving sites in Koh Tao. There are numerous rock formations, coral reefs, caves and wrecks. Some of the very famous dive sites are the Sail Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle, and the Southwest Pinnacle. Here, the divers can witness the whale sharks, manta rays, barracudas and other gigantic fishes. This island is also famous for teaching diving as there are many diving schools in Koh Tao, for learning all levels of experienced diving from schools and courses based on it.
The travelers who are fond of charm and culture, the island offers such guests everything their hearts desire. The island has an atmosphere of bliss and peace apart from being friendly and entertaining. There are many shops, restaurants and bars there to shop from. Each year, the island hosts various of festivals and events, such as the Koh Tao festival, the Turtle Release Day, and the Loy Krathong festival. At this island, one can experience the culture and nature of Thailand at its finest.
There are many more places worth visiting in Thailand, however these ones are at the top priority. The best time to visit Thailand may depend on the aimed destination, but for an all-time suggestion, the time period from cold months of November to March would be a better choice as a good weather makes traveling more fun.
So, stop waiting and start planning to visit the exotic world of Thailand.